Last Updated on September 19, 2020 by Guest
Although it might be uncommon, there are certain situations that can arise in the workplace that lead to disciplinary hearings and other stressful circumstances. To avoid finding yourself confronted with these proceedings, it’s important to take steps to protect yourself. Whether you’re an employee or the employer, you should always maintain high standards of professionalism. Here are some things you can do to make sure you have covered your bases.
Avoid Office Politics
In any workplace, there will be ongoing dramas between staff members. These office politics games can vary in their severity, and usually they are made up of minor grudges or personality clashes. It can be easy to get involved with these conflicts, even if you’re not directly involved yourself.
For a lot of people, it is due to the social aspects of working that can result in these instances. Although you should maintain positive social relationships with your colleagues, it’s also important that you keep things professional at work. Avoid getting involved in these squabbles as they could lead to more serious problems.
Keep a Record
If you think you are being pulled into an uncomfortable situation at work, make sure you are keeping a record of everything that is said. In particular, this includes email exchanges or other written correspondence during this time. The reason for keeping these is that if you do find yourself facing disciplinary action or are wanting to make a formal complaint about a manager or other member of staff, you have proof to back up your claims.
Speak to HR
The HR department is there specifically to help with these difficult occurrences at work, especially if the issue is anything to do with harassment or discrimination. If you are being made to feel uncomfortable, you should report this to HR, your manager or supervisor. They will be able to provide a safe environment in which you can express your concerns.
Additionally, they can organise an opportunity for you to sit down with the person who is causing you distress and have a civilised conversation about the matter in question. Alternatively, if you are not comfortable doing that yourself, they can talk to the other person on your behalf. In doing this, it is more likely that the problem is resolved before it escalates any further.
Get Good Representation
There could come a time when you are in the unfortunate position of losing your job. You might feel as though you have been unfairly dismissed, or if you have been made redundant, you could be unhappy with the terms of your severance. In this case, find an employment lawyer who specialises in settlement agreements. They will be able to advise you on the best way to move forward and fight for your best interests.
Hopefully, there won’t be a time during your employment that this sort of situation arises. However, these things can and do happen, so it is important that you have done the best you can to protect yourself.
