Keeping Up with HR Laws and Issues

I’ve served in the HR-outsourcing profession for 15 years.  HR has changed a lot since I first got into this business, and our services have also changed to meet the times and needs.

Mine is an interesting history, especially when we think about HR issues today compared to 15 years ago. I’ll review some similarities along with some contrasts.

Back then---like today---we received comments and questions from small business clients like:

1. I can’t keep my employees.
2. It is hard to find good employees.
3. How do I cope with tardiness or absenteeism?

Today the issues are more complicated and pose greater potential risk to a small business owner, such as:

1. How do I keep my employees from sexually harassing coworkers?
2. What can I do to prevent or prepare for unforeseen acts of violence in the workplace?
3. How can I keep up with workers’ compensation laws and regulations?
4. What can I do to compete with soaring costs for health care and other benefits?
5. How can I avoid costly discrimination lawsuits?

Of course no one wants to intentionally break the rules or the laws. Most employers want to protect their employees; oftentimes it is a matter of needing and providing additional training and education. As a result, training programs have significantly increased in number, with a wider range in subject matter, during the last 15 years.

The average employee today is more aware of HR-related laws and regulations. So small business owners and their supervisors must keep informed and stay on top of HR issues and trends, including updates to federal and state laws. In addition to more training program options, business owners also have access to more educational resources.

Additional Resources:

U.S. Equal Opportunity Employment Commission (EEOC)

U.S. Department of Labor

OSHA

HR has changed a lot since I first got into this business, and our services have also changed to meet the times and needs.