We’re halfway through December, which means that the New Year is right around the corner.  January 1st always seems to inspire a host of new goals and aspirations for the year ahead, and if you are in human resources, we have some resolutions to consider as 2019 gets ready to roll in. First, brush up on new laws coming into effect in the coming year.  Many U.S. states—about one-third of them—will be experiencing an increase…

In recent years, “side hustles” have become an increasingly common phenomenon among employees in all industries to supplement income from a “traditional” job.   A key attribute of side hustles is that they are self-managed, and there are seemingly endless opportunities—from tutoring to digital design services to creating online video tutorials—to appease nearly any skill or interest.  And for some, side hustles are about more than just the money—especially for workers with less experience, side hustles…

The Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970 was passed to prevent workers from being workers from being seriously harmed at work.  Although OSHA compliance should be on your mind all year, the winter season brings with it additional regulations that might affect your workplace. For example, if your workplace installs special lighting during the holiday or winter months, OSHA has guidelines that apply to those arrangements.  Section 1910.305 provides that decorative lighting (including for…

Employees often take time off around the holidays.  In many cases, an employee’s days off might be pursuant to a planned vacation or time with loved ones.  However, an employee might request leave for a situation that would entitle them to leave pursuant to the federal Family and Medical Leave Act.  If you find yourself facing a request for leave pursuant to the FMLA, here are some quick refreshers on the basics of the FMLA…

The story of Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer has been a long-time holiday staple, both in film and in song.  The gist of the story is that Rudolph was born with a glowing red nose, and because of it, he was made fun of and forbidden from participating in the reindeer games.  The story provides a notable example of bias—and a great segue for examining bias in the workplace.  The type of “explicit” bias exhibited toward…

There’s so much to celebrate at the end of the year, and while it often feels like Christmas steals the spotlight, it’s likely that some of your employees also observe Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, and other celebrations throughout the season.  In light of this diversity, employers should strive to foster an inclusive atmosphere in the workplace during the holidays.  We recently discussed employees’ requests for accommodations based on their religious beliefs, and today we are offering…

He’s making a list and checking it twice—you know the drill: Santa’s game is that he rewards good behavior during the year with gifts under the tree.  And when it comes to employees, the most requested item on their list continues to be holiday bonuses.  Maybe your company is feeling the Santa-spirit and planning to reward employees with a little something extra this year.  If so, here’s a few pointers to keep in mind when…