Your boss may be running the show at the workplace, but they won’t get every call right. Sometimes, your employer may be crossing legal lines without you even realizing it. Sure, you could throw in the towel and hunt for a job where the rules are followed. However reality isn’t always that simple. Whether it’s your principles or your bank account telling you to tough it out, there are a few steps you can take to handle the situation. Below are four things you can do when you notice your employer is doing something illegal.
Get Your Facts Right
Above all, it’s vital to get your facts right when you feel your employer is breaking the law. Experts on employment matters advise figuring out a few key details before pressing forward. Be certain about what is going on, pinpoint the laws that could be taking a hit. Also check how many people work for your company since some laws are only applicable when there’s a certain headcount. Don’t forget to consider the state the company is located since labor laws may differ from state to state.
Report It to the Right Person
If you’ve got a hunch that your employer is up to some shady business, start by having a heart-to-heart discussion with your supervisor. But if your gut feeling points the finger at your supervisor, take it up the ladder within the company. Most if not all companies have a Human Resources Department. They should be consulted. If there’s no luck there, it’s time to think outside the company box and reach out to your state labor agency. For instance, if you’re getting shortchanged on overtime, send a complaint to the labor department in your state. And remember, employer misbehavior isn’t just about how they treat the team. It can stretch into serious issues like sexual harassment. If that’s the case, don’t hesitate to talk to a sexual harassment lawyer to tackle the problem head-on.
Practice Principled Rebellion
When your boss is guiding the company toward murky legal waters, experts suggest taking the Principled Rebellion route. It’s like a strategic, incremental rebellion designed to say no with integrity and reduce the fallout. Now, saying no to or at work can be tougher, so start by appealing to self-interest. You can respond with gems like “I dont think the department budget covers overtime” or “We might have underestimated how long this will take.” Keep it collaborative and go for “can’t” over “won’t.” It’s rebellion with finesse, setting boundaries without triggering a workplace showdown.
Avoid Toxic Workplaces
Sometimes, the best move is to say goodbye to toxic workplaces. It would help if you didn’t have to clock in every day wondering about your boss’s illegal antics or fearing retaliation for blowing the whistle. If you’re on the hunt for a better workplace where the rules are followed, your career isn’t at risk, and moral values matter. Give your CV a once over and begin talking with recruiters. You’ll set yourself on the path to a new gig where you can breathe easy and leave legal worries behind.
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