Employee Relations Archives - Strategic HR

Archive for category: Employee Relations

Employee Relations Questions of the Week

Clark Schaefer Strategic HR's wheel of HR Services, including HR Strategy, Recruitment, Training & Development, Benefits & Compensation, Communications, Employee Relations, Recordkeeping, and Health, Safety & Security

Company Holiday Party Considerations – Pay, Safety, Inclusivity

Published November 14, 2025
in Benefits & Compensation, Employee Relations, HR Compliance, HR Strategy Question of the Week

The holiday season is just around the corner, bringing with it a variety of parties and events that celebrate this festive time. These gatherings are also opportunities to express gratitude to employees, recognize their hard work, and strengthen team bonds.

Free Speech in the Workplace: Navigating Rights & Respect

Published September 16, 2025
in Communications, Employee Relations, HR Compliance Question of the Week

HR Question: In an era of polarized opinions, instant communication, and frequent social media interactions, HR professionals face the challenge of balancing employees’ free speech with maintaining a respectful workplace. How do we handle these sometimes-conflicting aspects in employment?

Helping Employees Work Together – Conflict Management

Last Updated September 15th, 2025
in Employee Relations, Videos Question of the Week, Video

With the help of a few good tactics and a great HR partner, it is possible to address conflict in work relationships and help employees find functional strategies for moving forward and working well together.

Workplace Bullying

Last Updated July 31st, 2025
in Communications, Employee Relations, HR Compliance Question of the Week

How do you address bullying behavior in the workplace?

Investigations With Intention

Last Updated July 14th, 2025
in Employee Relations, HR Compliance Question of the Week

Conducting an employee investigation is a serious matter that must be handled well, utilizing a fair, consistent, and compliance-driven process to protect staff and keep companies out of legal trouble. Whether it is harassment, ethics violations, unprofessional behaviors, or even illegal activity, HR professionals must swiftly address and investigate complaints with skill and expertise. Here are some things to keep in mind as you prepare for the investigation and read about how a recent situation was specifically handled.

Civility in the Workplace

Last Updated July 7th, 2025
in Employee Relations, Videos Question of the Week, Video

How can your organization define and reinforce workplace civility standards—distinct from harassment and discrimination—to proactively prevent toxic behavior and improve employee retention?

What Questions Should I Ask During An Exit Interview?

Last Updated June 26th, 2025
in Employee Relations Question of the Week

HR Question: We’ve decided to start conducting exit interviews but aren’t sure of the right questions to ask. What are some key questions to ask during an exit interview?

Specific Ways HR Can Cultivate an Inclusive Workplace

Last Updated June 26th, 2025
in Employee Relations Question of the Week

Learn about specific ways you can cultivate an inclusive workplace.

Empathy First: A Modern Guide to Nonprofit Layoffs

Last Updated June 26th, 2025
in Communications, Employee Relations Question of the Week

Layoffs are never easy. For not-for-profits (NFPs), where mission-driven cultures and tight-knit teams are the norm, the impact of workforce reductions can feel even more personal. Although consideration for the necessary legal concerns related to a layoff is necessary, conducting a layoff with empathy and safeguarding your organization’s reputation and honoring the people behind the positions is equally important.

How Do I Successfully Coach Employees to Improve Performance?

Last Updated June 11th, 2025
in Employee Relations, Training & Development Question of the Week

HR Question: As a supervisor with an employee who is having a performance issue, I want to coach them effectively and help them improve. What steps can I take to ensure I successfully coach employees to improve their performance?

Video: What is a DiSC Assessment and What is it Used For?

Last Updated May 23rd, 2025
in Employee Relations, Training & Development, Videos Question of the Week, Video

Have you ever been frustrated at work when someone just doesn’t seem to understand your perspective? Or they simply can’t see another way of solving a problem beyond “their way” of doing things? The DiSC assessment is a scientifically validated personality profile tool that can help you understand your own work style and preferences. And it can help you learn how to effectively work with those whose work styles are different than yours.

How Do I Manage a Disrespectful Employee?

Last Updated April 17th, 2025
in Employee Relations Question of the Week

HR Question: I have a member on my team who consistently exhibits disrespectful behavior toward me. They interrupt me in meetings, gossip about me, and do not follow my directives. How do I effectively manage a disrespectful employee?

How Can I Support Employee Well-Being Beyond the EAP?

Last Updated April 16th, 2025
in Employee Relations, Health, Safety & Security Question of the Week

While many organizations have implemented an Employee Assistance Program (EAP) as an important way to support their employees' mental health, that is only one component of well-being. There are many ways HR can play a direct role in supporting employees' overall well-being. In this article, we'll discuss what well-being is, how it impacts individuals and organizations, and offer specific examples of how you can support employee well-being in your organization.

