When you’re fresh out of college, starting a career for the first time, it can be an exciting experience. But, far too often people go into a new job not fully knowing their rights. That can lead to dissatisfaction at work or even issues with safety. It could be why over 74% of millennials plan to quit their jobs within the next three years.
As a millennial, there’s a lot to know before you enter the workplace for the first time. But, your basic rights as an employee should be at the top of your list. You can tell if your employer is treating their employees accordingly to the law if they have good employment guidelines consulted with the best employment lawyer NYC.
With that in mind, let’s go over some of your rights so you can stay safe and feel fulfilled by your new career.
The Right to a Safe Workplace
Accidents can happen at work, and some of them can’t be avoided. That’s why it’s important to work for an employer with a good compensation plan. Or, certain jobs may entitle you to compensation via the Defense Base Act.
Aside from accidents, though, it’s important to feel safe in your working environment. Does your employer have safety plans in place in case of emergencies? Is the building free of any exposure to toxic chemicals or substances? Are there potential hazards that could cause injury?
Of course, there’s also the importance of feeling safe around your co-workers. Look into your company’s policy on harassment, including sexual harassment. You should never be discriminated against at work, and you should be free to file complaints without having to worry about repercussions.
The Right to Compensation
Talking of safety in the workplace, it’s important to understand your rights when it comes to compensation.
Worker’s compensation is typically given out when you have an injury within the workplace. It’s worth knowing what is classed as an accident in the workplace and how much compensation you may be entitled to.
Contacting a workers compensation lawyer is also worth doing, should you ever find yourself in the position of needing one.
The Right to Fair Pay
The gender wage gap remains a hot debate all across the world, but you can do your part to push for equality by making sure you’re getting paid enough for your position.
All it takes is a quick search online to determine how much others doing your job are making across the world. If you’re making significantly less than that, and your employer isn’t willing to give you a raise, it’s time to move to a different job.
The Right to Privacy
Obviously, if you’re using shared computers at work and you have a specific professional email address, you should be aware that your employer will have access to such things. But, when you use your personal phone or computer to make calls, send emails, etc., that is within your right and your privacy should never be violated.
If mail comes to you at work, or you have personal information at your desk, it’s also your right to keep that information private and to yourself. Never let an employer or co-worker convince you that your private information needs to be shared if it’s within the office.
These are just a few tips to get you started as you enter the workplace. It doesn’t have to be scary or overwhelming when you’re starting a career for the first time. But, the more prepared you are and the more you know about your individual rights, the more confident you can feel as you start this next chapter of your life.
