If an employee comes to you with concerns, your responsibilities as their supervisor are to show them you're listening, stay neutral and get to the bottom of their concern. If you are an employee, University policies require you to report any instance of discrimination or harassment of which you become aware to the applicable Title IX Coordinator or Equity Officer. 

How to Handle the Conversation

  • Take notes and listen without interrupting. 
  • Keep your attention focused on the person talking with you. 
  • Convey understanding, but don't pick sides.
  • Don't promise specific outcomes. 

Ask open-ended questions to get the facts: 

  • What occurred? 
  • When did the incident occur? 
  • Where did the incident occur?
  • Who was involved?
  • Were there any witnesses, or was anyone else present?

Confirm you understand what they're telling you by summarizing what you've been told, then asking:

  • Is this accurate?
  • How would you like to see this resolved? 
  • Thank them for raising the concern. 
  • Explain you may need to involve other departments. 
  • Tell them when you intend to follow up. 
  • Remind them they are protected from retaliation for speaking up in good faith.

Who to Contact Next

After the conversation, the supervisor should promptly contact these resources to ask for assistance.