A successful work environment begins with a happy workforce. It’s important to ensure that you are working ethically and that you are maintaining a high standard of ethics. As an employer, or as an employee you know of something happening within your business but speaking out about them can have detrimental consequences, both on the business and personal issues for the employee. They may raise concern initially internally, but not receiving the response you were expecting can leave you with the conundrum of whether to speak out about it publically. Before stepping forward, it’s worth taking note of the negative consequences that it can have for the business and yourself.

Taking the steps to improve the team

If you speak out against your business, then there can often be a break down the trust between the employer and the business itself. If there are any concerns at work, it’s always encouraged to speak out about them internally first. Any activities that appear unethical and illegal should be taken care of sensitively. By speaking out about it internally, it gives them the opportunity to monitor the activity internally before going elsewhere. Speaking out publicly can cause tensions in the workplace among both management and employees.

Whistleblowing about something that’s going on under the radar of the business can cause serious tension amongst employees and senior members within the business. Whistleblowers can be seen as ‘snitches’, creating a hostile environment on a daily basis. It can also be distracting for others and whistleblowers can receive intimidating attention.

Always look to improve your team

Employees can tend to bypass the chain of command with the fear of repercussions from speaking out. It shows a lack of management and authority of the senior staff in the business and questions will be asked about the culture within the business. Leaders in the business should be able to create an environment that provides their staff with a platform to share and concerns that they have.

Business reputation matters

By bringing matters into the public eye, news can quickly escalate to the wider public. This can instantly have a repercussion on the business’ reputation. The business could face legal action from Manchester solicitors, for example, and in doing the company could face a major backlash from its customers or clients.

Alice Porter works closely with Gorvins, a Settlement Agreement Solicitors based in Manchester.