Addressing Post-Election Tensions in the...
Transcript of Addressing Post-Election Tensions in the...
![Page 1: Addressing Post-Election Tensions in the Workplaceshared.littler.com/tikit/Emerge_Docs/2016/WEB_Post_Election_Tensi… · 2016-12-12 · Presented By . Alison N. Davis . Kevin M.](https://reader034.fdocuments.net/reader034/viewer/2022042219/5ec4c22f3d063f525e7b64e0/html5/thumbnails/1.jpg)
Addressing Post-Election Tensions in the Workplace
December 12, 2016
![Page 2: Addressing Post-Election Tensions in the Workplaceshared.littler.com/tikit/Emerge_Docs/2016/WEB_Post_Election_Tensi… · 2016-12-12 · Presented By . Alison N. Davis . Kevin M.](https://reader034.fdocuments.net/reader034/viewer/2022042219/5ec4c22f3d063f525e7b64e0/html5/thumbnails/2.jpg)
Presented By
Alison N. Davis
Kevin M. Kraham
Office Managing Shareholder Littler Washington, DC 202.772.2533 [email protected]
Shareholder Littler Washington, DC 202.423.2404 [email protected]
![Page 3: Addressing Post-Election Tensions in the Workplaceshared.littler.com/tikit/Emerge_Docs/2016/WEB_Post_Election_Tensi… · 2016-12-12 · Presented By . Alison N. Davis . Kevin M.](https://reader034.fdocuments.net/reader034/viewer/2022042219/5ec4c22f3d063f525e7b64e0/html5/thumbnails/3.jpg)
© Littler Presentation | 2016 Proprietary and Confidential
• Political speech • Best practices • Workplace policies and investigations
Agenda
![Page 4: Addressing Post-Election Tensions in the Workplaceshared.littler.com/tikit/Emerge_Docs/2016/WEB_Post_Election_Tensi… · 2016-12-12 · Presented By . Alison N. Davis . Kevin M.](https://reader034.fdocuments.net/reader034/viewer/2022042219/5ec4c22f3d063f525e7b64e0/html5/thumbnails/4.jpg)
![Page 5: Addressing Post-Election Tensions in the Workplaceshared.littler.com/tikit/Emerge_Docs/2016/WEB_Post_Election_Tensi… · 2016-12-12 · Presented By . Alison N. Davis . Kevin M.](https://reader034.fdocuments.net/reader034/viewer/2022042219/5ec4c22f3d063f525e7b64e0/html5/thumbnails/5.jpg)
![Page 6: Addressing Post-Election Tensions in the Workplaceshared.littler.com/tikit/Emerge_Docs/2016/WEB_Post_Election_Tensi… · 2016-12-12 · Presented By . Alison N. Davis . Kevin M.](https://reader034.fdocuments.net/reader034/viewer/2022042219/5ec4c22f3d063f525e7b64e0/html5/thumbnails/6.jpg)
![Page 7: Addressing Post-Election Tensions in the Workplaceshared.littler.com/tikit/Emerge_Docs/2016/WEB_Post_Election_Tensi… · 2016-12-12 · Presented By . Alison N. Davis . Kevin M.](https://reader034.fdocuments.net/reader034/viewer/2022042219/5ec4c22f3d063f525e7b64e0/html5/thumbnails/7.jpg)
© Littler Presentation | 2016 Proprietary and Confidential
Workplace Tension
![Page 8: Addressing Post-Election Tensions in the Workplaceshared.littler.com/tikit/Emerge_Docs/2016/WEB_Post_Election_Tensi… · 2016-12-12 · Presented By . Alison N. Davis . Kevin M.](https://reader034.fdocuments.net/reader034/viewer/2022042219/5ec4c22f3d063f525e7b64e0/html5/thumbnails/8.jpg)
Political Speech
![Page 9: Addressing Post-Election Tensions in the Workplaceshared.littler.com/tikit/Emerge_Docs/2016/WEB_Post_Election_Tensi… · 2016-12-12 · Presented By . Alison N. Davis . Kevin M.](https://reader034.fdocuments.net/reader034/viewer/2022042219/5ec4c22f3d063f525e7b64e0/html5/thumbnails/9.jpg)
© Littler Presentation | 2016 Proprietary and Confidential
Does the First Amendment protect employees who express their political views in the workplace?
