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HR Forum Blog

Browse All Human Resource Information Articles

5 Ways to Conquer the Daily Time Crunch at Work

1/30/2012

Ever wish you had more time in the workday to get everything done? Rather than long for extra hours on the clock, check out our recommendations for squeezing the most productivity out of the time you have. more

Celebrate American Heart Month with These Heart-Friendly Habits

1/30/2012

Did you know that heart disease is the leading cause of death in the United States? Or that one American will experience a heart attack every 25 seconds? more

Third in a Three-Part “HR Awareness” Series: Test Your I-9 Knowledge

1/30/2012

No, we’re not asking you to step back into the classroom -- you can put down your pens, text books and notepads! Instead, take a few moments to test your knowledge of how to verify the employment eligibility of new hires with the Form I-9. Your awareness of the proper verification procedures can keep you in compliance and protect you from a potentially costly I-9 audit by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). more

Why so Serious? 10 Easy Ways to Inject More Fun into the Workplace

1/10/2012

Although most of us look forward to catching our breath and getting back to normal after the action-packed holiday season, the stretch of long, quiet days in late winter can be a bit of a drag. You might not be looking at another paid holiday until Memorial Day, and the excitement of the holidays are all but a distant memory. more

Second in a Three-Part “HR Awareness” Series: Test Your Recordkeeping Knowledge

1/10/2012

No, we’re not asking you to step back into the classroom -- you can put down your pens, textbooks and notepads! Instead, take a few moments to test your knowledge of proper recordkeeping practices. Your awareness of what to keep and what to toss can keep you in compliance and protect you from time-consuming and costly HR mistakes. more

Pssst … Here Are the Real Reasons Why Employees Move on

1/10/2012

In the exit interview, they may tell you the new opportunity “just landed in their laps” and they weren’t really looking -- or that they’re “perfectly happy” with their jobs, but they felt it was time to make a change. Though that sounds nice in person and on paper, the truth is satisfied, loyal employees don’t seek out new positions (whether actively or not) or leave their jobs on a hunch. There’s something else going on, and if you don’t identify it, you may find more employees looking for th more

Is Your Workplace Ready for Our Returning Troops?

12/7/2011

This holiday season, many families will receive an extra special gift: the return of their loved ones from military service in the Middle East. In fact, more than 40,000 U.S. troops are expected to exit Iraq by year’s end, which means employers need to get ready for their arrival. After the heartfelt homecomings with friends and families, these courageous veterans will be stepping back into the work world and putting your HR strategies to the test more

First in a Three-Part “HR Awareness” Series: Test Your FMLA Knowledge

12/7/2011

No, we’re not asking you to step back into the classroom – you can put down your pens, text books and notepads! Instead, take a few moments to test your knowledge of the Family & Medical Leave Act (FMLA) and how it affects your business. Your awareness of the following FMLA issues can keep you in compliance and protect you from time-consuming and costly HR mistakes. more

Recognition Done Right – How to Build a Rewarding Employee of the Month Program

12/7/2011

Everyone likes to be recognized and rewarded for a job well done, and your employees are no exception. At a time when staffing is lean and the demands on employees great, employee of the month programs are ideal for acknowledging your top performers and making them feel appreciated. Plus, studies show that smaller, more frequent awards have a greater impact on morale than large, once-a-year perks, like an annual bonus. That’s an added advantage when budgets are tight. more

Making Smarter Dietary Choices While at Work

11/8/2011

The workplace can be a dietary disaster. You’re stressed, you’re short on time and your stomach is rumbling like a freight train. So what do you do? You scurry to the nearest breakroom or vending machine and grab a honey bun or salty chips to fill the void. In mere moments, you’ve consumed hundreds of calories, while depriving your body of the nutrients it needs most. Do this enough times and your health and waistline are going to suffer. more

Third in a Three-Part Series: Pointers for Avoiding the Biggest Holiday Party Pitfalls

11/8/2011

The hard part is over. You picked a venue, coordinated the décor, food and activities (under budget!), and organized a celebration that respects your employees’ varying religious beliefs. The company holiday party is just a few weeks away, and everyone is eagerly awaiting the big event. more

Do You Appreciate Your Employees? 10 Ways to Show It!

