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Metrics Make the Manager–3 Free Ones for HR

Lots of managers live and die by metrics these days, but they’re not all easy or cheap. Here are three free statistics that you can use to evaluate current economic conditions and predict employee compensation trends. The three stats are released by the Bureau of Labor Statistics, or BLS (www.bls.gov)., a branch of the U.S. […]

8 Steps to Stopping Intermittent/Reduced Leave Abuse

Alexis, who offered his intermittent leave tips during BLR’s Advanced Employment Issues Symposium, held recently in Las Vegas, is with the Kinaga Law Firm in Los Angeles. 1. Insist on Complete Certs Make sure the medical certification is fully completed, urges Alexis. As the employer, you are entitled to a complete and sufficient certification document. […]

Extend Electrical Safety Training to Include Extension Cords

The following extension cord safety training material is adapted from today’s featured safety training product, 7-Minute Safety Trainer®. Extension cords are such a common item in the workplace and in the home, that many people take them for granted and fail to realize that they can be hazardous if used improperly. To prevent accidents, employees […]

Rules need not apply

by Dan Oswald Last month, Ryan Braun, the Milwaukee Brewers star who was the 2011 National League MVP, was hit with a 65-game suspension that ended his season for his use of banned substances provided by a Miami clinic accused of distributing banned performance-enhancing drugs to Major League Baseball players. This was after he had […]

Helping Managers Who Don’t Perform–Practically, Firmly, Finally

Yesterday’s Advisor offered consultant Paul Falcone’s practical approach for dealing positively with poor performing managers. Today, more of his tips, plus an introduction to the guide especially written for the small—or even one-person—HR department. [For Day 1 suggestions, go here.] Day 2 (AM): The 1-on-1 Meeting with Wilma & Fred (Poor-Performing Manager and Supervisor) I’ve […]

Special Considerations for Medical Certification of Intermittent Leave

Managing intermittent leave can cause confusion and headaches, yet it is a required aspect of compliance with the FMLA. However, the proper use of medical certification is one of the ways to both manage the leave properly and reduce the risk of intermittent leave abuse. “Medical certification is a powerful tool to control and monitor […]

NFL player’s racist comment sparks debate

by John Phillips Here we go again. First, cooking queen Paula Deen. Now, NFL player Riley Cooper. The two situations are different, but both involve use of the N-word. For Deen, the question was whether, at some point in the past, her use of the N-word and her consideration of having black employees dress up […]

Are Your Employees Trained to Avoid Shocking Situations?

The following training points are brought to you courtesy of today’s featured BLR® safety training product, 7-Minute Safety Trainer®. Shock Prevention Inspect electrical equipment before use to be sure insulation is in good condition. Check that plugs have a good, tight connection. Use only wiring that is approved for use outdoors or wet areas, and […]

Can You Dock Exempt Employees for Missing Time?

Employers frequently express frustration with the limitations the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) places on their ability to discipline exempt employees. Many operate under the misconception that they can’t touch exempt employees for not working a full 40-hour workweek. If that were true, then being an exempt employee would be basically the same thing as […]

The 4 Ways to Challenge FMLA Certs

Alexis, who offered his intermittent leave tips during the recent Advanced Employment Issues Symposium in Las Vegas, is with the Kinaga Law Firm in Los Angeles. The certification process is set up to allow you to get the facts that establish the medical necessity or qualifying exigency that qualify employees for leave. If you doubt […]