Potential Workplace Problems There are many reasons a job might not be working out as well as you expected it to. Some issues such as not having enough responsibility might be easily resolved by talking with your supervisor. Others such as having too long of a commute may have limited solutions. Common workplace problems include: Difficulty getting along with coworkers or supervisor Pay is too low Daily commute is too long Need for workplace accommodations Not enough staff Responsibilities are too much for one person Not enough responsibility New workplace policies New supervisor problems Unfair treatment or favoritism Family responsibilities

Working It Out If you think something is not right about your job, one option is to talk to your supervisor. It is important that you clearly explain what the problem is. Sometimes it helps to research potential solutions before talking with your supervisor. For example, if you are having difficulty maintaining a worklife balance due to your family responsibilities, research possible solutions that might work for both you and your employer. This could include working a different shift, telecommuting for part of your work day, or reducing your hours to part time. After you and your supervisor agree on a solution, create a timeline and process for evaluating how well the solution is working.

Grievance Procedure Difficult problems may require that you use your employer’s grievance procedure. Your employer’s grievance policy should be defined in the workplace policies. Other steps you can take to resolve a difficult job-related problem: Bring your complaint to your supervisor (or your supervisor’s supervisor if the problem involves your supervisor) Contact your employer’s human resources department for guidance on how to address your issue If represented by a union, contact your union representative. If your problem has not been resolved by following the steps outlined above, consider seeking legal representation.

Understand Your Rights Employers must follow laws when hiring (see Employment Laws in Job Search) and once you are employed. Employment laws that pertain to you and your employer: Wages and hours Family and medical leave Minors Working conditions Layoffs Discrimination Americans with Disabilities Act

Where to Get Help If you believe you have been a victim of discrimination or unfair labor practices, the following resources can help you find assistance. Federal Department of Labor dol.gov Department of Labor Women's Bureau dol.gov/wb/ Equal Employment Opportunity Commission eeoc.gov Occupational Safety & Health Administration osha.gov Private Non-profit groups Lawyers Your union State Attorney General Civil Rights Commission Department of Workplace Development and Labor Division of Employment & Training Division of Occupational Safety Fair Labor and Business Practices State Legal Services Division