Overview

Online harassment includes harmful emails, messages, or social media posts from clients, vendors, or contractors. Repeated unwelcome communications, threats, or demeaning content can create a hostile work environment.

Common formats include aggressive emails, relentless messaging after requests to stop, or public shaming in professional forums.

Impact includes anxiety, distraction, and strain on business relationships, potentially affecting contract performance and collaboration.

Response and reporting: save and organize messages, block or limit contact where appropriate, and escalate through the proper channels (manager, HR, procurement). Maintain professionalism in your replies and avoid retaliatory behavior.

Mitigation: establish clear communication protocols, and include digital conduct expectations in vendor contracts and onboarding materials.

• Document all instances with timestamps.
• Report patterns to the appropriate channel.
• Use formal complaint processes as defined by policy.