What are potential consequences of workplace discrimination?

Selecting legal penalties and negative company reputation as the answer reflects an accurate understanding of the potential consequences of workplace discrimination. When companies engage in discriminatory practices—whether in hiring, promotion, or day-to-day interactions—this can lead to serious legal repercussions. Employees or candidates may file complaints, leading to lawsuits or investigations by regulatory bodies. Legal action can be costly, not only in terms of monetary penalties but also in terms of lost time and resources defending the company.

Additionally, discrimination can severely damage a company’s reputation. Negative publicity can arise from lawsuits, media coverage, and employee dissatisfaction. A tarnished reputation can lead to decreased customer loyalty, impacting revenue, as well as difficulties in attracting top talent who prefer to work for organizations known for their fairness and inclusivity. In an era where corporate social responsibility is increasingly important, companies are held accountable for their workplace culture and practices, making this consequence particularly significant.

The other options offer various positive outcomes that do not align with the reality of workplace discrimination's impact. While higher recruitment costs and increased promotion opportunities may seem plausible in a theoretical context, in practice, discrimination typically leads to fewer qualified candidates being considered fairly. Enhanced employee relationships and morale are also unlikely when discrimination is present, as these issues can create a