If you work for the federal government, you serve a higher purpose than those toiling in the private sector. Those employed by the federal government are civil servants whose fealty must be toward upholding the Constitution of the United States and ensuring that our democracy remains protected at all times.
The founding fathers of our fledgling nation, in their great combined wisdom, created a series of checks and balances on the government. Whistleblowing is one practice that arose from these efforts, as the price the individual whistleblower often pays is far greater than anything they gain from their actions.
Below are some things to understand before blowing that whistle on the federal government.
There’s a tendency to shoot the messenger
If you think that bringing your concerns to light will elevate your profile substantially, you could be shocked to realize that all you apparently did was help paint a bright red target on your back. Your organization not only doesn’t appear to appreciate what you revealed, but they may also figuratively “shoot the messenger” in their comments to the media and to the American people.
Is this fair? Of course not. But that doesn’t mean that it can’t happen. And, unless you take steps to protect yourself as a whistleblower, you could absorb the full brunt of any blows.
Reach out for legal guidance
Preferably before you make a move, but definitely after, it is vital that you do all you can to protect and preserve your job, your interests and reputation and your family. Seeking legal assistance as a whistleblower is the best way to protect yourself while standing up for what is right under the law.