Advocacy & Standards Toolkit
You are a professional. You deserve professional treatment. This toolkit provides the checklists, calculators, and scripts you need to advocate for yourself, ensure your safety, and know when it’s time to walk away.
1. The “First Week” Safety Audit
Logistics is dangerous. Within your first week, you should be able to answer “YES” to these questions. If you answer “NO” to more than two, you are at risk.
Red Flag Warning
If you see supervisors removing safety guards to “speed up the line,” report it immediately. You can file an anonymous complaint with OSHA. Never put your hand in a machine to clear a jam while it is powered on.
2. The Raise Negotiation Script
Asking for more money is scary. Preparation removes the fear. Use this script during your annual review or after a major accomplishment.
Step 1: The Prep
- Print out your attendance record (aim for 100%).
- Write down 3 specific achievements (e.g., “Trained 2 new hires”).
- Research the market rate for your role on Glassdoor or Indeed.
- Practice the script below in front of a mirror.
Step 2: What to Say
“Thank you for meeting with me, [Boss’s Name]. I’ve really enjoyed working here for the past [Time].”
“Over the last year, I have maintained 100% attendance and recently took on the responsibility of [mention extra task, e.g., training new hires].”
“Based on this increased responsibility and the current market rates for this role, I would like to request an adjustment to my hourly rate to $[Amount].”
“I am committed to this team and want to continue growing here. Is this something we can discuss?”
In many Latino cultures, asking for money feels rude or ungrateful. In the U.S. corporate system, it is expected. If you don’t ask, they assume you are happy. Close mouths don’t get fed.
3. Professional Resignation
Never burn a bridge. Even if you hate the job, leave with dignity. The logistics world is small; your old boss might know your new boss.
Standard “Two Weeks Notice” Template
Copy, paste, print, and sign.
[Date]
Dear [Manager’s Name],
Please accept this letter as formal notification that I am resigning from my position as [Job Title]. My last day will be [Date – 2 weeks from now].
Thank you for the opportunity to work at [Company Name]. I have learned a lot during my time here and I will do everything I can to ensure a smooth handover of my duties during my remaining time.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Printed Name]
4. Know Your Rights: “English Only” Rules
Can an employer forbid you from speaking Spanish at work?
When they CAN restrict it:
- During times when business necessity requires it (e.g., talking to English-speaking customers).
- During safety emergencies or drills.
- When cooperative work is required with non-Spanish speakers.
When they CANNOT restrict it:
- During your break or lunch time.
- During casual conversations that do not interfere with work.
- If the rule is applied only to Spanish speakers but not other languages.
Source: EEOC Guidelines. This information is for educational purposes and not legal advice.