As an employee, the law allows you to participate in protected activities like reporting a violation of the law, protesting against discriminatory behaviors or whistleblowing. If your employer picks on you following your participation in any of these activities, you...
Employment Law
Preventing workplace bullying: 4 tips
Bullying, in all its forms, is offensive and detrimental to a healthy work environment. Preventing workplace bullying is essential for maintaining a positive and productive atmosphere. The following are some tried-and-true strategies to help prevent workplace...
The new year brings more paid leave for Minnesota employees
The U.S. is far behind most developed countries in the amount of family and medical leave employees are allowed to take – even unpaid leave. Beginning on Jan. 1 of next year, Minnesota takes a step forward in requiring businesses in the state to provide paid leave to...
When compliments at work become sexual harassment
Making inappropriate comments about a co-worker’s appearance is a form of harassment, regardless of whether the harasser meant their remarks as a compliment. Generally, there is nothing wrong with complimenting a colleague in the workplace. However, certain...
Signs of a hostile work environment
Workplace dynamics play a pivotal role in your overall job satisfaction and well-being. Everyone deserves a job environment that supports growth, respect and collaboration. However, in some instances, what should be a source of professional fulfillment can transform...
Is asking a co-worker on a date a form of sexual harassment?
While we all have a general idea of what conduct falls under sexual harassment, some behaviors are a bit of a gray area and would have to be further qualified by examining the available circumstances. For instance, regardless of company policies against it, some...
Fired due to unproven discrimination claim: Is it retaliation?
Every person reacts to things differently. While some may consider certain actions unharmful, others may find those acts uncomfortable and discriminatory. This is a situation you may find in a lot of workplaces. And those who have had enough usually take the...
Pumping at work: Your rights as a breastfeeding employee
Leaving a baby at home to return to work is a difficult transition for most new mothers. In addition, you'll need to take regular breaks to pump if you want to achieve your breastfeeding goals. Fortunately, federal and Minnesota state laws recognize the importance of...
Should I report workplace discrimination to my HR department?
Minnesota laws protect employees against workplace discrimination and harassment and provide various channels to report any incident of the same. The most accessible channel for workers is their companies' Human Resources (HR) department. However, some employees...
Subtle signs of workplace discrimination
Workplace discrimination is not always as obvious as a blatant statement. Sometimes you can find subtle examples in policies and passive behavior. Consider some common signs of workplace discrimination people often miss. Lack of diversity One obvious but commonly...