Chandler
(from 'F.R.I.E.N.D.S.', for the uninformed few) comes back from the tailor's one
day with a particularly disturbing bit of news. The tailor, recommended to him
by his best friend, tried to feel him up while taking measurements for a new
pair of pants. Of course, it's funny on the show and we all laugh (how can we
not? It's 'F.R.I.E.N.D.S.') but inappropriate behaviour while at work is an
issue that's very much a reality. So, the question is, in a professional
environment, who makes the rules? Because sometimes, lines, which are already
quite fine, are crossed - by a doctor, a client, your boss, your tailor, a
fitness trainer - and it leaves you confused, maybe even unable to react the
first time... because the offence is so well camouflaged. A friendly pat on your
behind from your boss, an inappropriate brush-up by your tailor, an unnecessary
contact during an exercise routine by your trainer... you know the drill.
Code
Of Conduct
There
actually exists an unspoken, undocumented, but very practised code of conduct.
And professionals stick by it; of course, not the ones who want to make an
evening out of taking advantage of you. Those leeches deserve to be beaten up,
and don't you think twice about introducing them to the very finest slaps in
your arsenal.
Rule
Book For The Professional
#1
Explain your moves
. A wrong move,
intentional or misinterpreted, is an absolute no-no. Hitesh Rathod, Fitness
Centre Manager at Gold's Gym, says, "I always tell my trainers to ask for
permission if a certain routine requires them to physically help with stretches,
bends, etc." In the same way, it helps if a doctor explains a procedure before,
to ease the patient.
#2
Know the consequences and protect
yourself
. "It is a tempting scenario to work in," says Rathod. "I'm
surrounded by beautiful bodies in great outfits all day, but I cannot afford to
misbehave or I'll lose my job, plain and simple. This is a small industry and
word of mouth is our biggest draw. Any nasty remarks about inappropriate
behaviour can be very damaging."