Chronic absenteeism is one of the most common and frustrating issues faced by employers. According to Statistics Canada, in 2012, the average Canadian worker was away from work for 9.3 days – the equivalent of almost 2 weeks. Almost 80% of those absences were considered “casual” and not supported by any sort of doctor’s note. …
Salopek HR Blog
The Role of HR in Health & Safety
Traditionally, the makeup of organizations have included departments like Accounting & Finance, Human Resources, Sales & Marketing, Operations, etc. This old-style model was quite rigid and didn’t allow for much fluidity in the structure, even when there was crossover between business units. Nowadays, although organizations may physically map out their structure, the lines between departments …
Where has the Engagement Gone?
The recession has hit Alberta hard; many professionals have fallen victim to downsizing and layoffs, but what about the surviving employees? Some managers might wonder why, during a time when all hands should be on deck, remaining employees are fading into the background instead of rising to the occasion. Where has the engagement gone? Lack …
Age Discrimination in the Workplace
Canadian workplaces are diverse environments, comprised of individuals from varying backgrounds, cultures and experience. However with diversity, may come discrimination. The Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms was created as part of our constitution to protect all Canadians from prejudice in the form of equality, language and legal rights, but the unfortunate reality is that …
Why Checking References is Important
Today, I was reminded of the importance of checking references. While working with a new client and getting up to speed on their HR issues, I was informed about an ongoing legal battle with an employee who was terminated 3 years ago. This employee was let go after only 2 months with the organization for …
HR Programs – One Size Does Not Fit All
Today’s HR Programs are put in place to attract, retain and engage our people. If the program is not relevant then you might as well “nix it” because it will only cost you money to maintain and it will not generate the outcomes that will positively impact your business. Yes, it may mean abolishing that …
360 Assessments: Leadership Development
I love getting feedback…. especially if it’s positive and complimentary. When it’s negative or constructive, it can sometimes be hard to take. I’ve always admired people who can take feedback really well. It’s a skill. Often, my first reaction is to get defensive, which is a totally normal, emotional response. But in reality, constructive feedback …
Avoiding Stampede HR Hangover
Yahoo! Stampede is upon us once again! As we all know, from a business perspective, Stampede is a great opportunity for networking, connecting with business partners, clients and colleagues over pancakes or beer. Hosting Stampede parties or events is also a great way to show staff appreciation, build morale and encourage team bonding. However, due …
AODA July 1st Changes – Are You Compliant
Did you know that there have been recent changes to the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA) and the changes to standards and compliance come into effect on July 1, 2016? Is your organization compliant and/or do you know what is required in order to become compliant? The purpose of the AODA is to …
Why We Run – Culture, Caring & Community
Salopek’s Run to Renew 10km charity run to support the Calgary Food Bank is this Saturday, and admittedly, I haven’t trained at all. For me it will likely be a gruelling run, completed in a time that won’t be announced, and I am half expecting my weimaraner Bluelle who is running with me to barf …