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Four Tips to Turn Action-Planning Woes into Wins

One thing seems to remain constant when it comes to employee surveys: No one enjoys the action-planning process. HR leaders often feel like they are the action-plan police; many managers see the employee survey as just one more thing to add to their already packed plates; and employees are disappointed and disillusioned. In a recent […]

Ask the Expert: Attendance, Discipline and the ADA

We employ less than 20 employees. We have one employee who frequently calls in or has to leave due to “panic attacks.” She has been late for work over 30 times and has called in sick 7 times in the past 6 months. She has indicated that she is on medication. She has also been […]

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Best Practices for Network File Shares

In two previous posts, we discussed some of the issues that can arise when trying to keep everyone in a team or group on the same page through consistent communications.

Do you want bosses or leaders? Getting the most from managers

Bosses come in various forms. Some rule with an iron hand, others take instructions from on high and then make sure the orders are carried out by underlings, and others truly inspire everyone on their team. It’s not surprising that an inspiring manager is likely the most effective, but it’s up to the HR department […]

How to Choose an Employee Benefits Consultant

Both job candidates and employees expect competitive and accessible benefits from employers, especially given the tight labor market. Providing employees with the benefits they want can improve their morale and performance and lead to higher productivity, engagement, and profitability. Also, good employee benefits are a boost to any company’s brand.

Case Study: Guidance for Employers on Music in the Workplace

In today’s workplace, many employers allow employees to play music. While this is generally a cost-effective way to improve culture, morale, and productivity; it also creates potential exposure for hostile work environment and sexual harassment claims under Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964. This is particularly true given a recent decision from […]

Mr. Pink May Have Been On to Something with His ‘No Tipping’ Logic

In an iconic scene from the movie Reservoir Dogs, Steve Buscemi’s character, Mr. Pink, gets into a heated argument over why he refuses to tip the waitress that is serving the table. During the debate, Mr. Pink successfully voices his concern over tipping and influences one of the other characters to follow suit. It appears […]

Your Employees Are Engaged: Just Not in What You Hoped

In 1985, I took my first job in the aerospace industry. On day 1, an HR person showed me to a conference room, handed me a thick manual, and said, “Read this.” That was onboarding. It took 4 hours to read the manual. I had nothing else to do—nothing else to be engaged in.

4 Ways to Help Employees Reduce Fear of Healthcare Costs

The rising cost of health care in the United States has been an issue for decades. Add on the health and economic challenges that came with the coronavirus pandemic in 2020, and employers and their employees are struggling more than ever to manage their healthcare costs.

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Howard Stern’s day off : the danger of digging for details when employees call in sick

Shock Jock Howard Stern took an unexpected day off from his radio show last week which prompted a firestorm of speculation on social media as to the underlying reason for his absence.  Although Stern’s absence was initially attributed to a “personal day,” many fans speculated that Stern’s sick father was the real reason he missed […]