![Page 10: Addressing Post-Election Tensions in the Workplaceshared.littler.com/tikit/Emerge_Docs/2016/WEB_Post_Election_Tensi… · 2016-12-12 · Presented By . Alison N. Davis . Kevin M.](https://reader034.fdocuments.net/reader034/viewer/2022042219/5ec4c22f3d063f525e7b64e0/html5/thumbnails/10.jpg)
© Littler Presentation | 2016 Proprietary and Confidential
May an employer require its employees to support the employer’s political views?
![Page 11: Addressing Post-Election Tensions in the Workplaceshared.littler.com/tikit/Emerge_Docs/2016/WEB_Post_Election_Tensi… · 2016-12-12 · Presented By . Alison N. Davis . Kevin M.](https://reader034.fdocuments.net/reader034/viewer/2022042219/5ec4c22f3d063f525e7b64e0/html5/thumbnails/11.jpg)
© Littler Presentation | 2016 Proprietary and Confidential
May an employer prohibit political campaigning at work?
![Page 12: Addressing Post-Election Tensions in the Workplaceshared.littler.com/tikit/Emerge_Docs/2016/WEB_Post_Election_Tensi… · 2016-12-12 · Presented By . Alison N. Davis . Kevin M.](https://reader034.fdocuments.net/reader034/viewer/2022042219/5ec4c22f3d063f525e7b64e0/html5/thumbnails/12.jpg)
© Littler Presentation | 2016 Proprietary and Confidential
May employers prohibit political displays at work?
![Page 13: Addressing Post-Election Tensions in the Workplaceshared.littler.com/tikit/Emerge_Docs/2016/WEB_Post_Election_Tensi… · 2016-12-12 · Presented By . Alison N. Davis . Kevin M.](https://reader034.fdocuments.net/reader034/viewer/2022042219/5ec4c22f3d063f525e7b64e0/html5/thumbnails/13.jpg)
© Littler Presentation | 2016 Proprietary and Confidential
May employers restrict employees’ off-duty political activities?
![Page 14: Addressing Post-Election Tensions in the Workplaceshared.littler.com/tikit/Emerge_Docs/2016/WEB_Post_Election_Tensi… · 2016-12-12 · Presented By . Alison N. Davis . Kevin M.](https://reader034.fdocuments.net/reader034/viewer/2022042219/5ec4c22f3d063f525e7b64e0/html5/thumbnails/14.jpg)
© Littler Presentation | 2016 Proprietary and Confidential
Complaint Employee complains that her co-worker constantly says Bernie Sanders should’ve never been a candidate because he’s Jewish. Another co-worker tells colleagues at lunch he thinks Sanders should not have run because he’s too old.
What actions should the employer take?
![Page 15: Addressing Post-Election Tensions in the Workplaceshared.littler.com/tikit/Emerge_Docs/2016/WEB_Post_Election_Tensi… · 2016-12-12 · Presented By . Alison N. Davis . Kevin M.](https://reader034.fdocuments.net/reader034/viewer/2022042219/5ec4c22f3d063f525e7b64e0/html5/thumbnails/15.jpg)
© Littler Presentation | 2016 Proprietary and Confidential
Complaint An employee who’s a devout Christian displays a Bible on her desk, and strongly urges co-workers to support pro-life candidates.
What actions should the employer take?
![Page 16: Addressing Post-Election Tensions in the Workplaceshared.littler.com/tikit/Emerge_Docs/2016/WEB_Post_Election_Tensi… · 2016-12-12 · Presented By . Alison N. Davis . Kevin M.](https://reader034.fdocuments.net/reader034/viewer/2022042219/5ec4c22f3d063f525e7b64e0/html5/thumbnails/16.jpg)
Best Practices
![Page 17: Addressing Post-Election Tensions in the Workplaceshared.littler.com/tikit/Emerge_Docs/2016/WEB_Post_Election_Tensi… · 2016-12-12 · Presented By . Alison N. Davis . Kevin M.](https://reader034.fdocuments.net/reader034/viewer/2022042219/5ec4c22f3d063f525e7b64e0/html5/thumbnails/17.jpg)
© Littler Presentation | 2016 Proprietary and Confidential
• Revisit relevant policies in handbook – Solicitation – Electronic communications – Discrimination – Retaliation
• Meet and discuss with management team • Meet and discuss with entire team • Encourage employees to report concerns
Best Practices
![Page 18: Addressing Post-Election Tensions in the Workplaceshared.littler.com/tikit/Emerge_Docs/2016/WEB_Post_Election_Tensi… · 2016-12-12 · Presented By . Alison N. Davis . Kevin M.](https://reader034.fdocuments.net/reader034/viewer/2022042219/5ec4c22f3d063f525e7b64e0/html5/thumbnails/18.jpg)
Workplace Policies and Investigations
![Page 19: Addressing Post-Election Tensions in the Workplaceshared.littler.com/tikit/Emerge_Docs/2016/WEB_Post_Election_Tensi… · 2016-12-12 · Presented By . Alison N. Davis . Kevin M.](https://reader034.fdocuments.net/reader034/viewer/2022042219/5ec4c22f3d063f525e7b64e0/html5/thumbnails/19.jpg)
© Littler Presentation | 2016 Proprietary and Confidential
• What has changed? • What are the dangers? • What are the opportunities?
