If you asked human resources professionals to name their least favorite responsibility, many would probably say terminating employees. Even under the best of circumstances, it is an awkward experience. And under the worst, a termination can be downright contentious. But we will discuss the best, or...
If your organization offers a 401(k) plan, you are probably aware that you can set some rules regarding when participants may enroll. Many plan sponsors strive for a happy medium between immediate enrollment and highly restricted or delayed enrollment. As you seek to attain the right...
Politicians, journalists, and celebrities are not the only ones vulnerable to charges of sexual harassment. As a business owner, you could be in the spotlight if allegations of improper behavior arise, especially if they are brought by one or more employees. Even if your own...
Many employers struggle with the risks and efficacy of employee performance evaluations. In some cases, there is so much room for subjectivity that conflicts arise. In others, the entire process gets brushed aside as supervisors are too busy to fully commit to it. One solution that...
Unfortunately, it is not uncommon for good employees to battle personal problems, such as substance dependence, financial or legal woes, or mental health issues. These struggles can negatively affect their productivity and the working environment around them. Employers can help by offering an employee assistance program...
Words have power. Do you believe in this expression? If so, it follows that up-to-date, accurate job descriptions form the foundation of every organization’s staffing efforts. Without clear, focused documentation of what each position does, you may struggle to hire and retain good employees. You...
Does your organization have a formalized program under which it offers employees paid time off for an illness or family emergency? If not, there is now an excellent reason to consider establishing one: the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, passed late last year, created a...
When employees clock out, whether literally or figuratively, how they choose to spend their time is up to them. In turn, that does not mean a staffer’s off-work misbehavior poses no risk to their employer. Your organization can be severely harmed by an employee’s actions...
Employers with 20 or more employees are generally required to offer continuing health care coverage to departing staff members. This is commonly referred to as ‘COBRA’ after the legislation that made it law: the Consolidated Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act of 1985. Employers may charge a...
Employers spend countless hours and dollars recruiting good people. On the one hand, each new hire brings fresh strategic ideas, offers creative feedback, and, most importantly, provides distinctive insight into your organization’s mission and operations. On the other hand, recruiting procedures — even effective ones...