Recording work chats with supervisor can have pitfalls
Question: I’ve recently had a conversation with my boss where she accused me of something I didn’t do, and she mischaracterized things I said afterward. I am considering recording future conversations to capture proof of what was exactly said. Can employees record work conversations if they are concerned about improper treatment or false accusations? – Earl
Answer: It depends on your location and company policies, but in some cases, employees may have the right to record workplace conversations. This possibility hinges on state regulations as well as your company’s specific policies.
If you reside in a one-party consent state, where only one party needs to be aware of the recording (which can be you), you could potentially record conversations without your boss being aware. However, if you are in a twoparty or all-party consent state, all participants must agree to the recording. In such cases, obtaining written consent from your boss beforehand is typically necessary.
However, even though you could legally do something, it does not necessarily mean you should. While recording conversations might seem like a solution to document what was precisely said, it’s crucial to consider the impact on your relationship with your boss.
Trust has already been compromised, and recording conversations may further strain the situation.
Before resorting to recording, explore alternative approaches. Taking thorough notes during meetings can serve as a written record. When misunderstandings arise, address them promptly with your boss.
Seek clarification, provide your perspective and work toward a mutually acceptable understanding.
Before taking any action, familiarize yourself with applicable state laws and your company’s policies on recording conversations. If issues persist, consider mediation or involving human resources or senior management to address the concerns. Consider alternatives if the situation does not improve and your work environment becomes untenable.
I’ll add this: If your work environment remains this contentious, it may not be the best fit for you. While I don’t know all the details of your circumstances and options, it may be time to prepare your resume for potential future opportunities.
Ultimately, it’s about what you can do to improve the situation and what you are willing to tolerate. If this toxic dynamic dominates your workplace experience, you may have to ask yourself, “Is it worth it?”
Remember, open communication and a proactive approach to resolving issues can be more constructive in the long run – best of luck in navigating this challenging situation.