15 - employment law

15 – EMPLOYMENT LAW

INTRODUCTION

Employment is a contract and so it may be ended as any other type of contractual relationship. Reasons to be given notice are varied – usually it’s the case when and employee simply doesn’t go to work, gets drunk while at work, steals from the employer or is held responsible for sexual discrimination. The opposite of justifiable discharge is wrongful discharge/unfair dismissal.

CONTRACTS

pracovní smlouva = employment contract

dohoda o provedení práce = agreement to complete a job

dohoda o provedení činnosti = agreement to work

ISSUES IN THE WORKPLACE

Whistleblowing is when a worker reports suspected wrongdoing at work. Officially this is called “making a disclosure in the public interest”. A worker can report things that aren’t right, are illegal or if anyone at work is neglecting their duties, including: someone’s heath and safety is in danger, damage to the environment, a criminal offence, the company isn’t obeying the law, covering up wrongdoing.

Grievance is a complaint. Raising a grievance is putting your problem to your employer informally at first (private word) or if that fails, more formally, perhaps in writing which will allow them to investigate and hopefully resolve your grievance.

If your employer is concerned or unhappy about your work, they may look to take disciplinary action against you. Your employer is not obligated to discuss matters with you informally. If your employer decides to take disciplinary action, they should set out in a letter the alleged misconduct or poor performance and the possible consequences you may face.

APPLYING FOR A JOB

Your curriculum vitae (CV) is the first thing an HR Manager or your prospective employer will see. Only a well-designed and flawless CV stands a chance to be thoroughly read and may eventually lead to an invitation to the job interview.