Employment Tribunals: 'Do's and 'Don't's

If you are to have an Employment Tribunal hearing, your behaviour on the day could have an effect on the view the Tribunal Panel takes of you and your case. Follow our top five tips on Employment Tribunal etiquette to give yourself the best chance of success...

Tip One: Be Prepared

Take time to read through your statement so that you are familiar with it. You could even practise reading it aloud as you are likely to be required to do so at a hearing. Above all, make sure you understand the legal arguments in your case. It is always a good idea to take some legal advice, even if you are planning to represent yourself at your Tribunal hearing.

Make sure you have some paper and a pen to take into the Tribunal Room with you. That way, if you have something to say to your representative, you can pass a note.

Tip Two: Arrive in good time

It is essential that you arrive at the Tribunal Hearing Centre in time for your hearing. Make sure you have planned how you will get there. The Tribunal should provide you with a map and directions. If you are travelling by car, set off early in case there are traffic delays. If you are travelling by bus or train, make sure you know what time it departs and how long the journey will be. Use the map provided by the Tribunal to plan your walking route from the bus station, train station or car park so that you don't get lost on the way. You could also use Google maps to help you plan walking routes or your car journey.

Tip Three: At the hearing, sit quietly and wait your turn to speak

You may feel upset or annoyed about something that is said by your employer, their representative or a witness, but do not call out or comment loudly to your representative. You will have your chance to read out your statement, and to give evidence to support your claim. Remember, the Tribunal is impartial and has to hear both sides of the story in order to make a judgment.Take paper and a pen with you so that you can pass notes to your representative.

You should not talk to witnesses sitting in the seats behind your representative during the proceedings.

Tip Four: Speak slowly and clearly

It is absolutely essential that the Tribunal Panel can understand every word you say. Speaking slowly and clearly is the best way to make sure of it. You are likely to be nervous, and as a result to want to speak quickly and 'get it over with', but try to breathe slowly and calmly, and take your time. You could practise reading out your statement a few times at home so that you are fully prepared.

Tip Five: Remember, the Panel can see you

Throughout your hearing, you will be in full view of the Tribunal Panel. They are likely to be watching you and observing your behaviour. It is important that you behave respectfully towards the Panel, your former employer and their representative, if they have one.