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At ThinkHR, knowledge makes us tick. We are always on the lookout for the latest workplace and human resources news, trends, research, and law. Here are some of the stories that caught our eye this month.
A Blow to #MeToo?
In a 5-4 ruling, the U.S. Supreme Court on Monday declared that employers can force workers into arbitration, and require employees to waive their civil rights to participate publicly in class-action lawsuits. Dissenting Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg warned that by enabling companies to force arbitration, the Supreme Court may be oppressing and silencing employees who experience workplace discrimination, especially sexual harassment.
Read more on Quartz at Work.
The Gig Economy Grows
Some estimates predict the contingent workforce could comprise about 50 percent of the talent market by 2020. However, many managers and HR departments do not understand all the issues involved with hiring contractors or freelancers, and that creates a serious liability risk.
Read more on HR Dive.
Uncomfortable Conversations
Although you may be understandably hesitant to approach a coworker or employee with a performance or behavior issue, there are seven key principles you can use to navigate an uncomfortable conversation without it being too awkward or, worse, damaging the relationship.
Read more on Marketplace.
“Am I Being Paid Fairly?”
Current employees are likely to have questions about their salary – after all, their paycheck is usually the main reason they work. Don’t get caught off guard. Learn six of the most common pay questions you are likely to be asked and the best ways to answer them.
Read more on Glassdoor.
Creating an Emotionally Empowered Workplace
Ben Congleton, CEO of software maker Olark, became somewhat of an evangelist for mental health awareness in the workplace after an employee’s tweet about his support for her taking a “mental health day” went viral. He shares three steps managers can take to welcome mental health to the workplace wellness conversation.
Read more on Glassdoor.
See the Signs
Three out of four people with substance use disorders are employed. It can be hard to tell the difference between an employee who uses drugs or alcohol recreationally and one who has an addiction. Do you know how to handle it?
Read more on Corporate Wellness Magazine.
Workers’ Comp Watch
There hasn’t been much to report on in workers’ compensation policy over the last few years, but it looks like change is on the horizon. Check out 20 workers’ compensation issues to watch in 2018.
Read more on Insurance Thought Leadership.
ICEd Out
U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) recently announced it has doubled down on worksite enforcement. The agency is focusing on the criminal prosecution of employers who knowingly break the law and using I-9 audits and civil fines to encourage compliance.
Read more on HR Dive.
By Rachel Sobel
Originally published by www.ThinkHR.com