http://humanresources.about.com/ Get the latest headlines from the About.com http://clk.about.com/?zi=1/1hh http://www.about.com/ 118 20 en-us 2012-02-13T15:32:02Z Mon, 13 Feb 2012 15:32:02 +0000 hourly 1 2000-01-01T12:00+00:00 http://humanresources.about.com/b/2012/02/14/celebrate-valentines-day-by-valuing-coworkers.htm <p><img src="http://z.about.com/d/humanresources/1/0/a/A/hearts.jpg" border="0" align="right"></p> <p>A young colleague who was divorcing after a romance and marriage that lasted from high school until her mid-twenties made a statement so profound that I am not sure she realizes how profound it is. She said to me, "He only had one note and, after all of these years, I just got tired of listening to it."</p>...<p><a href="http://clk.about.com/?zi=1/1hc&#038;zu=http://humanresources.about.com/b/2012/02/14/celebrate-valentines-day-by-valuing-coworkers.htm">Read Full Post</a></p> http://humanresources.about.com/b/2012/02/14/celebrate-valentines-day-by-valuing-coworkers.htm Tue, 14 Feb 2012 00:15:10 +0000 2012-02-14T00:15:10Z http://humanresources.about.com/b/2012/02/13/getting-through-to-the-boss.htm <p><img src="http://0.tqn.com/d/humanresources/1/0/v/E/bartender.jpg" border="0" align="right"></a></p> <p>Managers can learn a lot by watching Gordon Ramsey's <i>Kitchen Nightmares</i>. Recently, I noticed that he had, once again, identified that the problem with the failing restaurant's success was the ...<p><a href="http://clk.about.com/?zi=1/1hc&#038;zu=http://humanresources.about.com/b/2012/02/13/getting-through-to-the-boss.htm">Read Full Post</a></p> http://humanresources.about.com/b/2012/02/13/getting-through-to-the-boss.htm Mon, 13 Feb 2012 15:32:02 +0000 2012-02-13T15:32:02Z http://humanresources.about.com/b/2012/02/13/interviewing-prospective-hr-employees.htm <p><img src="http://0.tqn.com/d/humanresources/1/0/_/E/womaninterview.jpg" border="0" align="right"></a></p> <p>When you interview prospective Human Resources employees, you need interview questions that identify the unique skills and experience needed by HR staff. Especially to identify employees who have experience ...<p><a href="http://clk.about.com/?zi=1/1hc&#038;zu=http://humanresources.about.com/b/2012/02/13/interviewing-prospective-hr-employees.htm">Read Full Post</a></p> http://humanresources.about.com/b/2012/02/13/interviewing-prospective-hr-employees.htm Mon, 13 Feb 2012 09:00:01 +0000 2012-02-13T09:00:01Z http://humanresources.about.com/b/2012/02/12/search-for-the-guilty-and-empowerment.htm <p><img src="http://0.tqn.com/d/humanresources/1/0/j/F/casualdressdiscussion.jpg" border="0" align="right"></a></p> <p>After years of writing this website and covering just about every imaginable topic in HR - okay, so I'm still missing a few - certain articles stand out for their ...<p><a href="http://clk.about.com/?zi=1/1hc&#038;zu=http://humanresources.about.com/b/2012/02/12/search-for-the-guilty-and-empowerment.htm">Read Full Post</a></p> http://humanresources.about.com/b/2012/02/12/search-for-the-guilty-and-empowerment.htm Sun, 12 Feb 2012 17:00:41 +0000 2012-02-12T17:00:41Z http://humanresources.about.com/b/2012/02/12/code-of-conduct.htm <p><img src="http://0.tqn.com/d/humanresources/1/0/w/A/continuingchange.jpg" border="0" align="right"></a></p> <p>Need a way to articulate your values and beliefs? A company Code of Conduct is a written collection of the rules, principles, values, and employee expectations, behavior, and relationships that ...<p><a href="http://clk.about.com/?zi=1/1hc&#038;zu=http://humanresources.about.com/b/2012/02/12/code-of-conduct.htm">Read Full Post</a></p> http://humanresources.about.com/b/2012/02/12/code-of-conduct.htm Sun, 12 Feb 2012 09:20:37 +0000 2012-02-12T09:20:37Z http://humanresources.about.com/b/2012/02/11/use-nonverbal-communication-to-enhance-meaning.htm <p><img src="http://0.tqn.com/d/humanresources/1/0/H/E/casualcoworkers.jpg" border="0" align="right"></a></p> <p>Are you interested in communicating more effectively at work? Nonverbal communication is key to <a href="http://clk.about.com/?zi=1/1hc&#038;zu=http://humanresources.about.com/od/glossaryc/qt/communication-in-the-workplace.htm">communication</a> that will enhance your career and help you more effectively lead other employees. Nonverbal communication ...