How to File Charges of Harassment Against Your Boss
- 1). Determine first whether your complaint constitutes harassment under the law. If the conduct is sufficiently severe and creates a hostile working environment or if your position or job status has changed as a result of the harassment (if you were demoted, fired or denied promotion, for example), you have the right to file charges.
- 2). Document how you have been harassed. Compile a list of actions, including the dates on which these offenses were committed. Some examples include:
- Offensive remarks toward you
- Being touched in a way that made you feel uncomfortable
- Telling inappropriate jokes, such as ones that are sexual or racist in content
- Use of intimidating or threatening language toward you
See other examples of inappropriate behavior at this website:
http://www.fcc.gov/owd/understanding-harassment.html - 3). State your protected class in a letter of complaint--for example, whether you were discriminated against based on your race, age or a disability. Note exactly what your affiliation with this group is, such as Asian, over age 40 or disabled. Explain how your work performance is affected and how your boss is creating a hostile work environment.
- 4). Contact an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) counselor or other related state official, within 180 or 300 calendar days--depending on the state. You can contact the federal Equal Employment Opportunity Commission at (800) 669-4000. You do not have to wait until an investigation is complete by your company or human resources department. Your complaint expires if not filed within the time frame.