A Hostile Work Environment Doesn’t Have to Be In Person

Inappropriate jokes or images shared in group chats

Offensive nicknames used in internal messaging tools

Exclusion from key meetings or threads based on bias

Sexual comments or innuendos sent by email or text

Rude or degrading remarks in response to questions or ideas

Micromanaging certain employees unfairly through messaging apps

Threats or bullying tone sent through work systems

Passive-aggressive emails that repeatedly undermine someone’s authority or ideas

Re-sharing private conversations or screenshots to embarrass or intimidate someone

Why It Can Be Even Worse Than In-Person Harassment

New Jersey Law Protects You — Online or Off

Based on your race, gender, religion, disability, sexual orientation, age, or other protected status

Severe or frequent enough to interfere with your work

Creating a toxic or threatening atmosphere

Take screenshots of inappropriate content

Save emails or text threads in a personal folder or printed copy

Keep a timeline of when the behavior started, how often it happens, and how you’ve been affected

Note any complaints you’ve made and how your employer responded (or didn’t)

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Receiving poor performance reviews suddenly

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The behavior targets you because of a protected trait

It’s either really serious or keeps happening

It interferes with your ability to work or feel safe in the workplace

Making jokes about your race, gender, age, or religion

Making sexual comments or advances — even if they claim it’s a joke

Yelling, insulting, or belittling you in front of others

Excluding you from meetings or projects for personal or discriminatory reasons

Micromanaging or over-criticizing only you, especially if there’s a pattern

Ignoring or punishing you for taking legally protected leave (like FMLA)

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Offer constant criticism with little praise

Signs You Might Be in a Hostile Work Environment

You feel targeted because of your gender, race, religion, or another personal trait.

You’ve been subjected to inappropriate jokes, comments, or “nicknames.”

The behavior makes it hard to focus, feel safe, or do your job well.

You’ve tried raising concerns but nothing changes — or things get worse.

You’re afraid to speak up because you might be punished or pushed out.

What You Can Do If It’s Happening to You

Document everything. Keep notes on what happened, when, who was there, and what was said or done. Save emails, messages, and performance reviews.

Report the issue internally. If you feel safe doing so, report the behavior to HR or a trusted supervisor. Do it in writing if possible, so there’s a paper trail.

File a Complaint With the State. You can file a complaint with the <a href="https://www.njoag.gov/about/divisions-and-offices/division-on-civil-rights-home/">New Jersey Division on Civil Rights</a> (DCR). You typically have 180 days from the last incident to file.

Speak with an attorney. A hostile work environment lawyer in New Jersey can help determine whether your experience qualifies as a legal violation under New Jersey law and advise you on next steps..

Let’s Talk About What’s Going On at Work

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Common Signs You’re in a Hostile Work Environment

1. Constant Harassment or Discriminatory Behavior

Mocking your accent, cultural background, or physical appearance

Repeated misgendering or inappropriate remarks about your gender identity

Making fun of a disability or medical condition

5. Toxic Comments and Offensive Materials

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