11/8/2011

Sitting down to a delicious Thanksgiving dinner wouldn’t be complete without giving thanks for all the good fortune and happiness of the past year. High on the list are the friends and family who bring us joy and enrich our lives. more

Trick or Treat, These Halloween Festivities Can’t Be Beat

10/5/2011

Ah, Halloween. When we’re kids, we can’t wait to dress up as our favorite action hero or fairytale princess, parade through the neighborhood and collect scads of candy. And although we’re adults now, we’re still kids at heart, looking to capture a bit of that Halloween magic. Perhaps that’s why Halloween is the third most celebrated holiday after Christmas and New Year’s Eve. more

October is National Bullying Prevention Month: How to Recognize (and Stop) a Workplace Bully

10/5/2011

October is National Bullying Prevention Month, a time for schools, communities and workplaces to get involved and take a stand against bullying. more

Second in a Three-Part Series: Tips for a Holiday Party That Respects Varying Beliefs

10/5/2011

Last month, we kicked off a three-part series on holiday party planning. We already shared some cost-cutting ideas for holding a festive gathering on a budget. But limited funds might not be your only challenge with end-of-year celebrations. more

Deadline for VETS-100/100A Reports Extended to Nov. 30; Pending Bill Would Require Public Posting

9/7/2011

Due to technical issues, qualifying employers now have until November 30, 2011, to file VETS-100/100A reports. Normally, the reporting cycle begins on August 1 and ends September 30 but because of technical problems, this timeframe has been extended. The Department of Labor’s Veterans’ Employment and Training Service (VETS) is working through the glitches and expects the electronic filing system to go online October 1. more

Rudeness on the Rise! How to Banish Bad Attitudes in the Workplace

9/7/2011

While some employees are able to keep a cool head when tensions mount, others are cracking under the pressure and taking it out on their coworkers. As a result, “workplace incivility” is on the rise, according to researchers at a recent American Psychological Association conference. And what, exactly, is “workplace incivility”? Basically, it’s disrespectful behavior in the form of rudeness, insults and generally crummy manners. more

First in a Three-Part Series: Great Ideas for a Fun, Frugal Holiday Party

9/7/2011

Holiday party, you ask? But the kids just went back to school and it’s not even officially fall yet! But the reality is that holiday parties take planning – and the time to kick off that planning is now. Otherwise, it will be December 1st and you’ll be left holding the wreath with little other resources. more

Get the Answers to All Your Questions About the Mandatory NLRA Posting

9/7/2011

As anticipated, the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) issued a final rule requiring most private-sector employees to notify employees of their rights under the National Labor Relations Act (NLRA) by posting a notice. more

September is National Preparedness Month: Be Sure Your Business is Ready for Life’s “What Ifs”

8/10/2011

Last month, we discussed some of the natural and manmade disasters that can befall your business – and what you can do to survive a catastrophic event. Your learned how to keep your business functioning in the days following a major disaster, largely through emergency communications, priority operations, and proper data backup and recovery. more

3 Easy Steps to a Sensible Social Media Policy

8/10/2011

Absenteeism may be costing you more than $660 each year per employee. But nearly two-thirds of those unscheduled absences are not for legitimate illnesses or injuries more

Your Checklist for Surviving Disasters and Sustaining Your Business

7/6/2011

To ensure you're never caught off guard in a crisis, you need an emergency preparedness and response plan. more

Managing a Younger, Seasonal Staff Without the Legal Snags

7/6/2011

If you rely on teen workers during the busy summer months, you need to be aware of certain issues that can arise with a younger staff. more

Perfectionism in the Workplace: a Help or a Hindrance?

7/6/2011

Perfectionism can bring out the best and the worst in people. On the one hand, a perfectionist will set higher goals, work harder and achieve impressive results. But on the other hand, that same perfectionist will become immobilized by too-lofty goals, frustrate easily and make excuses to avoid disappointing others. more

A Closer Look at OSHA’s Impact on Worker Safety in the Past 40 Years

6/13/2011

Since June is National Safety Month, it’s the perfect time to honor OSHA’s 40-year anniversary and recognize the agency’s tremendous influence on worker safety through the decades. more

5 Ways to Bring a Little Summer Fun into the Workplace

6/12/2011

We know, we know. It’s sunny, it’s warm and you’d rather be outside playing. Plus, that summer vacation you’ve been planning since January is still weeks away. more

Stop Dreading Mid-Year Reviews

6/12/2011

Age discrimination remains deeply embedded and widespread in society and the workplace, even though there’s been a federal law against it since 1967 more

Check out this great card I just got! The holiday card and employee morale connection

6/7/2011

Do you know how a simple holiday card can have a big impact on your employees? Say thank you, boost morale, and let your employees know you care, all with a business holiday card. more

Holiday Attendance Podcast

6/7/2011

During the holidays, there is an increase of time-off requests by employees. We discuss the best ways to manage these requests and track employee attendance. more

See the Big Picture -- and the Little details -- When Appreciating an Employee

5/5/2011

A raise, bonus or even a “thank you” in front of the entire company still may not convey how much you appreciate an employee. Learn how the twin tools of timeliness and detail make all the difference to employee motivation. more

Boost Performance with Effective Appraisals

5/4/2011

A solid appraisal system encourages both personal and organizational achievement, and it heads off performance problems before they get out of hand. No matter what kind of appraisal system or method you use, understanding the pillars of effective appraisa more

Danger: Employee Handbooks That Handcuff

4/14/2011

When an employer revises its handbook, it needs to make every effort to ensure that a copy of the new version is given to all employees and it should obtain a signed acknowledgement of receipt from each employee more