Investigations Under the Microscope
![Page 20: Addressing Post-Election Tensions in the Workplaceshared.littler.com/tikit/Emerge_Docs/2016/WEB_Post_Election_Tensi… · 2016-12-12 · Presented By . Alison N. Davis . Kevin M.](https://reader034.fdocuments.net/reader034/viewer/2022042219/5ec4c22f3d063f525e7b64e0/html5/thumbnails/20.jpg)
© Littler Presentation | 2016 Proprietary and Confidential
Investigations Gone Bad
20
![Page 21: Addressing Post-Election Tensions in the Workplaceshared.littler.com/tikit/Emerge_Docs/2016/WEB_Post_Election_Tensi… · 2016-12-12 · Presented By . Alison N. Davis . Kevin M.](https://reader034.fdocuments.net/reader034/viewer/2022042219/5ec4c22f3d063f525e7b64e0/html5/thumbnails/21.jpg)
© Littler Presentation | 2016 Proprietary and Confidential
Prompt Thorough
Investigations: The Balance
![Page 22: Addressing Post-Election Tensions in the Workplaceshared.littler.com/tikit/Emerge_Docs/2016/WEB_Post_Election_Tensi… · 2016-12-12 · Presented By . Alison N. Davis . Kevin M.](https://reader034.fdocuments.net/reader034/viewer/2022042219/5ec4c22f3d063f525e7b64e0/html5/thumbnails/22.jpg)
© Littler Presentation | 2016 Proprietary and Confidential
• How many of you have an investigations protocol? • How many of you have written guidelines?
Investigations Protocol
![Page 23: Addressing Post-Election Tensions in the Workplaceshared.littler.com/tikit/Emerge_Docs/2016/WEB_Post_Election_Tensi… · 2016-12-12 · Presented By . Alison N. Davis . Kevin M.](https://reader034.fdocuments.net/reader034/viewer/2022042219/5ec4c22f3d063f525e7b64e0/html5/thumbnails/23.jpg)
© Littler Presentation | 2016 Proprietary and Confidential
![Page 24: Addressing Post-Election Tensions in the Workplaceshared.littler.com/tikit/Emerge_Docs/2016/WEB_Post_Election_Tensi… · 2016-12-12 · Presented By . Alison N. Davis . Kevin M.](https://reader034.fdocuments.net/reader034/viewer/2022042219/5ec4c22f3d063f525e7b64e0/html5/thumbnails/24.jpg)
© Littler Presentation | 2016 Proprietary and Confidential
Key Elements of Investigations Guidelines
• Defined roles and responsibilities • Standardized approach with clear procedures • Documentation • Notifications • Case management system • Risk mitigation • Metrics • Reporting • Avoiding mistakes in investigations protocol
![Page 25: Addressing Post-Election Tensions in the Workplaceshared.littler.com/tikit/Emerge_Docs/2016/WEB_Post_Election_Tensi… · 2016-12-12 · Presented By . Alison N. Davis . Kevin M.](https://reader034.fdocuments.net/reader034/viewer/2022042219/5ec4c22f3d063f525e7b64e0/html5/thumbnails/25.jpg)
© Littler Presentation | 2016 Proprietary and Confidential
![Page 26: Addressing Post-Election Tensions in the Workplaceshared.littler.com/tikit/Emerge_Docs/2016/WEB_Post_Election_Tensi… · 2016-12-12 · Presented By . Alison N. Davis . Kevin M.](https://reader034.fdocuments.net/reader034/viewer/2022042219/5ec4c22f3d063f525e7b64e0/html5/thumbnails/26.jpg)
© Littler Presentation | 2016 Proprietary and Confidential
Types of Adverse Employment Action
Terminations, Layoffs
Invitations to meetings
Assignments, Training
Transfers
Discipline, Demotions
Promotions
