I have joined a new job and in my workplace, I am the only female among all the employees, and their conversations often include double entendres, which creates discomfort for me. What steps can I take? Should I consider leaving my job, lodge a complaint with my boss, or directly address my colleagues to cease inappropriate discussions?
Akansha
on April 26, 2024 at 5:44 pm
If you feel comfortable, you can directly address your colleagues. Choose a calm moment and politely express that the double entendres make you feel uncomfortable. You can say something like, “Hey guys, I’d appreciate it if we could keep the conversation work-related. The double entendres make me feel a bit out of place.”
Reply
If you feel comfortable, you can directly address your colleagues. Choose a calm moment and politely express that the double entendres make you feel uncomfortable. You can say something like, “Hey guys, I’d appreciate it if we could keep the conversation work-related. The double entendres make me feel a bit out of place.”
If the conversations are overtly sexual or harassing, or if your attempts to address them directly are unsuccessful, consider reporting the issue to Human Resources. They are there to ensure a safe and professional work environment.
Is there another employee, perhaps someone senior you feel comfortable with, who you can confide in? They might offer advice or even be willing to subtly nudge the conversation when things get inappropriate.