<p><a href="http://clk.about.com/?zi=1/1hc&#038;zu=http://humanresources.about.com/b/2012/02/11/use-nonverbal-communication-to-enhance-meaning.htm">Read Full Post</a></p> http://humanresources.about.com/b/2012/02/11/use-nonverbal-communication-to-enhance-meaning.htm Sat, 11 Feb 2012 15:00:26 +0000 2012-02-11T15:00:26Z http://humanresources.about.com/b/2012/02/11/superheroes-and-employees-online.htm <p><img src="http://0.tqn.com/d/humanresources/1/0/q/A/Stop.jpg" border="0" align="right"></a></p> <p>Many of us who work in Human Resources, or even management, are helpers, at heart. So, when I encountered this quiz online, my first thought was to share it with ...<p><a href="http://clk.about.com/?zi=1/1hc&#038;zu=http://humanresources.about.com/b/2012/02/11/superheroes-and-employees-online.htm">Read Full Post</a></p> http://humanresources.about.com/b/2012/02/11/superheroes-and-employees-online.htm Sat, 11 Feb 2012 09:00:03 +0000 2012-02-11T09:00:03Z http://humanresources.about.com/b/2012/02/10/you-need-allies-at-work.htm <p><img src="http://z.about.com/d/humanresources/1/0/w/B/Promo.jpg" border="0" align="right"></p> <p>Do you want to effectively <a href="http://clk.about.com/?zi=1/1hc&#038;zu=http://humanresources.about.com/od/success/a/personal_vision.htm">accomplish your work mission and vision</a>? If so, you need allies, people who support your ideas at work.</p> <p>Forming these alliances takes time and energy, but they are worth the investment for the payback they provide. A positive, successful alliance is a collaboration that accomplishes great good for you and for your organization. Learn more about how and why to <a href="http://clk.about.com/?zi=1/1hc&#038;zu=http://humanresources.about.com/cs/workrelationships/a/workallies.htm">establish alliances at work</a>.<p> <p>Recognize the importance of alliances? Your most important alliance, to accomplish your work mission and achieve your goals, is the relationship you develop with your boss. A successful boss relationship is worth its weight in gold. You can <a href="http://clk.about.com/?zi=1/1hc&#038;zu=http://humanresources.about.com/od/workrelationships/a/boss_relations.htm">take these steps</a> to interact even more successfully with the person you fondly - or not - call <b>boss</b>.</p> <p>Furthermore, alliances are no longer limited to fellow employees and your boss in your workplace. Strong alliances are developing, for people who take the time, through <a href="http://clk.about.com/?zi=1/1hc&#038;zu=http://humanresources.about.com/od/careernetworking/a/social_media.htm">social networking</a> sites such as Twitter, Facebook, and LinkedIn.</p> <p>If you want to <a href="http://clk.about.com/?zi=1/1hc&#038;zu=http://humanresources.about.com/b/2010/07/29/stay-relevant-at-any-age.htm">remain relevant</a>, the time you invest in social networking informs you, provides a network of people for collaboration and communication, enhances your professional reputation or brand, gives you alliances that last your entire career, and provides a safety net in the event of layoffs, career changes, and unemployment.</p> <p>_{Image &#169; Getty Images / Rob Melnychuk}</p> <b>More Resources About Social Networking</b> <ul><li><a href="http://clk.about.com/?zi=1/1hc&#038;zu=http://humanresources.about.com/u/ua/careernetworking/social_responses.htm">Top Reasons to Participate in Social Media</a></li> <li><a href="http://clk.about.com/?zi=1/1hc&#038;zu=http://humanresources.about.com/od/interpersonalcommunication/a/networking_jobs.htm">Network Your Way to a New Job or Career</a></li> <li><a href="http://clk.about.com/?zi=1/1hc&#038;zu=http://humanresources.about.com/b/2008/04/22/use-linkedin-for-recruiting-employees.htm">Use LinkedIn for Recruiting Employees</a></li> <li><a href="http://clk.about.com/?zi=1/1hc&#038;zu=http://humanresources.about.com/od/careernetworking/a/social_media.htm">Social Media Should Rock Your World</a></li></ul> <p><b>Featured Policy</b></p> Looking for the advantages and disadvantage of a <a href="http://clk.about.com/?zi=1/1hc&#038;zu=http://humanresources.about.com/od/glossaryp/g/pto_policy.htm">Paid Time Off Policy (PTO)</a>? Here's a quick summary of the PTO system of employee time off. You may find the advantages outweigh the disadvantages in employee PTO. See a <a href="http://clk.about.com/?zi=1/1hc&#038;zu=http://humanresources.about.com/od/policysamplesoq/a/pto_policy.htm">sample PTO policy</a>.