Productivity / Performance

Taking FMLA leave may rule out performance bonus

10/01/2010

Under the right circumstances, employers that pay discretionary bonuses based on actual performance don’t have to make the extra payments to employees on FMLA leave. Thus, a discretionary bonus based on performance during each quarter may not have to be paid if the employee didn’t work.

The latest buzz: Tomorrow is National Coffee Day!

09/28/2010

National Coffee Day is tomorrow, Sept. 29, and according to a new survey commissioned by Dunkin’ Donuts and CareerBuilder.com, a cuppa Joe helps keep the nation’s workforce—particularly younger workers—productive and energetic through the workday.

3 former female execs sue Goldman Sachs

09/27/2010

Only on Wall Street can you make $800,000 a year and claim that you’re underpaid. But three women who used to earn big bucks at Goldman Sachs are suing because they could have earned even more if they were men.

Keep the flame alive: Simple ways to motivate employees

09/27/2010

It’s more important than ever for supervisors to create an environment that supports, motivates and empowers their employees. Here are some step to take.

Bring clear documentation to earn quick dismissal

09/24/2010

When employees file their own lawsuits, judges often bend over backward to help them out. They reason that employees who lack legal expertise deserve a little slack in court. That’s when it becomes crucial for employers to come to court armed with solid evidence that they handled the employee fairly.

Get it in writing: Creating effective and legal job descriptions

09/24/2010

Job descriptions are the cornerstone of communication between management and staff. Good job descriptions make sure bosses and employees alike know what kind of performance is expected. They’re the basis of every effective performance-appraisal system. At a minimum, a job description should include these elements:

Courts frown on bosses blaming subordinates for shortcomings

09/20/2010

Here’s something to consider when disciplining a supervisor or manager: She probably won’t be able to get away with blaming a subordinate for her own poor performance. Employers are entitled to expect managers to manage.

‘Talent’ report helps Deloitte take stock

09/16/2010

At Deloitte, the annual report doesn’t stop with a financial statement. The financial services firm also publishes a “Talent Annuity Report” to chronicle its year in benefits and employee recognition efforts. “We published a Talent Annuity Report because we regard our talent as an investment that generates an annuity,” said CEO Barry Salzberg.

Planning for productivity: What time of day are workers at their best?

09/15/2010

If you plan important meetings for 3 p.m. or host brainstorming sessions after lunch, it’s time to reconsider those strategies. Late afternoon is the most common time for workers to hit the productivity wall, a new study says.

Annual performance reviews are still the norm

09/07/2010

A survey of 500 HR professionals asked how often their organizations conduct formal performance appraisals of employees. The old-reliable yearly performance appraisal is still the standard. Find out other time frames that work for some organizations. Plus, tips for employees on how to get the greatest value from performance reviews.