Lynne Anderson Discusses Employer Retaliation With Society for Human Resources Management

In the Society for Human Resources Management (SHRM) article “Avoid Retaliation ‘Witch Hunts,’” labor and employment partner Lynne Anderson provided an overview of how HR professionals can prevent retaliation for employees.

Anderson said companies should have zero tolerance policies for retaliation, especially since juries are quick to find evidence of it during litigation. However, she noted that many employees perceive retaliation where there is none.

“Even if an employee has made an internal complaint, that does not insulate them from adverse action due to legitimate reasons such as poor performance or a company restructuring,” Anderson noted.

In addition, Anderson said that having an open-door culture that affords employees opportunities to raise concerns without retribution can go a long way toward avoiding litigation.