The struggle of facing sexual harassment in the workplace
For me, navigating the professional world has always been a complex but rewarding experience. Throughout my career, I have encountered challenges that tested my resolve, creativity, and dedication.
However, one of the most difficult experiences I have faced is dealing with sexual harassment in the workplace.
Sharing this story is not easy, but I believe it’s important to shed light on an issue that affects far too many individuals in their professional lives.
A toxic reality
In my professional experience, I once was excited to join a team that promised growth, innovation, and collaboration. Initially, everything seemed to align perfectly with my career goals. I was entrusted with significant responsibilities and was eager to contribute to the company's success. Unfortunately, as time went on, a darker reality began to emerge.
Subtle, unwanted advances and inappropriate comments soon escalated into more direct and uncomfortable situations. These encounters were not just isolated incidents; they became a pattern that undermined my sense of safety and belonging in the workplace. The environment, once filled with potential, became one where I felt constantly on edge, unable to fully focus on my work or interact with colleagues without anxiety.
A turning point: The isolated incident
One particular incident stands out in my memory — an encounter that crossed all boundaries of professional conduct. The harassment was witnessed by several colleagues who, recognizing the severity of the situation, reported it to HR. This collective action led to the dismissal of the individual responsible. It was a moment of validation, showing that there are people willing to stand up for what is right.
However, while this incident resulted in the immediate removal of the harasser, it did not address the deeper issues within the company. The problem was not solely the harasser; the culture itself was the real issue. The environment was one where fear and discomfort had taken root, making it clear that the problem was systemic rather than isolated to one person’s actions. The toxic culture was not limited to one person — it was pervasive, affecting the entire environment.
A false sense of reassurance
Despite the gravity of what had happened, my manager never once spoke to me about the incident. I was left to process the trauma on my own without any acknowledgement or support from the leadership.
Instead, in the aftermath, two men from different departments — whom I normally didn’t work with — approached me at separate times. They each took me into closed rooms to assure me that “people here aren’t like that.” But instead of feeling reassured, I felt threatened.
Their words were hollow, especially when actions later proved otherwise. The superficial gestures of support only served to deepen my sense of isolation and mistrust.
The emotional and professional toll
The emotional toll of these experiences was immense. It seeped into every aspect of my personal and professional life, driving me to dispel my thoughts by digging myself into more work, though still affecting my ability to perform.
Tasks I once approached with enthusiasm eventually became burdensome as I struggled to navigate the toxic atmosphere. And as time passed, I felt an overwhelming sense of isolation, as if my voice and concerns in the professional setting were deliberately silenced.
This experience also impacted my career trajectory. My personal and professional growth was hindered as I grappled with the psychological strain of working in such an environment. The harassment affected me and clouded my mind, even though I tried not to let it get to me.
Creativity and innovation, which thrive in supportive environments, were stifled under the weight of fear and discomfort.
Finding strength and moving forward
Despite the challenges, I eventually reached a point where I knew I could no longer stay silent or endure the situation. The realisation came when I were throwing up in the mornings before work, simply out of stress. I sought support and decided to take steps to protect my well-being, resulting in my leaving that toxic employment. This decision was not easy, but it was necessary for my mental health and professional integrity.
Leaving that environment was a turning point for me. It allowed me to reclaim my sense of self and refocus on what truly matters in my career. I realized the importance of advocating for a respectful and inclusive workplace, not just for myself but for others who may be facing similar struggles.
The end of a toxic era?
My experience with sexual harassment has reinforced my belief that no one should have to endure such treatment in the workplace. It has also highlighted the urgent need for companies to foster cultures of respect, transparency, and accountability. While it was reassuring that some of my colleagues took action against the harasser, it was clear that more profound cultural changes were needed to truly make the workplace safe and supportive for everyone.
The importance of addressing such issues is further underscored by recent legislative changes. Since July 17, 2022, public employers with at least 50 employees and private employers with at least 250 employees are required to have an internal whistleblower function, in Sweden. As of December 17, 2023, this requirement also applies to private employers with at least 50 employees. This is a result of a new EU law aimed at providing safer channels for reporting misconduct, which is a critical step towards fostering transparency and accountability in the workplace. I truly hope these measures will be implemented in ways that genuinely protect and empower employees, rather than merely fulfilling legal obligations.
In these times, when modern films and series such as the thrillers Fair Play, Exit, Succession, and Industry underscore problematic workplace dynamics, it becomes even more crucial that these portrayals do not contribute to the normalization of toxic and destructive structures, cultures, and relationships in the workplace. These narratives should serve as cautionary tales rather than blueprints for acceptable behaviour.
A call for change
As I continue my professional journey, I remain committed to contributing to environments where everyone can thrive without fear of harassment or discrimination. By sharing my story, I hope to encourage others to speak out and to remind those in positions of power of their responsibility to create and maintain safe workplaces.
Toxic work cultures and sexual harassment is a societal issue that requires collective action. Together, we can build a future where professionalism, respect, and dignity are the cornerstones of every workplace.
What’s your thoughts?
Have you ever experienced harassment at the workplace? How do you wish the employer would have handled the issues? Do you think the issues may truly end with new legislations?