An internship can help you gain experience, make professional connections and explore possible career paths. At the same time, it may help to understand how sexual harassment can happen in the workplace and what options may be available if a problem arises. When you know what to watch for and how to respond, you may feel more comfortable and confident during your internship.
1. Review workplace policies before you start
A little preparation may help you spot problems early. Before your internship begins, consider reviewing company policies about workplace behavior, reporting concerns and protection against sexual harassment.
You may also want to:
- Read employee handbooks and internship agreements carefully
- Identify who handles workplace complaints
- Keep copies of important company policies
- Review workplace protections under New York State and New York City laws
Taking these steps may help you better understand workplace expectations and available resources.
2. Recognize warning signs early
Sexual harassment can take many forms. Some situations may seem minor at first, which can make them harder to recognize.
Possible warning signs may include:
- Repeated comments about your appearance
- Unwanted flirting or personal messages
- Requests to spend time alone outside of work duties
- Inappropriate jokes, pictures or conversations
- Pressure to accept attention that makes you uncomfortable
Not every uncomfortable interaction amounts to sexual harassment. However, repeated behavior or ongoing patterns may deserve closer attention.
3. Document concerns carefully
If a situation starts to feel inappropriate, keeping records may help you preserve important information. Clear records can provide a better picture of what happened over time. You may want to note the dates, times and locations of incidents. It may also help to save emails, text messages and workplace chat messages.
In addition, consider writing down the names of anyone who witnessed the conduct and keeping notes about what happened and how you responded. Consistent records may prove useful if you later decide to report the issue through workplace channels.
4. Report issues through appropriate channels
Interns in New York City may have protection under state and local laws. New York law generally prohibit sexual harassment in the workplace and may extend those protections to interns, including unpaid interns.
Federal protections may work differently. In some cases, coverage may depend on factors such as compensation, benefits and the nature of the internship relationship.
Many employers have procedures for reporting concerns, and those policies often explain what steps you can take. Understanding these protections may help you make informed decisions if issues arise.
Understand your rights as an intern in NYC
A successful internship often focuses on learning, growth and career development. When you prepare ahead of time, recognize warning signs, keep records of concerns and understand your rights, you may feel better prepared to handle workplace challenges. If any issues arise, you can also reach out to a NYC sexual harassment lawyer for a free consultation.