How to Avoid Legal Action With Employees

Handled the wrong way, employee grievances can lead to lawsuits and it is something that happens every day in this country.  While no one can eliminate the chance of lawsuits, there are some easy steps you can take to avoid the possibility of having one.

• Always treat your employees with respect.  That doesn’t mean you have to particularly like them, but treat them with respect.  This goes a long way in employee-employer relationships and an employee who feels that your respect them is less likely to file a lawsuit.

• Consistency is very important in the workplace.  The expectations and rules should be the same for everyone, every time.  Do NOT have favorites in the office.  This causes the sour grapes syndrome to grow dramatically.  Be fair and consistent, always.

• Keep communication open.  Your employees should feel they can come to you if they are having a problem.  Many times, a lot of trouble can be avoided just by listening.  This also goes toward respect.  If you are willing to listen to them, they will feel even more so that you respect them.

• Give work performance evaluations.  These should be done on a regular basis and should include both the positives and the “needs work” aspects of any employee’s performance.  Be fair and even toned.  Do not make it personal and always keep it job related.

• Your business decisions should always be based only on business.  Do not make a decision based on anything else including how much Millie needs the money or how much fun Bob is to work with.  Business is business. 

One sure way to set you up for a lawsuit is to punish a whistle-blower or someone who complains.  If they have a complaint, listen to it.  (see the third bullet point above.)  Do NOT punish the messenger.  Interoffice problems should not have the burden placed on the person bringing them to your attention.

• Keep immaculate records.  Keep track of everything and have everything dated.  Keep track of business decisions made and also dealings with each employee.

• Never talk about one employee to another.  This is an extremely dangerous situation to get into.  This is another example of picking favorites and it could very well land you in a court of law.  It cannot be stressed enough that you never belittle one employee to another or disclose personal information about employees to each other.  You will be sued and you will probably lose the case.

Most issues are common sense.  It is true that many Americans feel that their workplace is their home away from home and some familiarity is fine.  Keep it reined in though.  Show all employees the same respect and have the same rules and policies for everyone.  Regularly discuss not only problems but kudos with your employees.  Staying consistent and fair is the best policy for handling employees.

Contact one of our experienced employment attorneys in your area today!