The #MeToo and #TimesUp movements continue to create a tidal wave of media activity and increased awareness of sexual harassment and misconduct. But have they created positive changes in workplaces? Are people seeing healthy and lasting improvements in their organizations as a result of these movements?
Most People Are Supportive of #MeToo. But Will Workplaces Actually Change?
The #MeToo and #TimesUp movements continue to create a tidal wave of media activity and increased awareness of sexual harassment and misconduct. But have they created positive changes in workplaces? A recent survey shows that a majority of people see the movements as healthy, but only a small percentage reported seeing positive improvements in their offices. To substantially and sustainably reduce workplace sexual harassment, there are three things leaders can do now: (1) Create a measurement system that holds leaders accountable for creating environments where people feel safe to report bad behavior and have confidence that concerns will be handled fairly and effectively. (2) Encourage formal and informal leaders to become champions for eliminating sexual harassment and misconduct. (3) Make sure any training incorporates skill building around how to have difficult conversations.