In the workplace, there is a huge potential for discrimination, on any number of grounds. The potential for discrimination during the hiring process is even larger and harder to counter. If you believe that you have been discriminated against, there are a number of steps you can take to deal with the discrimination.

If you can document the discrimination, or have tangible proof, you will be better equipped to handle the matter. Even a simple question at your interview can be enough to show that a hiring manager was biased against you for a specific reason. Written proof is often the most effective, but the most difficult to come by.

Your first step in disputing discrimination should be to talk to the employer in question. If a single hiring manager was the cause of the problem, try talking to a higher level of management, or even approaching the owner or president of the company. You may be able to get a review of your complaint very easily.

In some companies, however, you may find that discrimination is part of the company’s culture. You may need to take further steps to ensure that your problem is addressed, such as contacting an attorney. Some lawyers specialize in discrimination cases, and, if you can work with one, they may be able to suggest the best course of action against a given company.

It may also be worthwhile to check if other applicants, or even employees, have had similar experiences with the company in question. If there are multiple complaints, especially if a case goes before a judge, you will have a better chance of proving your accusation. An attorney can give you direction in proceeding with a case with multiple complaints.

Keep in mind that you may face discrimination for a wide variety of characteristics. Some of the best known are racial, sexual and religious discrimination, but ageism is rapidly becoming a key discrimination issue, as is sexual orientation. Additionally, a whole host of actions on the part of an employer could be considered discrimination (although many categories are very difficult to prove): firing, refusal to promote, etc.

The process of searching for a job is easier than ever before. There are thousands of job seekers applying for jobs daily – and with the number of employment opportunities on the rise, many employers prefer searching for viable candidates on job boards, through placement agencies and via their own employees.

Job Boards

If you want to find a job quickly, the Internet is the way to go. When you upload your resume to job websites or job boards, make sure you use the right keywords in the text.

These days, most resumes are scanned first before being sent to an actual human being. Companies indicate certain words for their computers to look for before a resume is allowed through the electronic screening process for a second look.

Look through your resume and make sure you’re using the right words for your industry. You can look at the employer’s ad for clues.

Placement Agencies

Forward your resume to several job placement agencies. Let recruiters know what type of job you are looking for. Recruiters often deal with LOTS of people – so make sure you stay in touch with the recruiter for the latest updates on what openings are available.

Many job fairs take place, especially in major cities; make it a point to visit them with plenty of resumes in hand. You never know – you may come across the job you are looking for!

Network of Employees

Always let your friends, family and business associates know that you are looking for a job. They may have valuable information regarding openings they can refer you to.

The more people that know about your job search, the more help you can get. It is a well-documented fact that companies prefer to hire people that are referred to them by an employee or someone else they know.

Online Application

Visit company websites and forward resumes to them. Even if they do not have an immediate vacancy, they might be willing to contact you in the future if an opportunity opens up.

If you have already applied to some companies and haven’t heard from them, you can send a small email reminding them about your application.

Your job search will be a lot easier and productive if you stay focused and positive.