8 Early Warning Signs of Sexual Harassment Every Manager Should Know
Workplace harassment prevention starts with awareness. Sexual harassment in the workplace rarely begins with an overt act—it often starts with subtle behavior changes, inappropriate comments, or small incidents that go unchecked.
For managers, the ability to recognize signs of sexual harassment early is critical. Acting promptly not only protects employees but also safeguards your organization from legal and reputational risks.
A Real-World Scenario
It started subtly. Sarah, a dependable team member, began taking lunch breaks alone. She stopped joining the weekly brainstorming sessions she once loved. Her manager, Daniel, noticed she always seemed to leave the office just before a certain coworker’s shift began.
Daniel didn’t jump to conclusions, but he also didn’t ignore it. A private conversation revealed Sarah had been dealing with repeated, unwanted comments from the coworker. Because Daniel recognized the warning signs of harassment early, HR intervened quickly, preventing further harm and restoring Sarah’s sense of safety at work.
1. Behavioral Changes in Employees
- Withdrawal from team interactions.
- Avoidance of collaboration.
- Declining productivity without a clear reason.
2. Avoidance Patterns
- Steering clear of a specific coworker or client.
- Changing shifts or routes to avoid contact.
- Requesting new seating or work assignments.
3. Physical or Emotional Distress
- Tension, anxiety, or stress around certain individuals.
- Avoiding eye contact.
- Increased absences or remote work requests.
4. Changes in Workplace Communication
- Nervous laughter or forced smiles.
- Reluctance to speak in meetings.
- Being talked over or ignored repeatedly.
5. Rumors, Jokes, or ‘Off’ Comments
- Gossip or jokes about an employee’s personal life.
- Sexually suggestive remarks.
- Dismissing complaints as ‘overreactions.’
6. Repeated Minor Complaints
- Vague statements about ‘feeling uncomfortable.’
- Multiple reports about the same person.
- Concerning feedback during exit interviews.
7. Visible Boundary Crossings
- Unnecessary touching or hovering.
- Giving personal gifts or messages unrelated to work.
- ‘Accidental’ contact that happens more than once.
8. Signs of Retaliation
- Reduced opportunities or less favorable shifts.
- Exclusion from projects or meetings.
- Subtle changes in peer or supervisor behavior.
Manager Action Steps for Harassment Prevention
When you notice a sign of sexual harassment, don’t delay:
- Document the behavior objectively, noting dates and details.
- Speak privately with the employee to ensure they feel supported.
- Follow workplace harassment reporting procedures.
- Maintain confidentiality and prevent retaliation.
The Bottom Line
Managers play a central role in workplace harassment prevention. Recognizing and addressing sexual harassment warning signs early fosters a safer, more respectful workplace for everyone.
Proactive HR Call-to-Action: If you’re an HR professional or leader, train managers to spot these signs, implement clear reporting channels, and foster an open-door culture where employees feel safe to speak up. Proactive measures today protect your people, strengthen your workplace culture, and reduce the risk of costly legal consequences tomorrow.
🔍 Top 3 Early Warning Signs of Sexual Harassment
- Sudden changes in an employee’s behavior or productivity.
- Avoidance of specific people, places, or work situations.
- Increased anxiety, tension, or discomfort at work.
Recognizing these signs early helps managers act before issues escalate.