Work
The Ultimate Guide to A Hostile Work Environment in 2020
A hostile work environment can prove to be very toxic for your work and mental health. It is a violation of the law and is also counted as a source of harassment.
At any workplace, if the boss or the manager starts conducting abusive protocols such as discrimination or harassment, it is called a hostile work environment.
This hostile attitude has a significantly negative impact not only at the workplace but also on the victim’s abilities.
Are you wondering if you are working in a hostile environment?
Read ahead to clarify your queries about working in a hostile work environment and what you should be doing about it.
What Does the Hostile Work Environment Mean?
When the co-workers or supervisors start targeting you based on your cast, color, or creed in a discriminatory manner, that’s the first queue to an unsafe or hostile work environment.
This may disrupt your quality of work or hinder your career progress.
Other than this, if this conduct has been long-lasting and pervasive and a reasonable person finds the work environment as verbally abusive, this is also called a hostile work environment.
In this case, the one bullying is conscious of their conduct but continues with their behavior making it uncomfortable for the victim to work freely.
Misconceptions
Many people have the wrong concept of what is a hostile work environment. Sure your boss might have screamed at you or used some hard words when he/she didn’t get the work done right, but that does not count as a hostile work environment.
However, if the boss screams or only humiliates the employees of color and that too constantly, this is counted as a hostile work environment.
It must target a certain protected class. If it doesn’t, then it does not violate the law, and no legal action can be taken against it.
Behavior that makes it hard for you to do a job can be claimed as an act of hostility. However, it must pertain to a certain class, for instance, only the women employees being sexually harassed can be reported.
“Whenever you’re in conflict with someone, there is one factor that can make the difference between damaging your relationship and deepening it. That factor is attitude.”
— William James
What Behaviors Are Considered Criteria for a Hostile Work Environment?
An action, behavior, decision or communication which is discriminatory in nature is a criterion of a hostile work environment.
This could be coming for a vendor, supervisor, co-worker, or any person who works in the same workplace as you. Here are some behaviors which contribute to a toxic environment at work.
- It is discriminatory in nature
According to the law, all employees are protected for color, gender, nationality, religion, and origin.
If there is discrimination against the physically weak or differently-abled, use worker’s compensation or take medical leaves, it counts as a criterion for hostility. This also evokes an unhealthy work environment.
- The act is pervasive in nature
In such cases, a single event has a long-lasting impact on a group of employees, thus creating a hostile environment.
It should not be limited to a single remark which is off-color that you or a co-worker finds annoying. If interventions are needed, these incidents should be reported to HR immediately.
- Severe
Objectively severe work environments create hostility and require legal action. The actions, behaviors, and language need to be so provocative that it disturbs the pace of work, and hurts the worker’s work performance.
Such severe behaviors might become an obstacle in an employee’s progressive work career. This includes the affected employees working under stress, calling in often for sick leave, and completely avoiding the hostile work environment.
The law does not protect isolated incidents, minor teasing, or blunt comments.
- Unwelcoming
The hostile actions being executed by the bully, misconduct, sexual harassment, or un-approved behavior must be unwelcomed by the victim.
There should be solid proof that the victim took a stand and launched a complaint to the HR or the person in authority at the workplace.
This is a fail-safe sign that inappropriate behavior is unacceptable by you, and it was brought into notice.
What Are Some Examples of a Hostile Work Environment?
- Sexual harassment
Your co-worker or boss who talks loudly leans over your desk to speak to you or snaps their gum is counted as an obnoxious and inappropriate behavior.
This, however, does not contribute to a hostile work environment. If that co-worker makes explicit jokes, sends pictures with nudity, or touches you inappropriately, it creates a hostile work environment.
You should report the act of sexual harassment.
- Verbally berating
A supervisor, co-worker, or boss who criticizes you on the basis of gender, religion, age, or race is also responsible for creating a hostile environment.
The comments can be casual, played as a joke or said now and then with a smile is also counted as hostile, and there is no plea for it.
- The problem is not addressed
The in-appropriate conduct gradually becomes pervasive and significant when it completely overtakes the victim’s mind and affects the work.
Still, it is not properly addressed by the HR, and no action is taken against it. The organization is unable to make the misconduct stopped. This is regarded as hostile work environment cases.
- Social media shaming
Hostile attitudes also include using Facebook to set up pages against an employer which are discriminative in nature. Posting inappropriate photos without the permission of a colleague and making negative remarks about it. Sending chats or including chats, which are of explicit nature to a certain employee-only or a group of co-workers.
