An Employee Just Filed a Complaint. Here Is What to Do Next.

The first 48 hours after a complaint determine whether the situation is resolved cleanly or escalates into a lawsuit. Here is the exact process to follow.

Every company eventually receives an employee complaint about harassment, discrimination, hostile work environment, or manager misconduct. Most founders are unprepared for the moment it happens. Mishandling it, even with good intentions, turns a manageable HR situation into a significant legal liability.

The legal framework: why you must respond

The first 48 hours

Who should investigate

Conducting the investigation

Confidentiality: what you can and cannot promise

Non-retaliation: the obligation that trips up most employers

After the investigation: findings and corrective action