Going to work every day and feeling like you’re being treated differently because of who you are is… It’s just exhausting. Maybe you’re being passed over for opportunities. Maybe you’re receiving harsher treatment than your coworkers. Maybe you’re hearing comments that make you uncomfortable.
Either way, this is not acceptable.
Not every unpleasant workplace experience is necessarily unlawful discrimination, though. However, if you believe your employer’s decisions or behavior are connected to a protected characteristic, you need to do one thing:
Take the situation seriously.
Keep reading on to learn what should do to do just that.
Document Every Incident
Begin by keeping a record of the incidents that concern you.
Write down what happened, when it happened, who was involved, and whether anyone else witnessed it. Save any emails, messages, performance reviews, or other documents that could help prove a pattern.
Try to stick to the facts. Don’t guess or speculate about someone’s intentions – doing so will only result in problems. A clear record of what happened is preferred, and it will be useful later on.
Review Company Policies
Take a look at your employee handbook or workplace policies next. Your employer might have a specific process for reporting discrimination or other workplace concerns. It is crucial you follow these steps correctly.
Knowing the procedure before making a complaint helps you understand the next steps. You’ll learn who to contact and whether there are any deadlines or requirements you need to follow.
Report the Bias Internally
If you feel comfortable doing so, consider raising the issue internally. Speak with HR, your manager, or another person designated by your employer.
Explain what you’ve experienced and provide specific examples. If you make the complaint verbally, follow up with a written letter or email. This creates a record to prove what you reported.
Of course, not everyone feels comfortable reporting such issues internally. In some cases, your manager might be involved. Or maybe you’re concerned about how the company will respond. If so, get advice before making a complaint.
File a Charge with the EEOC
When you experience unlawful discrimination, the EEOC – Equal Employment Opportunity Commission – is often a necessary contact. You might need to file a charge with this organization to proceed.
There are specific requirements and deadlines involves. Not all workplace disputes will fall under federal discrimination law, so you must know the details of your situation. They matter.
The information you have will help you understand your options. After all, the EEOC might not be the right next step for you.
Seek External Support
You don’t have to figure everything out by yourself. You are not alone here.
If you’ve tried to address the problem at work and nothing has changed – or you’re worried that reporting it might make things worse – speak with an employment attorney. There are other qualified professionals to reach out to, too.
For those confronting employer violations near San Jose, getting advice early on helps clarify certain aspects. For example, you’ll know whether the behavior you’ve experienced may violate employment laws as well as what options are available.
To conclude, being treated differently because of a protected characteristic is unpleasant. There are certain steps to follow, as outlined above, that will ensure you receive the assistance required.