The Pros and Cons of Unions – An Overview for Business Owners and Managers

4/12/2011

In light of recent NLRB poster proposals, and an increase in labor union issues in the news and in the courts, many businesses are concerned about the impact of a union on their business. Learn about the pros and cons of labor unions, and what they mean for your company. more

2010 OSHA Top 10 Violations and Compliance Podcast

4/12/2011

The new Top 10 OSHA Violations are out. Join us for a discussion of what's on the list, what employers can do to comply with OSHA regulations and how prepare for an OSHA inspection. more

Discrimination and Workplace Bullying's Payoff: ‘I Felt Less than Human’

4/11/2011

Discrimination, harassment and workplace bullying are all illegal -- and yet employees are still suffering its sting and employers are paying the costs in fines, employee morale, turnover and damaged business reputations more

Rising gas prices lower employee productivity

4/9/2011

Rising gas prices can affect employee productivity, so what can employers do to help their staff deal with the high cost of commuting to work more

FMLA Covers Child-Care Leave for Same-Sex Domestic Partners

12/19/2010

Time off to care for a child is available for same-sex couples, under a June 2010 FMLA ruling more

A Quick Refresher of the Form W-4 Tax-Filing Rules

7/19/2010

Some of the rules governing Employee Withholding Form W-4 have been revised. Do you know the latest changes, and how they might affect your business? more

Recent Court Decisions May Affect Your Workplace Internet/Phone Policies

1/8/2010

Recent court decisions say employees have a right to privacy even on work-issued phones, computers more

Keeping Private Genetic Information Really Private

12/3/2009

As an employer or insurer, you may have information about an employee's private genetic medical data or history. Listen and learn about using genetic information in hiring, promotion, firing or offering insurance more

HIPAA Breach Notification

12/3/2009

What do you know about the new HIPPA Breach Nofication Rules? Listen to our podcast interview with labor law attorney Ashley Kaplan and find out what the new rules mean for your business. more

Never underestimate the value of a holiday card!

12/2/2009

It's small, it's inexpensive, it's simple to send. But don't let that fool you! A company Christmas card or business holiday card can increase customer loyalty, boost employee morale and help you stay in touch with business contacts. Listen and learn more! more

Put professional connections and business partners on your holiday card list

9/22/2009

When it's time to send out your company Christmas cards, don't forget your business partners and professional network connections more

Top 3 Reasons to Send Corporate Holiday Cards This Year

8/29/2009

Thinking of cutting the company Christmas card out of the budget? Think again! That little card can do big things for customer relations. more

Putting the green into your business holiday cards

8/28/2009

When you have a green business, make sure your holiday cards are green too. Not a green business yet? Take the first step with earth-friendly holiday cards. more

Is a business Thanksgiving greeting card a better choice?

7/23/2009

Getting an early start on the holiday season by sending Thanksgiving cards might be good for your business more

Making your business holiday greeting card list

7/19/2009

Make sure your clients and customers receive your company Christmas card this year more

Is the recession improving employee health?

7/1/2009

Though the current economic recession leaves little for businesses to cheer about, it may be prompting more workers to adopt healthier lifestyles, according to a recent survey. more

How to handle negative feedback: Don't kill the messenger

6/23/2009

While it's not always welcome, receiving negative feedback from a supervisor or manager can have just as much, if not more of an impact on our careers as positive feedback. more

Employees breaking data security policies, and they know it

6/12/2009

Employees are ignoring data security policies and engaging in activities that could put their employers’ security in serious risk, according to a new survey. more

How training can turn engagement around

6/5/2009

Employee engagement has been deteriorating steadily since the recession began. Learn how training can turn it around. more

Positive ways to handle negative coworkers

5/27/2009

While there’s no “easy button” to eliminate negativity from the office, there are simple techniques everyone can use to deal with it. It starts with a healthy mix of sensitivity, objectivity and defense tactics. more

Improving productivity one IM at a time

5/20/2009

When you think of instant messaging at work, “effectiveness” and “productivity” may be the last two terms that come to mind. But a new workplace study may have some singing a different tune. more

Give the gift of feedback more than once a year

5/11/2009

Employee feedback is a gift managers should know how to deliver daily, not just during performance review time. more

Here comes the sun – and the heat stroke

5/7/2009

Learn about the safety risks and the safety preparations you need to make before employees work in the summer heat more

When there’s no one left to work, can you say no to FMLA?

