Answer to Question of the Week #13
Each week, we post a thought-provoking question for your consideration. Here’s last week’s question, along with your answers . . .
An employee complains of sexual harassment but begs you not to investigate out of fear that the alleged perpetrator will retaliate. What should you do?
a. Don’t investigate (0%)
b. Investigate right away (41%)
c. Investigate after a “cooling off” period to avoid workplace violence (10%)
d. Investigate, but promise the employee confidentiality to protect him/her (49%)
The correct answer is “b.”
Never succumb to an alleged harassment victim’s request not to conduct an investigation. An investigation is required under the law and a failure to conduct one could expose the company to serious liability. Of course, you want to ensure that the investigation is as discreet and fair as possible, but you must investigate.
Also, you should never promise absolute confidentiality to the alleged victim. You may need to reveal facts and identities during the course of the investigation or in litigation.
Our viewers are now batting .462 overall (6 right, 7 wrong) on our weekly questions.
Thanks for your participation!
