Discrimination laws are there to ensure that all individuals are treated fairly and equally. These rules exist at the federal, state, county, city, and township levels. These laws apply to everyone.
Laws against employment discrimination protect employees from being treated less favorably because of their race, sex, sexual orientation, religion, national origin, physical disability, and age by employers.
These laws protect both current and prospective employees, as well as job applicants. Employers may not discriminate against anyone in the terms and conditions of employment. This includes hiring, firing, promotions, access to training programs such as apprenticeships, compensation, benefits and job assignments.
How can Discrimination Laws affect Businesses?
Discrimination may cost businesses millions of dollars. Whether you are a large company or a small one, prejudice can have a significant impact on people and companies.
Discrimination at the workplace may lead to the following issues:
- Financial loss
Discrimination cases may cost businesses millions of dollars that should have been spent on day-to-day operations. Whether you are a large company or a small one, prejudice can have a significant impact on people and companies.
For example, if an employee wins a discrimination case against his or her employer, then the company may have to pay the victim’s lost wages, compensatory damages, punitive damages and even attorney fees.
Please note that, even in the case that the business does not get sued, it will have to pay for its legal fees and it will have lost time focusing on their primary goal: making money.
- Job Satisfaction
Discrimination at the workplace may lead to a less satisfied and more disgruntled workforce. To increase the job satisfaction and productivity of the employees, they must be motivated and rewarded based on their performance alone.
Employees who believe their employers treat them poorly or unequally based on their race, gender, age, or other personal characteristics may become disinterested in their work since they will not have equal treatment or equal opportunities. They will be less likely to put forth their best effort, which can affect the company’s bottom line.
- Reputation
Discriminatory tactics may severely damage a company’s reputation. Potential employees and customers may be offended and choose to take their business elsewhere, or at least choose not to recommend the business to anyone.
Discriminating not only hurts the people who are affected but also your company. People who have been discriminated against will tell their friends and family which may lead to a loss of customers and employees. Companies that discriminate also risk boycotts and protests by outside groups, government sanctions and investigations, and bad publicity.
- Recruitment and Turnover Rates
Employers who discriminate lose an important tool for recruiting new employees. People are less likely to want to work for a company known for unfair treatment of workers.
Discrimination in the workplace may also result in turnover for your organization. It’s most likely to occur among employees who are most negatively affected. For example, women will probably leave a company if they believe it is sexist or unfair toward them.
Turnover is expensive, and the resources it requires could have been dedicated to other business areas. This can lead to decreased profits for the company.
When employees leave, they take their knowledge and skills with them; this can make it more difficult or expensive to replace them and train someone else.
- Health Issues
People who are discriminated against may experience stress, anxiety and depression. They may have trouble sleeping or concentrating on work. Discrimination can lead to health problems such as high blood pressure, digestive issues, weight gain or loss, headaches and other disorders. People who feel disrespected and mistreated tend to withdraw from their jobs and absences due to illness or other issues increase.
The emotional toll of discrimination at work is one of the most dangerous consequences for employers. When employees are unhappy or stressed, they are likely to be less productive. Plus, they will be less likely to interact positively with customers, and they may have more accidents on the job.
How can a Lawyer help you?
If you are being discriminated against at the workplace and want to know about how discrimination law can help you, contact a Los Angeles Business Lawyer. Our experienced attorneys can help you determine whether your rights have been violated and can provide you with representation. Call us now!
