Sexual harassment in the workplace can take many forms, but one of the most frequently reported—and often overlooked—types involves overt or suggestive comments. These comments may be disguised as jokes, offhand remarks, or casual flirtation, but they can create an intimidating and hostile environment for employees. Recognizing and addressing this form of harassment is critical for maintaining a safe and respectful workplace.
Sexual harassment violates both federal law under Title VII of the Civil Rights Act and New Jersey law under the New Jersey Law Against Discrimination (NJLAD). In particular, NJLAD provides strong protections for workers and holds employers accountable for failing to prevent or address harassment. Despite these protections, many employees still endure inappropriate language and behavior from colleagues or supervisors.
What Constitutes Suggestive Sexual Comments?
Overt or suggestive sexual comments can include:
- Remarks about someone’s appearance or body that are sexual in nature
- Unsolicited comments about sexual acts or experiences
- Questions or jokes about an employee’s sex life
- Double entendres or innuendos that imply sexual meanings
- “Compliments” that make someone feel objectified or uncomfortable
Even if a comment is intended as a joke or is said “in private,” it can still rise to the level of harassment. If these remarks are severe or pervasive enough to interfere with an employee’s ability to work, they may constitute a hostile work environment under the law.
The Impact of Verbal Harassment
Some people dismiss verbal harassment as “just words,” but the effects can be serious. Employees who are regularly subjected to suggestive comments may feel degraded, anxious, or unsafe at work. Productivity can suffer, and mental health may decline. Furthermore, when employers fail to intervene, they create a culture that tolerates or even encourages harassment.
Verbal harassment can also be a gateway to more severe misconduct, especially when perpetrators feel emboldened by a lack of consequences. That’s why addressing this behavior early and decisively is essential for every organization.
What Should You Do If You’re Being Harassed?
If you’re experiencing overt or suggestive sexual comments at work, here are some steps to protect yourself:
- Document Everything: Keep a detailed log of each incident, including dates, times, witnesses, and what was said.
- Report It: Notify your HR department or a supervisor as soon as possible. Make your concerns clear and request an investigation.
- Seek Legal Help: If your employer fails to act or retaliates against you, contact an experienced employment attorney who can guide you through your legal options.
Our Commitment to Standing Up Against Harassment
At NJ Employment Lawyers, LLC, we believe every employee deserves a safe and respectful workplace. Our attorneys have extensive experience representing victims of sexual harassment and will work tirelessly to hold wrongdoers accountable. We understand how painful and isolating harassment can be, and we offer both compassionate counsel and aggressive advocacy.
If you’ve experienced verbal sexual harassment and your employer has not taken appropriate action, we encourage you to explore your rights and potential remedies. We are here to help you take a stand.
For more information on this issue, visit our page about
overt or suggestive sexual comments in the workplace.
You Deserve to Be Heard
Sexual harassment is never acceptable. If you’ve been subjected to inappropriate comments at work, don’t stay silent. Contact NJ Employment Lawyers, LLC today to learn how we can help protect your rights and pursue justice on your behalf.NJ Employment Lawyers, LLC
101 Eisenhower Pkwy #300
Roseland, NJ 07068
(973) 358-7027