</p> <p><b>Connect with Susan:</b> <a href="http://clk.about.com/?zi=1/1hc&#038;zu=http://humanresources.about.com/gi/pages/stay.htm">Free Newsletter</a> &#124; <a href="http://clk.about.com/?zi=1/1hc&#038;zu=http://forums.about.com/n/pfx/forum.aspx?nav=messages&#038;webtag=ab-humanrsrc">HR Forum</a> &#124; <a href="http://clk.about.com/?zi=1/1hc&#038;zu=http://www.linkedin.com/pub/susan-heathfield/3/62/5a6">LinkedIn</a> &#124; <a href="http://clk.about.com/?zi=1/1hc&#038;zu=http://www.facebook.com/abouthumanresources">Facebook</a> &#124; <a href="http://clk.about.com/?zi=1/1hc&#038;zu=http://gplus.to/susanheathfield">Google+</a> &#124; <a href="http://clk.about.com/?zi=1/1hc&#038;zu=http://www.twitter.com/AboutcomHR">@AboutHR on Twitter</a></p> http://humanresources.about.com/b/2012/02/10/you-need-allies-at-work.htm Fri, 10 Feb 2012 18:04:29 +0000 2012-02-10T18:04:29Z http://humanresources.about.com/b/2012/02/10/performance-appraisal.htm <p><img src="http://z.about.com/d/humanresources/1/0/V/A/newyearnetworking.jpg" border="0" align="right"></a></p> <p>Have you applied a concept from this website to your every day job with success? I love to hear how readers applied a concept from this website to their every ...<p><a href="http://clk.about.com/?zi=1/1hc&#038;zu=http://humanresources.about.com/b/2012/02/10/performance-appraisal.htm">Read Full Post</a></p> http://humanresources.about.com/b/2012/02/10/performance-appraisal.htm Fri, 10 Feb 2012 09:00:38 +0000 2012-02-10T09:00:38Z http://humanresources.about.com/b/2012/02/09/causes-of-negativity.htm <p><img src="http://0.tqn.com/d/humanresources/1/0/H/A/Stress.jpg" border="0" align="right"></a></p> <p>Are you experiencing employee negativity in your workplace? Recently, I made a podcast about employee negativity and I am reminded that a large percentage of my reader email, the posts ...<p><a href="http://clk.about.com/?zi=1/1hc&#038;zu=http://humanresources.about.com/b/2012/02/09/causes-of-negativity.htm">Read Full Post</a></p> http://humanresources.about.com/b/2012/02/09/causes-of-negativity.htm Thu, 09 Feb 2012 15:21:09 +0000 2012-02-09T15:21:09Z http://humanresources.about.com/b/2012/02/09/resume-red-flags-for-employers.htm <p><img src="http://0.tqn.com/d/humanresources/1/0/8/H/prettybusinesswomen.jpg" border="0" align="right"></a></p> <p>Do you know how to eliminate fraudulent candidates early in your application review process? Writing about <a href="http://clk.about.com/?zi=1/1hc&#038;zu=http://humanresources.about.com/od/selectemployees/qt/candidate-background-checking.htm">background checking</a> recently, my research showed that resume and credential fraud is escalating. For ...<p><a href="http://clk.about.com/?zi=1/1hc&#038;zu=http://humanresources.about.com/b/2012/02/09/resume-red-flags-for-employers.htm">Read Full Post</a></p> http://humanresources.about.com/b/2012/02/09/resume-red-flags-for-employers.htm Thu, 09 Feb 2012 09:54:55 +0000 2012-02-09T09:54:55Z http://humanresources.about.com/b/2012/02/08/want-to-speed-up-your-hiring-process.htm <p><img src="http://0.tqn.com/d/humanresources/1/0/0/I/Updated-JR-2009.jpg" border="0" align="right"></a></p> <p>Are you interested in ways to speed up your <a href="http://clk.about.com/?zi=1/1hc&#038;zu=http://humanresources.about.com/cs/selectionstaffing/a/hiringchecklist.htm">hiring process</a>? When an employee gives his or her <a href="http://clk.about.com/?zi=1/1hc&#038;zu=http://jobsearch.about.com/od/jobsearchglossary/g/notice.htm">two weeks' notice</a>, an employer rarely has a new employee waiting in ...<p><a href="http://clk.about.com/?zi=1/1hc&#038;zu=http://humanresources.about.com/b/2012/02/08/want-to-speed-up-your-hiring-process.htm">Read Full Post</a></p> http://humanresources.about.com/b/2012/02/08/want-to-speed-up-your-hiring-process.htm Wed, 08 Feb 2012 15:00:34 +0000 2012-02-08T15:00:34Z http://humanresources.about.com/b/2012/02/08/offer-perks-for-retention.htm <p><img src="http://0.tqn.com/d/humanresources/1/0/K/H/worklifebalance.jpg" border="0" align="right"></a></p> <p>Want to know what will help you stay competitive when you recruit as an <a href="http://clk.about.com/?zi=1/1hc&#038;zu=http://humanresources.about.com/od/glossarye/g/employer-of-choice.htm">employer of choice</a>? <a href="http://clk.about.com/?zi=1/1hc&#038;zu=http://humanresources.about.com/od/glossaryp/g/Perks.htm">Perks</a> and <a href="http://clk.about.com/?zi=1/1hc&#038;zu=http://humanresources.about.com/od/glossaryb/g/benefits.htm">benefits</a> can help you attract ...<p><a href="http://clk.about.com/?zi=1/1hc&#038;zu=http://humanresources.about.com/b/2012/02/08/offer-perks-for-retention.htm">Read Full Post</a></p> http://humanresources.about.com/b/2012/02/08/offer-perks-for-retention.htm Wed, 08 Feb 2012 12:15:17 +0000 2012-02-08T12:15:17Z http://humanresources.about.com/b/2012/02/07/becoming-a-sage.htm <p><img src="http://z.about.com/d/humanresources/1/0/y/A/Learningorg.jpg" align="right"></p> <p>I find myself dwelling on success this week and information that talks about what it takes to succeed is drawing my attention. Successful people practice life-long self-development. Studies show that successful people have similar characteristics.