Important HR updates from Silvers HR Management

How long are employers required to continue paying medical premiums for employees who are on an unpaid medical leave of absence? Not as long as many employers may think. Outside of a couple of legally regulated leaves and collective bargaining agreements, there are few restrictions. Whether by omission or commission, you may be paying thousands of unnecessary dollars for medical premiums. Worse yet, we often see employers continuing payment of medical premiums for employees who are out of work on a workers' compensation injury for several months, but not at all for an employee out for a non-work injury or pregnancy. That's a problem.

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Nothing is "Free" - Think First Before Hiring a Person Without Pay

By Susan R. Breslauer, SPHR

With the high rate of unemployment these days there are many individuals who want to gain work experience and are sometimes willing to do anything to improve their skills...even proposing to work for no pay. It might sound like a great deal to you, as an employer, at face value. However, before you think about hiring anyone without pay you might think twice. There are limited circumstances when not paying an individual is permitted in California or any other state - even when they are considered an "intern" or "trainee".

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Seven ideas for motivating the workforce

Personal recogntion is one of the most effective ways of motivating employees toward top-notch

employment. Author Don Martin offers these strategies:

Confer meaningful titles. It costs little to give an employee a title and provides recognition by making a statement within and without the organization. The key word, though, is meaningful. The employee and others will recognize when titles are hollow.

Build quality circles. This is a way of telling achievers that they have earned their way into a select group of players--the way pro bowls and all-star games do in sports. Many companies offer perks and other tangible incentives along with status and recognition.

Create an honor wall. Achievers are recognized by having their names added to publicly placed plaques or having their photographs included in an honor wall. Some companies formalize this honor by holding induction ceremonies.

Report achievements in the company newsletter. This doesn't necessarily mean reporting only the obvious milestones, such as promotions and top sales performances. Features that herald "unsung heroes" also are effective.

Reward with "perky perks." These are little touches, such as presenting em-bossed business cards, personalized note-pads, and unique desk accessories. They cost little but help set an employee apart.

Offer wall plaques and framed certificates. Presenting these awards at public ceremonies is an effective way of recognizing good work. These usually are proudly displayed by recipients for everyone to see--providing ongoing motivation.

Provide the personal touch. Don't underestimate the value of a personal note or word of thanks or appreciation.