As an employer, you have a vested interest in ensuring your workplace is free from the toxic influence of “Demon Bosses” managers who bully, harass, or otherwise mistreat employees. Not only can such behavior lead to decreased productivity and morale, but it can also result in costly lawsuits. The good news is that by taking proactive steps to train your management team, you can significantly reduce the risk of litigation and create a more positive, respectful work environment.
Recent court cases in the United States have highlighted the importance of holding employers accountable for the actions of their managers. For instance, in Staub v. Proctor Hospital (2011), the Supreme Court ruled that an employer can be liable if a biased supervisor influences an employment decision, even if they aren’t the final decision-maker. This “cat’s paw” theory of liability emphasizes the need for employers to ensure their managers are making decisions free from bias and prejudice. Other notable cases, such as Robison v. Healthworks, Inc. (2017) and EEOC v. AutoZone, Inc. (2016), have resulted in significant awards and settlements for employees who were subjected to harassment and retaliation. These cases demonstrate that employers have a responsibility to ensure their managers are equipped to lead effectively and respectfully. Here are some key takeaways for employers:
- Provide regular, comprehensive training for managers on workplace policies and procedures, including anti-harassment and anti-discrimination training.
- Foster a culture of respect and inclusivity, where employees feel comfortable reporting incidents or concerns.
- Hold managers accountable for their behavior and take prompt action when issues arise.
- Review and update policies regularly to ensure they are effective and compliant with relevant laws.
By taking these steps, you can help create a positive, productive work environment and reduce the risk of costly lawsuits. SDEA can help you with your training needs either with onsite/webinar courses customized for your organization, or through our regularly scheduled public classes.
Call us for more information 858-505-0024. At SDEA we are HeRe with you!
