For most people, dealing with sexual harassment can tend to be difficult. Even worse is when the person harassing you is your boss. You are powerless in this situation since he has authority over you. You may also think that you don't want to cause offense because you fear you may consequently lose the opportunity of promotion or face being fired. However if you simply ignore the situation, you risk it turning into a situation that could prove far worse. Do not be afraid to take action. It is very important that you take steps to stopping that behavior. If you condone this unhealthy behavior, the risk of your getting raped or sexually assaulted increases.

If you believe you are the victim of sexual harassment or could be the subject of harassment from your boss, a list below descibes what you should and shouldn't do.

•    It is vital that you attend seminars, workshops or trainings, which will focus on difficulties in the workplace, in addition to gender-awareness. By learning you will provide yourself with the necessary courage and confidence when you may find yourself facing such a situation. Remember that there are no victims, only volunteers.

•    Be direct to the point. Make sure your boss is knowledgeable that you are not interest if you believe he is flirting with you. You do not have to do anything drastic at this point. But it is vital that you voice any concerns you may have in a calm manner, so that it can stop.

•    Take note by writing down the facts of the sexual advances to you. However, if you find that the harassment gets too much, you may find that you have to take legal action. It is important that you keep written records as evidence to support your case. Make sure that you also add dates and time, in addition to any witnesses, and any language that mau have been mentioned.

•    You shoud also think about talking to a person you trust about anything that took place. It is particularly vital that another person knows what you are going through. If you need to take administrative or legal action, that person can be your witness.

•    Do not keep silent. This might be one of the most difficult things you’ll have to do but standing up for yourself is one thing that you should do. Face your boss and explain to him that what he is doing makes you uncomfortable. Demand that he stops and if he doesn't you will then take legal action.

•    It's also a good idea to prepare yourself with your own personal safety tools such as pepper spray or a self defense stun gun. Sometimes, harassment becomes aggressive that you cannot control it anymore. You do not know who you’re dealing with. Because of this it is important that you carry a tool that can guard you. It’s better that you are prepared when the harassment goes from bad to worse.

In most cases sexual harassment won't go away unless action is taken. If you permit your boss to sexually harass you, he may be encouraged to take it to the next level. Do not be afraid to voice out what you feel. Do not be afraid of getting fired. There are laws which protect you and makes sure that you will have a safe working environment. Purely taking action, in addition to standing up for yourself you will save countless others from being harassed.

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