How Can Startups Respond To Workplace Discrimination Claims?
Providing a safe and healthy work environment is one of the prime responsibilities of entrepreneurs or managers. Well-established companies often have adequate policies and grievance redressal programs for the same purpose. However, small companies, particularly startups, focus more on building their brand and making profits, neglecting the importance of a safe workplace.
Thereupon, they often face the issue of workplace discrimination claims, including cases of sexual harassment. Such allegations affect the employer’s business operations, leading to negative publicity and financial losses.
So, it is important that entrepreneurs do not neglect the allegations and address them on a priority basis. Here’s how:
Hire An Attorney
The first and most obvious step you should take is to hire a reputed attorney for your case. Understand that the allegations related to discrimination and sexual assault are critical and hold the potential to destroy everything you have worked on to date. Having a trustable sexual assault attorney by your side will provide peace of mind. The attorney can help formulate a defense strategy using available information and necessary evidence.
As your organization’s reputation is at stake, the attorney may also guide you about the things you should and should not speak about. Make sure to follow their instructions and disclose every piece of information that you have to protect yourself.
Make Sure The BOD Is Informed
If your startup has a board of directors (BOD), you must inform them about the allegations business or employer is facing. They can help provide necessary advice to help you deal with the claim. Not to mention, board members DO NOT like surprises related to bad news. So, before they get to know about such news from media sources, you must disclose it on your own.
Otherwise, it may adversely affect your business, leading to financial trouble and loss of market value.
Tip: When disclosing any bad news to BOD, make sure you also have a solution for them. In this scenario, having an attorney and defense strategy in the process can help you hold your BOD. It will indicate that you are not only well-versed with the current situation but are ahead of the action plan to minimize the damage.
Investigate The Complaint Thoroughly
As soon as you learn about the allegations, you must get in touch with the attorney and begin investigating the complaint thoroughly. Go through all the emails, texts, and possible phone recordings to collect the right information and evidence. You can also review the conflicting reports to find crucial but neglected information.
After collecting all the necessary information, your attorney will analyze everything and help you find a solution to address the issue appropriately. Not to mention, there are often many regulations related to a workplace investigation. Having an attorney will ensure that you comply with the necessary guidelines, thus, eliminating any possible chances of elevating trouble.
Create An Anti-Harassment And Anti-Discrimination Policy
Although your attorney can help resolve the claim of harassment and discrimination, it would be great if you formulate an anti-harassment and anti-discrimination policy. Pen down adequate complaint procedure and the redressal policy. Make sure that every complaint, be it minor or major, is filed in writing via an official letter or email. Also, keep a record of every complaint registered.
It is generally recommended to have at least 2-3 pages long policy made in consultation with an HR consultant and an attorney. It will ensure that every respective point related to harassment or discrimination is covered properly.
Don’t Take Any Step Without Consulting Your Attorney.
Finally, during your claim proceeding or trial, you must not take any step on your own. Always keep your attorney informed, perhaps in the loop, to ensure that everything works out smoothly. It is especially crucial if you are considering talking to the other party or looking for a settlement. Doing so in the absence of your lawyer can get you in unnecessary trouble and is likely to affect your case.
Preventive measures must also be taken when communicating with any parties related to the case via emails or texts. Everything that you speak out about can be used against you. So, always consult your attorney, no matter what!
To Sum It All Up
In case of sexual assault or any other discrimination allegation, your attorney can help build a strong defense, ensuring minimal damage to the company’s reputation. Nevertheless, it is critical that you take appropriate steps to eliminate such situations from arising. Understand what your employees need and how you can provide them with a safe workplace. Formulate necessary policies and amend them frequently, keeping the best interest of employees and the company in mind.
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