Policies / Handbooks

Insist that employees follow call-off rules

05/27/2016

Some employees think as long as they can get a doctor’s note certifying that they missed work due to a disability or a serious health condition, they can’t be punished. Not true!

Complying With the FLSA Overtime Rules: The Duties Test

05/18/2016

UPDATE: May 2016 On May 18, 2016, the U.S. Department of Labor released its long-awaited update to the Fair Labor Standards Act’s overtime rules, which effectively double the salary threshold at which most salaried workers are exempt from being paid overtime, raising it from $23,660 to $47,476 per year. The new rules become effective December […]

Expense reports: An exercise in creative writing

05/10/2016

The number of improper expense report requests—from the surprising to the mundane—shows little sign of decline, says a new survey.

Employers: Display updated FMLA poster

05/05/2016

In May 2016, the U.S. Department of Labor issued a new version of the FMLA poster that employers are required to hang in their workplaces. The big question: If you already have an FMLA poster in your workplace, must you display this new version? Here are the details, plus links to the new poster and employer’s guide …

6 issues to consider when updating your employee handbook

05/02/2016

An out-of-date employee handbook is more of a liability than an asset.

Make sure employee handbook includes at-will disclaimer

04/28/2016

Retain the right to terminate by ensuring that all materials include a clear at-will employment statement.

California Supreme Court ruling brings clarity to arbitration agreements

04/22/2016

Decision provides much needed clarity and flexibility to employers implementing arbitration agreements in California.

Big Overtime Changes Will Shine a Light on Your Moonlighting Policy

04/21/2016

One of the unintended consequences of the big changes coming to federal overtime law this summer is likely to be more employees taking on second jobs, according to a new study. But can you (or should you) ban off-the-clock moonlighting? Here are four tips, plus two sample policies …

Alcohol in accounting: Can we insist on testing for possibly intoxicated employee?

04/14/2016

Q. We have an employee in our accounting department who, a few times over the past month, has come to work smelling of alcohol and displaying signs of intoxication. For several years this employee was a solid performer, but lately she’s missing deadlines and has been somewhat belligerent to co-workers. We are worried about her health, of course, but also her performance and any potential liability related to her conduct while she’s under the influence. When asked by co-workers, this employee has denied having a drinking problem or being intoxicated at work. Since she’s in denial, can we ask her to submit to a test for alcohol the next time she appears to be intoxicated at work?

Why employees steal, and how to handle it

04/13/2016

It can be as small as office supplies or as big as an embezzlement scheme, but your employees are likely stealing something from your company.