Signs of Retaliation at Work

May 23, 2025
A man is sitting at a desk with his head in his hands in front of a laptop computer.

Workplace retaliation can be subtle or obvious. Regardless of its form, it is illegal under both federal and California law. If you have made a complaint, taken part in a workplace investigation, or used your paid leave, pay attention to signs of retaliation at work. 


Knowing how to spot signs of retaliation is important. Look for things like demotions, a hostile work environment, and getting excluded. Recognizing these signs can help you seek the justice you deserve. 

What Is Workplace Retaliation? 

Workplace retaliation occurs when an employer punishes an employee for engaging in a legally protected activity. This can include reporting harassment or discrimination, filing a workers' compensation claim, requesting medical leave, or participating in whistleblowing. 


In California, protections are especially strong. The California Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA), the California Whistleblower Protection Act, and California Labor Code Section 1102.5 forbid employers from punishing workers who stand up for their rights

Common Signs of Workplace Retaliation 

Although retaliation can take many forms, some common signs include: 


  • Sudden Negative Reviews: Getting sudden negative feedback after participating in a protected activity like whistleblowing. Employers often use performance reviews to create a record for possible discipline or termination. EEOC. 
  • Demotion or Loss of Responsibilities: Losing important duties or getting demoted without an explanation. For example, you could get less important tasks, miss out on leadership roles, or shift to a department that may underuse your skills. DIR. 
  • Exclusion from Meetings or Projects: Being left out of meetings, team projects, or decision-making processes can be a sign of retaliation. Being cut out of planning or strategy sessions can mean that your employer is trying to isolate you. 
  • Unwarranted Discipline or Write-Ups: Receiving warnings or write-ups that seem unfair or overblown can be a red flag.  Especially, if they come shortly after you assert a right. Employers often use this to justify future terminations or ongoing disciplinary action. 
  • Changes in Work Schedule or Location: Unexpected changes to your schedule, remote work privileges, or work location that make your job harder without a clear reason. These changes might look “business-related” at first. However, they could be designed to make things harder for you or push you to quit. 
  • Hostile Behavior from Supervisors or Colleagues: A change in tone or behavior, feeling isolated, or facing hostility can indicate a retaliatory environment. 
  • Wrongful Termination: In extreme cases, retaliation can lead to wrongful termination. It can also force someone to quit due to unbearable working conditions. Some employees aren't fired directly. Instead, they feel so uncomfortable or unsupported that they end up resigning. This is known as “constructive discharge.” Under California law , it might still be considered wrongful termination as a form of retaliation. DIR. 
  • Exclusion from Opportunities: Missing meetings, training sessions, team-building events, or advancement programs can feel like retaliation. It may aim to isolate you or slow your career growth. 
  • Denial of Promotions or Raises: If you don't get a promotion or raise, even though you qualify, it might be a sign of retaliation. Employers may offer vague or inconsistent reasons for their decision or none at all. 
  • Spreading Rumors or Making Negative Comments: The spread of false rumors or negative comments by your employer or coworkers after you file a complaint. It can damage your reputation, isolate you, and create a toxic work environment. 
  • Verbal or Physical Abuse: Facing verbal or physical abuse from your boss or coworkers after filing a complaint could be another sign of workplace retaliation. 

What to Do If You Suspect Workplace Retaliation 

If you think you're facing retaliation at work in California, follow these steps: 


  1. Document Everything: Keep a record of events, conversations, performance reviews, and any changes in your job duties or work environment. 
  2. Review Company Policies: Check your employee handbook or HR documents to understand the internal complaint process. 
  3. Report Internally: If it's safe to do so, report the suspected retaliation to HR or a supervisor. 
  4. Seek Legal Help: Navigating workplace retaliation claims can be complex. A workplace retaliation lawyer can review your case and suggest what to do next. Such action may include filing a civil lawsuit or filing a complaint with the California Civil Rights Department (CRD, formerly DFEH), the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC), or filing a civil lawsuit. 

Workplace retaliation happens in California more often than employees think. It usually begins with small, subtle changes that get worse over time. California law supports you, so recognizing the signs and acting early can be key. 


Think you're facing retaliation? Lawyers for Employee and Consumer Rights represents workers who have faced retaliation. Our experienced workplace retaliation attorneys in California are ready to review your case and protect your rights. 


Content is informational only and not legal advice. 

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