The quality of a work environment can vary greatly depending on a number of factors. You may, for example, enjoy your workplace because of the interesting challenges you face, the great design of the space and the teamwork that exists between you and your coworkers.
However, if you are working in an environment with coworkers who ask inappropriate questions or make you feel uncomfortable, it is likely that you do not enjoy your workplace. In certain situations, this might be called a hostile working environment.
A hostile working environment arises when a person is made to feel uncomfortable by managers or other coworkers to the point that they dread coming into work. Harassment or discrimination can lead to a hostile work environment. The employee in question may feel bullied, shamed or embarrassed because of the way they have been made to feel by others in the workplace. If you believe that your workplace has become hostile toward you, it is important to understand how you xou take action against this.
What can I do if I am in a hostile working environment?
If you have been discriminated against, or if you have experienced harassment that has created a hostile environment, this behavior is unlawful as enforced by the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC). This means that you have the right to take action.
Hostility does not always occur solely within the working environment. It may be present in a job interview. If an interviewer asks you inappropriate questions, you may be able to make a legal claim, even if you were never employed by the company.
How can I take action to enforce my rights?
You should consider making an internal complaint about the issue to a person who has not been involved in the alleged unlawful behavior. You may also want to file a claim with the EEOC, who will conduct a full investigation within six months of the claim being made. Those who are dissatisfied with the findings of the EEOC may want to think about other legal possibilities in Oregon.
If you are feeling uncomfortable at work because of inappropriate behavior from coworkers, it is important to consider the options that you can take.