Internal reporting in whistleblowing is the act of reporting suspected misconduct within your company. An employee with knowledge of wrongdoing can utilize internal channels like supervisors, compliance departments, hotlines, or specific reporting programs set up by their employer. These reports can cover a wide range of issues, from financial fraud to safety violations or unethical behavior. While internal reporting can offer confidentiality and potentially lead to quicker resolutions or internal reforms, it also has limitations. Fear of retaliation, lack of complete impartiality in investigations, and limited power to impose serious penalties are all potential drawbacks. It’s important to remember that some organizations are legally required to have internal reporting systems, and internal reporting can be a first step before pursuing external means of whistleblowing. Understanding your specific workplace’s procedures is crucial before coming forward.