![Page 27: Addressing Post-Election Tensions in the Workplaceshared.littler.com/tikit/Emerge_Docs/2016/WEB_Post_Election_Tensi… · 2016-12-12 · Presented By . Alison N. Davis . Kevin M.](https://reader034.fdocuments.net/reader034/viewer/2022042219/5ec4c22f3d063f525e7b64e0/html5/thumbnails/27.jpg)
© Littler Presentation | 2016 Proprietary and Confidential
• Should the investigation be directed by counsel (either in-house or outside)? – This needs to be decided up front
• If it is privileged: all documents should be marked “Privileged and Confidential” and shared only with counsel
• Conversations about the progress of the investigation and/or next steps should be in the presence of, or at the direction of, counsel to maintain privilege
• Written documents should be maintained with the likely prospect that the privilege will ultimately be waived as to the investigation ─ LEARN GOOD HABITS IN REPORT WRITING
Attorney-Client Privilege Issues
![Page 28: Addressing Post-Election Tensions in the Workplaceshared.littler.com/tikit/Emerge_Docs/2016/WEB_Post_Election_Tensi… · 2016-12-12 · Presented By . Alison N. Davis . Kevin M.](https://reader034.fdocuments.net/reader034/viewer/2022042219/5ec4c22f3d063f525e7b64e0/html5/thumbnails/28.jpg)
© Littler Presentation | 2016 Proprietary and Confidential
• Does your company conduct training for HR on how to conduct effective and lawful investigations?
• Who should be trained and how often? • What is the most effective way
to train investigators?
Training
![Page 29: Addressing Post-Election Tensions in the Workplaceshared.littler.com/tikit/Emerge_Docs/2016/WEB_Post_Election_Tensi… · 2016-12-12 · Presented By . Alison N. Davis . Kevin M.](https://reader034.fdocuments.net/reader034/viewer/2022042219/5ec4c22f3d063f525e7b64e0/html5/thumbnails/29.jpg)
© Littler Presentation | 2016 Proprietary and Confidential
• Impartial fact-finder (no biases) • Good listener and follow up • Gather and collect evidence - do a deep dive and go
beyond the workplace when needed and appropriate • Attention to detail • Protect the record • Properly document investigation • Fairness and respect • Take off your HR hat • Take out the emotion • Avoid prejudging the situation and keep an open mind
Best Practice Tips for Training an Investigator
![Page 30: Addressing Post-Election Tensions in the Workplaceshared.littler.com/tikit/Emerge_Docs/2016/WEB_Post_Election_Tensi… · 2016-12-12 · Presented By . Alison N. Davis . Kevin M.](https://reader034.fdocuments.net/reader034/viewer/2022042219/5ec4c22f3d063f525e7b64e0/html5/thumbnails/30.jpg)
© Littler Presentation | 2016 Proprietary and Confidential
• Everyone deserves it – We are advocates for the entire
organization – management and employees. Not “us vs. them”
– So, no walks of shame, security escorts, “misconduct” tags (unless appropriate)
• Disrespect becomes part of every charge or lawsuit – adds fuel to the fire
Treating Employees with R-E-S-P-E-C-T
![Page 31: Addressing Post-Election Tensions in the Workplaceshared.littler.com/tikit/Emerge_Docs/2016/WEB_Post_Election_Tensi… · 2016-12-12 · Presented By . Alison N. Davis . Kevin M.](https://reader034.fdocuments.net/reader034/viewer/2022042219/5ec4c22f3d063f525e7b64e0/html5/thumbnails/31.jpg)
© Littler Presentation | 2016 Proprietary and Confidential
• Filler comments, full of significance – “He shouldn’t have spoken to me like that” – “I told my manager, but she didn’t seem to care”
