As an employee, you hope that workplace discrimination never comes into play. However, if it does, sitting back and hoping that everything works out is not the best approach.
There are many ways to deal with discrimination as an employee, with these tips critical to your long-term well-being:
- Tell your employer: Make it clear to your employer that you are the victim of discrimination. This will ensure that everyone is on the same page as to what happened and the resolution you expect.
- Keep evidence: Maybe you have a photo associated with the act of discrimination. Or maybe you have an email that proves what went wrong. Regardless of the type of evidence, collect it for future use.
- Review your employee handbook: This is where you will find your company’s anti-discrimination policy. It should give you a clear idea of the steps to take.
- Contact the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC): If you don’t get satisfaction from your employer, this is the best way to take things to the next level.
Also, be sure to review all federal and state laws to better understand your legal rights. For example, you may be protected by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) or Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA).
It’s never easy to deal with discrimination as an employee, but it’s better than letting the problem persist. You have legal rights and there is never a bad time to protect them. When you take the appropriate action against the appropriate party, you can feel better about your ability to settle on a resolution.
