Harassment at work isn’t always outright. Sometimes it is small signs that show up in everyday conversations. These are “grey areas”. They are subtle and everyday, but are almost as harmful as outright harassment. They are hard to name, but they make an employee feel excluded and not belong in the team.
Examples to look at
Backhanded comments and joke – Joking about their appearance, accent, gender or background that can be brushed off with “just kidding”
Constant interruption aimed specifically at one person – They might not be heard as they are trying to speak in a group – formal or informal
Exclusion in decision making – Leaving a person or group out of important decisions, either intentionally or habitually
Excessive scrutiny – Or micromanaging someone, holding them to different standards than others
Inappropriate compliments or attention – Comments on someone’s clothing, body, or relationship status that feel personal or invasive.
“Accidental” physical contact or standing too close – Violating personal space, even subtly, can be a form of harassment, especially if repeated.
These behaviours often go unnoticed because they’re framed as jokes, misunderstandings, or “just how someone is.” The person experiencing it might even doubt themselves, wondering if they’re overreacting.
Recognising harassment involves building awareness and learning to speak up. Even if it is uncomfortable. It’s about being sensitive to others and their safety at the workplace.