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Productivity / Performance

Documenting ‘In Case of Litigation’ Isn’t Proof of Job Bias

12/01/2006

When dealing with difficult employees, supervisors often go the extra mile to document their interactions (and any discipline) in case the employee ever sues. But does this extra effort at documentation provide proof that the supervisor intends to discriminate? …

‘Secret’ reviews are bad policy and may be illegal

12/01/2006

Q. We don’t allow our employees to read or comment on their evaluations. Instead, we discuss the content with them one-on-one and have them sign an acknowledgment that they have discussed their performance. Do we have to show them the actual evaluation or give them a copy?—D.J., Michigan

Keep workers productive after their two weeks’ notice

12/01/2006
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Lighten your HR load by using supervisors wisely

12/01/2006
Say you’re part of an overworked two- or three-person HR department that struggles to keep up with basic administrative duties. Solution: Use supervisors to assist in HR, but be smart in what you choose to delegate.

Water-cooler chitchat: productivity booster or killer?

12/01/2006

When workers yak it up in the company break room, don’t be so quick to bark a quick “Back to work!” …

‘Job commitment’ is valid reason to reject an applicant

12/01/2006

When it comes to evaluating applicants, you can consider factors like evidence of the employee’s commitment to the job and the likelihood he won’t stick around. That’s true even if it means you don’t hire an older applicant who worked for your organization in the past and received good reviews

U.S. Steel wins ADA case; worker couldn’t do ‘Essential’ parts of job

12/01/2006

U.S. Steel Corp. did not violate the ADA when the company terminated a senior technician due to a degenerative lower back condition, a federal district court judge ruled in a Pennsylvania case …

Denial of lateral transfer isn’t an ‘Adverse job action’

12/01/2006

Employees who think a supervisor is treating them unfairly and suspect discrimination often will look for an escape. One tactic is to ask for a transfer to another department or location. Don’t think that you’re required to acquiesce

Discrimination lawsuit by lesbian nurse fails in court

11/01/2006

A federal judge in the Northern District of Texas recently dismissed a Title VII discrimination lawsuit brought by a lesbian nurse who claimed that she was fired because of her sexuality and appearance …

Layoff choices: Focus on performance, not just salary level

11/01/2006

Nothing triggers age discrimination lawsuits like a layoff. After all, saving money is a primary consideration in most decisions to downsize. And because long-term employees are often paid more than newer employees, organizations that focus on money often end up with layoff lists heavy with post-40-year-olds. That’s a recipe for an Age Discrimination in Employment Act lawsuit …