How to Respond to Harassment Email Template: Tips and Examples

Lately, the rise of digital communication methods has made it easier for various forms of harassment to take place, particularly in the workplace. One of the most common forms of harassment these days is through email. In response to this growing issue, we have come up with a harassment email template that can be used to counter any form of inappropriate communication.

Our harassment email template is easy to use and can be adapted to various situations. We understand that dealing with harassment is never easy, but with the right tools and strategies, you can put an end to it without compromising your dignity and respect. In this article, we will share some examples of harassment emails and guide you on how to edit them to fit your specific situation.

We understand that it’s natural to feel hesitant about raising concerns regarding harassment, regardless of its form. Nonetheless, it’s crucial to take action and address it head-on as it may escalate and cause more harm. Our goal is to empower you with the necessary tools to respond to harassment, should you encounter it in any form, in a direct but respectful manner.

That said, if you are ready to get started, continue reading to find examples of our harassment email template that you can edit as needed. We will provide guidance on what to include, the tone to use, and how to make it as effective as possible. Creating a safe and respectful work environment should be our shared goal.

The Ultimate Harassment Email Template Structure: How to Get Your Message Across without Crossing the Line

Harassment is a serious matter that should never be taken lightly. However, in certain situations, you may need to send an email to address the behavior of someone who is causing you discomfort, anxiety or distress. To make sure that your communication is effective yet professional, it is essential to structure your email message carefully. This article will guide you through the best structure for a harassment email template that will allow you to express yourself clearly while minimizing the risk of escalating the conflict.

Start with a Clear Subject Line

The subject line is the first thing that your recipient will see, so you want to make sure it accurately reflects the content of your email. For a harassment email, you don’t need to be overly elaborate – keep it concise and to the point. A good example could be: “Concerns about Your Behavior in the Workplace” or “Request to Cease Harassment.”

Begin with a Professional Salutation and Introduction

Address your recipient politely, using their professional title and last name if appropriate. In your introduction, state the purpose of your email directly and succinctly. For example, you could write: “I am writing to bring to your attention certain behaviors that I consider harassing and unwelcome, and to request that you immediately cease such behavior.”

Provide Clear Examples and Evidence

It’s essential to back up your claim of harassment with concrete examples and evidence. This will help the recipient understand the gravity of the situation and avoid any misunderstanding or misinterpretation. Depending on the nature of the harassment, you may need to provide dates and times of specific incidents, names of witnesses or relevant parties, and any documentation that supports your claims.

State Your Personal Boundaries and Expectations

After laying out your concerns and evidence, it’s time to make your expectations clear. You can state your personal boundaries, to let the recipient know what you will and will not tolerate. Be explicit but avoid making threats or using a confrontational tone. Instead, use “I” statements and keep the focus on your feelings and needs. For instance: “I expect that you will cease all communication with me outside of professional necessity and respect my physical and emotional boundaries.”

End with a Professional Closing and Contact Information

Finally, end your email with a professional closing that reflects your intentions and tone. You can express the hope that the situation will improve, and thank the recipient for their attention. Provide your preferred method of contact, such as email or phone, and invite the recipient to reach out to you if they have any questions or concerns.

By following this structure, you can communicate your concerns professionally, assert your boundaries effectively, and minimize the risk of causing further harm or conflict. Remember that harassment can have serious consequences, so it’s important to use your communication wisely and judiciously.

Harassment Email Template for Sexual Harassment

Complaint of Sexual Harassment

Dear [Recipient name],

I am writing to file a complaint regarding an incident of sexual harassment that occurred on [date]. The behavior that was directed at me made me feel uncomfortable and violated. I want to take action to ensure that this behavior does not happen again in the future.

During the incident in question, [describe the behavior that took place in detail]. This behavior was completely unwelcome, and I want to let you know that it is unacceptable and must not be tolerated in the workplace.

I would like to request that you take disciplinary action against the individual who engaged in this behavior. I believe it is essential that they understand how this type of behavior is unacceptable and that it will not be tolerated in the workplace. I would like to see a formal investigation take place to determine what occurred and what steps will be taken to prevent this behavior from happening again.

Thank you for taking the time to review this matter. I look forward to hearing from you soon.

