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Hiring

Watch out for rogue managers who bring hidden biases to hiring, promotions

01/13/2009

If the workplace rumor mill tells you that one of your managers or supervisors may harbor antiquated ideas about equality, watch out—especially if he or she has any input into hiring and promotion decisions. Instead, investigate the rumors and take a look at past hiring practices.

Native American status may mean extra bias claim

01/13/2009

People who identify themselves as Native Americans and believe they have been discriminated against may be able to sue based on two distinct claims for the same characteristic. Such individuals can claim discrimination based on national origin or race.

Can we have an English-only rule?

01/13/2009

Q. Is it OK for our company to prohibit employees from speaking in languages other than English in front of our customers?

Michigan employers, colleges to collaborate on training

01/09/2009

Gov. Jennifer Granholm signed legislation in December that will help Michigan employers work with community colleges to train and develop employees for high-demand positions. The bills, signed into law as Public Acts 359 and 360, will encourage community colleges to tailor job training to meet local employers’ needs.

Workers’ comp for unpaid interns?

01/09/2009

Q. A local college has asked our company to allow a student to work at one of our plants for credit this summer. The student would not be paid, which sounds like a great deal for the company. However, we are concerned about what would happen if the student were injured while interning. Would we be liable?

When applicant has more experience, be prepared to justify hiring someone else

01/09/2009

You don’t always have to promote the best educated or most experienced employee—but you must at least have a good explanation why you chose another candidate.

Prepare to comply with two new employment laws

01/09/2009

Beginning Feb. 1, New York employers must comply with two important new state employment laws affecting notification of impending layoffs and the conduct of criminal background checks.

Staffing company owes $113,000 to Long Island club workers

01/09/2009

Star One Staffing has agreed to pay $113,000 in back wages and damages to 70 Filipino workers who served as waiters, waitresses and bus staff at exclusive Long Island country clubs.

What are the new rules on observation of DOT-mandated drug and alcohol tests?

01/09/2009

Q. Is it true that someone now has to watch my employees give urine specimens as part of DOT drug and alcohol testing?

Be honest, thorough with applicants about job

01/05/2009

The best way to keep high-level new hires around is to give them an accurate picture of what their jobs entail before they start work.