Can employees be fired for discussing wages?

Can employees be fired for discussing wages?

For the most part: no, employers may not prohibit employees from discussing compensation according to the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) and an April 2014 Executive Order from former President Obama. And many states have passed pay transparency laws for employees.

Can my employer tell other employees?

With few exceptions, employers shouldn’t engage in discussions about other employees or disclosures concerning employees with their coworkers.

Is salary protected information?

Salaries are almost always confidential, but that’s just cultural. Your employees may already be talking. But, despite all the confidentiality, it’s all self-imposed. Federal law protects your right (and the right of your employees) to discuss their working conditions–including salary.

Can an employer fire you for discussing wages with another employee?

For example, the NLRB issued a complaint against a diaper supply company in St. Louis that fired a worker after she discussed wages with another employee. The employer had a handbook policy against discussing wages, but it was found to be unlawful by the NLRB.

Can you forbid employees from discussing salary at work?

You cannot forbid employees – either verbally or in written policy – from discussing salaries or other job conditions among themselves. Discussing salary at work is protected regardless of whether employees are talking to each other in person or through social media. What employers can do

Why can’t employees share their wages with each other?

Additionally, workers privy to certain protected information – HR reps, for example, who might know about others’ wages already, or anyone working in payroll – may not be able to share that information.

How do you encourage employees to ask for higher salaries?

Encourage a workplace where employees are comfortable approaching management or HR personnel with questions or observations about salaries or working conditions. Help employees understand their salary ranges and job potential, and inform them how additional skills, training or certifications could possibly affect their growth within your company.