Navigating the Investigation Process After Filing a Harassment Report Against Your Boss

Dealing with harassment in the workplace can be a daunting experience. If you filed a report against your boss for harassment, an investigation was conducted, and you were told you would not receive a copy of the report, what should you do? In this article, we will guide you through the steps and provide valuable insights to help you navigate this difficult situation.

Understanding Your Rights After an Investigation

When an investigation is conducted, it is often your employer who decides whether to release the report or not. Unless a union or job contract specifically requires the release of the report to the complainant, the decision lies with your employer. It is ultimately your employer's discretion who receives the report and, in many cases, they may not wish to share it with you.

What to Do If You Don't Get a Copy

If your employer neither gave you a copy of the report nor took any action against your boss, you have the option to file a claim with your local Labor Department office. This can be a powerful step in ensuring that your concerns are addressed by a neutral third party.

Alternatively, you can inquire in writing who conducted the investigation and ask why you did not receive a copy of the report. If you feel that you have not received a proper response, you should consider consulting with a lawyer. A court order might be necessary to compel your employer to release the report, especially if the employer includes it as part of their expense.

When to Follow Up

It is not uncommon to be left in the dark about the outcome of an investigation, especially if no action has been taken after a certain period of time. Waiting for a month can be the right approach. If no changes have been made to your situation or if your concerns have not been addressed, you should follow up with the investigating authority. You can send an email or letter asking, "What happened to the report filed by me on [specific date]? You are anxious and would like to know what action was taken."

It is important to focus on the action taken, not the report itself. While it is understandable that you are anxious about the outcome, it is not your role to review or comment on the specific content of the report. Your role is to ensure that the report was properly investigated and acted upon.

Where to File a Report

The procedure for filing a report can vary widely depending on the organization and the nature of the harassment. For example, in some workplaces, you might be able to file a report with the Inspector General, the EEOC (Equal Employment Opportunity Commission), HR, or even with the individual supervisor. Each of these options has different processes and outcomes. For instance, the Inspector General or EEOC would conduct the investigation and inform you of the results, while HR might not provide you with direct communication about the outcome of the investigation.

Understanding these different options can help you make informed decisions about where to file a report. It is crucial to consult with someone knowledgeable about your employer's policies and legal requirements to ensure that your complaint is handled appropriately.

Conclusion

Filing a harassment report is a critical step in addressing inappropriate behavior in the workplace. However, the investigation process can be complex and may leave you without a clear understanding of the outcome. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can navigate the investigation process more effectively and ensure that your concerns are addressed. Remember, seeking legal advice and maintaining clear communication are key to resolving any issues that arise.