Understanding the Role of POSH Advisory Services
POSH Advisory Services are specialized professional services designed to support organizations in implementing, managing, and strengthening their POSH frameworks. These services combine legal expertise, HR best practices, and insights into workplace culture to help organizations prevent harassment before it escalates into complaints, conflicts, or reputational damage.
According to a 2022 survey by the Indian National Bar Association, over 38% of women reported experiencing workplace harassment, yet a significant number chose not to report it due to fear of retaliation or lack of trust in internal systems. This gap between policy and practice is precisely what POSH Advisory Services aim to bridge.
Building Strong, Compliant POSH Policies
A foundational element of harassment prevention is a clear, well-drafted POSH policy. POSH Advisory Services help organizations:
- Draft or review POSH policies aligned with the POSH Act
- Customize policies based on workforce size, industry, and risk exposure
- Clearly define what constitutes sexual harassment, including subtle and virtual forms
For example, with the rise of remote work, advisors now ensure policies explicitly cover harassment via emails, video calls, and messaging platforms—an area often overlooked in older policy frameworks.
Setting Up and Training the Internal Committee (IC)
The Internal Committee (IC) is the backbone of POSH compliance. However, many ICs exist only on paper. POSH Advisory Services support organizations by:
- Structuring the IC as per legal requirements
- Training IC members on inquiry procedures, natural justice, and confidentiality
- Conducting mock inquiries to build confidence and preparedness
A trained IC not only ensures lawful handling of complaints but also builds employee trust. When employees believe their concerns will be addressed fairly, early reporting increases—helping organizations intervene before issues worsen.
Employee Awareness and Sensitization Training
Prevention starts with awareness. POSH Advisory Services design and deliver employee training programs that go beyond legal definitions. Effective sessions focus on:
- Recognizing inappropriate behavior and microaggressions
- Understanding consent, power dynamics, and bystander responsibility
- Clarifying reporting mechanisms and protections against retaliation
Organizations that invest in regular, interactive POSH training often report fewer incidents and healthier team dynamics. Training transforms POSH from a “policy document” into a shared organizational value.
Handling Complaints and Investigations with Integrity
When complaints do arise, how they are handled can either reinforce or erode organizational credibility. POSH Advisory Services guide organizations through:
- Lawful, unbiased inquiry processes
- Proper documentation and timelines
- Sensitivity toward complainants and respondents
In complex or high-risk cases, external POSH advisors may act as independent experts, ensuring objectivity and reducing internal bias. This professional handling minimizes legal exposure and emotional fallout for all parties involved.
Using POSH Data to Improve Workplace Culture
An often-overlooked benefit of POSH Advisory Services is their ability to turn insights into action. Advisors help organizations analyze trends such as:
- Common risk areas (departments, roles, or work settings)
- Gaps in awareness or leadership behavior
- Patterns indicating cultural or structural issues
These insights enable leadership teams to make targeted interventions—such as manager coaching, policy updates, or workflow changes—that proactively reduce harassment risks.
Actionable Tips for Organizations
To maximize the impact of POSH Advisory Services, organizations should:
- Treat POSH as a leadership responsibility, not just an HR function
- Conduct annual POSH audits, not just mandatory trainings
- Communicate zero tolerance consistently through actions, not slogans
- Encourage early reporting and protect confidentiality fiercely
Conclusion: Prevention Is a Continuous Process
Workplace harassment prevention is not a one-time compliance exercise—it is an ongoing commitment to dignity, safety, and fairness. POSH Advisory Services empower organizations to build robust systems, train people effectively, and respond to issues with integrity and care. By partnering with experienced POSH advisors, organizations don’t just reduce legal risk—they create workplaces where employees feel respected, heard, and safe to do their best work.