5/7/2009

When your staff levels have been cut to the bare bones, can you say no to FMLA requests? more

Flu bug brings new headaches to employers

5/7/2009

The swine flu is the top story on most news sites, as new cases are being confirmed around the world. High-density locations such as offices, schools, airplanes and nursing homes are considered higher risk areas for spreading the flu. As an employer, what are your rights and responsibilities when it comes to protecting your workforce from contagious diseases? more

Improving teamwork is the key to unlocking morale

4/24/2009

A lack of team spirit in the office combined with a poor work climate can be causing employees to feel stressed and depressed. The key to reducing that stress may be hidden in your organization’s team spirit, according to a new study. more

How a cross-country move can improve your project management skills

4/18/2009

Anyone who has moved across the country will agree that it reveals valuable lessons in planning and project management. It doesn’t matter how smooth you think the move will be, something is bound to go wrong. more

Surviving the stress of organizational change

4/7/2009

Most organizations aren’t doing enough to prepare employees to handle changes at work. Without preparation, change management strategies are almost always destined to fail. Managers can help reduce the impact those changes can have on employees by taking a few basic actions. more

Are you saying thank you to your employee? Why gratitude is the key to business success

3/30/2009

Are hard working employees being rewarded with a sincere thank you? Or just more work? Recognizing employee efforts is key to your company's success. more

Obesity linked to costly workers’ compensation claims

3/26/2009

Earlier this month, the NCCI released preliminary survey data that strongly suggests there is a direct correlation between obesity and workers’ compensation claims. more

What March Madness can teach managers

3/26/2009

In a study based on basketball scores, Wharton professors found a surprising connection between the motivating factors in sports and what motivates employees in the workplace. more

Using Facebook in the hiring process, approach with caution

3/20/2009

When you choose to research job candidates using social networking sites, practice extreme caution with the information you find. Regularly review the laws on discrimination to keep your organization out of a legal mess. more

Stuck in a motivational rut? Small goals can get you moving

3/20/2009

When businesses are facing adverse challenges, some experts suggest that creating smaller goals is the best way to get your teams motivated. more

Workplace violence rates up, employee safety at risk

3/11/2009

Violence in the workplace is more than just a newspaper headline, it affects real employees in every industry in the country. Employees must be trained to handle difficult situations and know how to diffuse them. more

What every generation in the workplace really wants

3/11/2009

You may think employees across various generations in your workplace may want completely different things out of their jobs, but a new study has revealed that they are much more alike than we once thought. more

OSHA compliance: Are your MSDS practices up to speed?

3/11/2009

While personal protective equipment (PPE) can prevent chemicals from coming in contact with your body, material safety data sheets (MSDS) are your first line of defense when it comes to protecting employees who work with hazardous chemicals. more

Tips for turning your office into a ‘green’ oasis

2/26/2009

Going green at work involves taking small steps, similar to those you’ve been taking at home, only on a slightly larger scale. Here are eight tips to help turn your office into a ‘green’ oasis. more

Using monetary rewards to help smoking employees quit

2/20/2009

Looking for the best way to encourage employees to quit smoking? New research reveals that cash incentives may be the most effective method to help your workers quit smoking for good. more

7 low- to no-cost employee incentive ideas

2/20/2009

As businesses continue to muscle through this recession, their employees are taking on added responsibilities and working harder than ever before. It turns out that most workers feel rewarded by low-cost incentives that are simple to deliver. more

Employer communication of FMLA changes lacking

2/13/2009

As changes in labor law occur, it is important that organizations ensure employees understand the changes and what impact the change may have on their job. When employers fail to inform themselves and employees on the latest legislative changes they put everyone at risk. more

New Form I-9 extension opens up more time for training

2/13/2009

Businesses now have more time to ensure their organization is in compliance with the new Form I-9 and that their employees are trained on the new changes to the Employment Eligibility Verification process. more

Training employees on the dangers of online scams

2/13/2009

Keeping your business safe from online dangers is an on-going task that is critical to your success. Even when you think you’ve taken every precaution imaginable, the threat of attack is still there. more

DHS retracts Form I-9 changes

2/2/2009

A new I-9 Form was scheduled to take effect February 2, 2009, but in a surprise move, the Department of Homeland Security retracted the mandatory changes late on Friday, pending further comment and review. Businesses that had discarded the previous I-9s must now resume using them until April 3, 2009. more

Taking safety training shortcuts may increase work-related injuries

1/28/2009

This year more companies are responding to the recession by tightening budgets and eliminating costly training programs. While making cutbacks in employee safety training in could save money, it could also spell serious trouble. more

How to prepare for the ADA Amendments Act

12/18/2008

The new Amendments become effective on January 1, 2009, and make significant changes to the original ADA. Employers must be aware and prepared for the ADA changes that will effect their business in the coming year. more

How to have a healthy vacation and leave work at work

12/18/2008

It’s estimated that one quarter of workers will be staying in touch with the office while on vacation this year, with another one in ten people reporting that their boss is expecting them to complete work or check voice and email messages while on vacation. more

How the Americans with Disabilities Amendments Act changed the ADA

12/15/2008

President Bush signed the Americans with Disabilities Amendments act on September 25, 2008, making the first changes to the law since it was established in 1990. The Amendments, that go into effect on January 1, 2009, make significant changes to the law and every employer must be prepared to stay in compliance. more

