What can I do when I feel I'm being targeted at work?

I have worked for this employer for nearly 14 years. Recently our ED was replaced and things have changed considerably. I was falsely accused of bullying and harassment by a relatively new employee. After investigating, both times, the second time, I was given a written corrective action. The first discipline of any kind in my career. She has left (voluntarily or not I do not know). In that situation, my boss who has known and worked with me for 10 years did not have my back for the first time I felt. Then, I left work one day (took sick leave) because my boss blindsided me with something. When I came in the following week, she put me on 60 days probation for being unprofessional. No questions asked, nothing. . just discipline. Now I am off probation and I am being accused again of something by another employee in the division that I absolutely did not do. I was told by someone who has been interviewed. HR has not contacted me but I expect it tomorrow. I feel I'm being targeted in some way and I am fearful of what may happen. I did not do any of the things I have been accused of and I have had an exemplary reputation until these events. What can I do?

1 answer  |  asked Aug 23, 2018 7:03 PM [EST]  |  applies to Florida

Answers (1)

Phyllis Towzey
If you feel you are being singled out for unfair treatment because of your age (over 40), race, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, religion, disability, or any other protected class, then you should contact an employment law attorney immediately, and you should follow whatever procedures are in place at your company for reporting discrimination.

If, however, you feel it is not because of your membership in a protected class but rather is personal to you, then unfortunately there is not much you can do about this. The law does not require employers to be fair. Unless you are protected by a union or have a written employment contract, you can be fired at any time with or with cause, under the "employment at will" doctrine, just as you can resign at any time with or without cause.

It seems like the handwriting is on the wall here and your employment is at risk. It would make sense for you to start looking for another job, because it doesn't sound like things are going to get better in this position. Even if all the accusations against you are completely false, this is the third time a coworker has accused you (two different people), so the company may decide that you have become a "problem" and let you go. I'm sorry this is happening to you.

posted by Phyllis Towzey  |  Aug 24, 2018 06:51 AM [EST]

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