While many companies may attempt to create an environment in which all employees can succeed, this does not always happen. Some laws protect workers from illegal workplace treatment, but it might not always be easy to tell when one has been subjected to discrimination. Knowing how to spot the signs of workplace discrimination may be necessary for individuals in the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area understand how to address the situation and protect their legal rights.
The signs
One of the most difficult aspects of workplace discrimination is that discrimination could occur as early as the hiring process. Individuals who encounter questions or remarks about factors such as age, race or health conditions may wonder how these topics are relevant to their job application or hiring. Discrimination may also be an issue when employees encounter unfair treatment such as demeaning comments or offensive remarks, whether from management or even from fellow employees.
The presence of discrimination may also lead to unfair treatment such as pay inequality or lack of access to opportunities for career advancement. These issues can have a devastating toll on one’s career and leave a person in search of advice on how best to handle the situation. Differences in how workers are treated, such as disciplinary actions that are not fairly applied across the board, may also be a sign of unlawful workplace.
What next?
While detecting the presence of workplace discrimination can be challenging, preparing to address the matter may be even more challenging. Fortunately, this isn’t something a worker must face alone, as there are attorneys in Washington, D.C., who can evaluate the situation and provide insight on how best to approach the situation. This guidance could help workers better understand their legal rights and options and potential steps to protect against such treatment.