All you want to do at your job is earn a decent living while building your career. Sometimes you get the impression that won’t be possible because of the way you’re being treated, however. If you feel you’ve been the victim of workplace discrimination, it’s important to take these five steps.
Remain Objective
As difficult as it may seem, try to keep an objective perspective on the situation. Ask yourself whether what’s been done or said was deliberate, whether it was directed at you, or whether you may have misinterpreted another’s words or actions. It doesn’t mean you have to excuse what you know to be happening, it just means you should think carefully before jumping to any conclusions.
Document Everything
Keep a record of specifics like who said what, when and where it happened, and what was done about it. Over time, you’ll be able to see if there’s a pattern and, if you decide to settle the matter higher in the company hierarchy, you’ll be able to adequately plead your case.
Alert Management
Just because you’ve noticed a pattern of discrimination doesn’t mean upper management has anything to do with it or is even aware it’s happening. Speaking confidentially with management and human resources may be enough to resolve the issue, or can serve as the first step to legal action.
Consult an Attorney
If you feel you’ve been discriminated against and have already gone through the proper channels without resolution, it may be time to learn about employment law Jefferson County TX attorneys. Present the facts as you know them to be true, and allow the experts to guide you the rest of the way.
Watch for Retaliation
It is an ugly thing, but sometimes employees who make complaints experience retaliation from co-workers or management. It is immoral if not illegal to take action against you for simply for bringing discriminatory treatment to light.
Workplace discrimination can happen at any workplace. Go with your gut, but follow the right steps if you’ve been wronged.
