Retaliation happens when an employer punishes an employee for engaging in legally protected activities, such as filing a discrimination complaint. In Kentucky, both federal and state laws protect employees from such retaliation. Recognizing the signs of retaliation can help employees take action to protect their rights.
1. Sudden change in job duties
A common sign of retaliation is a sudden and unwarranted change in job duties. If your responsibilities shift dramatically after reporting discrimination, without a clear business reason, this may indicate retaliation. Employers might assign undesirable tasks to discourage you or pressure you to leave.
2. Negative performance reviews
Receiving an unexpected negative performance review can signal retaliation, especially if your past evaluations were positive. If your performance ratings drop without justification soon after you complain about discrimination, your employer might be retaliating. Documenting your performance and any feedback received to support your case is crucial.
3. Increased scrutiny
Another sign of retaliation involves heightened scrutiny of your work. If your employer starts monitoring your activities more closely or imposes unrealistic deadlines after you report an issue, this could be retaliatory behavior. Such actions may create a hostile work environment and serve as a warning to other employees.
Fighting against retaliation
No one should face retaliation in the workplace. If you or anyone you know is facing retaliatory behavior, you may want to seek help from a legal professional. Employers should foster a workplace culture that respects employees’ rights and adheres to anti-discrimination laws. Understanding these signs helps create a fair work environment where everyone can thrive.