Welcome to the whimsical world of employment law, where even the most mundane mishaps can take on a comedic twist. In this light-hearted exploration, we’ll embark on a journey through the curious realm of unjustified disadvantages for employees in New Zealand.
Common things like reduced pay and bullying are known to amount to a personal grievance on the basis of an unjustified disadvantage, but what else might? Lets take a look at some examples and see what might just be an issue for you, and your employer!
1. The Case of the Vanishing Annual Leave
You’ve been dreaming of that well-deserved beach vacation for months, only to have your annual leave request mysteriously denied by your employer. As you stare longingly at your untouched suitcase, you can’t help but wonder: Was it lost in the Bermuda Triangle of HR paperwork, or is there a dastardly plot afoot? Either way, being denied your precious time off can feel like a cosmic injustice worthy of its own detective novel.
This may end up being a contract dispute, but if an employer has taken away annual leave that is absolutely a disadvantage to you.
2. The Curious Case of Reduced Hours
You stroll into the office on a Monday morning, only to be greeted with the news that your hours have been mysteriously slashed without warning. As you attempt to make sense of the situation, you can’t help but wonder: Did your hours fall victim to a scheduling glitch, or is there a mischievous time thief lurking? If you have been working a set amount of hours and they are taken away from you without process or consultation that is absolutely a disadvantage!
3. The Vanishing Act of the Company Vehicle
You’ve grown accustomed to the convenience of your company-provided vehicle, only to discover that it has vanished from the parking lot overnight. As you ponder the disappearance of your trusty wheels, you can’t help but wonder: Was it a case of mistaken identity, or did the company vehicle embark on an impromptu road trip without you? If you have enjoyed a car, even if it wasn’t provided in your employment agreement, if it is taken away without process that is a very clear disadvantage and you should be compensated.
4. The Suspense of Suspension
You’re summoned to the bosses office and informed that you’ve been suspended pending an investigation into a workplace incident. As you sit in limbo, suspended in a state of uncertainty, you can’t help but wonder: Is this a plot twist worthy of a suspense thriller, or simply a bureaucratic hiccup in the grand scheme of office politics? Well if they don’t consult with you or if there is not a good reason an employer can’t just send you away from work and this will likely be a disadvantage, especially if they don’t pay you.
5. The Unfair Warning
You receive a stern warning from your manager for a minor infraction that you’re certain was blown out of proportion. As you contemplate the injustice of it all, you can’t help but wonder: Was this warning issued in the heat of the moment, or is it part of a larger conspiracy to keep you on your toes? Well if they didn’t follow the right process like inviting you to a future meeting with support and fully understanding the issues and your perspective first then it will be a very clear unjustified disadvantage.
6. The Defender Defends
You bravely speak out in defence of a fellow colleague who is being unfairly criticised by a higher-up. In a surprising turn of events, you find yourself on the receiving end of threats and intimidation tactics from those in positions of power. As you stand firm in your convictions, you can’t help but wonder: Are you a valiant defender of justice, or simply a pawn in the game of workplace politics? Big time issue here. An employer absolutely can’t punish you for helping out a colleague.
7. The Case of the Ignored Complaint
You muster the courage to lodge a formal complaint about a concerning issue in the workplace, only to watch it disappear into the abyss of bureaucratic indifference. Despite your best efforts to shed light on the matter, the powers that be seem content to sweep it under the rug. As you grapple with feelings of frustration and disillusionment, you can’t help but wonder: Is justice truly blind, or is it simply taking an extended coffee break in the break room? And this one really underlines it all. An employer has a duty to make sure an employee is safe in their workplace. This isn’t just about physical harm but any issue that might hamper their enjoyment and wellbeing. So if an employer doesn’t take action when you raise an issue, then the employer could have a big problem.
In all seriousness though, if you find yourself facing mistreatment or unfair circumstances in the workplace, it’s imperative to seek advice and support. If there is nobody at work to turn to try consulting with a reputable employment advocate or lawyer who can provide clarity on your rights and options. Remember, you’re not alone, and there are avenues available to help address issues and ensure that you’re treated fairly. By speaking up and advocating for yourself, you not only protect your own well-being but also contribute to creating a more equitable and respectful work environment for everyone.
Should you need employment advice, please don’t hesitate to contact us through our toll-free hotline. We can support you from when you pick up the phone to getting your hearing in the ERA.
