Wednesday, July 09, 2008

QUICK TIPS: Don't Ask For Legal Advice Or Referrals At Work!

If you're dealing with race-based discrimination, harassment or retaliation at work, you should avoid trolling around for legal resources at work. Don't ask coworkers if they know a lawyer you can use to go after your employer, don't do Internet searches for employment lawyers at work, and don't ask for legal advice that pertains to filing a complaint against an employer. All of these things will likely get back to your employer because staff may feel they must tell a supervisor, manager, etc. what you are planning to do. Staff may think they can get a reward for disclosing your plans (e.g., a bonus, salary increase, promotion, etc.) Or, staff may just feel like spreading gossip (so and so is getting ready to sue the company).

Don't give your power away by providing fodder for office gossip or by telegraphing to your employer that you plan to file a complaint with EEOC, a lawyer, etc. Your search for a lawyer and guidance on employment issues should be done on your personal time and outside of the office. Many employers use software that records keystrokes and they can also see every web site employees visit.

Maintain a healthy dose of paranoia. When it comes to even the possibility of vindicating your employment rights, keep your plans private!

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4 Comments:

Anonymous Anonymous said...

Please note, though, that should anyone use the term "black hole," while talking in front of you, they are referencing a phenomenon where light is absorbed into a gigantic star, and has nothing to do with you "working while black." In addition, should anyone reference the "Creature from the Black Lagoon", in front of you, they are not talking about you "working while black" but rather about a rather famous amphibious character who lives in the "Black Lagoon", and starred in three 1950s movies with that title.

12:00 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

Go away, anonymous troll. Some of us actually take solace in having a site that speaks so eloquently to these important issues. Keep this in mind: Your arrogant a--ed sense of privilege may not serve you always, and that black person you dismiss today may just be your help -- OR NOT.

8:08 AM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

Anonymous, you have no business being here. This is a place for minorities who suffer workplace racism. This is a place for us to figure out how to make a living & remain sane.

7:08 AM  
Blogger Unknown said...

There are good lawyer provides you good advice and assistance, if you need any legal advice at work and the points you made is also valid & very interesting.
Wollongong Solicitor

5:05 AM  

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