Three Ways Employers Can Promote Work-Life Balance

Last Updated January 16th, 2025
in Employee Relations Question of the Week

It has become more important than ever that employers listen to and understand the motivations of their employees in order to best attract and retain them. Many employees have made changes that better support family life, financial security, and their lifestyle through flexible work situations, including flexible work options. Many are realizing that work-life balance is not a “nice to have,” but rather it is a necessity.

What Are Employee Pulse Surveys And How Can They Increase Retention?

Last Updated January 9th, 2025
in Employee Relations Question of the Week

HR Question: We are exploring ways to increase our employee retention and engagement, and someone suggested doing an employee pulse survey. Can you explain what that is and how to best use it to drive engagement?

How To Conduct A Workplace Harassment Investigation

Last Updated October 10th, 2024
in Employee Relations, HR Compliance Question of the Week

A workplace harassment investigation must be conducted swiftly and thoroughly upon receiving a complaint. Here are steps for HR to follow.

How to Re-Energize Your Team Through Training & Development

Last Updated October 10th, 2024
in Employee Relations, Training & Development Question of the Week

Worried that your employee engagement is waning? Here's how to re-energize your team through training and development with a limited budget.

How to Address Employee Hygiene Issues in the Workplace

Last Updated June 11th, 2024
in Employee Relations Question of the Week

Addressing employee hygiene issues can be awkward, but necessary. Here are some ways to address the situation with respect and empathy.

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Preventing A Hostile Environment

Last Updated April 22nd, 2024
in Employee Relations Question of the Week

What can we do to prevent a hostile work environment and harassment claims? Learn more in our Question of the Week.

Mandatory Retirement: Is It Legal?

Last Updated April 3rd, 2024
in Employee Relations, HR Compliance Question of the Week

It's important to understand the risks of mandatory retirement should your organization choose to implement it. Here's what to consider.

Can My Employee Take a Vacation While on FMLA Leave?

Last Updated March 19th, 2024
in Benefits & Compensation, Employee Relations Question of the Week

What would you do if an employee posted vacation pictures while out on FMLA leave? Our HR expert shares what to do... and what not to do.

Top 3 Reasons Why New Hires Leave… And How to Turn Around Your Turnover!

Last Updated February 22nd, 2024
in Employee Relations, Recruitment Question of the Week

You can't solve a problem until you understand it. We'll explain the top 3 reasons why new hires leave and what you can do about it!

Is it Important to Use Consensual Relationship Agreements?

Last Updated February 22nd, 2024
in Employee Relations, HR Compliance Question of the Week

What should you do if you learn two of your employees are in a romantic relationship? Learn the value of consensual relationship agreements.

Employee Engagement Ideas To Fit Any Budget

Last Updated October 31st, 2023
in Employee Relations Question of the Week

You can't create an engaged workforce just by copying what other organizations do. Check out these employee engagement ideas for all budgets.

5 Key Points To Use Assessments in the Employee Life Cycle

Last Updated October 31st, 2023
in Employee Relations, HR Strategy Question of the Week

Are you using assessments in these key moments in the employee life cycle? If not, you're missing out on a huge retention opportunity!

Can I Fire Someone During Their Introductory Period?

Last Updated October 31st, 2023
in Employee Relations Question of the Week

Are you putting your organization at risk if you fire someone during their introductory period? Here's how to reduce your risk.

How Can We Make DE&I Programs More Effective?

Last Updated August 31st, 2023
in Employee Relations Question of the Week

How have organizations created engaging and impactful DE&I programs? We'll highlight key foundational components to successful DE&I programs.

Could Sabbaticals Be Your Next Retention Tool?

Last Updated August 31st, 2023
in Benefits & Compensation, Employee Relations Question of the Week

Sabbaticals are gaining in popularity as companies look for meaningful ways to retain employees. Here's what you should consider.

What are the Essentials of a Good Employee Relations Plan?

Last Updated November 14th, 2022
in Employee Relations Question of the Week

What is Employee Relations and how do you develop a good Employee Relations Plan? Here are examples of what to include in your plan.

Image of our Wheel of HR Services, with a focus on Employee Relations.

How Employers Can Understand and Support Those With Eating Disorders

Last Updated November 2nd, 2022
in Employee Relations Question of the Week

Learn how employers can better understand eating disorders and how they can support employees who are afflicted.

Work-Life Balance Has Become Work-Life Integration

Last Updated October 12th, 2022
in Employee Relations Question of the Week

Adopting a work-life integration approach to your work environment just might be the key to attracting and retaining your best employees.