10 simple ways to improve personal productivity

12/12/2008

Reaching the peak of your personal productivity is a process that involves dedication, experimentation and time. The following tips and tricks will help you get started with personal productivity and improve your time management skills. more

Why corporate giving is good business

12/10/2008

The end of the year marks a natural time for giving, but many have been forced to cut back this holiday season. When times get tough and revenue drops, corporate philanthropy is one of the first things companies cut. But, cutting corporate giving out of the budget is an unwise decision. more

How to achieve happiness at work

12/10/2008

Research shows that companies with happy employees perform "notably better" financially than lower-ranked companies. Happiness at work has also been proven to keep employees healthier and improve productivity. more

Top reasons for hiring retirees

11/24/2008

As recent and soon to be retirees watch their 401(k)s shrink in the current economy, more older workers are delaying retirement or choosing to return to the workforce. While hiring retirees may be challenging at times, the qualities they bring with them are worth it. more

5 ways to build employee morale during the holidays

11/24/2008

The holidays always have a way of keeping our attention on everything but work. Between vacations and buying holiday gifts, many employees find it difficult to stay focused enough to finish their to-do lists by the time the ball drops in Times Square. Here are a few tips to improve employee morale during the holidays and at any other time of the year. more

Raise the Bar with Effective Performance Management

9/8/2008

At their best, performance appraisals can put your organization on solid legal ground, provide current feedback to employees and set clearly defined objectives for the future. more

Position Integration: Points to Ponder

9/8/2008

The weak economy finally leaves you no choice: You must lay off some people and distribute their duties among the rest. How can you integrate these positions effectively? Try these suggestions more

Recruit and Retain Valuable Talent:
Offer Telecommuting - and Make it Work

9/5/2008

Offering job flexibility is especially useful in employee retention. Many companies overlook or resist offering telecommuting jobs, though a great way to attract new and retain employees. more

Record Retention Chart

9/5/2008

Do you know how long you need to keep employee and applicant records to avoid legal penalties? This chart of personnel record retention will help you stay within the law more

Q & A: Political Expression at Work

9/2/2008

With the 2008 election in full swing, politics is on the minds of many employees and their employers. Here are the answers to some of the recent questions that have been posed to G.Neil’s HR employment law experts. more

Are Your Recordkeeping Practices Exposing Employees to Identity Theft?

9/2/2008

Consider your recordkeeping practices, too. When not handled properly, personnel records can leave employees vulnerable to identity theft. more

Keeping a Performance Diary: Pros and Cons

8/26/2008

How can managers best gather information for performance reviews? Some HR trainers recommend that they keep a diary. Should you, an HR manager, pitch the practice to those in your company? more

Interviewing and The ADA: Questionable Questions

8/25/2008

The Americans with Disabilities Act prohibits any such questions or medical exams at the interviewing stage. “The ADA,” says attorney Richard D. Tuschman, “protects employees’ privacy concerns and [is] very specific in [its] requirements. Failure to compl more

Independent Contractor or Employee?

8/22/2008

This article will help you understand just what an independent contractor is—and how to avoid the tax penalties that can come as a result of misclassifying those who perform work for you. more

HR's Training Agenda for the Newly Appointed: A New Supervisor's Survival Kit

8/22/2008

The human resources department has the perspective and resources to help new supervisors get off on the right foot from their very first day. HR staffers who share the following suggestions with fledgling managers during their initial training become part more

FMLA: You've Asked, We Answered

8/22/2008

On January 28, President Bush signed into law the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2008. The new law expands leave protections under the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) for the family members of U.S. soldiers. more

How's Your Over-the-Counter Culture?

8/22/2008

A company’s character can be judged by the faces it shows to the public. Fairly or not, customers form lasting impressions from how your front-line people speak, look, and act. more

How to Steer Clear of Wrongful Discharge Claims

8/22/2008

“Wrongful discharge.” It’s a phrase that sends shivers down the spines of experienced HR people. And with good reason. It’s a serious charge that sometimes results in serious consequences for employers. more

How to Benchmark Salaries - Or Set Them

8/21/2008

Salary surveys. Surveys are among the most reliable ways to come up with or compare salaries. Your challenge: to get hold of a current survey that reflects your industry, the occupation(s) you’re trying to benchmark, and locale. more

Accommodate Sincere Religious Beliefs

8/21/2008

Discrimination cases often arise when a company refuses to accommodate a person’s religious beliefs.The law Hendrickson mentioned, Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, is the law that bans workplace discrimination more

How to Spot Promotable People

8/20/2008

Perhaps the best approachto finding promotable people is by using input from department managers and supervisors, is to examine job knowledge and other factors that are general predictors of success at higher levels. more

Minimize Vacation Scheduling Headaches

8/20/2008

The word "vacation" may conjure up pleasant thoughts for employees, but it’s likely to bring on a migraine for supervisors who have to juggle a project schedule to accommodate most workers’ requests. more

