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Employee Relations

He broke a rule? What to say

08/01/2003
No one likes to discipline team members, but eventually you’ll face a gut-wrenching moment when you have to enforce the organization’s rules.

Dazzle your managers with ‘constructive disagreement’

08/01/2003
Issue: How to exert influence over people who don’t report to you.
Benefit: Fend off bad ideas without developing a reputation as “difficult” or discouraging future good ideas.
Action: …

Treat FMLA policy changes with care, communication

08/01/2003

When establishing or changing your Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) policy, make sure you include it in your employee handbook. Don’t rely on references to the policy outside the book, and don’t attach or staple the policy separately.

Promote the value of your benefits plan

08/01/2003
Studies show that employees who keep their jobs after a round of layoffs tend to view their benefits package less highly. Nip that attitude in the bud by distributing a personalized …

Take extra anti-harassment steps with young staff

08/01/2003
Warning: Courts may view especially young workers differently when it comes to the issue of harassment, affording them more leeway when they fail …

Never assume a pregnant employee is unable to work; ask questions

08/01/2003
Under the Pregnancy Discrimination Act (PDA), you can’t fire a pregnant worker simply because of her condition. Nor can you force her to take leave as long as she’s physically …

Conduct exit interviews only if they’d be fruitful

08/01/2003

Q. Is it wise to conduct exit interviews with all departing employees, even those who have been terminated on poor terms? —J.S., Georgia

Expand benefits lineup at little cost with ‘voluntary’ perks

08/01/2003
Issue: Benefit costs are rising, but you need to offer a competitive package to retain good workers.
Benefit: Voluntary benefits let you beef up your benefits without much additional cost. …

Ease bumpy workplace re-entry for returning reservists

08/01/2003
Issue: Reservists returning from war create special challenges for your work force and your organization.
Risk: Loss of productivity and distractions among staff; reservists may face challenges at work and …

Look to local colleges for training

08/01/2003
Issue: Community colleges provide high-quality employee training at a reasonable cost.
Benefit: Employees learn new skills and feel more loyal to your organization …