</p>...<p><a href="http://clk.about.com/?zi=1/1hc&#038;zu=http://humanresources.about.com/b/2012/02/07/becoming-a-sage.htm">Read Full Post</a></p> http://humanresources.about.com/b/2012/02/07/becoming-a-sage.htm Tue, 07 Feb 2012 16:58:52 +0000 2012-02-07T16:58:52Z http://humanresources.about.com/b/2012/02/07/mental-prep-for-an-internal-job-interview.htm <p><img src="http://0.tqn.com/d/humanresources/1/0/M/H/threeinterviewers.jpg" border="0" align="right"></a></p> <p>Lots of reader questions lately have grabbed my attention. I want to share them for the common good. Perhaps other readers have found themselves in similar situations and positions. As ...<p><a href="http://clk.about.com/?zi=1/1hc&#038;zu=http://humanresources.about.com/b/2012/02/07/mental-prep-for-an-internal-job-interview.htm">Read Full Post</a></p> http://humanresources.about.com/b/2012/02/07/mental-prep-for-an-internal-job-interview.htm Tue, 07 Feb 2012 09:00:52 +0000 2012-02-07T09:00:52Z http://humanresources.about.com/b/2012/02/06/employee-motivation-off-topic.htm <p><img src="http://z.about.com/d/humanresources/1/0/U/G/smilingcasualmeeting.jpg" border="0" align="right"></a></p> <p>It's a perfectly gorgeous, warm winter day where I am. Employees are planning vacations and selling available tickets to winter and spring sporting events. The soccer team needs a new ...<p><a href="http://clk.about.com/?zi=1/1hc&#038;zu=http://humanresources.about.com/b/2012/02/06/employee-motivation-off-topic.htm">Read Full Post</a></p> http://humanresources.about.com/b/2012/02/06/employee-motivation-off-topic.htm Mon, 06 Feb 2012 15:00:21 +0000 2012-02-06T15:00:21Z http://humanresources.about.com/b/2012/02/06/you-want-my-social-security-number.htm <p><img src="http://0.tqn.com/d/humanresources/1/0/5/E/businesspeople.jpg" border="0" align="right"></a></p> <p>Readers increasingly ask questions that pertain to the privacy of their personal information both on online job applications and paper job applications filled out and retained by the potential employer. ...<p><a href="http://clk.about.com/?zi=1/1hc&#038;zu=http://humanresources.about.com/b/2012/02/06/you-want-my-social-security-number.htm">Read Full Post</a></p> http://humanresources.about.com/b/2012/02/06/you-want-my-social-security-number.htm Mon, 06 Feb 2012 11:00:13 +0000 2012-02-06T11:00:13Z http://humanresources.about.com/b/2012/02/05/what-makes-a-manager-a-bad-boss.htm <p><img src="http://0.tqn.com/d/humanresources/1/0/Z/C/SHEmployeeComplaint.jpg" border="0" align="right"></a></p> <p>Bad bosses are a perennially popular topic on this site. I think that the topic of a bad boss resonates with everyone because we have all had a bad boss ...<p><a href="http://clk.about.com/?zi=1/1hc&#038;zu=http://humanresources.about.com/b/2012/02/05/what-makes-a-manager-a-bad-boss.htm">Read Full Post</a></p> http://humanresources.about.com/b/2012/02/05/what-makes-a-manager-a-bad-boss.htm Sun, 05 Feb 2012 15:30:37 +0000 2012-02-05T15:30:37Z http://humanresources.about.com/b/2012/02/05/does-your-recognition-program-work.htm <p><p><img src="http://0.tqn.com/d/humanresources/1/0/x/9/Presentarticle1.jpg" border="0" align="right"></a></p> <p>A reader, working in a successful business, wrote to ask how to make his <a href="http://clk.about.com/?zi=1/1hc&#038;zu=http://humanresources.about.com/od/rewardrecognition/qt/reward_criteria.htm">monthly employee recognition program</a> more effective. The recognition program essentially asked coworkers to nominate each other for a monthly recognition that only one person received. And, no employees nominated anyone for the recognition program.</p>...<p><a href="http://clk.about.com/?zi=1/1hc&#038;zu=http://humanresources.about.com/b/2012/02/05/does-your-recognition-program-work.htm">Read Full Post</a></p> http://humanresources.about.com/b/2012/02/05/does-your-recognition-program-work.htm Sun, 05 Feb 2012 08:00:06 +0000 2012-02-05T08:00:06Z http://humanresources.about.com/b/2012/02/04/office-romance-okay.htm <p><img src="http://z.about.com/d/humanresources/1/0/b/A/workromance.jpg" border="0" align="right"></p> <p>Love is in the air around Valentine's Day each year. So, it's also the time of year when readers ask me about non-fraternization policies that forbid dating coworkers or bosses at work. My response? In most cases, go for the love.</p>...