It is an unfortunate fact that employers can and will retaliate against you. Although not all employers are the same, many have the mindset that they can do anything they want because you are their employee.
Fortunately, under the Equal Employment Act, you do have rights.
Why employers retaliate
Employers retaliate because they perceive an offense. Since it was your report that possibly got them into trouble, they see it as a personal affront to them rather than a violation against you.
This personalization may not be fair, but it is human. They may not believe they did anything wrong. This is often the case with the different forms of harassment.
Who retaliates
Companies are not normally the retaliatory party. Individuals are. The department head or employee that you report is most likely the person who wants to retaliate against you.
How they retaliate
The forms of retaliation that are most common are:
- Reporting you for tiny infractions
- Nitpicking your work or appearance
- Making or threatening to make reports or false reports to authorities
- Badmouthing you to others or spreading false rumors
- Making your work more difficult
- Abusing you verbally or physically
These are just a few ways that someone can retaliate against you. If any of these things start to happen, you should always document everything you can. It will help you correct the situation if you need to.
If you suspect retaliation, you should always report it because it may escalate and put you or your job in jeopardy.