Do You Have a Hostile Workplace Environment?

 Do You Have a Hostile Workplace Environment?

When you work with people, there will be differences in actions or words you disagree with. You may have pleasant and unpleasant days at work; however, this does not necessarily mean you have a hostile workplace. 

If you are like most employees, you may spend more time at work than you do at home. Because of this, you expect your work atmosphere to be agreeable and enjoyable.  Unfortunately, some employees work in a hostile workplace and have to endure it every day. If you think you have the same experience, you need to realize that you are not the problem. Also, you don’t have to endure the unpleasant conduct of some people at work. An experienced Essex county employment attorney can help you understand how to move forward with a case. 

How to Know If You Have a Hostile Work Environment

The following are some signs you may have a hostile work environment:

  • Public shaming. If you experience public shaming as a form of discipline at work, you may have a hostile work environment. 
  • Verbal or non-verbal anger and aggression. If you experience your employer, coworker, or another person in the workplace showing serious and disturbing anger and aggression, you may be in a hostile work environment. 
  • Discrimination. Any form of discrimination at work creates a hostile environment. 
  • Harassment. Sometimes, supervisors or coworkers use harassment or intimidation to try to force a worker to quit a job after making a complaint. But, retaliating against an employee for filing a discrimination charge, testifying, or participating in an investigation or lawsuit is not legal. If you experience constant harassment at work, you may have a hostile work environment. 

What to Do If your Workplace Harbors Hostility Towards You

Did you know that hostile workplace issues can develop into a valid claim against your boss? But, you must prove this person is creating a hostile workplace environment. Whether you file a claim against a worker or employer, the burden of proving hostility falls on you. Other people’s actions and behaviors may cause you constant work stress and feelings of being overwhelmed. 

If you are in a hostile work environment, keep in mind that you have rights and protections under the law. Both state and federal laws protect employees from this kind of conduct in the workplace. You need to give written complaints and documentation to your supervisors and human resources. Also, you should seek an attorney to help protect your rights as a worker. You need to always conduct yourself appropriately in the workplace, treat everybody with respect, and conduct written correspondence politely. 

Laura Daniel