The #MeToo movement continues to make news, while dramatically altering workplace environments. In October, Dean Zhan Li, DBA, kicked off the Dean’s Executive Forum with a panel discussion entitled, “#MeToo and Changing Dynamics in the Workforce.” The event provided timely lessons on the dire importance of ethics and respect in the workplace.
Introducing the first of what will be an annual forum format, Dean Li said, “The idea of the Dean’s Executive Forum is to bring thought leaders to Dolan to encourage dialogue on cutting edge issues so our students will be ready for today’s world.”
Serving as moderator was Dolan Professor Lisa A. Mainiero, PhD. Dr. Mainiero's research includes the study of kaleidoscope career models (KCMs), the intersection between workplace romance and sexual harassment, executive women, power and political strategies, and men's and women's new career paths. She is the author of The Opt-Out Revolt: Why People Are Leaving Companies to Create Kaleidoscope Careers, and is a sought after lecturer and consultant with appearances on Good Morning America, The Oprah Winfrey Show, CNN's Business News, and other radio and television programs.
Dr. Mainiero emphasized that the evening was an opportunity to talk openly about sexual assault, sexual harassment and gender discrimination, as well as the emotional toll they take. “Both men and women are victims,” she noted. “We’re not talking about sex tonight, but abuse of power.”
Panelists -- experts in labor law, talent management and effective work environments, among other managerial areas -- were asked if they envision an increase in reports of harassment in the workplace, given the current news headlines and social climate.
Rachel Lieberman, senior vice president and chief counsel for Labor, Employment and Benefits at Synchrony Financial, believes there will be an increase in “private reports” of harassment, but a decrease in “public reports.” She emphasized that sexual harassment in the workplace “is illegal; it’s a form of discrimination.”
When Dr. Mainiero asked how workplaces might change going forward, panelists agreed that the key to positive change lies in employees being good to one another. Emotional intelligence and a decency quotient among employees are crucial.
“A lot more attention will be paid to getting the culture right,” said Patricia Nazemetz, formerly chief human resource and ethics officer for Xerox Corporation, and now principal of the talent management consultancy NAZ DEC LLC. “We have to get back to treating each other with respect.”
“It’s important to catch people doing something right," continued Nazemetz, "Good behaviors will drive new policies.”
Panelists also agreed that #MeToo has ushered in workplace scenarios in which some men are afraid to mentor or even hire women, and many people are hesitant to hold meetings attended by just two people. “I fear a step backward for women -- a backlash,” said Lieberman.
Simon Fenner, managing director at Lukoil Pan Americas, LLC, urged students to make certain their future places of employment are respectful places where they feel comfortable.
Human Resources can play a vital role. Nazemetz emphasized that best practices for Human Resources departments include encouraging open communication and offering lots of ways to report incidents, while Dr. Mainiero stressed that victims must be protected against retaliation.
Professor Mainiero brought the event to a close with a personal plea to attendees to seek counseling if they are victims of any kind of harassment or assault. “Rise,” she told the audience. “Remember – you are a survivor, not a victim.”
