Everyone should feel safe at work. However, that is not always the case. Workplace discrimination is widespread and comes in many different forms. It used to be that the most common types of discrimination were age-related or sex-related, but times have changed and with that, the types of discrimination have too.
Discriminatory behavior can lead to lawsuits. These lawsuits are lengthy, expensive and oftentimes result in expensive judgments against employers. The last thing a company needs is a lawsuit for discrimination, not only because of the expenses but also because it makes the company look bad and it can have a significant effect on recruitment and the future of the company.
Employment laws are continuously catching up as circumstances change in the workplace because discrimination issues are so common. Stopping discriminatory behavior is critical due to its effect on our national workforce and therefore, our economy.
Studies show that remote workers are more productive than those who work in the office. While this varies from person to person and company to company, it is worth noting that remote employees can meet or exceed their employer’s expectations while working from home.
What does discrimination look like for remote workers?
Studies have concluded that remote employees suffer discrimination. In many of these cases, managers disguise their illegal behavior by:
- Manipulating employee performance by altering records.
- Using behavioral techniques to intimidate employees.
- Denying promotions or company opportunities to employees.
Understanding that these behaviors are illegal and against the law is critical. Employers must be aware of this and share this knowledge with their leaders so that they too are aware of employment laws, employee rights and potential consequences of violating those rights.
For most people, working and feeling productive is a wonderful feeling, as is contributing to something larger than oneself. However, sometimes employees encounter situations that are less-than-desirable and should understand that they have the right to feel comfortable at work.