The workplace should be a positive environment where everyone works for everyone else to reach a common goal. However, many have found this is rarely the palace, with some environments being cutthroat and toxic. This could happen due to overbearing managers or backstabbing colleagues. It could lead to you being treated unfairly. How can you avoid this happening? Consider these tips. 

Read Your Contract

You have to read your contract, but it’s safe to assume that many people will happily sign on the dotted line to get it over with. While this means you’re officially employed, it also means that the company has you locked into something that may hinder you. 

Reading your contract allows you to get the entire picture of what expectations in your role. It also gives you the chance to pinpoint any terms that you are not comfortable with if you feel it could lead to them taking advantage of you. If this is the case, you can use litigation services to resolve any disputes. 

Define Expectations

You should always define expectations by speaking with your manager during the interview and once your employment has been made official. You should have a good idea of most expectations by reading your contract, but most companies often expect you to do more than what’s stated. 

By defining the expectations, you can highlight what works for you and what does not. With this, you won’t be asked to do twice the amount of work the half the amount of money, and you can put yourself in a strong position to negotiate when your contract renewal comes around. 

Set Boundaries

Managers who are happy to let their employees set boundaries will improve engagement and create a positive and healthy office environment. The modern office is different from what a traditional office was expected to be, so you should make your needs clear. 

If you have kids, make a point that you need to be available to pick them up from school or work from home if they require attention and childcare. You can also remind your manager and coworkers that you will not (and should not be expected) to answer your work phone or email out of hours. 

Get Support From Coworkers

It is always important that colleagues have each other’s backs in the office. There is strength in numbers, so working together will prevent the company from taking advantage of you or trying to pit you against one another. 

Support should be omnidirectional, too. If you go out of your way to help a coworker, they should repay the favour. By doing this, the office will enhance cohesion and chemistry to make you a more effective unit. 

Fair’s Fair

Fair treatment at the office should go without saying, but sometimes, people are only out for themselves and their professional development. By ensuring you know what you are getting into and being clear about what you need from the company as much as what it needs from you, there is a better chance that you will be treated how you deserve.