Blowing the whistle about wrongdoing taking place in your Michigan place of employment has the capacity to upend many aspects of your life. Making the decision to blow the whistle is difficult, and the days that follow may also prove to be hard, particularly if you face retaliation in the aftermath of making your report.
Per the Office of the Whistleblower Ombuds, there are certain things you might do when you blow the whistle that may help minimize the impact the action has on your life. Some of the tips experienced whistleblower attorneys and advocates have for today’s whistleblowers are as follows.
Tip 1 – Create a paper trail
When you blow the whistle, it helps to have evidence to back up your claims. Be sure to document all facts and developments related to the wrongdoing taking place in your place of employment. Make sure, also, to include as much detail as possible in your notes when it comes to dates, times, witnesses and other details.
Tip 2 – Consider if you want to go public
You also want to think about whether you want to go public or remain anonymous when you blow the whistle. Even if you prefer to remain anonymous, it is wise to prepare for the possibility that your name may become public.
Tip 3 – Get emotional support
Blowing the whistle is difficult, and it helps to have someone in your corner. Make sure you have loved ones to serve as sources of support. Consider, too, speaking to a therapist or engaging in other stress-reduction strategies along the way.
The steps you take while preparing for and blowing the whistle help determine the degree of impact your actions may have on your life moving forward.