Human Resources

By Rosemarie Lally, J.D./SHRM   Takeaway: Employers should not rely on conclusory language in contracts regarding employees’ status as salaried professionals.    A federal appeals court found that material factual questions remained in dispute regarding whether a public employer proved that its staff nurses were paid on a salary basis and that employees working in...

Reasonable suspicion for conducting a drug test refers to specific, objective, and documented observations of an employee’s behavior, appearance, or performance that indicate possible substance use or impairment. It requires more than a hunch or rumor and must be based on facts that can be articulated clearly. Here are the key elements of reasonable suspicion:...

By Annabel Pollioni/SHRM   Takeaway: This case shows that an employer can avoid liability on a failure-to-accommodate cause of action if the employee making the request is seeking a second chance to prove they can perform the essential functions of a position instead of an actual accommodation.   The 7th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals...

By Allen Smith, J.D.   Despite the spread of remote work, clear inclement weather policies can reduce workflow disruption and ensure wage and hour compliance for many businesses.   “All employers with brick-and-mortar facilities should consider establishing inclement weather policies, especially if there is any requirement to work in the office,” said Joe Mulherin, an...

By Kathryn Mayer   Employee mental health has already been a top concern for organizations this year, as employees have dealt with work stress, soaring financial pressure, and other concerns that have taken a toll on their overall well-being. But add holiday and end-of-year stress to that, and employee mental well-being becomes an even bigger...

There are many thoughtful and creative ways to thank your clients for their loyalty and support. Here are some effective ideas:   Personalized Thank-You Notes Sending handwritten or personalized thank-you cards shows sincerity and effort. It adds a personal touch that clients appreciate in the digital age. Exclusive Discounts or Offers Offer your loyal clients...

By Jeffrey Rhodes/SHRM   Takeaway: A company staffing skilled trades workers at jobsites could not evade liability for overtime under the Fair Labor Standards Act by claiming that its employees’ long-distance work only started once they arrived at each jobsite.   The 7th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals upheld a district court’s summary judgment decision...

Thanking your clients should be a regular practice, but there are specific moments when expressing gratitude can be especially impactful. Here are some key times when you should thank your clients:   After a Purchase or Transaction A thank-you message immediately after a purchase or service completion shows appreciation for their business. It leaves a...

By Robert C. Divine and Matthew S. Chester/SHRM HR   It’s no secret that President-elect Donald Trump intends to carry out what he has called the largest mass deportation in U.S. history shortly after taking office.   U.S. employers—particularly those in the manufacturing, food processing, agricultural, construction, and hospitality industries with a relatively unskilled workforce—should...

Yes, businesses should absolutely thank their employees for being there for them. Just like clients, employees are critical to the success of any business, and expressing gratitude for their dedication and hard work has numerous benefits:   Boosts Morale and Motivation Employees who feel appreciated are more motivated and engaged in their work. A simple...