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Single Slur Requires Jury Trial on Hostile Work Environment Claim

On July 29, 2024, the California Supreme Court issued a unanimous opinion in Bailey v. San Francisco Dist. Attorney Office, Cal., No. S265223 and held that the employee’s claims of racial harassment should proceed to jury trial, as well as that the trial court’s decision to dismiss the case in favor of the employer was in […]

6 Interview Questions to Assess Cultural Fit

When finding the right candidate for your open role, you’re probably focused on someone’s skillset or experience. While those are certainly valuable things to consider, it’s also important to assess how well they’ll fit in at your company. After all, someone who can perform the expected tasks but sticks out socially like a sore thumb […]

The Evolving Role of the CHRO: Navigating New Challenges and Opportunities

In recent years, the role of the Chief Human Resources Officer (CHRO) has undergone a profound transformation. No longer confined to traditional HR functions, CHROs are now pivotal players in shaping organizational and business strategy, driving change, and fostering a culture that promotes employee well-being and inclusion. This evolution requires a new set of skills […]

Time to brush up on employment law basics for employers

As we find ourselves in the last quarter of 2024, we felt it was right to go back to the basics for those navigating the complex landscape of employment law. Understanding these laws helps to protect your business from legal disputes and fosters a positive environment for employees while ensuring compliance and a fair and […]

diversity and inclusion

Navigating the Evolving DEI Landscape: A Science-Based Approach

Corporate diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives are facing a rocky legal landscape following the Supreme Court’s ruling on affirmative action. In a recent WorkLife article, legal expert David Glasgow suggested that DEI programs can face legal risks when they meet the “three Ps”: preference to a legally protected group with respect to a palpable […]

Supreme Court to Decide Whether ADA Permits Former Employees to Sue for Post-Employment Benefits

The Supreme Court of the United States recently granted certiorari in Stanley v. City of Sanford, Florida—a case about whether the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) permits former employees to sue for alleged discrimination in providing post-employment fringe benefits.  The case has practical significance for employers.  If the Court finds that the ADA does apply […]

Scaling Your Business: Key Strategies for Effective Growth

Embarking on a business expansion journey demands strategic planning and a robust understanding of your marketplace. As you scale your business, it’s crucial to integrate a multifaceted approach that enhances your operational capabilities and fortifies your market position. This article explores essential strategies to help you manage growth effectively, ensuring your expansion efforts are both […]

Supervisor’s Instagram Triggers Hostile Work Environment Lawsuit

Once upon a time, the employee’s workplace was entirely separate from their private life. No more. The two now bleed together, resulting in legal trouble for employers. Male Manager Targets a Female Colleague Lindsay Okonowsky worked as the sole staff psychologist at a federal prison on the West Coast. Lieutenant Steven Hellman supervised the prison […]

A Surprising RTO Advocate: Zoom

It’s easy to look at the widespread and COVID-driven shift to remote work and the subsequent, post-COVID return-to-office (RTO) efforts by employers as a battle with clear divisions among key stakeholders. Employers want the perceived boost in productivity and greater collaboration that comes with on-site work. Employees want the flexibility and freedom that comes with […]

Skills Over Degrees: A 3-Step Guide to Implementing Skills-Based Hiring

In today’s competitive labor market, attracting and retaining skilled workers has become a critical operational challenge. According to McKinsey research, a staggering 87% of companies are either currently experiencing a skills gap or expect to face one soon.   The growing demand for skills and workforce agility is magnified by the transformative shifts brought on by […]