Although it may be no surprise that encountering unfair and unjust treatment at work can be stressful and daunting, such issues remain a concern in many professions. Workplace discrimination is an issue that could have a devastating impact on a person’s life and career and while workers in Michigan might not expect to experience such issues, things don’t always turn out as planned. Recent studies on the topic of workplace discrimination indicate that such unjust behavior occurs far more commonly than one might imagine.
Study on workplace discrimination
During a recent study, over 3,000 individuals took part in a survey on workplace discrimination and the results of this survey are staggering. Over 90% of these workers admitted to having experienced some form of discrimination in the workplace. Nearly half of the workers stated that they were subjected to such behavior as early as the initial hiring process.
However, survey results indicate that less than 30% of these workers felt comfortable with stepping forward and reporting the behavior. Even in companies that provide anonymous reporting options, this number still only climbed to just over 40%. While studies indicate that fear of retaliation may be just one reason why some are hesitant to report discrimination, sometimes those who encounter such behavior may be uncertain of where to turn for advice on their options and the next steps to take.
Seeking legal counsel
Individuals in Michigan who are subjected to workplace discrimination and are unsure of how best to approach the matter could benefit from consulting with legal counsel prior to choosing a path. An attorney can help a client better understand his or her legal rights and provide insight on the best course of action to take. Seeking such advice could help empower a person to step forward and confront the matter and prepare to take the necessary steps to protect his or her interests and career.