Discrimination in Your Workplace? Here's What to Do

Over the past few years, discrimination in the workplace has become a topic of discussion, and it seems that more and more people are experiencing it.

There are all sorts of types of discrimination that can take place in the workplace, including race, religion, disability, gender, pregnancy and more. If you feel that you're being discriminated against by an employer or colleague, it's important that you know how to handle the situation.

In most cases, the best route of action is to contact employment law attorneys, Charlotte NC, or in whichever area you're in, but here are a few other steps to consider.

Document It
If at all possible, documenting or recording the offensive actions will be extremely helpful for your case. You'll want to note the date and time, the people involved, the location, what was said or done and any witnesses who might have seen the incident.

Be aware that recording someone with your camera or voice recorder might have negative implications for you in a legal sense, so be aware of the laws and how to handle that, if that is what you wish to do.

Be Rational
While the experience of being discriminated against is undoubtedly an emotional one, it's important that you try to remove emotion from your actions, and think and behave in an entirely rational and professional manner.

Focus on facts rather than feelings, provide evidence of your claims and avoid allowing your emotions to take over these conversations.

Verbal Report
You might want to start off by simply making a verbal complaint, or even having a verbal conversation with the people involved, your employer, or your HR team, if you would feel comfortable with any of these avenues.

In some cases, a verbal discussion could be enough to clear up potential miscommunications, or to allow for other parties to acknowledge mistakes, apologise and change their behaviour.

Written Complaint
Unfortunately, a verbal discussion might not be enough, or you may not feel comfortable addressing the situation head-on and face to face.

In this case, you'll want to elevate the situation by submitting a written complaint to HR or your direct manager. A formal complaint should render your employer obligated by law to investigate the situation, and you'll be able to follow up on the progress.

Be Assertive
Sometimes, you'll need to be assertive about the outcomes you want from a situation. If you receive an apology and no change of behaviour from the offender, you are within your rights to push for further action.

Hire External Help
If you've taken all of these steps and still have not reached the outcome you wanted from your complaint, it might be time to hire an employment lawyer. Seeking legal guidance through this process will allow you to have a clear idea of what your rights are.

A labour lawyer will fight on your behalf for the appropriate discipline and compensation in your specific case, alleviating your stress and helping you feel safe in your workplace in all ways.