Many companies wrongly assume that only management personnel require training in employment law areas. In reality, employment-related torts (civil wrongs) may, and often do, arise from the conduct of employees and front- line supervisors. Training should ideally target all levels of employees, including executive management, human resources, managers, front-line supervisors and employees. Such training should result in reduced liability and a more positive work climate. This does not mean that all training is uniform, without regard to the level of employment responsibility. Management training usually focuses on avoiding liability by making managers adept at spotting issues and responding appropriately. Employee training, on the other hand, should emphasize expectations concerning standards of conduct and complaint reporting procedures. In certain subjects, it may be appropriate to train all levels of employees as one group. This practice encourages discussion between management and rand-and-file employees regarding policies and specific topics. Following is a list of topics that should be included in a top level training program: Equal Employment Opportunity; Theories of Liability; Unlawful harrassment; Leaves of Absence; Hiring Process; Performance Management and Wrongful Discharge; Wage-And-Hour Law; Labor Relations; Occupational Safety and Health; and Privacy.

Each one of these areas has many subtopics, but for the small business owner, this is enough to get the wheels turning. The skill and knowledge of a successful trainer is indispensible. Such a person should have good judgment, quick thinking skills, ability to handle difficult individuals, energy, industry knowledge, good humor, and some expertise in employment law. Fortunately, FGC just happens to have such a trainer who is a practicing attorney. Let us know if we can assist.

info@armstrongthelawfirm.com~ 972.424-L-A-W-S (5297)

Copyright 2001-2008. All Rights Reserved.