Harassment?

Question

I work for the jewelry department at a retail store. I have noticed this one guy who is older coming in a lot lately. He always swings by the jewelry counter and has something like a watch that needs a battery or something else that needs to be fixed. He really has never said anything but has been trying to strike up a conversation with me within the last week.. I have asways known something was not right about him but I can't ignore him and not wait on him or provide customer service. I have said something to the manager about him, but the thing is he has not said anything threatening, but he asks he how old I am or where I go to college or if I am married. I disregard his questions as best as I can, don't really answer him. It is beginning to freak me out because I want to put a stop to it before something happens. I always have someone walk me out to my car at night, I just don't want something to happen. Am I paranoid?

Answer 1

You may or may not have anything to worry about. But, you feel threatened.

But, first you need to ask yourself if you have done anything to entice him. But, then again, why be nice to someone and treat them nicely, because that's your job, and have them keep coming to you when he is in your place of business, if you don't want him to do so.

Life teaches us many things and this could be a test for you. But, you feel threatened. This could tell you that this is not the line of work for you. It could also say that you are not a people person. Your management has done nothing to prevent this from happening. I don't personally think so. More than likely, they've already checked him out.

Answer 2

Definitely NOT! I have worked most of my life in the public and customer service and know exactly how you feel. This guy is a total stranger and obviously not your age, so what business is it of his to know about your personal life such as if your married, how old you are, or what college you go to?? The world is full of creeps like these this day and time and you can NEVER be too careful. Say that he was to be a dangerous person...All he would need to know would be in the answers to questions such as these...by asking if your married then that would tell him if you are more than likely alone when at home or wherever...By asking what college...well that could simply open a door for his opportunity to begin stalking you. I think you need to be wary of this guy. I also think you need to let your manager know exactly how uncomfortable this guy is making you and that you are sincerely becoming afraid of him. Don't back down and let him know that you want him to do something about...no one should have to be afraid of simply going to work! Stand your ground girl, it is human nature to have instincts and usually the first are right!

Answer 3

In this case, paranoia is not a bad thing. Your instincts are telling you to watch out. Listen to them; they may save your life. If he talks to you again and asks personal questions that make you uncomfortable, remain polite and say, "I appreciate that you're trying to be so friendly. However, I am not comfortable answering personal questions." It's a good idea to keep having someone walk you out to your car at night, especially because you feel so threatened. It's better safe than sorry.

If he keeps talking to you even after you tell him it's making you uncomfortable, talk to your manager again. If you make it clear you don't want to answer personal questions and he persists, it is clearly harassment and your manager has an obligation to provide a safe work environment. If it's possible, have a co-worker you trust standing by when he talks to you again. That way, there will be someone there to confirm to the manager that something is going on here.

Best of luck to you in getting this ugly incident resolved as peacefully as possible. I know from personal experience the terrors of being harassed. No woman should ever have to go through it.

Answer 4

You know the basic rules; don't be alone with him, don't tell him any of your personal information, ect, ect. But look up what harassment is in your state; if what he's doing seems to fall under the category, then I suggest you go to the police and let them handle it. Really it sounds more like hes trying to come on to you; if thats the case, just tell him flat out that you aren't interested. This guy sounds like a creep, so even if he backs off right after you tell him 'no', have someone walk you to your car for about a week or so afterwards.

Answer 5

If you are scared it is NOT paranoid.
Next time he asks something, tell him you are not allowed to talk about personal stuff at work.
Take down his description, and the time he usually stops by. You said you work at a retail store so bypass your unhelpful supervisor and go to the security office and tell the security officer supervisor. If they won't listen go to the police! If you are scared to walk to your car alone then don't find someone to walk you out like you have been doing.
Brush up on self defense. Park your auto under bright lights, keep your car locked, walk with your keys out or purchase pepper spray to hold in your hand. Keep your eyes open, notice your surroundings, if you notice someone following you go to a safe place or to the police station.
Don't play tough, if you are scared do not put it off.
Be safe...

Answer 6

If I were you, I'd take that as harassment. I hate it when yucky older men look at you or try to flirt witht you. So.. just keep on ignoring him. DO NOT be alone outside of work with him; because he might rape you, or tell him you phone number or house address.

Answer 7

you are correct in doing what you do though it can not be called harassment you know the saying better safe than sorry in this day and time you never know what can happen to anyone you read about it in the papers all the time

Answer 8

If your manager or higher up does not address this problem get a lawyer and sue for hazardous work place and sexual harassment... period.. quickly.

Answer 9

Paranoia is the fabric of our now society........it's sad, but true. I would just skit around his questions and if it gets worse, tell the manager again.

Answer 10

No, it is good to be aware.