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In part 1, we discussed Human Resource systems and processes. Today we will look at the employee benefits side of the equation. Most (but not all) benefits will cost the company money. However, I believe the more benefits you can offer; the greater will be your ability to retain employees. Not ...

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I thought I would write a two part series on what I believe to be Human Resources best practices. Part 1 will focus on processes and systems I think you should have in place and part 2 will explore best practices that will have some costs attached to them but for which I feel the payback would ...

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The California Labor Commissioner has published an Opinion Letter which provides employers with some latitude for salary reductions for exempt employees. Some companies are looking for ways to cut costs without having to lay off exempt employees. One way to do this would be to reduce the work ...

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Good documentation is what gives you credibility with both your employees and your boss. It shows that you treated employees objectively and in a consistent manner. Ultimately, it’s Exhibit A when you go to trial. Unemployment is very high and you probably already know that employees are ...

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Cal/OSHA Guidance for Employers: California employers are encouraged to review their strategies for protecting the health of their employees, including their pandemic flu or other emergency plans. Employers should take this opportunity to update their plans and to train their employees. Federal ...

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On October 9, 2009, an important new Federal law affecting employer-sponsored group health plans will become effective. For calendar-year plans, the law will apply as of January 1, 2010. The new law is known as â??Michelleâ??s Lawâ? and expands employersâ?? coverage and notice obligations ...

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The Electronic Discovery Act Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger has signed into law Californiaâ??s first set of electronic discovery regulations, the Electronic Discovery Act effective 6/29/09. The new law largely follows federal regulations establishing procedures for litigants who seek ...

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In a prior blog (4/1/09) I discussed the critical importance of Job Descriptions. For todayâ??s blog I would like to focus on the â??Essential Functionsâ? component of the job description. You need to be very diligent when listing your essential functions because it is the essential ...

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Hiring is a difficult and costly process. You look at resumes and applications, you interview a few times, you check some references (maybe) and now youâ??re ready to hire. In California, once you make a job offer, it is difficult to rescind it. Why not take one extra step and conduct a ...

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FMLA update According to a just issued EEOC private letter ruling, employers cannot put absolute time requirements as to how soon an employee must notify them when they go on leave. In short, when it is not possible to give 30 daysâ?? advance notice, employees must comply with their ...

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