JOE SHERREN: The business of #MeToo

The “Me Too” movement is deeply underway – and that is a good thing.  There has been an abuse of power prevalent in establishments ranging from corporations to entertainment, to politics, to religious institutions, and it has been inflicted on both genders and people of all ages. It must stop.

Although I agree that the prevalence of sexual assault and harassment must end, my concern is there may be an unintended negative backlash that may set our gender equality practices and promotional opportunities for deserving people backwards.

The reason I say that is I just returned from an overseas trip where snow storms caused many people to end up stuck in airports for days, or being provided hotel rooms because of cancelled and delayed flights.

I overheard one business executive say he was happy that he decided not to select one of his female managers to accompany him on his project, because it would have been uncomfortable to travel with her in light of the Me Too movement.

I have also heard from executives that they are reviewing their mentorship programs and modifying it so a male superior will not be directly coaching high-potential females. This is deeply troubling to me: I believe it is important that aspiring female candidates receive opportunities to work and learn alongside successful male mangers, and vice versa. If that ends, everyone and their organizations will suffer the consequences.

In a survey done by leanin.org, half of male business executives said they are now uncomfortable participating in common work activities with a woman, such as mentoring, working alone, or socializing together.

Another issue I see is the collateral damage effect. Many years ago, I was part of a team that investigated sexual harassment complaints within our organization. At that time, we found that a significant percentage of harassment allegations were often a result of a consenting relationship gone bad, or revenge due to perceived unfair treatment.  That didn’t matter, jobs were lost and reputations were ruined.

In fact, one in question right now involves TVO Host, Steve Paikin. Now I sure don’t know what transpired between them, but based on his character and reputation, most people feel this will be found to be false. Factual or not, his future is now in jeopardy.

We all want to see real perpetrators punished. But, I fear the atmosphere that exists today of “guilty as soon as accused” will create a business environment where even healthy business relationships will be diminished. 

To help mitigate exposure, here are some guidelines to consider:

- As managers, we all want to be liked.  But, being liked should never dominate over being professional.

- Use this mantra for creating working relationships: “Be friendly, firm, and fair, but not familiar”. It is OK to have dinner or celebrate with the team, not one individual.

- Meetings should not take place over dinner and drinks later in the evening.  Stick to lunches and coffee, with others around.

- When working late, ensure others are present.

- When travelling on business, rooms should be booked on separate floors, or if practical, in different hotels.  Avoid late night dinner or drinks.

- Keep your significant other constantly informed about your agenda and location.

My question to all business leaders: Has your organization instituted protocols or guidelines to mitigate even the perception of inappropriate behaviours? 

Joseph Sherren, international business transformation specialist, can be reached at 902-437-6998, or check his website www.gatewayleadership.com