03/11/2026
As you may know I do a lot of networking, what if your staff do too?
What does third party sexual harassment look like at these events?
➡️ unwanted flirting that doesn’t stop when someone says no
➡️ sexual comments about appearance/clothes/body
➡️ “banter” that turns explicit or degrading
➡️ unwanted touching (arm around waist, lingering hugs, blocking someone’s way)
➡️ pressure to drink / “come back to my hotel” type comments
➡️ repeated DMs after the event, or finding someone on LinkedIn/Instagram to message them sexually
How do you protect your staff?
Set expectations before the event: a short message to attendees/clients: respectful behaviour required, harassment won’t be tolerated.
Buddy system: no one is expected to stay alone; agree check-in times and a “leave now” code word.
Named escalation contact: one manager on duty who will step in, remove the person, arrange transport, and log the incident.
Alcohol boundaries: limit free bar tabs, encourage food/water, and make it clear drunken behaviour isn’t an excuse.
Safe travel plan: pre-book taxis, don’t leave staff to get home alone late, especially if they’re shaken up.
Follow-up process: document it, support the employee, and take action with the third party
If you need advice, please give me a call.
P.s Rubbing Juliet's right breast is supposed to be good luck in love (not harassment!)