• Apologies can reduce tension early on • Convey respect back to them
– “I hear/understand what you’re saying” – “Is there anything else you think would be important for me to know?” – “Is there anything we can do to support you?” – “Thank you for your time/candor/feedback”
During Investigations: Listen for opportunities to be respectful
![Page 32: Addressing Post-Election Tensions in the Workplaceshared.littler.com/tikit/Emerge_Docs/2016/WEB_Post_Election_Tensi… · 2016-12-12 · Presented By . Alison N. Davis . Kevin M.](https://reader034.fdocuments.net/reader034/viewer/2022042219/5ec4c22f3d063f525e7b64e0/html5/thumbnails/32.jpg)
© Littler Presentation | 2016 Proprietary and Confidential
•
Report Writing
![Page 33: Addressing Post-Election Tensions in the Workplaceshared.littler.com/tikit/Emerge_Docs/2016/WEB_Post_Election_Tensi… · 2016-12-12 · Presented By . Alison N. Davis . Kevin M.](https://reader034.fdocuments.net/reader034/viewer/2022042219/5ec4c22f3d063f525e7b64e0/html5/thumbnails/33.jpg)
© Littler Presentation | 2016 Proprietary and Confidential
• Legal conclusions • Keeping or not keeping notes • Written recommendations • Throwing out reports • Not filing reports • Personal opinions and excited utterances
(notes in margins) • No conclusions, just facts • Timeliness of reporting
Common Mistakes - Report Writing
![Page 34: Addressing Post-Election Tensions in the Workplaceshared.littler.com/tikit/Emerge_Docs/2016/WEB_Post_Election_Tensi… · 2016-12-12 · Presented By . Alison N. Davis . Kevin M.](https://reader034.fdocuments.net/reader034/viewer/2022042219/5ec4c22f3d063f525e7b64e0/html5/thumbnails/34.jpg)
![Page 35: Addressing Post-Election Tensions in the Workplaceshared.littler.com/tikit/Emerge_Docs/2016/WEB_Post_Election_Tensi… · 2016-12-12 · Presented By . Alison N. Davis . Kevin M.](https://reader034.fdocuments.net/reader034/viewer/2022042219/5ec4c22f3d063f525e7b64e0/html5/thumbnails/35.jpg)
© Littler Presentation | 2016 Proprietary and Confidential
Steps in Planning
Identify The
Allegations
Laws and Policies
The Specific Issues
Select The Means
Interviews
Documents
Other
Then...
![Page 36: Addressing Post-Election Tensions in the Workplaceshared.littler.com/tikit/Emerge_Docs/2016/WEB_Post_Election_Tensi… · 2016-12-12 · Presented By . Alison N. Davis . Kevin M.](https://reader034.fdocuments.net/reader034/viewer/2022042219/5ec4c22f3d063f525e7b64e0/html5/thumbnails/36.jpg)
![Page 37: Addressing Post-Election Tensions in the Workplaceshared.littler.com/tikit/Emerge_Docs/2016/WEB_Post_Election_Tensi… · 2016-12-12 · Presented By . Alison N. Davis . Kevin M.](https://reader034.fdocuments.net/reader034/viewer/2022042219/5ec4c22f3d063f525e7b64e0/html5/thumbnails/37.jpg)
Conducting the Interview
![Page 38: Addressing Post-Election Tensions in the Workplaceshared.littler.com/tikit/Emerge_Docs/2016/WEB_Post_Election_Tensi… · 2016-12-12 · Presented By . Alison N. Davis . Kevin M.](https://reader034.fdocuments.net/reader034/viewer/2022042219/5ec4c22f3d063f525e7b64e0/html5/thumbnails/38.jpg)
© Littler Presentation | 2016 Proprietary and Confidential
• Have a script - instructions to witnesses • Confidentiality • Retaliation is not allowed • Data privacy rights • Upjohn protocol • Garrity • What else?