<p><a href="http://clk.about.com/?zi=1/1hc&#038;zu=http://humanresources.about.com/b/2012/02/04/office-romance-okay.htm">Read Full Post</a></p> http://humanresources.about.com/b/2012/02/04/office-romance-okay.htm Sat, 04 Feb 2012 10:00:18 +0000 2012-02-04T10:00:18Z http://humanresources.about.com/b/2012/02/03/rocking-rolling-ice-breaker-questions.htm <p><img src="http://0.tqn.com/d/humanresources/1/0/j/E/businesswomanconference.jpg" border="0" align="right"></a></p> <p>Need a quick, easy ice breaker that requires almost no preparation yet is versatile enough to use for just about any occasion? This ice breaker is a direct result of ...<p><a href="http://clk.about.com/?zi=1/1hc&#038;zu=http://humanresources.about.com/b/2012/02/03/rocking-rolling-ice-breaker-questions.htm">Read Full Post</a></p> http://humanresources.about.com/b/2012/02/03/rocking-rolling-ice-breaker-questions.htm Fri, 03 Feb 2012 15:00:32 +0000 2012-02-03T15:00:32Z http://humanresources.about.com/b/2012/02/03/merit-pay-is-a-powerful-motivator-sometimes.htm <p><img src="http://0.tqn.com/d/humanresources/1/0/7/A/ShowAppreciation.jpg" border="0" align="right"></a></p> <p>Looking into merit pay and what I find is that - bottom line - it is difficult, if not impossible, to remove the manager's opinion from the performance mix. (See ...<p><a href="http://clk.about.com/?zi=1/1hc&#038;zu=http://humanresources.about.com/b/2012/02/03/merit-pay-is-a-powerful-motivator-sometimes.htm">Read Full Post</a></p> http://humanresources.about.com/b/2012/02/03/merit-pay-is-a-powerful-motivator-sometimes.htm Fri, 03 Feb 2012 10:11:12 +0000 2012-02-03T10:11:12Z http://humanresources.about.com/b/2012/02/02/do-you-use-phone-interviews-to-screen.htm <p><img src="http://0.tqn.com/d/humanresources/1/0/o/E/womanworkphonelaptop.jpg" border="0" align="right"></a></p <p>Companies that are growing quickly invest a lot of staff time in <a href="http://clk.about.com/?zi=1/1hc&#038;zu=http://humanresources.about.com/cs/selectionstaffing/a/interviews.htm">interviewing</a> and <a href="http://clk.about.com/?zi=1/1hc&#038;zu=http://humanresources.about.com/od/recruiting/a/how-to-make-a-job-offer.htm">selecting the right candidates</a> for their jobs. Participative companies like to hold small group interviews in which four or five employees meet with each candidate in the first round interview.</p> <p>While I support their interaction and believe that this is an effective method for assessing the candidate's ability to fit within their <a href="http://clk.about.com/?zi=1/1hc&#038;zu=http://humanresources.about.com/od/organizationalculture/a/culture.htm">culture</a>, it is a heavy investment of staff time. If you invest staff resources in interviewing, you may want to adopt the <a href="http://clk.about.com/?zi=1/1hc&#038;zu=http://humanresources.about.com/od/glossaryp/g/phone-interviews-screen-applicants.htm">phone interview</a> as an initial screen. The phone interview is a method for making sure that only the most qualified candidates receive a first round, time consuming interview on site.</p> <p>The telephone interview allows the employer to determine if the candidate's qualifications, experience, workplace preferences and salary needs are congruent with the position and the organization. The phone interview saves management time and eliminates unlikely candidates.</p> <p>Review my suggested format for a <a href="http://clk.about.com/?zi=1/1hc&#038;zu=http://humanresources.about.com/cs/recruiting/a/phonescreenform.htm">phone interview</a>.</p> <p>_{Image Copyright Marili Forastieri / Getty Images}</p> <p><b>More About Recruiting and Hiring</b></p> <ul><li><a href="http://clk.about.com/?zi=1/1hc&#038;zu=http://humanresources.about.com/cs/recruiting/a/candidatepool.htm">Recruiting Stars: Top 10 Ideas for Recruiting Great Candidates</a></li> <li><a href="http://clk.about.com/?zi=1/1hc&#038;zu=http://humanresources.about.com/cs/selectionstaffing/a/hiringchecklist.htm">How to Recruit and Hire the Best: A Checklist for Success</a></li> <li><a href="http://clk.about.com/?zi=1/1hc&#038;zu=http://humanresources.about.com/c/ec/1.htm">Recruit and Hire the Best: Free Email Class</a></li></ul> <p><b>Connect with Susan:</b> <a href="http://clk.about.com/?zi=1/1hc&#038;zu=http://humanresources.about.com/gi/pages/stay.htm">Free Newsletter</a> &#124; <a href="http://clk.about.com/?zi=1/1hc&#038;zu=http://forums.about.com/n/pfx/forum.aspx?nav=messages&#038;webtag=ab-humanrsrc">HR Forum</a> &#124; <a href="http://clk.about.com/?zi=1/1hc&#038;zu=http://www.linkedin.com/pub/susan-heathfield/3/62/5a6">LinkedIn</a> &#124; <a href="http://clk.about.com/?zi=1/1hc&#038;zu=http://www.facebook.com/abouthumanresources">Facebook</a> &#124; <a href="http://clk.about.com/?zi=1/1hc&#038;zu=http://gplus.to/susanheathfield">Google+</a> &#124; <a href="http://clk.about.com/?zi=1/1hc&#038;zu=http://www.twitter.com/AboutcomHR">@AboutHR on Twitter</a></p> http://humanresources.about.com/b/2012/02/02/do-you-use-phone-interviews-to-screen.htm Thu, 02 Feb 2012 15:00:54 +0000 2012-02-02T15:00:54Z http://humanresources.about.com/b/2012/02/02/what-comprises-successful-communication.htm <p><img src="http://0.tqn.com/d/humanresources/1/0/Y/H/iStock_mentoring.jpg" border="0" align="right"></a></p> Want to know more about effective communication in the workplace? It's been a couple of years since I spent a lot of time writing about communication, but some consulting work ...