Coaching Employees to Better Productivity

8/20/2008

Improving employee productivity is one of the most profitable investments business owners can make. What’s more, a properly executed system for conducting employee performance reviews can help prevent wrongful termination and discrimination lawsuits more

Conduct 'Due Diligence' on Job Candidates

8/20/2008

The following smart hiring practices cost little to nothing but can significantly improve your chances of making a solid hire more

Cutting HR Costs: Where to Look

8/20/2008

Cut HR costs by 10 percent across the board. Start by examining these areas more

Keep Company Parties Fun - and Safe - for All

8/20/2008

Company-sponsored functions are a mixed bag for employers. While they are an opportunity to boost morale and promote camaraderie, they also contain legal pitfalls. more

Facing Tough Times? Don't Slash and Burn

8/20/2008

Companies all over the country are facing reduced revenues and profits, pushing some to the brink of panic.The first step, according to Axelrod, is to let everyone in the company know what the true economic reality is more

Bone Up on the Ins and Outs of Outsourcing

8/20/2008

Deciding which work to outsource raises some universal questions both for HR managers and for those in other departments with jobs that could be subcontracted more

Clear Policy Muzzles Email, Internet Abusers

8/20/2008

Although it’s hard to imagine any way an employer can completely eliminate this problem short of monitoring every e-mail communication, there are several effective steps employers can take more

Managing Leave in the Employer’s ‘Bermuda Triangle’

8/20/2008

Welcome to what’s called the “Bermuda Triangle” of employment law. Far from rare, cases like these occur so frequently that many lawyers specialize in this convergence of the FMLA, ADA, and Workers’ Comp. more

Higher Immigration Violation Fines - Just Announced

8/20/2008

On Friday, February 22, 2007, Attorney General Michael B. Mukasey approved higher civil fines against employers who violate federal immigration laws. Also approved by Secretary of Homeland Security Michael Chertoff, the new rule will increase fines by as more

Understand and Respect the ADA

8/20/2008

The ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) concerns itself with unfair discrimination only, but does not require you to hire, or keep on the payroll, people unable to perform the job more

Get A Handle On Sick/Vacation Salary Deductions

8/20/2008

When exempt employees call in sick, can the employer make salary deductions for those who have not qualified for leave or have exhausted their leave allowances? Yes, assuming the employer has a bona fide sick/vacation leave plan as described by the Fair L more

The ADA and Workers with Cancer

8/20/2008

There's a question-and-answer document on how the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) applies to employment rights of persons with cancer more

Protect Yourself Against Pregnancy Discrimination Lawsuits

8/20/2008

Although pregnancy rates are declining, the number of women filing pregnancy discrimination complaints has risen dramatically, making pregnancy-related claims one of the fastest-growing employment discrimination charges, outpacing sexual harassment and se more

Stay on the Safe Side in Claiming Administrative Exemptions from Overtime Regs

8/20/2008

HR people working for employers covered by the Fair Labor Standards Act are usually aware that higher-level employees rate an exemption from the law’s overtime regulations. more

Keep up with Poster Compliance

8/20/2008

Under federal law, employers are required to post specific labor law information. Exact requirements vary by state and by industry, but common requirements include federally mandated posters containing information on equal employment opportunity, Fair Lab more

Termination Without Fear of Litigation

8/20/2008

Here are a few pointers that can help you avoid the anxiety and the potential legal trouble that surrounds employee termination more

New Mandatory Forms on the Way

8/20/2008

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has recently announced that a new Form I-9 will be released in the near future. This revision of the form includes changes that better reflect current employment eligibility verification requirements. more

Making Sense of Employee Leave Laws

8/20/2008

The tangle of government regulations concerning employee leave policies is continually growing. Managers need to understand the complexities of regulations concerning family leave, medical leave, military leave, jury duty, voting and other forms of time o more

New Federal Minimum Wage Law Takes Effect This Month

8/20/2008

On July 24th, 2007, the first phase of the Fair Minimum Wage Act of 2007 will go into effect, raising the federal minimum wage from $5.15 to $5.85 an hour more

HIPAA: Moving Right Along …
With New Requirements

8/20/2008

If you haven’t heard, the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) is on the move again. Are you making it your business to stay informed? You should be. more

Payroll Records: Follow the FLSA

8/20/2008

Employers covered by the FLSA (that’s most of you) must have the following on file for each employee more

HIPAA Privacy Rules: "No Shortcuts"

8/20/2008

Unless they’ve been hiding in a cave for the past year or so, HR people know that they need to comply with HIPAA Privacy Rules. Small-company employers all over the country have been asking three simple questions more

Family and Medical Leave Act: Change on the Horizon

8/20/2008

As it currently stands, the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) requires covered employers – private employers with 50 or more employees - to provide those employees with up to 12 weeks of unpaid leave in a 12-month period more

Time for a Compliance Check:
Has Your State Enacted
Its Own Family Leave Law?

