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Labour & Employment Law Blog

3 Steps Employers Can Take to Prevent Workplace Sexual Harassment

Zeilikman Law

Zeilikman Law

3 Steps Employers Can Take to Prevent Workplace Sexual Harassment

After sexual harassment and rape allegations against indie movie mogul Harvey Weinstein made headlines last October, social media campaigns like #MeToo were used to raise awareness of the prevalence of sexual harassment, especially in the workplace. More recently, allegations of “sexual misconduct” have been made against former Ontario PC leader, Patrick Brown, by two former staff members.

Under the law, Canadians are entitled to work in a safe environment free from sexual harassment. Ontario’s Human Rights Code and Occupational Health and Safety Act, work to protect workers against harassment and discrimination of all kinds.

Recent headlines show employers just how important it is to take an active role in the prevention and protection against sexual harassment in the workplace.

Here are a few steps you can take to protect your business and employees:

  1. Create a policy against sexual harassment in the workplace. This policy should clearly describe what language and behaviour are not allowed. Make certain all workers know and understand the policy.
  2. Take all complaints seriously. All claims of sexual harassment should be heard and investigated. If claims are ignored, a business runs the risk of being sued. Involve outside investigators, if necessary, and ensure a report is made on the findings. Employees should know how to make a complaint, what the process will be and how guilty parties will be punished.
  3. Work to create a safe and inclusive workplace. Instill a set of core values for your company that promotes inclusivity and freedom from harassment of any kind. Employers and managers should lead by example by creating an environment in which all workers feel safe and respected. No one should be above the law and all workers should feel free to make a complaint without fear of reprisal.

If you are an employer and need help with the above, please contact one of our lawyers to discuss your concerns.

The above article is for general information purposes only, does not constitute legal advice or create a solicitor-client relationship. Because each case is unique and factually driven, if you have concerns with regard to the foregoing issues, please make an appointment with one of our lawyers or a qualified legal practitioner elsewhere. We represent clients in the Greater Toronto Area including Toronto, North York, Markham, Vaughan, Thornhill, Newmarket, Aurora, Brampton, Mississauga, Barrie, Ajax, Whitby, Pickering and Oshawa.

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Legal Receptionist

Zeilikman Law is an employment law firm located in Vaughan, Ontario. We are looking to hire a legal receptionist to join our firm. Preference will be given to candidates who have experience working as a receptionist at another law firm.

Location: Vaughan, Ontario.

Start Date: Immediately.

Hours: Monday to Friday, 9 am to 5 pm. Full time. In-person only. This is not a remote work position.

Wages: 35,000 to 40,000 per year.

Duties and Responsibilities:

  • Manage our firm’s multi-line telephone system to receive incoming calls.  Screen incoming telephone call inquiries to determine the nature of the telephone call and provide standard information related to our legal services.  Take and deliver messages and route incoming telephone calls to the appropriate staff person.
  • Answer general inquiries coming from the firm’s social media and website email.
  • Welcome in-person visitors upon arrival.  Direct visitors to the appropriate staff person and / or office or boardroom.
  • Organize in-person visitor schedule to prevent overlap and multiple bookings.
  • Receive, sort, and distribute daily mail and deliveries.
  • Arrange for couriers.
  • Keep front reception, kitchenette area and boardroom tidy.
  • Perform various clerical duties such as filing, photocopying, and faxing on an as-needed basis.
  • Process client or other payments.
  • May be asked to run minor errands outside of office such as attending post office to arrange a courier or pick up mail.
  • May be asked to assist other law clerks or lawyers of the firm as required and as appropriate.
  • Any other basic administrative duties or tasks as deemed appropriate.

Required Skills:

  • Basic knowledge of general office procedures including filing, faxing, and printing and copying.
  • Basic word processing computer skills.
  • Proficient in receptionist and telephone practices, etiquette, and decorum.
  • Professional attitude and appearance.
  • Excellent organizational skills.
  • Positive customer service attitude is a must.
  • Must be able to maintain confidential and sensitive information.

Education and Experience:

  • Highschool diploma or equivalent.
  • 1 – 2 years’ experience in an office setting with an emphasis in accounting, reception or clerical work is required.   We would prefer experience in a law firm environment.

Applications for this position should be sent via email to jennifer@zeilikmanlaw.com. All applications should include a cover letter, resume and at least two references. Only successful candidates will be contacted.