How to Protect Your Daughter on Her First Job

Your teen-age daughter will feel very grown up when she gets her first job, but will she be ready for what she might encounter? Its best to prepare her, and explain to her what she should do if she runs into this problem:

1. Most teens work at low paying jobs and the bosses often ignore sex tinged behavior dismissing it as harmless flirtations, not knowing predators are not likely to back off.
2. Some employers and co-workers will harass a quiet girl who they think will remain silent. Tell her she should not be afraid to protest if anyone should act inappropriately, and to tell you, if it happens to her, so you can tell her the best way to respond.
3. Make sure she knows she can refuse an order not related to her job.
4. Ask her if you can drop by the job so her supervisor can see you.
5. Talk to her about her job, and listen closely. If she feels uncomfortable with anyone at work, ask her to explain why.
6. If a manager seems to prefer your child, asking her to come early or stay late, be suspicious. Another danger is if he pays attention to her in ways unrelated to the job.
7. If your child is harassed on the job: Talk to the manager, if he doesn’t take you seriously go to the next higher-up. Keep going up the chain. Write down all dates, phone numbers, and times of your calls.
8. Even if your teen is uneasy, stay on the case. Make it clear it is not about her behavior. It’s about the other persons
9. Have her keep a notebook and write down everything that was said or done, when and where it took place, and if there was another person present.
10. Tell her if she can, to take a picture, such as with a cell phone.
11. If you think the situation is out of hand, tell your child to leave the job. If she stays, tell her this is not a time to be “nice”. Even if the harasser says “it is all in fun”. Tell her she is probably not the only victim.

Under federal law sexual harassment is a civil offence for which the employer can be sued. If the boss won’t protect teenagers then parents must. That means alerting your child about the risks when she starts hunting for a job, and the parent staying watchful. This goes for your son as well as your daughter. Although girls are more vulnerable, boys can be victims too.