Humiliation and harassment did online or offline should be dealt with in the same way.
“There are some people who always seem angry and continuously look for conflict. Walk away from these people. The battle they’re are fighting isn’t with you, it’s with themselves.”
— Rashida Rowe
How Do You Prove a Hostile Work Environment?
Firstly, recognize the examples of what makes a work environment hostile. It may be intimidating, abusive and harassing in a certain way.
Gather evidence and preserve any communication you had with HR regarding this abusive behavior.
Show how your issue has been pervasive and threatening to your work progress. Keep your applications filed so that you have evidence that it was approved by top management, but no action was taken.
Dealing with a hostile environment
- Report to HR
The first and foremost step is to report to the HR or the authoritative body at your workplace. Any sort of persistent and offensive retaliation at the workplace is illegal. Your employee must have a chance to investigate and resolve the issue.
Bringing the issue in light of the employer is also important because it can be counted as a solid claim that you were being harassed and that you did get it recorded. This record also shows the frequency and persistence of the problem.
Document your complaints, explicit conversations, and other harassment incidents. Identify the witnesses and save performance reviews, which show the impact a harassment incident had on your work progress.
- Take legal action if HR won’t listen to you
If your HR is not taking action, it is time to report to administrative agencies! Report the hostile work environment to the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC).
If your employer is covered, you can use the EE0C assessment tool to understand which agency you can launch a complaint with.
You can also hire an employment lawyer and file a lawsuit against the co-workers or the boss who has been misconducting.
Fight for the relief you deserve! An employment lawyer can file a lawsuit for you, assist you in gathering the evidence, filing your claim, and getting your legally protected rights.
How Can Leaders Know If Their Company Has a Hostile Work Environment?
The leader of an organization must have clear cut policies on what is acceptable and not acceptable at the workplace.
Furthermore, it is the responsibility of the employer to keep a watch out on every employee as to how they are behaving and feeling at their workplace.
Company leaders must conduct anonymous surveys so that honest answers without any pressure can be received.
Social media monitoring can also be put into action. Many larger companies keep track of their employer’s social media platforms, including Facebook and Twitter feeds.
Tools like Sprout Social and Brandwatch have proven effective in keeping the evil away track of what the employees are saying about the co-workers or company they work at.
This is a rather smarter way to make sure employees feel safe and progressive at their workplace.
Final Word
No one deserves to be treated unjustly. It is not your fault if you don’t match up to specific criteria set by a group of people.
You don’t need to be a constant victim of verbal or sexual harassment. Offensive harassment in the workplace is illegal and strict action must be taken against it.
Happiness, job satisfaction, and having a productive mindset is every employee’s right. If you find out that you have been working in a hostile environment, nip it in the bud!
Report and file a lawsuit! Your mental health is important.
People spend a big portion of their lives working, and it’s crucial to pay attention to the environment in which they work. One of the most pertinent factors that can impact our well-being and productivity is the furniture we use.
Traditional furniture has been a staple in homes and offices for centuries, but there has been a growing recognition of the benefits of ergonomic furniture in recent years. Explore why investing in ergonomic furniture is quite a smart choice and what keeps it apart from traditional furniture.
Prioritising Comfort and Health
These pieces of furniture are designed with a primary focus on user comfort and health. Unlike traditional furniture, which often prioritises aesthetics over functionality, it is meticulously crafted to support the body’s natural posture and movements.
Chairs, desks, and other ergonomic pieces are designed to reduce strain on the neck, shoulders, back, and wrists. They are also adjustable to cater to individual preferences, ensuring that users can maintain a healthy and comfortable working posture throughout the day.
Enhanced Productivity and Focus
One of the key advantages of these furniture pieces is their ability to boost productivity and concentration. Traditional furniture may look elegant but often falls short of providing the necessary support for extended work periods.
On the other hand, ergonomic office furniture like chairs and desks are equipped with features such as lumbar support, adjustable height, and tilt functions, all of which contribute to better posture and reduced discomfort. When individuals are comfortable and pain-free, they can stay zoned in on their tasks, leading to increased efficiency and output.
Customisation for Individual Needs
They stand out due to their high level of customisation. Unlike traditional furniture, which comes in standardised sizes and designs, ergonomic pieces can be tailored to individual needs. Whether you are tall or short, have specific medical conditions, or simply prefer a particular style, ergonomic furniture can be adjusted to accommodate your requirements. This level of customisation helps ensure that users can create a workspace that is uniquely tailored to their preferences, ultimately enhancing their comfort and productivity.
