Practical HR Tips, News & Advice. Updated Daily.
California has a unique set of rules for background checks for employment that go beyond the other 49 states and the federal Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA). If you’re an employer in California, it’s important to follow the rules to the letter, since applicants can sue for up to $10,000 for any violation—regardless of actual […]
In yesterday’s Advisor, breastfeeding consultant and expert Michele Griswold, MPH, RN, IBCLC, helped employers understand their obligations to breastfeeding mothers. Today, questions about refrigeration and sound issues, plus an introduction to the all-in-one HR website, HR.BLR.com. Griswald who is chair of the Connecticut Breastfeeding Coalition, shared her remarks during an interview with BLR Editor Elaine […]
Do you have a formal process for workplace investigations? Do you know how to protect yourself from discrimination claims? Every adverse employment action you take could potentially be the basis of a claim of discrimination. Complaints and investigations are serious and should be treated as such because it’s easier than ever for an employee to […]
By Gulu Punia and Jennifer Shepherd Deciding to retain a contractor rather than an employee can be the right decision depending on the needs of a business. But there are risks. If a court determines that the relationship is in fact an employment relationship, the employer can be liable. Such was the case in M.A.P. […]
Most employers want to offer support for new mothers returning to work, including those who choose to breastfeed. But finding and providing a private place for expressing milk has been a problem in many facilities. Nevertheless, that private place has to be found, because the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (PPACA) and the U.S. […]
Performance appraisals are perhaps the best way to not only let your employee know how she’s doing, but also to get feedback about how your organization is doing, whether your employees are committed to your goals, and what you can do to improve morale. A performance appraisal that is mutually beneficial to both an employee […]
The results of a recent survey of our employees here at BLR are in and, frankly, I’m concerned. You see, our survey contained 27 statements about our work environment. The employees were asked whether they agreed with each statement and how strongly they agree or disagree with it. The statements covered individual, departmental, and company-wide […]
More retaliation claims were filed with the EEOC in 2011 than any other kind of workplace discrimination claim. Why? In this video, BLR legal editor Joan Farrell explains how court rulings regarding adverse employment actions have expanded the scope of retaliation in the workplace–and what employers should do in response. HR.BLR.com Editor Chris Ceplenski (CC): […]
Litigation value: $200,000 for Andy’s severe emotional distress. Possible future litigation for his termination. Not subtle. Not subtle at all. Nellie has already usurped Andy’s manager status. Then she hauls Andy and his coworkers into a conference room and writes “IMPOTENCE” in bright red letters on the flip chart. Robert California sits there, amused by […]
by John Hall When your friendly Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) inspector comes a-knockin’, it’s usually too late to get your house in order. Here are some dos and don’ts to prepare you for an OSHA inspection and minimize your chances of citations. Preparation is your best defense Don’t wait until OSHA is at […]