Page 211 - Becoming a Successful Manager

202 BUILDING ON YOUR FOUNDATION

employees are “just having some fun” at the expense of others, that’s a
strong signal of growing diffi culties.
Be conscientious about ensuring that the workplace is comfortable
for everyone. If you sense that something might be wrong, get into high
gear and address the issue right away. While we hope you don’t fi nd

any evidence of harassment, it’s better to look and not find it than to be
surprised later by something you overlooked.

Harassment can be insidious. Offenders might not think they
are doing anything wrong, and victims might not feel free to com-
plain. It’s your responsibility to be aware of the activities and reac-
tions of both parties. Remember that harassment is not defi ned
by sex, race, age, or other narrow categories; it is about respect.
Whether the frequency of harassment complaints has increased
because employees are more aware of the behavior or because it has
become more prevalent or more visible, you are expected to model
proper behavior and to protect those working under your direction.
If you are aware, attentive, and responsive, everyone benefi ts.

Questions to Consider

• What are you doing to foster a workplace that is comfortable for
all of your employees?

• Can you identify an “in” group and an “out” group among
your employees? If so, what are you doing about it?

• Is anyone on your staff excluded from non-work-related social
activities? If so, why? Is there anything you can do about it? Is
there anything you should do about it?