8/20/2008

Several states have enacted laws which supplement or expand on the provisions of FMLA, granting additional leave, usually unpaid, for other personal or family purposes more

Education and Training are Key to FLSA Compliance

8/20/2008

Are you in full compliance with the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA)? That’s the federal law that governs federal minimum wage provisions, equal pay and overtime requirements, establishes requirements for recordkeeping and calculation of wages more

Keep OSHA Forms Up to Date and Accurate

8/20/2008

Don't wait for an inspection to make sure your OSHA recordkeeping is in full compliance. Because, if you can’t come up with the records in time, you may pay dearly for your disorganization. more

Labor Law Posters: Hang ’Em High

8/20/2008

Federally mandated posters are designed to inform employees of their rights under various employment laws. Employers must post such notices in a conspicuous place — in each separate work establishment — where employees can read them easily. more

Know Your USERRA Obligations to Military Personnel and National Disaster Medical System members

8/20/2008

Under federal law, you as an employer have certain obligations to members of the armed forces. Read on and discover many of your obligations to service members under the Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act. more

Diversity Is Good Business

8/20/2008

A diverse workplace can help you insulate your company against legal liability arising from discrimination lawsuits. But a diverse workplace environment can also help your business reach new markets and improve customer service, too. more

Can You Put a Stop to FMLA Absence Abuses? Yes!

8/20/2008

Regardless of the outcome of the initial medical certification, employers are also entitled to require periodic recertification of the employee’s health condition to substantiate that he or she continues to need/ qualify for FMLA leave more

Be Prepared For New ADA Regulations

8/20/2008

The ADA prohibits discrimination based on disability, and that includes making sure facilities are readily accessible to and usable by disabled individuals more

Boost the Power of Word-of-Mouth

8/20/2008

Word-of-mouth recruiting can result in a superior workforce. Pay your workers to bring in qualified candidates for open jobs more

Understand the Child Labor Laws Before Hiring Teens

8/20/2008

If you employ teens, you must follow specific rules regarding the hours and types of jobs they can work. If you don’t, the legal repercussions can be significant. more

Working Overtime With
the New FLSA Rules

8/20/2008

As of August 23rd, 2004, the Department of Labor updated its Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) rules regarding overtime pay for the first time in 50 years more

USERRA and the Jobs for Veterans Act:
Protect Those Who Serve

8/20/2008

Whether taking part in annual training or answering a call to active duty, reservists are entitled to job-protected leave and a right to return to work by the Uniformed Service Employment and Reemployment Rights Act of 1994 (USERRA) more

Stay Current with Employment Laws
Pertaining to Same-Sex Relationships

8/20/2008

The legal status and rights of married and unmarried same-sex partners are being debated in courtrooms across the nation more

“Bullying” at Work on the Rise

8/20/2008

Office bullying can take different forms, and can consist of intimidation, humiliation, aggressive behavior, sabotage and verbal abuse more

CLASSIFIED: Keeping Employee Info Under Lock and Key

8/20/2008

Keeping employee records safe and secure isn't just a nice thing to do -- it's the law, and companies who fail to protect employee privacy could face fines and lawsuits more

Performance Log: Key to Performance Management

8/20/2008

A performance log is a useful focal point for sitting down and talking with employees on a regular basis. A log is simply a place to write down things you observe or hear about an employee, both good and bad, at the time you observe or hear them. more

Make Employees Feel Important

8/20/2008

How do you keep valuable people productive and content? Show them you care and reward them for doing what you want them to do. That’s best done with a well-planned recognition/rewards program. more

Case Study: Tell the Truth in Performance Evaluations

8/20/2008

There are several lessons to be learned from the predicament this employers’ supervisors have placed it in. For future reference, this employer should conduct training with its supervisors on drafting performance reviews more

Make Employee Evaluations More Relevant

8/20/2008

Many employers and employees dread the evaluation process. But they shouldn’t have to. The important thing is to consider an evaluation as a year-round procedure instead of a one-time annual event. It’s a very efficient way to document both outstanding ef more

Integrity Testing … 1, 2, 3

8/20/2008

What you need to know to determine which of your current and/or future employees should take integrity tests and how you can stay out of legal hot water when administering them more

It's Not Child's Play:
Educate Teen Workers About
Workplace Harassment

8/20/2008

Teens might not be aware of the laws and processes in place to help protect them and their coworkers — unless you make a point of educating and informing them. more

More Than a Headache: Migraines and the FMLA

8/20/2008

Migraine-related FMLA leave has become a hot topic in the workplace, as recent lawsuits have seen employers pay thousands for not accommodating employees who suffer from the condition. more

Holding Off on Layoffs

8/20/2008

Although tough times may call for tough measures, they often require some highly creative ones, too. That’s especially true when it comes to avoiding layoffs. Here’s an array of suggestions HR and higher managers can use to help keep some of their workfor more

Your Company's Image - It's Everybody's Job

8/20/2008

Emphasize to new employees that their behavior and remarks around customers leave a lasting impression, whether they’re on the sales floor, in an office or out on a call. Your company image is in their hands more

Fundamentals of HIPAA Security Compliance

8/20/2008

Employers must maintain HIPAA policies and communications in writing. Most commonly, there will be a binder (or series of binders) devoted to compliance with HIPAA regulations more

Before Hiring: Assess Yourself

8/20/2008

Before you start interviewing people for a job, take stock of yourself. Your attitude and demeanor will go a long way toward determining whether you get enough good information to make a hiring decision more

Workplace Romance …
What's Your Company's Policy?