7 Tips On How To Deal With Difficult People At Work

Last Updated September 14th, 2022
in Employee Relations Question of the Week

What should you do if you have to work with a difficult employee or a demanding manager? Here are 7 tips on dealing with difficult people.

Benefits of Using Employee Engagement Surveys

Last Updated August 10th, 2022
in Employee Relations Question of the Week

Employee engagement surveys are a great tool to help businesses get their employees involved and actively engaged in operations. Learn more!

Should We Abolish Performance Improvement Plans?

Last Updated August 10th, 2022
in Employee Relations Question of the Week

Many employees associate performance improvement plans with negative consequences. What can we do to change this perception?

Image of our Wheel of HR Services, with a focus on Employee Relations.

Why Employee Retention is More Important Now Than Ever

Last Updated April 7th, 2022
in Employee Relations Question of the Week

In the post-pandemic "war for talent," employers need to focus on employee retention to survive. Here are strategies to keep your talent.

Working Together Effectively After A Harassment Investigation

Last Updated September 5th, 2021
in Employee Relations Question of the Week

Learn how to help an employee and their supervisor being able to work effectively together after a harassment complaint has been filed.

How to Handle Unemployment Fraud?

Last Updated June 26th, 2021
in Employee Relations Question of the Week

HR Question: Our company is getting unemployment notices for people that have never worked here, or in some cases, people who are still employed. How should I handle this unemployment fraud?

Why Is Workplace Monitoring Necessary?

Last Updated April 30th, 2021
in Employee Relations Question of the Week

Workplace monitoring is often in place to help you. If you have concerns, just ask your organization why they are monitoring the workplace.

Delegation – But I Don’t Want to Give Up Control!

Last Updated September 9th, 2020
in Employee Relations Question of the Week

Delegation is a key skill to have to be an effective manager. The end result can be a highly functioning team and a more engaged workforce.

Making the Change Towards Corporate Social Responsibility in Your Organization

Last Updated June 18th, 2020
in Employee Relations Question of the Week

The importance of corporate social responsibility and steps and strategies HR can take to support the initiative in their workplace.

Being Charged for Constructive Discharge

Last Updated June 9th, 2020
in Employee Relations Question of the Week

Did you receive a charge from the EEOC for constructive discharge? The employee resigned - how is this possible?

How to Handle Political Talk During the Work Day

Last Updated June 9th, 2020
in Employee Relations Question of the Week

It's hard to avoid political talk at work these days. We'll share how employers can help employees approach it with civility and respect.

What Should I Consider Before Doing a Reduction in Force?

Last Updated June 9th, 2020
in Communications, Employee Relations, HR Compliance Question of the Week

Review these eight recommended steps when considering a reduction in force (RIF) within your organization.

Clark Schaefer Strategic HR's wheel of HR Services, including HR Strategy, Recruitment, Training & Development, Benefits & Compensation, Communications, Employee Relations, Recordkeeping, and Health, Safety & Security

Impact Of Miscarriage On Leave

Last Updated November 28th, 2017
in Employee Relations, HR Compliance Question of the Week

Consider your maternity leave policy and possibly FMLA in the event of an employee's miscarriage and need to be out of the office.

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Performance Management: The Individual Strategic Plan

Last Updated November 28th, 2017
in Employee Relations Question of the Week

by Robin Throckmorton, MA, SPHR Performance management has become an ever-increasing critical tool to success for businesses. Within the last year we have experienced both a booming economy as well as a recession; a historically low unemployment rate combined with massive layoffs and business closings. But the bottom line to all of this is people! […]

Should I be worrying about employee retention?

Last Updated November 28th, 2017
in Communications, Employee Relations, HR Strategy Question of the Week

Turnover can cost your business 50-150% of an employee's salary if they leave. Take these steps to retain your staff.

Requiring Employee Contact Information

Last Updated November 28th, 2017
in Employee Relations, Recordkeeping Question of the Week

Can we require our employees to provide their personal cell phone number and home email address to the company?

Attendance Point System Policy

Last Updated November 28th, 2017
in Employee Relations Question of the Week

We have an attendance point system policy that does not seem to be working - what are my options for attendance tracking and discipline?

Are Holiday Gifts, Prizes or Parties Taxable Wages?

Last Updated November 28th, 2017
in Employee Relations Question of the Week

If I give my employees a gift - tangible, cash, gift card, etc., are they considered taxable to the employee?

Establishing a Branded Apparel / Uniform Policy

Last Updated November 28th, 2017
in Employee Relations Question of the Week

Review the key factors to consider when evaluating the implementation of a branded apparel or uniform policy.

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