OT...Major stressor going on right now...

I work a fulltime job, M-F.  I also had a parttime job, every other weekend.  Last weekend I quit the PT job.  The number one reason was that one of the guys I worked with was harassing me, he would make comments that were inappropriate, would speak to my chest and not my eyes (don't know if he even knows I have any!), made a sexual comment about me to a client, and after I returned from surgery he started touching me-my arm, shoulder area, but still unwanted!  I flat out told him I didn't like him at all, I would avoid him, etc.  He said I was playful.  I just couldn't take it anymore.  I finally told the nurse what was going on, and she encouraged me to report it.  After much discussion, I did.  Well, now the owner is calling me.  I was driving when he called so he will be calling back any minute now. I am feeling so stressed out right now.  I know I did the right thing, but I've been such a doormat for so long, it's scary to stand up for myself and to cause "trouble". I'm scared that it will just be my word against his and he's been there for years and I've only been there 6-7 months, and his word will win... I know this is so far off topic, but I am really stressed and doing "inventory" in my kitchen wanting to eat, but I thought writing to you all would be the better thing to do. Thanks for letting me vent...Phones ringing...gotta go, Debi

I'm so sorry you have to deal with this.  You absolutely did the right thing by standing up for yourself.  What he was doing is sexual harrassment and that is against the law.  Good for you.  I hope he gets what he deserves. 

Oh MY!!  What a horrible situation.  I know it may seem overwhelming right now - but you did the right thing.  If he's doing this to you - chances are there are other women dealing with this from this guy too.  You were right to report it!  You are not causing the trouble - this guy caused the trouble and HE has to deal with the consequences. Be strong right now and follow through with actions to be taken against this man.  He has to be stopped or he will victimize other women.  I will pray that you have strength and that the people that are charged with sorting through this situation can see the truth and bring the situation to justice for you. For now - get out of the kitchen, grab your tennis shoes and get a walk in at the mall.  If you need to talk call me - 612.839.4937 - I'm happy to listen and distract you from going back to old habits! God Bless!

Thank you.  The owner did call and we spoke for quite a while.  It seems that what is going to happen this time is that he will talk to the man about appropriate and inappropriate behavior, the owner will conduct a sexual harassment class, and he will talk to other female staff that may have had interaction with this man (he only works on Saturdays).  The owner told me to take a few weeks off and call him back.  He said that he wants me to feel I can come back there to work and hopes that there will be changes in place to protect me.  He said it's too bad that I worked alone with the man on Saturday's as there is no one to verify either his side or mine. I'm just glad it's over with.  I hate calling attention to myself like this.  I really prefer to blend into the background.  But it feels good knowing that I stood up for myself and for the female clients and other female employees. BTW, I did not eat anything. Thanks again for your support.

I am glad the owner is doing the right thing and putting a stop to this. It is illegal and you have followed all of the right steps. If he gets talked to and continues this behavior he should be terminated! Now that I got that off my chest I am glad you chose to come here instead of eat, you should be proud of that and proud of yourself for standing up to this creep.

(((Debi))) I am so PROUD of you for standing up for YOU!!! Not easy by any means, especially when you are not used to that, but you did the right thing. Glad to hear the owner seems to be willing to nip this in the bud, but see how he does on following through with it. I would sure hope he does, especially for the safety of other ladies at the workplace. Perhaps he will re-think who is scheduled with this guy during the weekend, too. Way to not let the emotional eating start. You are a rock. Again, sending you lots of positive vibes and well wishes because GF you DID THE RIGHT THING!

You did the RIGHT thing by reporting it. For all you know, he is doing this, or has, to others. Now, you got the ball rolling. And hopefully others may speak up too. If not, it will still be on his record. It's hard sticking up for yourself sometimes. I know!!! But, it is never the right thing to stand down and let others walk all over you. You have guts... BE PROUD!!! Good job!!! Lori

I really appreciate everyone's support.  The people on this board are the best cheerleaders!  I only hope I can encourage others as much as I've been encouraged by you. Thank you, Debi

Debi, I am  very new to this and I haven't even formerly introduced myself but when I read your post, I felt moved to respond. I have been through this stuff and it is toxic. The hardest part for me was the denial that so many of my co-workers were in. You are a strong woman.  Cindy

Cindy, First of all, welcome to the board.  You should post an "I'm new" post.  Everyone here loves to meet new posters. Secondly, I am sorry you went through this.  I'm just grateful that it is a second job, not my main job.  I don't know how women deal with that.  I think women in general are so incredibly strong. Thank you for your encouragement. Debi