A Long-Term Investment
Investing in them is a wise long-term decision. While traditional furniture may seem more affordable initially, it often comes with hidden costs in the form of health issues and decreased productivity over time. On the other hand, it may require a slightly larger upfront investment, but it pays off in the long run by reducing the risk of musculoskeletal problems and increasing work efficiency. Moreover, high-quality pieces of furniture are built to last, making it a durable and sustainable choice.
A Versatile and Adaptive Piece of Furniture
Another distinctive feature of the furniture is its versatility and adaptability. Traditional furniture is typically designed for a single purpose and may not be easily reconfigured to accommodate changing needs. They are, however, designed with versatility in mind. Many ergonomic desks, for instance, can be adjusted for sitting or standing positions, promoting movement throughout the day. This adaptability not only supports health but also caters to the evolving demands of modern workspaces.
Conclusion
In conclusion, investing in ergonomic furniture is a prudent choice for those who value their health, well-being, and productivity. Unlike traditional furniture, which often sacrifices comfort and functionality for aesthetics, the furniture places user comfort and health at the forefront. It enhances productivity, reduces the risk of health issues, offers customisation options, and is a long-term investment.
Its versatility and adaptability make it quite an ideal choice for the ever-changing demands of today’s work environment. So, when it comes to furnishing your home or office, consider making the switch to these pieces of furniture – your body and productivity will thank you.
As remote work becomes increasingly common, effective online collaboration tools are more important than ever to help teams work together seamlessly.
Everything from project management software and video conferencing apps to a digital mailbox is available. This article will explore six top-rated online collaboration tools that can help streamline communication and collaboration within your team.
Cloud storage and file-sharing tools
Cloud storage and file-sharing tools allow teams to access and collaborate on files from anywhere. Some popular options include Dropbox, Google Drive, and Microsoft OneDrive. Dropbox is a cloud storage tool that allows teams to store, share, and collaborate on files, with features like automatic syncing and file recovery. Google Drive, on the other hand, is a popular choice for teams that use Google’s suite of productivity tools, like Google Docs and Sheets.
Video conferencing tools
Video conferencing has become vital to remote work, allowing teams to communicate face-to-face from different locations. With so many video conferencing tools available, it can be challenging to choose the right one. Some popular options include Zoom, Google Meet, and Microsoft Teams. Zoom, in particular, has become one of the most popular video conferencing tools due to its ease of use and reliability. Its features, including screen sharing and virtual backgrounds, make it an excellent option for small and large meetings.
Project management tools
Project management tools help teams stay organized and on track, whether working in the same office or remotely. Some popular project management tools include Asana, Trello, and Basecamp. Asana is a powerful project management tool that allows teams to create and assign tasks, set deadlines, and communicate with each other in real time. Trello, on the other hand, is a visual tool that uses boards, lists, and cards to organize tasks and projects.
Instant messaging tools
Instant messaging tools allow teams to communicate quickly and easily without the need for email or phone calls. Some popular instant messaging tools include Slack, Microsoft Teams, and WhatsApp. Slack is a team communication tool that allows teams to organize their conversations into channels and direct messages, share files, and integrate with other tools.
Online whiteboards and diagramming tools
Online whiteboards and diagramming tools are helpful for teams that need to brainstorm and collaborate visually. Some popular options include Miro, Lucidchart, and Canva. Miro is a whiteboard tool that allows teams to collaborate on diagrams, wireframes, and mind maps. Lucidchart, on the other hand, is a diagramming tool that allows teams to create and share flowcharts, org charts, and other visual representations.
Time tracking and productivity tools
Time tracking and productivity tools help teams stay on track and meet deadlines. Some popular options include RescueTime, Toggl, and Harvest. RescueTime is a time-tracking tool that helps teams understand how they spend their time and identify areas where they can be more productive. Toggl, on the other hand, is a simple time-tracking tool that allows teams to track time for specific tasks and projects.
Parting words
Effective teamwork requires the right tools for collaboration. Whether it’s video conferencing, project management, cloud storage, instant messaging, online whiteboards, or time tracking, many tools are available to help teams work together more efficiently and effectively. By using these six online collaboration tools, teams can break down barriers and work together, no matter where they are.
In order to transform collaboration, DevOps must first integrate development operations and then require a chain of tools that are interconnected. According to Gartner, businesses all over the world are increasingly embracing a culture of “devops” in the modern era. You can enroll for a Devops certification course taught by industry experts. Simplilearn also offers devops training in Hyderabad and many other cities.
