5 reasons anti-harassment training is important to your business

Businesses large and small, in every industry, would do well to make sure they are more proactive about dealing with workplace harassment and other behaviors that can turn their office into a hostile environment. One of the easiest ways to nip this kind of incident in the bud is through effective training.

While some may see this as a waste of time, or the kind of thing employees don't really pay attention to, a good anti-harassment training course is vital for the following reasons, and more:

1) It could be mandatory in your state

First and foremost, it's important to note that there are a number of states where anti-harassment training is part of employment law, and any company that isn't conducting such sessions as laid out by legislators could face severe liability issues, according to Knowledge Wave. Particularly for companies that operate in multiple states, knowing the requirements is critical to adhering to the letter of the law.

Anti-harassment training has plenty of benefits.

2) It ensures everyone is on the same page

Apart from the legal aspect of training, it's also just a good idea because it helps ensure everyone knows what actually defines harassment, Knowledge Wave advised. Some may see harassing behavior as totally normal and acceptable before training, and at the other end of the spectrum, others might see behavior they don't like as harassment, even if it technically isn't. Narrowing everyone's frame of reference can engender a better working environment.

3) It builds a culture of accountability

Part of this training should include a call to workers to report any such behavior when they observe it, according to Solution Services. In many cases, victims may be reluctant to come forward, but if their coworkers have their backs and know what to look for, that can reduce risk for all involved.

4) It creates a culture of accountability

When workers know to report harassment, it allows your company to take action, and gives employees more certainty that when bad behavior is reported, it will be handled appropriately, Solution Services added. That, in turn, helps people feel safe and secure every time they come to the office.

5) It helps foster a better workplace

Generally speaking, when people are all on the same page about what is or isn't harassment, and there's more certainty around discouraging such behavior at an organizational level, every one of your employees is likely to be better at their jobs, according to Griffin Benefits. A workplace without harassment and other negative behaviors is likely to be more efficient and keep growing thanks to great interpersonal dynamics and a sense of community.

When you put this kind of training program in place, and occasionally retrain your employees about what constitutes appropriate workplace behavior, your business will be in a far better position to succeed in the long run.

Categorised in: Starting a Business in Arizona

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