10 Things They Didn’t Tell You About Your Workplace At Orientation
10 THINGS THEY DIDN’T TELL YOU ABOUT YOUR WORKPLACE AT ORIENTATION
These are the unwritten truths every employee should know—but rarely hear on Day One.
1. HR Works for the Company, Not for You
- HR’s job is to protect the employer, not the employee.
- You should document everything important in writing.
2. Your Complaints Need to Be in Writing to Count
- Verbal complaints are easy to ignore.
- Email yourself a copy of every report you make.
3. You Don’t Have to Endure Harassment to Keep Your Job
- You’re not expected to “tough it out.”
- Report harassment early—retaliation for reporting is illegal.
4. You Are Entitled to Be Paid for Every Minute You Work
- Working off the clock is illegal, even if your supervisor “requires” it or it seems like “part of the culture.”
- Missed breaks also have monetary value.
5. Performance Write-Ups Are Often Used Strategically
- Many “coaching documents” are created to build a paper trail.
- Keep your own notes and copies of everything.
6. “At-Will” Employment Doesn’t Give Employers Unlimited Power
- You cannot be fired for discriminatory reasons or for reporting illegal behavior.
- At-will does not override your legal rights.
7. You Don’t Have to Disclose Private Medical Information
- You only need to provide enough information to justify an accommodation or leave—not full diagnoses or details.
8. You Have the Right to Review (and Keep) Your Personnel File
- You can request your personnel records, payroll history, and timecards.
- These documents often make or break a case.
9. Retaliation Is More Common Than Employers Admit
- Retaliation after a complaint is illegal—even if the employer claims it’s “performance related.”
- Document any sudden changes in treatment.
10. Speaking With an Attorney Is Protected
- You can consult a lawyer confidentially at any time.
- Your employer cannot punish you for getting legal advice.
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If you believe your rights have been violated, you don’t have to navigate the situation alone. Contact us today to discuss your case and take the next step toward protecting your future.