Sincerely,

[Your name]

Harassment Email Template for Bullying

Complaint of Bullying in the Workplace

Dear [Recipient name],

I am writing to report an instance of bullying behavior in the workplace. [Describe the incident that took place and provide specific examples of the behavior that was unacceptable].

The bully behavior creates significant distress and negatively impacts my ability to function effectively and productively. This behavior has resulted in feelings of stress and anxiety for me, and I believe that I have been targeted specifically and unfairly.

I would like to request a formal investigation to take place, to determine what happened and what steps can be taken to prevent similar behavior from taking place in the future. I also ask that appropriate disciplinary action be taken against the individuals involved.

Thank you for your attention to this serious matter, and I look forward to hearing from you soon.

Sincerely,

[Your name]

Harassment Email Template for Discrimination

Complaint of Discrimination in the Workplace

Dear [Recipient name],

I am writing to file a complaint of discrimination regarding a recent incident that took place in the workplace on [date]. I am concerned that I am being treated unfairly and unjustly due to [explain the specific ways in which you believe you were discriminated against].

It is essential to be able to work in an environment that promotes equal opportunities for all employees. Based on my current situation, I’m afraid to continue working in this profession due to this discrimination. Therefore, I hope that you can do something to fix it.

I will appreciate it if a formal investigation is made to examine the facts surrounding the incident and for appropriate action to be taken, including disciplinary action if necessary, to ensure that no one else will suffer discrimination in the workplace.

It would be great to hear back from you and thank you in advance for your assistance in this matter.

Sincerely,

[Your name]

Harassment Email Template for Verbal Abuse

Complaint of Verbal Abuse in the Workplace

Dear [Recipient name],

I am writing to file a complaint about verbal abuse I have received from my co-worker/manager/employer on several occasions. I feel extremely uncomfortable and would like you to take immediate action to prevent this behavior from continuing.

The verbal abuse consists of [provide specific examples of how the harassment is being carried out]. This has been ongoing for some time and has impacted me both professionally and personally.

I would like to request that you take disciplinary action against the individual who is the cause of verbal abuse. I also request that a formal investigation takes place to determine what happened and what steps will be taken to prevent this behavior from happening again.

Thank you for your attention to this matter, and I look forward to hearing back from you soon.

Sincerely,

[Your name]

Harassment Email Template for Cyberbullying

Complaint of Cyberbullying in the Workplace

Dear [Recipient name],

I am writing to report a case of cyberbullying that I have experienced in the workplace. This type of behavior is completely unacceptable and has caused me significant stress and discomfort.

The cyberbullying has taken the form of [provide specific examples of how the harassment is being carried out]. This has resulted in humiliation and discomfort for me and has negatively impacted my ability to work effectively.

I would like to request that a formal investigation is conducted into this matter and that disciplinary action is taken against the individual or individuals involved in this cyberbullying. I would also like to see steps taken to prevent this type of behavior from happening in the future.

Thank you for taking the time to address this matter, and I look forward to hearing back from you soon.

Sincerely,

[Your name]

Harassment Email Template for Stalking

Complaint of Stalking in the Workplace

Dear [Recipient name],

I am writing to file a complaint of stalking in the workplace. I am extremely concerned about my safety and well-being, and I would like you to take appropriate action to safeguard my protection.

The stalking behavior includes [provide specific examples of how the harassment is being carried out]. This behavior has made me feel extremely vulnerable, and I’m worried about what this individual is capable of doing in the future.

I would like to request that you take measures in place to protect me from this individual. I also request that a formal investigation is conducted into this matter. I believe disciplinary action should be taken against the individual responsible and consider their application for employment terminated to protect myself and the organization.

Thank you for your attention to this serious matter. I appreciate your intervention and look forward to hearing back from you soon.

Sincerely,

[Your name]

Harassment Email Template for Retaliation

Complaint of Retaliation in the Workplace

Dear [Recipient name],

I am writing to file a complaint of retaliation regarding some events in the workplace. I experienced some types of harassment from one of my colleagues which I reported some months ago. Since then, I have been the victim of some retaliation from colleagues,

The retaliation has taken the form of [provide specific examples of how the retaliation is being carried out]. This behavior has created a hostile work environment and impacted my ability to work effectively.

