Two years ago the HR contact person at a small firm asked me the million dollar question, “Why are we having this conversation about DOL investigations? Has something changed that I should be aware of?” That was a great question. Not every trumpeting voice requires a response. Sometimes you’re better off turning down the volume.…
Preparing for 2017: I-9’s, Minimum Wage Increase, Overtime, Corralling HR Ducks
It’s 2018! How? Some things to think about: Update your I-9 form and make certain you know the new rules. The fines for improperly filled up forms have doubled, that includes not signing Section 2 of the form. And, yes, if you’re using eVerify you need to completely fill out the I-9. And, yes, it would be a great idea to…
How to Deal with Working Off the Clock
Non-Exempt Issues Could off-the-clock work by your non-exempt employees be a disaster looking for a place to happen in your organization? Once in awhile we’ll ask an employee, “How are you paid?” Often they’ll reply they’re salaried. Then we ask a second question, “What happens when you work more than 40 hours a week?” The…
Understanding & Managing Overtime
On May 2016, the DOL enacted a rule raising the salary threshold of minimum wage to $47,476 per year. The rule was overturned by a federal court in TX and is being appealed by DOL. What this means (in simple terms) for the employer: you have a breather but possibly haven’t dodged the ball. At some point the minimum…
Warning Signs of Violence
Almost every day the news is filled some form of violent behavior in the schools, workplace and public. We look at the carnage and hope we’re not the next victim to taste of its sting, because it can and does happen. Prior to the attack, most organizations thought, “It couldn’t happen to me/us”, but often…