Seeing a coworker experience inappropriate conduct at work can leave you unsure about what to do next. You may want to help but worry about making the situation worse or putting your own job at risk. Your actions can matter, especially if your coworker later reports what happened or your employer investigates the incident.
Here are some practical steps you can take.
Take note of what you personally witnessed
Write down an accurate account of what happened while the details remain fresh. Note the date, time, location and people involved, along with the specific words or actions you observed. Stick to what you personally saw or heard rather than guessing about someone’s intentions or repeating information from other employees.
Your notes can help you remember important details later if your employer asks you about the incident.
Preserve relevant records and communications
Keep any records that directly relate to what you witnessed. Depending on the situation, these could include:
- Emails or text messages
- Workplace communications
- Photographs or screenshots
- Schedules or other records showing who attended an event
Do not alter or create records to strengthen someone else’s account. Preserve what you already have and keep your personal notes somewhere secure.
Support your coworker without speaking for them
Let your coworker know that you saw what happened and offer appropriate support. You can listen and let them know you will provide an honest account if someone asks what you witnessed. Avoid pressuring them to report the conduct or deciding for them what they should do.
You should also avoid discussing the incident with other coworkers who did not witness it. Limiting unnecessary discussion can help protect everyone’s privacy.
Report what you witnessed through the appropriate channel
Follow your employer’s reporting procedure if you decide to report the incident. Check your employee handbook or workplace policies to find the appropriate person or department. When you report, describe what you personally observed without exaggerating or making legal conclusions.
Your employer may later ask you questions as part of an investigation. Answer honestly and provide relevant records when requested.
Know your rights as a witness
You may have legal protection if your employer retaliates against you for participating in a discrimination investigation or opposing unlawful discrimination. The EEOC recognizes participation in an investigation of workplace discrimination, including serving as a witness, as protected activity under federal law.
Retaliation can include punishment or other negative treatment because you participated in a protected process.
Don’t stay silent when you can help
If you witnessed workplace harassment, you do not have to handle the situation alone. Keep an accurate record, preserve relevant information and provide an honest account if an investigation follows. If you worry that reporting what you saw could affect your job, reviewing your circumstances with an attorney can help you understand your rights and available options.