I would like to request that a formal investigation is conducted into this matter. As the victim of harassment, I should not again be subjected to any mistreatment, retaliation, or any kind of harm.

Thank you for your attention to this matter. I look forward to hearing back from you soon.

Sincerely,

[Your name]

Tips for Creating a Harassment Email Template

Harassment can take various forms, including in electronic communications such as emails. Whether you want to confront a perpetrator of online harassment, report the harassment to authorities or express your displeasure to a harasser, using an email template can help you avoid escalating the situation while still communicating your message effectively. Below are some tips for creating a harassment email template:

  • Be clear and concise: Make sure your message is short and to the point. The harasser should be able to understand what you are getting at without having to read between the lines.
  • Use polite and professional language: Your goal is to communicate firmly and assertively without using abusive language or threatening language. This approach will help you come across as reasonable and poised.
  • Explain how the harassment is affecting you: You should describe the specific harassment behavior that is hurting you and explain why it is unwelcome and unacceptable. This will help the harasser understand the gravity of their actions.
  • Provide evidence: If you have evidence of the harassment, providing it along with your email can make a strong case for your position. Evidence can include screenshots, recordings or witness statements.
  • Provide a clear course of action: Your email should also clearly communicate what action you want the harasser to take or what steps you plan to take if the harassment does not stop.
  • Take time to cool off before writing: It’s important to not write an email when you’re feeling angry or emotional. Take time to calm down and think carefully about what you want to say before sending your message.
  • Consider involving a third party: If you feel uncomfortable or unsafe communicating with the harasser directly, you may want to get a third party involved to help mediate the situation. You can mention this in your email template.

Remember that every situation is unique, and you should tailor your email template to suit your specific circumstances. However, these tips can serve as a helpful guide to ensure that your message is clear, concise, and assertive while still maintaining your professionalism and dignity.

FAQs on Harassment Email Template


What is a harassment email template?

A harassment email template is a pre-written email for reporting harassment, that you can customize to suit your situation. It saves you time, and ensures that you provide the necessary information to your employer or HR department.

How do I use a harassment email template?

You can use a harassment email template by filling in the blanks and customizing the content to fit your situation. You can then send the email to the relevant people, such as your immediate supervisor, HR department, or legal counsel.

What should I include in a harassment email template?

A harassment email template should include a clear description of the harassing behavior, the date and time when it occurred, the names of any witnesses, and any previous instances of harassment. It should also include a request for action from the employer or HR department.

Can I use a harassment email template for online harassment?

Yes, a harassment email template can be used for online harassment. The template should be customized to include the relevant details of the online harassment, such as the online platform where it occurred, and any digital evidence of the harassment.

What if my employer does not respond to my harassment email template?

If your employer does not respond to your harassment email template, you may need to escalate your complaint to a higher authority, such as a government agency or a lawyer. You may also want to seek emotional support or counseling to cope with the effects of the harassment.

Can I send a harassment email template anonymously?

Yes, you can send a harassment email template anonymously, but it may reduce the effectiveness of your complaint. Your employer may not be able to fully investigate the complaint without your cooperation, and you may miss out on the opportunity to stop the harassment and receive compensation.

How can I make sure my harassment email template is taken seriously?

You can make sure your harassment email template is taken seriously by being specific and professional in your language, providing credible evidence of the harassment, and requesting a prompt and thorough investigation. You should also follow up with your employer to ensure they are taking appropriate action.

Can I be fired for sending a harassment email template?

No, it is illegal for your employer to retaliate against you for reporting harassment. If you are fired or demoted after sending a harassment email template, you may have grounds for a discrimination lawsuit.

Should I consult a lawyer before sending a harassment email template?

It may be helpful to consult a lawyer before sending a harassment email template, especially if you have experienced severe or ongoing harassment, or if you are concerned about retaliation from your employer. A lawyer can advise you on your legal rights and options, and help you prepare a stronger case.

Wrapping it up!

Thanks for taking the time to read this article on harassment email templates. Remember, the use of these templates is not only illegal but also morally wrong. On the other hand, if you have ever received such an email, don’t hesitate to report it to the appropriate authorities. Don’t forget to check our website regularly as we offer informative articles like this from time to time. See you soon!