The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission is a federal agency whose main mandate is to enforce laws which caution against job discrimination. As an agency, the EEOC will investigate any discrimination and discrimination attempts in workplaces, then charge the offenders when discrimination is found. Sometimes the charges can be settled but in cases where they cannot be settled, the agency will file a lawsuit on behalf of the affected person or the general public. Other than investigating claims of discrimination in workplaces and dealing with the charges that result from discrimination, the agency conducts outreach programs aimed at preventing future cases of discrimination. The agency is in charge of laws that prohibit discrimination, the laws that provide for equal pay and the laws that mandate for equal access of employment for all qualified persons including those with disabilities.

Why is equal employment important?

Equal employment matters are important not just for individuals seeking employment but also for organizations that offer employment. For individuals, equal employment laws have helped establish the baseline for acceptable behavior, which is very important especially now that there is a wide range of lifestyles out there, as well as attitudes and values, which may make it hard for people to work together in one company. Again, EEOC employment laws have ensured that people feel that they are being treated equally and fairly, which is enough to increase personal commitment, loyalty and satisfaction to their employer. The laws against discrimination have brought out a sense of personal worth and wellbeing in persons who would have otherwise be denied job opportunities for one reason or the other. Everyone now feels confident that with the right qualifications, they can find a job in the companies of their choice.

What is the EEOC’s role in regard to business?

For companies, EEO laws have enabled them to attract dedicated and qualified candidates from all walks of life. Also, organizations that are EEO compliant face lower risks of being charged of discrimination or facing a wrongful discharge lawsuit. By allowing anyone that is qualified to apply for open vacancies in your company, employers benefit greatly for having a diverse workforce, which is great when developing teams, establishing departments and for the overall creativity and productivity of the business.

Consequences of violating EEOC act

There is no joy and satisfaction in discriminating against certain individuals when a company is hiring. Again, there are serious legal implications that come with this kind of discrimination. A company is, for instance, likely to spend a lot of money when dealing with legal settlements and court fees after every discrimination lawsuit it goes through. This might leave your business counting great losses. Such a business may also lose most of its customers and employee loyalty, even after a single case of discrimination is reported. Other companies may even avoid doing business with a company that discriminates against employees seeking an employment opportunity. Treating an employee unfairly does not only reflect badly on your company to that employee but also to other employees and anyone else that is interacting with your business.