FLSA Changes: FAQs

The new FLSA rules go into effect December 1, 2016. Here are some common questions we’ve received. What are the new minimum salary levels, and when will they go up next? As of December 1, 2016, most exempt executive, administrative, professional, and computer employees need to be paid at least $913 per week ($47,476 per…

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The Performance Evaluation Cycle

The Performance Evaluation Cycle Many people look forward to annual performance reviews the way they look forward to oil changes and tune-ups. Sure, these are standard operating procedures, but they can be a hassle and they could reveal bad news. As a result,  reviews are often done poorly. They’re treated as an afterthought and rushed…

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When to Take a Chance on an Applicant

When to Take a Chance Every hiring manager receives applications from people who are clearly unqualified for the job. Sometimes, however, a candidate with no direct or seemingly-relevant experience applies for a position and, for some reason or another, captures their attention. Often the manager believes the promising applicant could be an exceptional employee, but…

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When Exempt Status Is a Status Symbol

Human Resources

When Exempt Status Is a Status Symbol Employees who will be transitioned from an exempt to non-exempt classification because of the new FLSA overtime rules may resent the change in classification. They may feel that tracking time is beneath them, that they’re being micromanaged, that their position has less prestige, or that their work has…

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Political Discussions in the Workplace

Political Discussions in the Workplace This election season has given us generous helpings of drama, and the general election itself is only two months away. With the final stretch before the candidates—and us—you’ll no doubt overhear political small talk in the office. Maybe even a heated argument or two! While a respectful debate over lunch…

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Consider Progressive Discipline Before Termination

Consider Progressive Discipline Before Termination Terminating employment always comes with risk, even when it’s done for good cause. You can reduce this risk by using progressive discipline. As its name suggests, progressive discipline involves a progression of disciplinary actions with escalating consequences. When used to give employees with behavioral or performance problems time and opportunity…

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Strategic Management of Vacation Requests

Strategic Management of Vacation Requests You want to support employees by providing the opportunity for work/life harmony, but you also have customers to service and a business to run. Sometimes it is difficult to juggle multiple vacation requests around popular vacation times, especially during the summer months and other holiday times throughout the year. Below…

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Community Service Projects

Community Service Projects It may come as a surprise to find that many job seekers take a company’s community service outreach programs into account when applying for and accepting jobs. If all things are equal, a highly desirable job candidate could decide between your company and a competitor based on your work in the community.…

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Administering Unusual Hourly Schedules

Administering Unusual Hourly Schedules When recruiting for unusual hourly schedules, such as graveyard or on-call shifts, it’s important to sell the position in the right way. Some people prefer unusual schedules because of their sleep habits, their family’s needs, or their recreational habits; but not everyone can be successful working odd or irregular hours. Here…

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