Workplace retaliation refers to when an employer creates a toxic and hostile workplace environment against an employee who has reported harassment or safety violations.
However, reporting harassment or safety violations is a protected right. Employers cannot retaliate against employees for exercising protected activities. Employees should be aware of the signs of workplace retaliation. Here are a few:
Poor performance reviews
Your most recent performance review may have had poor scores and serious remarks on your responsibilities. Some of these comments may mention that you are underperforming despite evidence that you are completing your duties on time. Your poor performance review may have been unjustified.
Overworked or underworked
You may be given more work than usual with unrealistic deadlines for one person to meet. This work may be draining and place unreasonable expectations on you. Conversely, you may be given so little work that you do not appear to be doing anything at your job. A lack of work may reflect poorly during performance reviews.
Sudden changes in job duties
Your job responsibilities may suddenly change without a valid explanation. However, these new duties may not be within your experience or skills, giving you a major disadvantage at work. Your new job duties may have also removed you from major projects and team communications.
Hostile micromanagement
You may find that your work is suddenly under constant scrutiny. A manager may be pointing out mistakes with work that do not exist or questioning your every decision.
Constant threats
Your employer may suddenly start making comments about your job performance. They may start suggesting that if you do not perform better, you could be demoted, terminated or have your work reassigned.
Professional legal guidance can help employees fight against workplace retaliation.