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Knowledge really is power.
Its not just some cliched phrase to be thrown around.
Wherever you decide to work, there are some fundamental things to always keep in mind.
One of them is knowing your rights as aworker.
She did so after they illegallyfiredher via email for talking about her wage.
Scroll down for the full story and to see how the internet reacted.
Youll find our full interview with her as you read on.
When I got the email, my first thought was this is illegal.
I feel lucky that I knew enough to stand up for myself, she said.
The author told us that she didnt expect her story to get so much attention online.
However, someone without this experience might feel left in the dark.
From the nurses perspective, the employee should start by documenting absolutely everything thats toxic in their workplace.
Whenever possible, get your documentation in writing (like I did).
The NLRB is an invaluable resource and needs to be protected.
We should all be speaking out, boycotting, and writing our representatives.
However, nurse u/snoregasmm wasnt about to give up without a fight.
This led to a 9-month-long case that the OP won.
The victory wasnt the backpay or the offer to be rehired (she refused) though.
It was standing up for workers rights.
Discussing your wages is not forbidden.
Everything has to be done by the book.
This is why its vital for every employee to know their local labor laws.
Not only does it help them spot illegal activities, it also protects them.
Its very likely that youll have to sign anon-disclosure agreement(or NDA).
This is common practice.
Their goal is to protect the company by stopping employees from leaking sensitive information.
They also protect the business from embarrassing itself in the public eye.
But NDAs, which are civil contracts, arent some impenetrable shield.
For one, breaking an NDA doesnt lead to criminal penalties.
However, the company is likely to seek damages if you breach the contract.
Trying to renegotiate the contract is only going to be harder.
If in doubt, you might always seek legal counsel.
Have a professional look over the contract, especially if you feel like its too vague or draconian.
Again, this is why its so essential to dive deep into any documents you have to sign.
Keep a paper trail of any important interactions with your colleagues.
Keep a (digital) paper trail that can help you if things turn sour in the future.
That means keeping a small archive of important emails, documents, work chats, etc.
Just remember that theres often safety in numbers.
When you have a whole group of people standing united on an issue, their chances of success improve.
Especially if they know their rights and have a paper trail to back up their claims.
In that case, you may want to consider looking for employment elsewhere and thenquitting.