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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

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.
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Free Speech in the Workplace: Navigating Rights & Respect

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? HR Answer We see employee communications often that cause us pause. An employee calls their boss […]
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

Investigations With Intention

HR Question: I just received a complaint about an employee doing work for his other job on our company’s time, and it is going to require an investigation. What do I need to know before getting started? HR Answer: Conducting an employee investigation is a serious matter that must be handled well, utilizing a fair, […]
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

Can you be an Employee and Independent Contractor for the Same Company?

HR Question: Can an individual that is working for us be both an employee AND an independent contractor? HR Answer: According to IRS guidelines, it is possible to have a W-2 employee who also performs work as a 1099 independent contractor. For example, it is possible that an individual could work part of the year […]
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

Managing Frequent ADA Accommodations

Question: I have an employee with a disability and I have made frequent ADA accommodations for them but lately their attendance is horrible.  Frequent call-ins for one thing or another or doctors’ visits have become the norm.  I can’t keep my production line running and I can’t plan for it.  Does the ADA require that I […]
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

What Does In Loco Parentis Mean In Regards to an FMLA Claim?

HR Question: I thought if an employee wants to take FMLA leave to care for a child they have to show proof of guardianship, but now I’m hearing that’s not necessarily the case because of “in loco parentis.” What does this mean? HR Answer: When an employee requests FMLA leave to care for a family […]
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What Should Ohio Employers Know About Marijuana in the Workplace?

Question: As an Ohio employer, can you help me understand how marijuana legalization fits into our employment policies? Answer: You are not alone in trying to navigate the everchanging state of marijuana legalization. A growing number of states have either passed laws, or are considering legislation, to ease restrictions on employees’ use of marijuana for […]