Got a Graduate Job? Here's How to Ensure You're Treated Fairly

The job market for recent college graduates is strong, and that means competition will be fierce for positions available. If you're one of the lucky ones who got a job, you know that means a lot of uncertainty for you. Working for another person is challenging enough, let alone working with someone you're not used to. 

To help make the transition as smooth as possible, you need to know what to look out for. There are a few red flags you can look out for when dealing with a new supervisor. If you're being treated unfairly, it could be because of your new supervisor. 

By learning how to spot unfair treatment and what you can do about it, you can ensure you're treated fairly and have a positive working relationship with your new supervisor or contact an attorney if it becomes too much to handle. 

1. Don't be afraid to ask questions

When you start a new job, it can be difficult to know what to ask. It's important not to be afraid or embarrassed to ask questions. Your supervisor is there to help and guide you in the right direction. If there's something you don't understand or need help with, don't be afraid to ask. 

2. Focus on development, not just on the job

Keep an eye out for a new supervisor who is more focused on what you're doing wrong, not how to help you improve. These supervisors are often set in their ways and don't spend time trying to groom their employees. They may think that they can teach you everything you need to know in the short amount of time they have. If your boss isn't interested in or willing to provide any training, it could be because he or she doesn't care about your development. 

3. Don't be passive aggressive

You may not be able to control everything at work, but you can control how you react to it. If you're passive aggressive, you'll constantly be escalating problems instead of solving them. You'll be bringing up your issues in passing conversations with coworkers or through emails that are too passive-aggressive. This will make the person you're directing your anger at feel attacked and defensive. It's important not to take your frustration out on the wrong people because it could get ugly fast. 

Instead, try addressing the issue head-on with a productive solution in mind. By being proactive in solving your own problems, you'll create smoother relationships with others and foster a better work environment for everyone involved and help alleviate favoritism.

4. Leave feedback

One way to ensure that you're treated fairly is to give honest feedback. You should make it clear how your supervisor is treating you and whether or not it's fair. This can help your supervisor understand the situation better, and it will also help them improve their performance in the future. 

5. Stay informed and network

One of the most important things to do after you're hired is to stay informed about what's going on. If your supervisor starts to change something that seems unfair or unreasonable, stay informed and don't be afraid to talk with them about it. You might want to consider talking with them one-on-one or in a group setting. Your new coworkers might not all be aware of what's going on, so talking with them could help inform them as well.

If you feel a discussion isn't getting anywhere, try reaching out for advice from an outside source. You could talk with your HR department or someone in the company who has experience resolving conflicts with supervisors. 

Bottom line

It is crucial that you be mindful of your work environment If you're feeling like your supervisor is being unfair, it could be because they feel threatened by you, or they don't want to take the time to get to know you. It's up to you how much time and effort you put into your job, but at the end of the day, that should never matter.

You deserve respect and fairness in the workplace. If a supervisor is being unfair for any reason, talk about it with a human resources representative. They can give advice on what to do next or if other employees have experienced the same thing. But remember: talk first and quit if necessary. 

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