Preventing Retaliation as a supervisor
Preventing retaliation in the workplace is an important part of creating a safe and productive environment for everyone. In this chapter, we will discuss the steps you can take to ensure that retaliation is not occurring in your workplace.
Retaliation and the EEOC
Retaliation charges are the most frequently filed complaint with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC). The EEOC has a zero-tolerance policy when it comes to retaliation and will investigate any claims of retaliatory behavior. Employees have the right to report instances of discrimination and harassment without fear of retribution, and the EEOC is committed to enforcing this right.
Retaliation in the workplace is an all-too-common occurrence. It can take many forms, from subtle to overt, with the aim of punishing an employee for engaging in a legally-protected activity.
Unwanted transfers are a form of retaliation that can be particularly damaging to an employee's career. An employer may transfer an employee to a less desirable job or to a different location in order to punish them for engaging in protected activity. This could mean a change in job duties, hours, or even relocation to a completely new area.
Unfavorable job assignments as retaliation for engaging in protected activity can include assigning an employee tasks that are beneath their job title or that are outside of their job description. It can also include assigning an employee tasks that are more difficult or time-consuming than the tasks that others in the same position are assigned.
An employee who reports a violation or engages in protected activity may be overlooked for a promotion that they were expecting. The employer may provide false or inadequate reasons for the denial, or deliberately choose someone else for the promotion without providing any explanation.
Best Practices for Avoiding Retaliation
Retaliation against a person in the workplace is illegal and should be avoided at all costs. These best practices will help ensure that no one in your workplace is a victim of retaliation.
Here are some myths to look out for:
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Treat the employee the same as every other employee or colleague.
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Document your interactions with the employee.
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Do not discuss the complaint with others.
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Don't take complaints made against you personally. Cooperate with any investigations and trust that a resolution will be found.
Help prevent retaliation with Employment Laws for Supervisors training
Employment laws are in place to help protect employees from retaliation. Supervisors should be trained on how to recognize and prevent retaliatory behavior in the workplace. With proper training, supervisors can help ensure that employees are treated fairly and that they are protected from any form of harassment or discrimination.
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EasyLlama’s online training course helps prepare employees to navigate employment laws for supervisors and managers. Navigate through employee rights, protected characteristics, best practices for hiring and handling harassment complaints, preventing retaliation, and providing reasonable accommodations. The course covers:
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