Archives

Don’t Expect DOL to Let Up on Investigations in 2021

Aside from the personal and professional challenges 2020 presented (the COVID-19 pandemic, government shutdown orders, concerns about keeping employees safe, layoffs, remote working, homeschooling, and navigating the unknown), what stands out most to me in my practice—and had the biggest impact on my clients—was the U.S. Department of Labor’s (DOL) continued uncompromising pursuit of investigations […]

engagement

3 Ways HR Departments and Public Health Officers Can Join Forces

If the pandemic has taught businesses one thing, it is the importance of adaptability and community. Our ability to change and respond to new challenges has been put to the test nearly monthly, as new business protocols and safety measures become the new normal. Most importantly, this pandemic has also taught us—as individuals, businesses, organizations, […]

learning

The Impact of Individual Learning Styles on L&D Outcomes

Everyone has his or her own most effective learning method, whether he or she knows it or not. Some people learn best by sitting through or watching a lecture. Others may learn best by reading a text or an instruction manual. Others may prefer to dive in and learn by doing.

Watercooler

How to Replicate Watercooler Conversations in the Age of COVID

In a typical workday, it’s almost certain that employees aren’t engaged in their specific job duties for a full 8 hours. Instead, employees frequently spend time tending to biological needs; scanning the Internet; and, of course, chatting with coworkers. Often, this chatting occurs around a literal or metaphorical watercooler—hence the term “watercooler conversations.”

5th Circuit Rejects Discrimination, Hostile Work Environment Claims

A former employee failed to establish she was subjected to a hostile work environment and discriminated and retaliated against by her former employer, the U. S. Court of Appeals for the 5th Circuit (which covers Texas, Louisiana, and Mississippi employers) recently ruled, affirming the district court’s decision. The appellate court’s opinion offers guidance on how […]

Princeton Pays 1M in Gender-Based Pay Discrimination Settlement

Princeton University recently agreed to pay nearly $1 million in cumulative back wages to 106 female professors whom the U.S. Department of Labor’s (DOL) Office of Federal Contract Compliance Programs (OFCCP) found to be victims of gender-based pay discrimination.