By Jim Marco
How does the New York state sexual harassment policy and training rules for employers change the workplace?
Truthfully, it depends. Good companies have had policies, investigation procedures and training programs in place for decades. That’s right, decades. But the landscape has changed, so employers, even the ones with good policies and programs, should take this opportunity to re-commit to a workplace free from unlawful discrimination and harassment.
They should communicate clear expectations to their employees about how staff are expected to behave, how they are expected to engage and communicate with each other, and how they are expected to problem solve when an issue does arise so we are not escalating what may be a simple misunderstanding. Civility, mutual respect and clear communication can go a long way and truly become fundamental pillars of an outstanding workplace culture.