<p><a href="http://clk.about.com/?zi=1/1hc&#038;zu=http://humanresources.about.com/b/2012/02/02/what-comprises-successful-communication.htm">Read Full Post</a></p> http://humanresources.about.com/b/2012/02/02/what-comprises-successful-communication.htm Thu, 02 Feb 2012 09:00:17 +0000 2012-02-02T09:00:17Z http://humanresources.about.com/b/2012/02/01/celebrate-black-history.htm <p><img src="http://z.about.com/d/humanresources/1/0/6/E/excitedbusinessman.jpg" align="left"></p> <p>February is National Black History Month, a month during which we recognize the achievements and contributions of black Americans.</p> <p>In my classic piece, <a href="http://clk.about.com/?zi=1/1hc&#038;zu=http://humanresources.about.com/od/diversity/a/diversity.htm">Search for Similarities</a>, about diversity in the workplace, you'll find my preferred approach.</p>...<p><a href="http://clk.about.com/?zi=1/1hc&#038;zu=http://humanresources.about.com/b/2012/02/01/celebrate-black-history.htm">Read Full Post</a></p> http://humanresources.about.com/b/2012/02/01/celebrate-black-history.htm Wed, 01 Feb 2012 15:00:50 +0000 2012-02-01T15:00:50Z http://humanresources.about.com/b/2012/02/01/avoid-the-feedback-sandwich-to-promote-employee-performance.htm <p><img src="http://0.tqn.com/d/humanresources/1/0/u/G/partnerconsultation.jpg" border="0" align="right"></a></p> <p>Interested in knowing whether to use the feedback sandwich approach when you provide feedback about performance to employees? I wouldn't go there. The feedback sandwich is insulting, ineffective, and misleading. ...<p><a href="http://clk.about.com/?zi=1/1hc&#038;zu=http://humanresources.about.com/b/2012/02/01/avoid-the-feedback-sandwich-to-promote-employee-performance.htm">Read Full Post</a></p> http://humanresources.about.com/b/2012/02/01/avoid-the-feedback-sandwich-to-promote-employee-performance.htm Wed, 01 Feb 2012 11:10:13 +0000 2012-02-01T11:10:13Z http://humanresources.about.com/b/2012/01/31/see-a-new-twist-on-job-descriptions.htm <p><img src="http://z.about.com/d/humanresources/1/0/K/A/jobdescription.jpg" align="right"> <p>Readers ask frequently whether employees need job descriptions or if they have become such a legal mine field that we are best off forgetting about them. I am a firm believer in the necessity of providing <a href="http://clk.about.com/?zi=1/1hc&#038;zu=http://humanresources.about.com/od/teamworksuccess/qt/clear_expectations.htm">clear direction</a> to employees.</p> <p>Don't micromanage employee work by any definition, but do make sure employees are clear about your expectations and the parameters within which they may make decisions - whatever they are, however broad or narrow they may be, in your organization.</p> <p>The process of developing a <a href="http://clk.about.com/?zi=1/1hc&#038;zu=http://humanresources.about.com/od/jobdescriptions/g/job_description.htm">job description</a> helps you articulate the most important outcomes you need from an employee performing a particular job. A job description is also a <a href="http://clk.about.com/?zi=1/1hc&#038;zu=http://humanresources.about.com/od/glossaryj/a/jobdescriptions.htm">communication tool</a> that tells coworkers where their job leaves off and the job of another starts.</p> <p>A well-written job description tells an employee where their job fits within the overall department and the overall company. Well-written job descriptions help employees from other departments, who must work with the person hired, understand the boundaries of the person's responsibilities. Finally, the job description is an integral piece of the <a href="http://clk.about.com/?zi=1/1hc&#038;zu=http://humanresources.about.com/cs/perfmeasurement/a/pdp.htm">performance development planning process</a>.