The workplace is where employees spend more than half of their lives. It’s a place where they work, eat, live, and socialize like never before. There are some workplaces that are family-like and others that are hostile to newcomers or established members of the company. Several factors can make your workplace hostile.
A hostile work environment can be brought about by any employee or group of employees. Unfortunately, managers and supervisors are sometimes the reason for a hostile work environment. If you feel that you have experienced a hostile work environment at your job, you should consult with an employment attorney norfolk va to address the situation. An employment lawyer can help you determine whether the problem is a legal issue or not.
Here are some common reasons that can lead to a hostile work environment.
- Poor communication practices
Good communication is necessary in order to deepen teamwork and grow business relationships. If employees are not communicating properly, they won’t be able to develop strong working relationships. Of course, the difficulty in communication can be contributed to several internal factors.
- Workplace discrimination
Certain types of discrimination can lead to a hostile work environment. When discrimination is a major reason for a hostile work environment, your employer may need to do something about it. At this point, an attorney can help you decide on the kind of action you need to take. If your employer has discriminated you in the past, for instance, then it’s possible that your current situation is also linked with discrimination.
- Unfair appraisal system
An unfair appraisal system can lead to a hostile work environment. If you can prove that your boss uses an unfair appraisal system, then it’s possible that the boss has violated your rights at the workplace.
- Lack of grievance cells
If there is no grievance cell, it’s possible that you will not have a chance to address a work-related issue with your supervisor. Without having this opportunity, you may not be able to address the problem or get help if you need it. Even when there is a grievance cell, in some workplaces it may not be efficient.
- Unequal distribution of employee perks and benefits
If employees are not getting equal treatment when it comes to benefits and perks, they may feel that they aren’t being valued. And this can lead to a hostile work environment.