An employee with a history of documented performance issues claimed they were in a car accident that rendered their vehicle inoperable. The employee began missing work first due to their lack of transportation, then for various medical appointments, though they refused or were unable to provide a proper doctor’s note to justify their prolonged absence. The employer was … [Read more...] about Dealing with the runaround when an employee stalls about coming back to work
Topics
Use all four stages of effective communication
By Doug Thorpe Managers face a constant struggle to improve communication within their work teams. Besides being able to accurately articulate any technical aspects about the work (every industry has its key phrases, terms, and buzz words), business leaders have to be ever-mindful of some very basic principles of effective communication. We usually think about communication … [Read more...] about Use all four stages of effective communication
7 dining rules every manager should follow
By Cheryl Toth You know this guy. He’s the loudest talker at the table. He waves his fork around when he tells a story or joke. Or occasionally punctuates the air with it to indicate he has shared something very important. Don’t be this guy. Whether you are having lunch with your team, dinner with the partners, or you’re attending the annual gala, good table manners … [Read more...] about 7 dining rules every manager should follow
Should you rehire a boomerang employee?
By Lynne Curry “I’ve learned my lesson and I’d like to come back.” One by one “boomerang” employees are returning to employers throughout the nation. Each employee has a story. Said one, “I’d always wanted to start my own business. Now that I tried it; I’ve learned it’s not for me.” Said another, “I wasn’t looking for a job. An employer sought me out, offered me a signing … [Read more...] about Should you rehire a boomerang employee?
Artificial intelligence can boost billable hours
Artificial Intelligence (AI) represents one of the latest advances in legal technology. Rather than replacing attorneys and support staff, AI can help lawyers and other legal professionals do more to serve their clients with greater efficiency and less expense. Teaching computers to learn One significant advantage of employing AI is the ability of machines to learn tasks that … [Read more...] about Artificial intelligence can boost billable hours
How to stay vigilant without hiring a surprise attack ninja
Remember the Pink Panther movies? Peter Sellers’ character, Inspector Clouseau, hired “Cato” to randomly attack him. He thought unexpected ninja attacks would keep him every vigilant. While the over the top comedy is ridiculous, it does remind me of how to approach cybersecurity. You do not need to hire someone with a kendo stick to beat your staff into compliance, but frequent … [Read more...] about How to stay vigilant without hiring a surprise attack ninja
Adopt these four best practices for successful staff onboarding
A structured onboarding process can lead to a better start for your employees, resulting in better retention and productivity. That's the word from Paul Edwards, CEO and founder of Cedr Solutions, a provider of custom employee handbooks, management software and HR support. He suggests these four best practices to add to your process. 1. Begin onboarding before your … [Read more...] about Adopt these four best practices for successful staff onboarding
The art of subtle self-promotion
By Julie Perrine As an administrative professional, you’re used to working behind the scenes. Your job is to make your executive look good in the spotlight, not to shine it on yourself. You may even feel more comfortable behind the curtain than on stage. And that’s OK…most of the time. However, to keep your career moving forward, you need to practice some … [Read more...] about The art of subtle self-promotion
How to stay afloat when the office pessimist tries to drag you under
By Lynne Curry Pessimists come at you with negative words such as “you’re wasting your time” or “that will never work.” If you’re not careful, this onslaught can snuff out your enthusiasm, leading you to give up on ideas, adventures or opportunities that might power your career or work life forward. Here’s how to avoid letting a pessimist’s negativity drain your … [Read more...] about How to stay afloat when the office pessimist tries to drag you under
Building an Accountability Culture and a Thriving Practice
Join Lynne Curry, PhD, SPHR, SHRM-SCP and author of “Beating the Workplace Bully,” AMACOM 2016, and “Solutions”, for a fast-paced, practical look at developing an accountability culture in your organization. Here's just some of what you’ll learn: • Why accountability matters to your bottom line • The key steps for creating an accountable culture • How to … [Read more...] about Building an Accountability Culture and a Thriving Practice