11 Steps to Handle Workplace Troubles Effectively

A hostile work environment is something nobody should have to deal with. A workplace is considered hostile, under the federal definition, if there is discriminatory behavior, harassment, abuse, or similarly severe conduct involved.

Facing something similar in your workplace? Here are the steps you need to take to get it handled.

Step 1: Identify the Problem

First of all, it’s essential to recognize the signs and symptoms of these problems to address them effectively. For instance, you might notice a pattern of exclusion, verbal abuse, or unequal opportunities for advancement. Issues like sexual harassment are easier to identify.

Usually, it is crucial to consult with specialist employment attorneys to guide you through the legal complexities and ensure your rights are protected.

Step 2: Report the Issue

Your first step should be to report any issues you’re facing. Depending on the structure of the company you work for, you might file a report with the HR department or perhaps with your direct supervisor.

Usually, this will kickstart a process wherein the issue is investigated and, hopefully, resolved. You’ll typically need to provide evidence that will be considered, and you may need to take part in meetings, hearings, and other aspects of the investigation.

Step 3: Seek Professional Advice

Especially if the issue cannot be easily resolved, or you’re not satisfied with the outcome, you will need to seek assistance from an employment attorney, as professional advice will be invaluable in these situations.

Find a qualified and experienced lawyer who specializes in labor law. Enquire about their past cases, consider whether they have worked with a case similar to yours before, and ask them about the outcome. You’ll also want to discuss what your options are moving forward, including dispute resolution, and what you might expect from the process.

Step 4: Document Everything

When legal matters arise, having evidence is paramount. Think back to every incident relating to the issues you’re experiencing and note them all down.

Take note of the dates, times, and locations of these incidents, as well as who was involved and any witnesses who were around. Include a written account of what happened from your perspective and any other evidence you might have in the form of written correspondence or camera footage.

Step 5: Communicate Effectively

While these incidents can bring up strong emotions, maintaining a professional demeanor throughout the process is important.

Try not to let your emotions get the better of you or interfere with how you express yourself. Communicate clearly and stick to the facts as far as possible. In instances where the law is involved, discussing how you’ll communicate with an attorney first is a good idea. You should also try to keep as much of the communication in writing as possible.

Step 6: Know Your Rights

It’s essential that you do not allow yourself to be taken advantage of or allow a less than satisfactory outcome to our formal complaint. For this, you need to be familiar with your rights.

Brush up on your knowledge of employment law, as well as company policies that relate to discrimination, harassment, etc., and the procedures involved when filing a complaint. This is another area where you might need to get assistance from a legal professional if you’re not sure about your rights in the workplace.

Step 7: Follow Through

Finally, make sure you follow up once you have filed your formal complaint. You will most likely be involved in some kind of hearing or discussion where the issues are dealt with.

If this does not happen, or if you are not satisfied with the outcome of the process, follow up with your immediate supervisors, your HR department, or with a union to generate further action.

Step 8: Explore Mediation

Unfortunately, issues in the workplace aren’t always properly handled internally and you’ll need to seek out external assistance. We’ve already discussed the possibility of working with a legal professional and opening a case.

However, there are often ways to resolve a problem without any formal legal action. Hiring an external mediator is a great example of this. A mediator’s role is to act as an impartial third party who facilitates meetings and helps people in a dispute to reach an agreement. This strategy can be helpful in cases where a hostile work environment is caused by ongoing issues between two parties.

Step 9: Build a Support Network

Whether you’re dealing with internal conflict resolution, working through a legal case, or simply struggling with the effects of working in a hostile environment, you may run into emotional and psychological struggles.

These experiences can be emotionally taxing and hard on our mental health, often leaving us feeling isolated and misunderstood. Having a support system both at work and at home can be extremely beneficial. A supportive colleague can help you feel seen, and having someone to vent to at home will help you deal with your frustrations. Avoid isolating yourself and reach out for support from the people around you.

Step 10: Take Care of Yourself

Of course, it’s also important that you’re taking other steps to care for your physical and mental health throughout this time.

You might need to take some time to step away from work to remove yourself from a tense environment, so using some of your PTO or negotiating flexible work could be beneficial. You should also make sure you’re sleeping well and managing your stress in other ways to avoid burning out or allowing the stress to overcome you. Engage in hobbies, spend time with loved ones, and try meditating to help you process your feelings.

Step 11: Consider Alternative Solutions

If the issue at work isn’t being resolved in the way you’d hoped, it might be time to consider some alternative solutions. These might include a job transfer, negotiating to work from home, or even looking for a new job.

Remaining stuck in an uncomfortable environment is dangerous for your mental health and potentially even for your safety. So, if the above steps don’t yield any positive change, don’t be afraid to take things into your own hands and remove yourself from the situation.