The Shocking Data Behind Sexual Assault and Harassment in the Workplace

Who experiences sexual misconduct? In which industries? How often is it reported? A new survey has answers.

Sylvia Ann Hewlett
Marker

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Photo: Klaus Vedfelt/Getty Images

SSexual misconduct haunts the corporate world. It’s in the headlines every week, and corporate boards, executives, and rank-and-file employees have begun to realize that it’s a problem they need to fight. But before we can effectively fight the problem, we need to map out — in concrete detail — its scope and span. Here are some of the specific questions about sexual misconduct in the workplace that anyone concerned — whether in leadership or the ranks — needs to be able to answer, to protect themselves and their organizations:

  • How common is sexual misconduct in the workplace?
  • How often is it harassment, and how often assault?
  • Who are the predators?
  • Who are the prey?
  • Are certain ethnic groups or LGBTQ individuals especially at risk?
  • How closely related is sexual misconduct to seniority and abuse of power?
  • How often are harassment and assault reported — and how often ignored?
  • How does it impact employee engagement and flight risk — including for…

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Sylvia Ann Hewlett
Marker
Writer for

Sylvia Ann Hewlett is an economist and the CEO of Hewlett Consulting Partners, as well as the founder and chair emeritus of the Center for Talent Innovation.