Have Standard Interview Instructions
![Page 39: Addressing Post-Election Tensions in the Workplaceshared.littler.com/tikit/Emerge_Docs/2016/WEB_Post_Election_Tensi… · 2016-12-12 · Presented By . Alison N. Davis . Kevin M.](https://reader034.fdocuments.net/reader034/viewer/2022042219/5ec4c22f3d063f525e7b64e0/html5/thumbnails/39.jpg)
© Littler Presentation | 2016 Proprietary and Confidential
• Instructions to witnesses • Funneling • Active listening • Take off HR hat • Question, don’t interrogate • Know your documents • Plan the interview –
don’t wing it • Ask the hard questions
Best Practices Tip for Effective Interviews
![Page 40: Addressing Post-Election Tensions in the Workplaceshared.littler.com/tikit/Emerge_Docs/2016/WEB_Post_Election_Tensi… · 2016-12-12 · Presented By . Alison N. Davis . Kevin M.](https://reader034.fdocuments.net/reader034/viewer/2022042219/5ec4c22f3d063f525e7b64e0/html5/thumbnails/40.jpg)
© Littler Presentation | 2016 Proprietary and Confidential
• Funneling • Active listening • Closing the door • Assessing credibility
Effective Interview Technique
![Page 41: Addressing Post-Election Tensions in the Workplaceshared.littler.com/tikit/Emerge_Docs/2016/WEB_Post_Election_Tensi… · 2016-12-12 · Presented By . Alison N. Davis . Kevin M.](https://reader034.fdocuments.net/reader034/viewer/2022042219/5ec4c22f3d063f525e7b64e0/html5/thumbnails/41.jpg)
© Littler Presentation | 2016 Proprietary and Confidential
Funnel Approach (The Pyramid)
Open Phase
Clarification Phase
Pinning Down Phase
(i.e., closing the door)
![Page 42: Addressing Post-Election Tensions in the Workplaceshared.littler.com/tikit/Emerge_Docs/2016/WEB_Post_Election_Tensi… · 2016-12-12 · Presented By . Alison N. Davis . Kevin M.](https://reader034.fdocuments.net/reader034/viewer/2022042219/5ec4c22f3d063f525e7b64e0/html5/thumbnails/42.jpg)
© Littler Presentation | 2016 Proprietary and Confidential
• Now get clarification for details – Follow-Up – Exhaust – Fill in
Clarification Phase
Open Phase
Clarification Phase
Pinning Down Phase (i.e. closing the door)
![Page 43: Addressing Post-Election Tensions in the Workplaceshared.littler.com/tikit/Emerge_Docs/2016/WEB_Post_Election_Tensi… · 2016-12-12 · Presented By . Alison N. Davis . Kevin M.](https://reader034.fdocuments.net/reader034/viewer/2022042219/5ec4c22f3d063f525e7b64e0/html5/thumbnails/43.jpg)
© Littler Presentation | 2016 Proprietary and Confidential
• Close the door • Get the final answer
– Anyone else present? – Anyone else know about the details
• Listen to the witness • Exhaust the subject • Recap and ask, “Is there anything else?”
Closing Off
![Page 44: Addressing Post-Election Tensions in the Workplaceshared.littler.com/tikit/Emerge_Docs/2016/WEB_Post_Election_Tensi… · 2016-12-12 · Presented By . Alison N. Davis . Kevin M.](https://reader034.fdocuments.net/reader034/viewer/2022042219/5ec4c22f3d063f525e7b64e0/html5/thumbnails/44.jpg)
© Littler Presentation | 2016 Proprietary and Confidential
• Listen to the witness • Don’t be wedded to your outline • Hearing is different than listening • Don’t miss obvious or subtle cues • Take accurate notes • Power of silence
Active Listening
![Page 45: Addressing Post-Election Tensions in the Workplaceshared.littler.com/tikit/Emerge_Docs/2016/WEB_Post_Election_Tensi… · 2016-12-12 · Presented By . Alison N. Davis . Kevin M.](https://reader034.fdocuments.net/reader034/viewer/2022042219/5ec4c22f3d063f525e7b64e0/html5/thumbnails/45.jpg)
© Littler Presentation | 2016 Proprietary and Confidential
• EE refuses to participate • Recording the interview • Bringing a friend • Bringing an attorney • Raising new claims • Threatening the investigator • Interview takes longer • Other unexpected things
Anticipating the Unexpected
![Page 46: Addressing Post-Election Tensions in the Workplaceshared.littler.com/tikit/Emerge_Docs/2016/WEB_Post_Election_Tensi… · 2016-12-12 · Presented By . Alison N. Davis . Kevin M.](https://reader034.fdocuments.net/reader034/viewer/2022042219/5ec4c22f3d063f525e7b64e0/html5/thumbnails/46.jpg)
© Littler Presentation | 2016 Proprietary and Confidential
Confidentiality: The Balance
Confidentiality Fair Opportunity
