A 'Hostile Working Environment' -- What It Is and What It Is Not | Sessions

Search Schedule

Mega Session
A 'Hostile Working Environment' -- What It Is and What It Is Not
In-Person and Virtual Wednesday 06/14/2023 07:30 AM - 08:30 AM   Add to calendar

Competencies: Interpersonal (Behavioral), Workplace (Technical) | Intended Audience: Mid-Level
Workplace Application:
This presentation will teach HR professionals how to identify complaints that describe a 'hostile working environment' and those that do not. 

Employees frequently complain about a 'hostile working environment.' The term has specific legal meaning that is much narrower than is typically thought. It does not ordinarily cover demanding or unpleasant bosses, rude or gossipy co-workers, or hot-tempered customers. To the contrary, it requires conduct that meets certain legal standards and is tied to a protected classification such as age, sex or race. HR professionals must know how to distinguish between complaints of a hostile working environment that potentially involve unlawful conduct and require a thorough investigation, and those that merely describe the ordinary stresses of the work day. This presentation will highlight the difference.

Learning Objectives:

  • Learn the legal meaning of the term 'hostile working environment.'
  • Learn how to distinguish between complaints of a hostile environment that require a full investigation and those that do not.
  • Learn how to address complaints that do not involve unlawful conduct or violations of company policy.
James J. McDonald, Jr., J.D., SHRM-SCP Photo
Presenter:
James J. McDonald, Jr., J.D., SHRM-SCP, Partner,
Fisher & Phillips, LLP