1 in 4 women experience inappropriate comments in the workplace, study shows 

A survey of 2,006 employees across the UK in October showed that only 10% of men experienced similar issues.

The research, conducted by CareerWallet, showed that nearly twice as many men (10%) as women (6%) have experienced homophobic behaviour and comments from colleagues or managers.

56% of those who experienced inappropriate comments said that they happened remotely, via zoom or email. 

It comes as figures show the number of employees who have experienced workplace bullying has almost doubled since 2019, before the coronavirus pandemic.

According to the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development, over 15% of employees have experienced bullying or harassment at work.

The hybrid working environment is presenting new problems such as with the rise in written communication, leaving things open to be misinterpreted.

There is less opportunity for a manager to pick up on cues about an employee’s wellbeing.  

Craig Bines, CEO at The CareerWallet Group, said the research gives a stark warning as firms struggle to recruit and keep the best talent, it is essential employers offer positive and healthy environments for their

“The survey highlights how many employees are not only unhappy in their workplace but also being subjected to extremely toxic behaviour from line managers and colleagues,” Bines said.

“It is hugely upsetting to hear so many women being subjected to inappropriate and sexist comments from colleagues and managers, especially in the modern workplace.  It is clear that many employers across the UK need to address their work environments and also consider how staff are being impacted through hybrid working.”

According to the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development, over 15% of employees have experienced bullying or harassment at work.

The hybrid working environment is presenting new problems such as the rise in written communication, leaving things open to be misinterpreted.

Another issue with hybrid working is that there is less opportunity for a manager to pick up on cues about an employee’s wellbeing.