The Value of Obtaining a DevOps Certification
There is a multitude of advantages to becoming certified in DevOps Foundation, some of which are as follows:
1. Better employment prospects
DevOps is a concept that is still relatively new in the world of information technology, and more and more businesses are considering implementing DevOps practices and processes. Between the required number of DevOps professionals and the number of DevOps professionals currently on the market, there is a sizable skills gap. By obtaining a DevOps certification, which verifies their skill sets within the DevOps framework, IT professionals can take advantage of the severe shortage of highly skilled workers. As a result, there will be substantially better employment opportunities.
2. Increased knowledge & skill
DevOps’ central tenet centers on the adoption of innovative decision-making techniques and thought processes. An organization will be able to put DevOps’ many technical and business advantages into practice once they are aware of them all. Professionals working together in teams with members coming from a variety of different functional backgrounds make up the core of DevOps. Developers, business analysts, quality assurance experts, and operation engineers are just a few of the experts who make up these teams.
3. Increases in wages
The rapid adoption of DevOps best practices in organizations and the implementation of those practices in the aforementioned organizations have led to enormous increases in pay for DevOps professionals.
Industry experts from all over the world believe that this trend will continue and be sustainable for the foreseeable future. In the field of information technology, DevOps professionals are paid the most.
4. Productivity and performance improvements
Downtime, which can be attributed to waiting for other employees or staff as well as other software and software-related issues, negatively affects the employees and staff at conventional IT workplaces. The main goal of an information technology professional should be to be productive for the majority of the time that they are at their place of employment. This can be achieved by cutting down on waiting time for other staff members or software updates and eliminating the parts of the work process that are both unproductive and unsatisfactory. Not only will this improve the effectiveness of the work completed, but it will also significantly raise the value of the company as a whole and of each employee personally.
5. Gain the ability to create, deploy, and secure modern applications for your organization.
The DevOps methodology’s main goal is to promote improved communication and collaboration between the teams in charge of system administration and software development. Shorter development cycles are the direct result of this, which leads to a rise in the frequency of release code being used in production. DevOps implementation can reduce months of work to a matter of hours, and it can be very easily integrated into the processes of quality assurance and quality control for defect detection. This will be extremely advantageous for your company, and it will also make you stand out from the crowd at work.
6. Reliability and Software Quality
The distinguishing feature of DevOps is the high level of accountability for creating and maintaining applications that are expected to operate as intended. When an organization adopts DevOps, every team member will work toward the same quality objectives, which may include stability, performance, and security, as well as user experience and time-to-market considerations. When put into practice, the DevOps principles will guarantee that all project activities and processes are meticulously tracked and that the organization is informed of and ready for the effects of any changes made to the processes themselves.
7. Lessening of the likelihood of unwanted change
The resistance to change in traditional information technology stems from the fear that it might impair ongoing business operations. This impediment, which slows down advancement within an organization, is the root cause of all operational issues. The implementation of multiple tiers of assessment, review, and approval workflows allowed for the monitoring and verification of change processes at each stage of their development. However, the majority of work environments are experiencing a rapid acceleration of change in the current IT market. In order to maintain product quality while meeting ever-tighter delivery deadlines, this is required. And all of this has to be done while meeting the high standards for speed and agility that are currently expected of businesses engaged in the information technology sector.
People who want to enhance the caliber of IT Service Management and comprehend the idea of IT Infrastructure Library (ITIL) frameworks must hold an IT Infrastructure Library 4 Foundation Certification in ITIL. Anyone who wants to help their company adopt a new service management culture and who needs to comprehend the fundamental concepts underlying the provision of digital and information technology services should take the ITIL 4 Foundation course. Both IT professionals looking to update their existing ITIL knowledge and those who are just beginning their journey to ITIL 4 should take this course.
The framework known as ITIL4, or IT Infrastructure Library, version 4, was created with a set of procedures to implement the most dependable type of IT Service Management. In order to emphasize service conditions and flexibility, establish the service life cycle, pursue more specialized customer comfort, and advance digital modification, the ITIL4 structure was created. whereas DevOps is a group of concepts that result from the interaction of two significant objectives. The first of these was described as “agile methods,” and the second is a greater awareness of the level of collaboration between the development and operations teams. When speaking of ITIL 4 and DevOps, the second term, DevOps, primarily focuses on integrating software testing, software development, Quality Analysis, and deployment platform, as well as maintaining a continuous integration and delivery cycle. A shorter turnaround time is the aim of operating DevOps Automation Tools in sets and moving in an agile manner.
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