Reproductive Loss Leave: Why Employers Should Expand Their Bereavement Policies

June 11, 2024
Title image with "Reproductive Loss Leave: Why Employers Should Expand Their Bereavement Policies" over photo of two women on couch with one woman comforting the other

While bereavement leave is not federally required in the United States, many employers voluntarily offer this benefit through a bereavement policy or paid time off (PTO) policy. Despite this, fertility-related loss—including miscarriage, stillbirth, and failed fertility treatments—is often excluded from traditional bereavement policies. But it’s time to acknowledge the emotional, physical, and psychological toll of… Read More »

The 9/80 Work Schedule: A Guide for Employers

June 4, 2024
Title image with "The 9/80 Work Schedule: A Guide for Employers" over photo of businesswoman viewing a work calendar on a computer

In today’s competitive job market, offering flexible work schedules can make your business stand out. One option gaining popularity is the 9/80 work schedule, which combines flexibility with a compressed workweek. Employers can boost employee morale, increase productivity, and support work-life balance with this arrangement. However, like any change, it comes with challenges, especially when… Read More »

PTO Cashouts: Not a Free-for-All Policy!

May 28, 2024
Title image with "Title image with "36 Hours of Pain: Stop Dragging Out Employee Terminations!" over photo of someone carrying a box of office items" over photo of desk with laptop and planner

As a small business owner, you might be looking for ways to manage your team’s paid time off (PTO) effectively, especially when it comes to unused days. One option that may come to mind is a PTO cashout policy.  Sounds easy, right? Just pay out employees for their unused PTO, and voila! Everyone’s happy.  Except… Read More »

36 Hours of Pain: Stop Dragging Out Employee Terminations!

May 21, 2024
Title image with "36 Hours of Pain: Stop Dragging Out Employee Terminations!" over photo of someone carrying a box of office items

If you’re familiar with Gino Wickman or have even read his book, Traction: Get a Grip on Your Business, you might’ve heard of the concept of “36 hours of pain.” The founder of the Entrepreneurial Operating System (EOS) primarily uses this concept regarding employee terminations.  In his book, Wickman shares a story from a friend… Read More »

Noncompetes No More: What the Approaching Ban Means for Employers

May 14, 2024
Title image with "Noncompetes No More: What the Approaching Ban Means for Employers" over photo of someone signing noncompete agreement

There’s been a lot of talk around noncompete agreements since the FTC announced its final rule to ban them nationwide on April 23, 2024. Although it’s not yet effective, this ruling could affect employers, workers, and the U.S. economy.  The commission noted that noncompetes negatively impact the economy and workers by keeping wages low and… Read More »

Union Talk: Collective Bargaining Agreements & Beck Rights

May 7, 2024
Title image with "Union Talk: Collective Bargaining Agreements & Beck Rights" over photo of manager and floor workers in warehouse

Regardless of what kind of shop your business is, knowing what you can and can’t include in your collective bargaining agreement (CBA) is critical when a union is involved. And yes, that includes requiring employees to join the union fully—which depends on the type of union security agreement and state labor laws.  Unfortunately, we’ve seen… Read More »

Prepare for the Department of Labor’s New Overtime Rule

April 30, 2024
Title image with "Prepare for the Department of Labor’s New Overtime Rule" over photo of payroll and overtime binders sitting on a desk

On April 23, 2024, the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) announced its new overtime rule, which will update Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) requirements. The minimum salary threshold will increase first on July 1, 2024, and again on January 1, 2025.  What are the increases, and what do they mean for both employees and employers?… Read More »

When & How Employers Must Calculate Weighted Overtime Pay

April 16, 2024
Title image with "When & How Employers Must Calculate Weighted Overtime Pay" over photo of female barista serving a customer

In certain types of small businesses, it’s common for employees to fill more than one role and be paid different wages for each. But what does this mean for overtime pay?  Under the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA), employers must pay non-exempt employees who work over 40 hours in a week an overtime rate of… Read More »

New Hampshire Workers’ Compensation Requirements & FAQs

April 9, 2024
Title image with "New Hampshire Workers’ Compensation Requirements & FAQs" over photo of male trades worker with arm injury filling out form

Do you need workers’ compensation insurance as a New Hampshire employer? The answer is likely yes! Most states have similar workers’ compensation laws, but in this article, we’ll look specifically at the Granite State’s laws. It’s vital that you know when you need it and the risk of not getting it when you are supposed… Read More »

8 Steps to Establish Workplace Communication Guidelines & Expectations

April 2, 2024
Title image with "8 Steps to Establish Workplace Communication Guidelines & Expectations" over people in conference room having virtual meeting with other team members

In the complex world of workplace dynamics, communication is a crucial factor, guiding collaboration, progress and productivity, and harmonious relationships. But crafting effective workplace communication guidelines isn’t just about finding the right words; it’s about understanding the pulse of your organization, the needs of your teams, and the pathways to clarity and connection.  Have you… Read More »