8/20/2008

Workplace romances can create awkward situations within the company, and sometimes lead to litigation but no-dating policies often lead to secretive relationships, so create a solid and reasonable office romance policy for your company more

FLSA Overtime Rules Get Revamped

8/20/2008

Regulations governing overtime eligibility under the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) establish new criteria for determining whether employees are exempt from federal overtime requirements more

Appeals Court Raises the Bar on ADA ‘Direct Threat’ Defense

8/20/2008

According to the EEOC, the Americans with Disabilities Act permits an employer to avoid hiring workers with a disability when they pose a direct threat to the health and safety of people in the workplace more

How to Conduct Performance Appraisals

8/19/2008

Few managers look forward to the difficult task of conducting performance appraisals. An evaluation may be seen as a necessary evil, as awkward to give as it is to receive. more

Harassment Liability:
The High Court Weighs In

8/19/2008

On some issues related to sexual harassment, the laws have been fairly clear. For example, if an employee is demoted, fired or subjected to an extreme pay cut due to supervisor harassment, the employer is automatically held liable more

Analyze Training Needs Proactively

8/19/2008

Identifying employees who need more training is a perpetual challenge however, and these tips can make the job easier more

Avoid W-2 Reporting Errors

8/19/2008

If you’re hustling to get those W-2s out the door on time, take a few minutes to check your work. According to the Social Security Administration (SSA), these are among the most frequent errors employers make when reporting wages for the year more

Dealing with Demotions

8/19/2008

Most managers will face this situation eventually: An employee’s performance after a promotion simply hasn’t measured up—despite counseling, coaching, and patience. Emphasize that the demotion is an attempt to salvage the employee’s career more

Be Disciplined About Discipline

8/19/2008

Today, the prospect of disciplining employees in the workplace fills even the most seasoned managers with dread.By following the right steps bosses can take and keep control in all disciplinary situations more

Destroy Records on a Regular Basis

8/19/2008

"Experienced HR hands know that prying eyes sometimes go through the department’s garbage looking for information. Shred any document that mentions a specific individual" more

Establish 'Good Faith' Efforts to Avoid Discrimination

8/19/2008

Recent court rulings have made it clear that employers who make “good faith” efforts to eliminate workplace discrimination can, in some cases, avoid punitive-damage awards more

Docking PTO for a Partial-Day Absence

8/19/2008

In 2005, the Department of Labor affirmed that it is permissible to reduce an exempt employee’s paid time off bank for absences of less than a day more

Contractor or Employee? Assess Twenty Factors

8/19/2008

Following is the list of factors the Internal Revenue Service takes into account when assessing whether an employer has properly classified a worker as an independent contractor more

Avoid the FLSA Can of Worms

8/19/2008

There are four major bona fide exemptions under the FLSA. The DOL recently issued the new FairPay Rules, new regulations revising the criteria for each exemption more

Beyond Attendance Tracking: What’s the Next Step?

8/12/2008

Following up on attendance problems can be a tricky proposition, but here are some tips to help you through it more

Don’t Wait Until a Disaster Strikes to Put a Recovery Plan in Place

8/12/2008

Having a disaster recovery plan in place could make the difference between keeping your doors open, or scrambling to get operational while your profits plummet more

Do You Know Who Your Gold Medal Employees Are?

7/21/2008

Great workers are, for the most part, internally motivated, but never underestimate the power of management approval. Give recognition of extra effort more

Compliance Update: Genetic Information Nondiscrimination Act (GINA)

7/21/2008

On May 21, 2008, President Bush signed the Genetic Information Nondiscrimination Act (GINA), a new law that prohibits discrimination by employers and health insurers on the basis of genetic information more

Top 5 Reasons to Let Employees Work from Home

7/21/2008

With gas and energy prices on the rise, many companies are taking a closer look at telecommuting as an option for their employees. See why this makes sense for your bottom line more

Seven ways to reduce stress at work

6/10/2008

Stress on-the-job poses a health risk to individual employees as well as the company as a whole. more

Be Prepared for Minimum Wage Changes

6/2/2008

On July 24, 2008, the second phase of the federal minimum wage increase will go into effect. This change will affect full-time and part-time workers in the private sector and in Federal, State and local governments