Intervening in a safe and gentle manner can be a powerful show of support for the recipient of objectionable behavior. A simple comment from you might have impact, such as: “Hey, not cool! Be respectful" or "Stop! You are making her (or him) feel uncomfortable!" If you are at work (or on a video call), add: "You are violating company policy!”
Speaking up and taking a stand might underscore your leadership qualities. Staying silent might make you complicit.This is especially important if you are a man. Men will listen to men!
Here are some other Upstander tips:
Take the time to hit that pause button and evaluate your work culture for toxic masculinity, sexual harassment, and racism. Educating employees and company leaders regularly and effectively regarding prevention is likely to engender a more healthy workplace of dignity and respect and ultimately improve the bottom line concerning health-related costs and profitability.
#TimesUp. Let’s #playnice. For more info on this topic and other related issues, check out “Play Nice - Playground Rules for Respect in the Workplace,” and join us at www.thesandboxseries.com. We wrote Play Nice to educate both women AND men—on the importance of drawing a firm line of respect and professionalism, and speaking up as a bystander.
The Sandbox Series™
Addressing Workplace & Campus Issues