To Respond
![Page 47: Addressing Post-Election Tensions in the Workplaceshared.littler.com/tikit/Emerge_Docs/2016/WEB_Post_Election_Tensi… · 2016-12-12 · Presented By . Alison N. Davis . Kevin M.](https://reader034.fdocuments.net/reader034/viewer/2022042219/5ec4c22f3d063f525e7b64e0/html5/thumbnails/47.jpg)
![Page 48: Addressing Post-Election Tensions in the Workplaceshared.littler.com/tikit/Emerge_Docs/2016/WEB_Post_Election_Tensi… · 2016-12-12 · Presented By . Alison N. Davis . Kevin M.](https://reader034.fdocuments.net/reader034/viewer/2022042219/5ec4c22f3d063f525e7b64e0/html5/thumbnails/48.jpg)
![Page 49: Addressing Post-Election Tensions in the Workplaceshared.littler.com/tikit/Emerge_Docs/2016/WEB_Post_Election_Tensi… · 2016-12-12 · Presented By . Alison N. Davis . Kevin M.](https://reader034.fdocuments.net/reader034/viewer/2022042219/5ec4c22f3d063f525e7b64e0/html5/thumbnails/49.jpg)
© Littler Presentation | 2016 Proprietary and Confidential
• How do you make a decision? • Verify and analyze • Making credibility determinations • Remember: making the decision • Documentation
Reaching a Conclusion/Documenting
![Page 50: Addressing Post-Election Tensions in the Workplaceshared.littler.com/tikit/Emerge_Docs/2016/WEB_Post_Election_Tensi… · 2016-12-12 · Presented By . Alison N. Davis . Kevin M.](https://reader034.fdocuments.net/reader034/viewer/2022042219/5ec4c22f3d063f525e7b64e0/html5/thumbnails/50.jpg)
© Littler Presentation | 2016 Proprietary and Confidential
• Background • Other Background • Nature of Investigation • Allegations • Response • Witness Information • Findings • Reasoning • Recommended Final Steps
Follow the Report-Writing Map
![Page 51: Addressing Post-Election Tensions in the Workplaceshared.littler.com/tikit/Emerge_Docs/2016/WEB_Post_Election_Tensi… · 2016-12-12 · Presented By . Alison N. Davis . Kevin M.](https://reader034.fdocuments.net/reader034/viewer/2022042219/5ec4c22f3d063f525e7b64e0/html5/thumbnails/51.jpg)
© Littler Presentation | 2016 Proprietary and Confidential
• Not following up • Not taking appropriate remedial measures
Common Mistakes—Remediation
![Page 52: Addressing Post-Election Tensions in the Workplaceshared.littler.com/tikit/Emerge_Docs/2016/WEB_Post_Election_Tensi… · 2016-12-12 · Presented By . Alison N. Davis . Kevin M.](https://reader034.fdocuments.net/reader034/viewer/2022042219/5ec4c22f3d063f525e7b64e0/html5/thumbnails/52.jpg)
© Littler Presentation | 2016 Proprietary and Confidential
• NOT following your policies • NOT holding employees accountable • NOT following up with witnesses as appropriate • NOT following up with complainant
and keeping them informed of status
Common Mistakes—Final Steps
![Page 53: Addressing Post-Election Tensions in the Workplaceshared.littler.com/tikit/Emerge_Docs/2016/WEB_Post_Election_Tensi… · 2016-12-12 · Presented By . Alison N. Davis . Kevin M.](https://reader034.fdocuments.net/reader034/viewer/2022042219/5ec4c22f3d063f525e7b64e0/html5/thumbnails/53.jpg)
![Page 54: Addressing Post-Election Tensions in the Workplaceshared.littler.com/tikit/Emerge_Docs/2016/WEB_Post_Election_Tensi… · 2016-12-12 · Presented By . Alison N. Davis . Kevin M.](https://reader034.fdocuments.net/reader034/viewer/2022042219/5ec4c22f3d063f525e7b64e0/html5/thumbnails/54.jpg)
© Littler Presentation | 2016 Proprietary and Confidential
• Mistakes in the first 72 hours can cause an investigation to fail
• Evidence can be lost; poor documentation can send you down the wrong track
The First 72 Hours
![Page 55: Addressing Post-Election Tensions in the Workplaceshared.littler.com/tikit/Emerge_Docs/2016/WEB_Post_Election_Tensi… · 2016-12-12 · Presented By . Alison N. Davis . Kevin M.](https://reader034.fdocuments.net/reader034/viewer/2022042219/5ec4c22f3d063f525e7b64e0/html5/thumbnails/55.jpg)
© Littler Presentation | 2016 Proprietary and Confidential
• Carefully parse through different strands so you don’t get sidetracked
• Don’t overlook issues that may be important and may need to be revisited or investigated separately
Missing the Forest for the Trees
