Practical HR Tips, News & Advice. Updated Daily.
It’s amazing that in 2011 we’re still talking about harassment, says “recovering litigator” Jonathan A. Segal, but it’s still causing massive lawsuits and destroying productivity. And training managers and supervisors is still the key to preventing it. Segal, who is one of SHRM’s most popular speakers, is a partner in the Philadelphia office of law […]
By Julia Kennedy and Sean McGurran Bullying isn’t just a problem on the playground anymore. Eventually the bullies grow up and get jobs. Now Canadian employers are seeing more laws dealing with harassment in the workplace. As an example in June 2010, Ontario’s Violence and Harassment in the Workplace law came into effect. It requires […]
by Boyd A. Byers The thirst for revenge is among the strongest of human emotions. In fact, the innate desire to “get even” has driven much of history. But acting on vindictive feelings can have dire consequences — particularly in the world of employment law. Mastering HR Report: Discrimination Courts receptive to retaliation Most employment […]
Some employees think that every thing managers do that annoys them is harassment, says attorney Gregory J. Hare, but managing performance isn’t harassment. Hare, who is a shareholder in the Atlanta office of law firm Ogletree Deakins, gave his suggestions at the recent SHRM Annual Conference and Exhibition in Las Vegas. Hare says that there […]
Yesterday, we looked at 5 tips for conducting an effective sexual harassment investigation. Today, 4 more — plus an introduction to an in-depth investigations webinar next week, specifically for California employers. [Click here for yesterday’s tips] 6. Communicate your findings to both the employee and the alleged harasser and provide them with the opportunity to […]
HR professionals are frequently asked to do more with less. Moreover, these are challenging times, with companies facing increased employment litigation but having fewer resources for programs to strengthen the quality and longevity of the workforce. Exit interviews represent an effective and inexpensive, albeit little-used, tool for spotting and fixing problems before they turn into […]
Because of their age and lack of experience in the working world, teen employees may be particularly vulnerable to harassment, and may not know what to do if harassment occurs. In today’s Advisor, what to do to protect young workers, and an introduction to a new downloadable Sexual Harassment Essentials Kit. Especially if you’re planning […]
Title VII does not prohibit discrimination based on sexual orientation. However, individuals who identify as gays, lesbians, or transgendered have successfully asserted claims of discrimination under Title VII. The claims are made on the basis of an employer’s gender stereotyping of characteristics or traits associated with a particular gender. For example, a federal court has […]
In yesterday’s Advisor, we found “harassment statements we don’t want to hear.” Today, more harassment gems, plus an introduction to a new downloadable anti-harassment essentials kit. “We have a strict ‘no-dating of coworkers’ policy. That avoids harassment claims for sure.” Most experts say, “Good luck with that.” It’s next to impossible to prevent co-worker dating. […]
Harassment misconceptions abound, and managers and supervisors may be the most confused. Here are some of the statements and scenarios you don’t want to see. How to avoid them? Training. “As a manager, if I suspect behavior that might be harassment, I observe carefully; when I determine that it’s actually illegal, I take firm and […]