Retaliation at Work: How to Spot It and What to Do About It
Retaliation at Work: How to Spot It and What to Do About It
Workplace retaliation happens when an employer punishes an employee for engaging in a legally protected activity, such as reporting discrimination, filing a complaint, or participating in an investigation. Retaliation is unlawful under both federal and New York employment laws, yet it still occurs far too often. Understanding how to identify retaliation and what steps to take can help protect your career and your rights.
Common Signs of Retaliation
Retaliation can take many forms, some obvious and others more subtle. Signs may include:
- Termination or demotion after filing a complaint.
- Pay cuts or reduced hours without a clear business reason.
- Unfavorable work assignments or being excluded from meetings.
- Harassment or hostility from supervisors or coworkers.
- Negative performance reviews that seem unwarranted.
If these actions follow closely after you engaged in protected activity, they could indicate retaliation.
Legal Protections in New York
Both federal law (such as Title VII of the Civil Rights Act) and New York State Human Rights Law protect employees from retaliation. In New York City, the NYC Human Rights Law provides even broader protections. Employers are prohibited from punishing workers for standing up for their rights.
What to Do if You Suspect Retaliation
If you believe you are experiencing retaliation, consider these steps:
- Document everything—keep records of emails, performance reviews, and incidents.
- Report internally—notify HR or follow your company’s complaint procedure.
- File a complaint—you may bring a case before the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) or the New York State Division of Human Rights.
- Seek legal guidance—an employment lawyer can explain your rights and represent your interests.
At LAWYERFORWORKERS, we help employees in New York City fight against workplace retaliation and protect their rights in the workplace.
