Workplace discrimination can often be hard to spot, especially when it comes in subtle forms. These behaviors may seem harmless on the surface, but they can create a hostile work environment over time.
Recognizing these red flags is important for ensuring your ability to advocate for yourself and your workplace rights.
Exclusion
One subtle form of discrimination is exclusion from opportunities. Consider whether you consistently miss out on promotions, training programs or high-profile projects. If there is a pattern of such behavior, it may be discrimination based on race, gender, age or other protected characteristics.
Differential treatment
Small differences in the way someone treats you during daily interactions can be particularly subtle. This may include interrupting or dismissing your ideas during meetings or consistently giving you less credit for your work, even by small amounts at a time. These actions can wrongfully undermine an employee’s confidence.
Stereotyping
Stereotyping is a common form of discrimination that can manifest in subtle, seemingly harmless ways. This occurs in the workplace when someone makes assumptions about an employee based on their background. An unfortunately common example is assuming that a young employee lacks meaningful experience. Stereotyping often leads to unequal treatment and can prevent employees from reaching their full potential.
Hurtful language
It is often difficult to tell if discriminatory language is intentional. Jokes, comments or offhand remarks about someone’s personal characteristics may be subtle, but they can create a hostile atmosphere. Even if these remarks are not meant to be harmful, they can still have a negative impact on the targeted employee.
Lack of support
Lack of support from management can also be a subtle form of discrimination. When supervisors or managers fail to address concerns raised by certain employees, it can indicate a deeper issue. This lack of support can make it difficult for employees to voice their concerns and seek help, leading to further discrimination.
The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission received 81,055 new charges of discrimination in 2023, but this number could be even higher if employees reported all the subtle discriminatory behaviors that often go unnoticed. It is important to never underestimate how much harm a seemingly innocuous comment can cause in the workplace.