![Page 56: Addressing Post-Election Tensions in the Workplaceshared.littler.com/tikit/Emerge_Docs/2016/WEB_Post_Election_Tensi… · 2016-12-12 · Presented By . Alison N. Davis . Kevin M.](https://reader034.fdocuments.net/reader034/viewer/2022042219/5ec4c22f3d063f525e7b64e0/html5/thumbnails/56.jpg)
© Littler Presentation | 2016 Proprietary and Confidential
• Don’t leave the complainant hanging or he or she will assume you’re doing nothing
• Provide updates • Communicate that you’re
actively investigating without sharing details
Communicate Back
![Page 57: Addressing Post-Election Tensions in the Workplaceshared.littler.com/tikit/Emerge_Docs/2016/WEB_Post_Election_Tensi… · 2016-12-12 · Presented By . Alison N. Davis . Kevin M.](https://reader034.fdocuments.net/reader034/viewer/2022042219/5ec4c22f3d063f525e7b64e0/html5/thumbnails/57.jpg)
© Littler Presentation | 2016 Proprietary and Confidential
• Inexperienced investigators or others in the organization can inadvertently destroy, corrupt or fail to adequately secure critical evidence
• Can even create new bad evidence
Evidence
![Page 58: Addressing Post-Election Tensions in the Workplaceshared.littler.com/tikit/Emerge_Docs/2016/WEB_Post_Election_Tensi… · 2016-12-12 · Presented By . Alison N. Davis . Kevin M.](https://reader034.fdocuments.net/reader034/viewer/2022042219/5ec4c22f3d063f525e7b64e0/html5/thumbnails/58.jpg)
© Littler Presentation | 2016 Proprietary and Confidential
• Investigators may have to assess credibility where evidence or accounts conflict.
• Be careful to suspend your preconceptions.
Accepting at Face Value
![Page 59: Addressing Post-Election Tensions in the Workplaceshared.littler.com/tikit/Emerge_Docs/2016/WEB_Post_Election_Tensi… · 2016-12-12 · Presented By . Alison N. Davis . Kevin M.](https://reader034.fdocuments.net/reader034/viewer/2022042219/5ec4c22f3d063f525e7b64e0/html5/thumbnails/59.jpg)
© Littler Presentation | 2016 Proprietary and Confidential
• Retaliation against whistleblowers or witnesses exposes you to additional legal risk
• Erodes culture of compliance • Discourages internal reporting
Retaliation
![Page 60: Addressing Post-Election Tensions in the Workplaceshared.littler.com/tikit/Emerge_Docs/2016/WEB_Post_Election_Tensi… · 2016-12-12 · Presented By . Alison N. Davis . Kevin M.](https://reader034.fdocuments.net/reader034/viewer/2022042219/5ec4c22f3d063f525e7b64e0/html5/thumbnails/60.jpg)
© Littler Presentation | 2016 Proprietary and Confidential
• Be alert to the need to protect the rights, privacy and reputations of investigation subjects and others, balanced with the need to conduct an effective investigation.
Employee Rights
![Page 61: Addressing Post-Election Tensions in the Workplaceshared.littler.com/tikit/Emerge_Docs/2016/WEB_Post_Election_Tensi… · 2016-12-12 · Presented By . Alison N. Davis . Kevin M.](https://reader034.fdocuments.net/reader034/viewer/2022042219/5ec4c22f3d063f525e7b64e0/html5/thumbnails/61.jpg)
© Littler Presentation | 2016 Proprietary and Confidential
• The investigation report should never contain legal conclusions
• Remediation decisions will be based on findings of fact, not conclusions of law
• Not judges or juries
Drawing Legal Conclusions
![Page 62: Addressing Post-Election Tensions in the Workplaceshared.littler.com/tikit/Emerge_Docs/2016/WEB_Post_Election_Tensi… · 2016-12-12 · Presented By . Alison N. Davis . Kevin M.](https://reader034.fdocuments.net/reader034/viewer/2022042219/5ec4c22f3d063f525e7b64e0/html5/thumbnails/62.jpg)
Questions
![Page 63: Addressing Post-Election Tensions in the Workplaceshared.littler.com/tikit/Emerge_Docs/2016/WEB_Post_Election_Tensi… · 2016-12-12 · Presented By . Alison N. Davis . Kevin M.](https://reader034.fdocuments.net/reader034/viewer/2022042219/5ec4c22f3d063f525e7b64e0/html5/thumbnails/63.jpg)
Thank You!
This information provided by Littler is not a substitute for experienced legal counsel and does not provide legal advice or attempt to address the numerous factual issues that inevitably arise in any employment-related dispute. Although this information attempts to cover some major recent developments, it is not all-inclusive, and the current status of any decision or principle of law should be verified by counsel.