If you dread going to work because your work environment is intolerable or uncomfortable, you might wonder if you have grounds for a hostile work environment claim. With so many misconceptions out there about what constitutes a hostile workplace, it is important to learn the truth. The more you understand, the easier it is to determine if it applies to your situation.
There are a few things that everyone should know about hostile work environments.
Superiors are not the only contributors
You might assume that you can only claim a hostile work environment if your superior creates the hostilities. The truth is that there are no standards restricting hostile workplaces to only management and supervisory staff. In fact, any employee at any level could contribute to the situation.
You can resign without pursuing the situation with your employer
When it comes to hostile workplace situations, you have no legal obligation to seek a resolution with your employer before leaving your job. In fact, if your superiors are the cause of the problem or you have justified reason to believe that they will ignore your complaint, you have the option to resign without escalation.
Hostility means many things
The definition of a hostile work environment encompasses many elements, including offensive signs and language, aggressive behaviors and bullying. Even subtle forms of hostility apply.
Understanding the facts about hostile work environments empowers you to seek out your legal options and hold your employer accountable. As you can see, you have no obligation to retain the job while you do so.
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