</p> <p><b>A Different Approach to Job Descriptions</b></p> <p>My best solutions to share come from readers. Julie Ryan, Director of Human Resources at <a href="http://clk.about.com/?zi=1/1hc&#038;zu=http://www.primarypc.com">Primary PhysicianCare</a>, sent in her company's approach to job descriptions. Julie writes:</p> <p>"I work for a company that has never used job descriptions but because of growth, we are now a mid-size company, and we have run into problems by not having them. Now, we call our job descriptions, <i>Employee Profiles</i>, and they are maintained by the employees with collaboration from their managers.</p> <p>"We use the profiles along with <a href="http://clk.about.com/?zi=1/1hc&#038;zu=http://humanresources.about.com/od/performancemanagement/a/self_evaluation.htm">self evaluations</a> when we are looking at compensation increases. They are very helpful for many reasons:</p> <ul><li>"reassigning duties due to promotion or demotion,</li> <li>"dealing with the transition of a resignation or termination, and</li> <li>"educating executives on the role that our employees play within the company.</li></ul> <p>"Our employees update their profiles regularly and are proud of their employee profiles as they demonstrate the work that they do for the company."</p> <p>_{Image &#169; Tom McNemar}</p> <p><b>More About Job Descriptions</b></p> <ul> <li><a href="http://clk.about.com/?zi=1/1hc&#038;zu=http://humanresources.about.com/od/glossaryj/a/jobdescriptions.htm">Why Effective Job Descriptions Make Business Sense</a></li> <li><a href="http://clk.about.com/?zi=1/1hc&#038;zu=http://humanresources.about.com/od/jobdescriptions/f/hr_job_mgr.htm">What Does a Human Resources Manager, Generalist, or Director Do?</a></li> <li><a href="http://clk.about.com/?zi=1/1hc&#038;zu=http://humanresources.about.com/od/samplejobdescriptions/a/Human-Resources-Manager-Job-Description.htm">Sample Human Resources Manager Job Description</a></li> <li><a href="http://clk.about.com/?zi=1/1hc&#038;zu=http://humanresources.about.com/od/jobdescriptions/a/HR_Generalist.htm">Sample Human Resources Generalist Job Description</a></li> <li><a href="http://clk.about.com/?zi=1/1hc&#038;zu=http://humanresources.about.com/od/jobdescriptions/a/HR_Director.htm">Sample Human Resources Director Job Description</a></li> </ul> <p><b>Connect with Susan:</b> <a href="http://clk.about.com/?zi=1/1hc&#038;zu=http://humanresources.about.com/gi/pages/stay.htm">Free Newsletter</a> &#124; <a href="http://clk.about.com/?zi=1/1hc&#038;zu=http://forums.about.com/n/pfx/forum.aspx?nav=messages&#038;webtag=ab-humanrsrc">HR Forum</a> &#124; <a href="http://clk.about.com/?zi=1/1hc&#038;zu=http://www.linkedin.com/pub/susan-heathfield/3/62/5a6">LinkedIn</a> &#124; <a href="http://clk.about.com/?zi=1/1hc&#038;zu=http://www.facebook.com/abouthumanresources">Facebook</a> &#124; <a href="http://clk.about.com/?zi=1/1hc&#038;zu=http://gplus.to/susanheathfield">Google+</a> &#124; <a href="http://clk.about.com/?zi=1/1hc&#038;zu=http://www.twitter.com/AboutcomHR">Twitter @AboutHR</a></p> http://humanresources.about.com/b/2012/01/31/see-a-new-twist-on-job-descriptions.htm Tue, 31 Jan 2012 15:00:10 +0000 2012-01-31T15:00:10Z http://humanresources.about.com/b/2012/01/31/need-phrases-for-performance-reviews-and-other-difficult-conversations.htm <p><img src="http://0.tqn.com/d/humanresources/1/0/I/E/womeninterview.jpg" border="0" align="right"></a></p> <p>Does it seem sometimes that you need a whole different language for talking with employees during a less-than-outstanding performance review? The myriad conversations that you participate in during the course ...<p><a href="http://clk.about.com/?zi=1/1hc&#038;zu=http://humanresources.about.com/b/2012/01/31/need-phrases-for-performance-reviews-and-other-difficult-conversations.htm">Read Full Post</a></p> http://humanresources.about.com/b/2012/01/31/need-phrases-for-performance-reviews-and-other-difficult-conversations.htm Tue, 31 Jan 2012 10:03:33 +0000 2012-01-31T10:03:33Z http://humanresources.about.com/b/2012/01/30/welcome-new-employees-with-letter.htm <p><img src="http://z.about.com/d/humanresources/1/0/d/D/bfblog9.jpg" align="right"></p> <p>After an applicant accepts your <a href="http://clk.about.com/?zi=1/1hc&#038;zu=http://humanresources.about.com/cs/policysamples/a/joboffer.htm">job offer</a> and before the new employee starts at your company, you have an opportunity to enhance the relationship before the new employee even starts work.</p>...<p><a href="http://clk.about.com/?zi=1/1hc&#038;zu=http://humanresources.about.com/b/2012/01/30/welcome-new-employees-with-letter.htm">Read Full Post</a></p> http://humanresources.about.com/b/2012/01/30/welcome-new-employees-with-letter.htm Mon, 30 Jan 2012 15:35:21 +0000 2012-01-30T15:35:21Z http://humanresources.about.com/b/2012/01/30/how-to-resign-from-your-job.htm <p><img src="http://0.tqn.com/d/humanresources/1/0/V/H/iStock_Resign_From_Job.jpg" border="0" align="right"></a></p> <p>Think resigning from your job is easy? Just drop that <a href="http://clk.about.com/?zi=1/1hc&#038;zu=http://humanresources.about.com/od/glossaryr/a/resigne_letter.htm">resignation letter</a> off on the boss's desk, and you're home free. Sure, you can resign from your job that way, ...