Harassment In The Workplace Essay

“Excuse me. Would you mind trying this on for me?” I turn around to see a male customer holding a baize sweater in his hands. In a pleasant manner, I reply, “I am not sure if that is in my job description.”

“You look to be about the same size as my girlfriend and I really need to find her a gift for Christmas” he pleaded.

Not sure if I should be insulted or thankful I reply, “I am not sure of how much help I can be by trying on that sweater which could look very different on me in comparison to your girlfriend. Is there anything else you can think of that she might like? For instance, makeup, fuzzy socks, or face masks?”

Christmas is the busiest season of the year for department stores. It is the time when you are tested to surpass your limits

Studies show that workplace harassment diminishes morale and one’s desire to work hard because of poor treatment and lack of motivation. Workplace violence can either be physical or verbal. In most cases it is verbal. Verbal workplace harassment is either delivered by a fellow employee or a manager. It can either be directed at the person in the conversation that is meant for them to hear or spoken to another. In the case of Monica, she had been verbally attacked by the new manager at the store. The new manager was always hovering around her, putting her down telling her that she cannot do certain things, and telling her what to do all the time. One night she had enough and decided to quit. She did not give management any verbal reason why she quit. Those that inflict verbal harassment in the workplace sometimes do not realize what they are doing because they are stressed. It still does not justify their actions. Despite the freedom that the workplace gives it can be a difficult transition for adolescent workers to learn the basics of customer service and the necessary skills for each department. Demands placed on new employees by the customers and management can be stressful in understanding quality customer service and the ability to meet high expectations. Miscommunication and neglecting to clarify situations between employees and management can cause a rift and can potentially cost someone their job. Workplace harassment though unintentional can have irreversible