{"id":4773,"date":"2016-04-04T10:47:45","date_gmt":"2016-04-04T15:47:45","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/content.findlaw-admin.com\/ability-law\/smallbusiness\/employment-law-and-human-resources\/tips-for-creating-a-friendly-workplace.html"},"modified":"2024-06-06T05:36:12","modified_gmt":"2024-06-06T10:36:12","slug":"tips-for-creating-a-friendly-workplace","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/smallbusiness\/employment-law-and-human-resources\/tips-for-creating-a-friendly-workplace.html","title":{"rendered":"Tips for Creating a Harassment-Free Workplace"},"content":{"rendered":"\n
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Tips for Creating a Harassment-Free Workplace<\/h1>\n
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\n By Susan Buckner, J.D.<\/a> | Legally reviewed by Aviana Cooper, Esq.<\/a>\n | Last updated\n
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Editorial Note: We earn a commission from affiliate partner links on FindLaw. Commissions do not affect the editorial integrity of our legal content.<\/p>\n\n <\/div>\n \n

\n \n <\/i>\n Legally Reviewed\n <\/summary>\n\n
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The last updated date refers to the last time this article was reviewed by FindLaw or one of our contributing authors<\/a>. We make every effort to keep our articles updated. For information regarding a specific legal issue affecting you, please contact an attorney in your area<\/a>.<\/em><\/p>\n\n <\/div>\n <\/details>\n<\/section>\n

We spend a third of the day in our workplace. Whether in an office or a warehouse, we want a pleasant, if not inviting, work environment. Unfortunately, discrimination and harassment can turn any business into a toxic workplace.<\/p>\r\n

The effects of discrimination and harassment in the workplace<\/a> are pervasive. It increases absenteeism, higher healthcare costs, and reduced employee retention. A toxic company culture reduces employee morale and production, affecting your bottom line.<\/p>\r\n

Creating a workplace culture that supports all workers and reduces harassment improves morale. Small business owners can often see and prevent workplace harassment easier than larger companies. It just takes some planning.<\/p>\r\n

Creating Anti-Discrimination Policies<\/h2>\r\n

The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission<\/a> (EEOC) recommends developing anti-discrimination and anti-harassment policies. Get input from employees. Consult with legal professionals to ensure compliance with federal and state laws. Your state may have stricter regulations than federal law.<\/p>\r\n

Incorporate your harassment and discrimination training and policies into your employee handbook. All new employees should have a copy in their hiring packet. All existing employees should get it as soon as it is available.<\/p>\r\n

Your policy should contain:<\/p>\r\n