<p><a href="http://clk.about.com/?zi=1/1hc&#038;zu=http://humanresources.about.com/b/2012/01/30/how-to-resign-from-your-job.htm">Read Full Post</a></p> http://humanresources.about.com/b/2012/01/30/how-to-resign-from-your-job.htm Mon, 30 Jan 2012 09:00:41 +0000 2012-01-30T09:00:41Z http://humanresources.about.com/b/2012/01/29/are-you-hiring-superior-employees.htm <p><img src="http://0.tqn.com/d/humanresources/1/0/l/H/Dan-Erling.jpg" border="0" align="right"></a></p> <p>Probably not. And, if not, why not? You win some, you lose some, and some days, it rains, or snows, as the case may be. Most organizations are not hiring ...<p><a href="http://clk.about.com/?zi=1/1hc&#038;zu=http://humanresources.about.com/b/2012/01/29/are-you-hiring-superior-employees.htm">Read Full Post</a></p> http://humanresources.about.com/b/2012/01/29/are-you-hiring-superior-employees.htm Sun, 29 Jan 2012 12:23:56 +0000 2012-01-29T12:23:56Z http://humanresources.about.com/b/2012/01/28/try-learning-at-a-brown-bag-lunch.htm <p><img src=" http://0.tqn.com/d/humanresources/1/0/h/H/iStock_coffee-break-laptop-two-mixed.jpg" border="0" align="right"></a></p> <p>Do you take advantage of inexpensive, team building and morale boosting opportunities to help your employees adopt a continuous learning mindset? One of the hallmarks of <a href="http://clk.about.com/?zi=1/1hc&#038;zu=http://humanresources.about.com/od/educationgeneral/a/learning_org.htm">learning organizations</a>, employers can ...<p><a href="http://clk.about.com/?zi=1/1hc&#038;zu=http://humanresources.about.com/b/2012/01/28/try-learning-at-a-brown-bag-lunch.htm">Read Full Post</a></p> http://humanresources.about.com/b/2012/01/28/try-learning-at-a-brown-bag-lunch.htm Sat, 28 Jan 2012 16:35:02 +0000 2012-01-28T16:35:02Z http://humanresources.about.com/b/2012/01/28/create-value-with-human-resource-measures.htm <p><img src="http://0.tqn.com/d/humanresources/1/0/w/A/continuingchange.jpg" border="0" align="right"></a></p> <p>Are you interested in how to measure the impact of Human Resources leadership, management, actions, policies, and assistance in your organization? You should be so that your organization understands your ...<p><a href="http://clk.about.com/?zi=1/1hc&#038;zu=http://humanresources.about.com/b/2012/01/28/create-value-with-human-resource-measures.htm">Read Full Post</a></p> http://humanresources.about.com/b/2012/01/28/create-value-with-human-resource-measures.htm Sat, 28 Jan 2012 09:00:31 +0000 2012-01-28T09:00:31Z http://humanresources.about.com/b/2012/01/27/want-powerful-on-the-job-training.htm <p><img src="http://0.tqn.com/d/humanresources/1/0/7/G/bloglmforkliftman.jpg" border="0" align="right"></a></p> <p>Explore the power of <a href="http://clk.about.com/?zi=1/1hc&#038;zu=http://humanresources.about.com/od/educationgeneral/g/on-the-job-training.htm">on-the-job training</a> to enhance employee development in your organization. Use <a href="http://clk.about.com/?zi=1/1hc&#038;zu=http://humanresources.about.com/od/training/g/job-shadowing.htm">job shadowing</a> as a significant component in on-the-job training, too.</p> <p>Probably because ...<p><a href="http://clk.about.com/?zi=1/1hc&#038;zu=http://humanresources.about.com/b/2012/01/27/want-powerful-on-the-job-training.htm">Read Full Post</a></p> http://humanresources.about.com/b/2012/01/27/want-powerful-on-the-job-training.htm Fri, 27 Jan 2012 09:00:41 +0000 2012-01-27T09:00:41Z http://humanresources.about.com/b/2012/01/26/interview-questions-for-employers-to-ask.htm <p><img src="http://0.tqn.com/d/humanresources/1/0/d/E/interviewsmile.jpg" border="0" align="right"></a></p> <p>Have you ever wanted sample job interview questions that you can ask prospective employees? These sample <a href="http://clk.about.com/?zi=1/1hc&#038;zu=http://humanresources.about.com/od/interviewing/tp/interview_questions.htm">interview questions for employers to ask</a> candidates focus on various skills and attributes that ...<p><a href="http://clk.about.com/?zi=1/1hc&#038;zu=http://humanresources.about.com/b/2012/01/26/interview-questions-for-employers-to-ask.htm">Read Full Post</a></p> http://humanresources.about.com/b/2012/01/26/interview-questions-for-employers-to-ask.htm Thu, 26 Jan 2012 09:00:41 +0000 2012-01-26T09:00:41Z