A lot of things can go wrong as an employee, but there’s little worse than finding that you’re a victim of workplace retaliation.
In the business world, retaliation comes in the form of a punishment for taking some type of action against your employer, such as filing a complaint of sexual harassment or gender discrimination.
While your employer may be annoyed by your claim and upset that it will cost them time, money and other resources, it doesn’t give them the right to retaliate.
Here are some of the most common examples of workplace retaliation:
- Termination: This occurs when your employer terminates your employment after taking action against them. In most cases, they don’t tell the truth about why they’re firing you, but instead make up a story in an attempt to cover up the real reason.
- Pay cut: For many employees, this hurts just as much, if not more, than termination. A pay cut for no good reason will impact the way you work, as well as your ability to maintain your finances.
- Demotion: You’re good at your job, but your employer decides to demote you as a punishment for speaking out against them.
- Any form of unwarranted discipline: This can include everything from a suspension to demotion to an unfair performance review. Keep your eyes open for any act against you that doesn’t align with your on-the-job performance.
Even though workplace retaliation is against the law, many employers can’t help but to take action against an employee who they feel “did them wrong.” If you find yourself a victim, collect evidence to back up your claim and then learn more about what to do next.
There are both federal and state laws in place to protect employees, such as the New Jersey Conscientious Employee Protection Act (CEPA).
It’s never easy to find that you’re the victim of workplace retaliation. Just the same, it’s often difficult to stand up for yourself and discuss your concerns with your employer.
If you’re unable to work things out with your employer, it’s time to learn more about your legal rights and the steps you can take to protect them.
