Employee Relations: The Elizabeth Holmes Effect: Understanding Unconscious Bias in Investigations
Understanding and avoiding bias on conducting ER investigations.
Five Investigation Best Practices That Build Trust.
HR Acuity CEO Deb Muller provides five investigation best practices that build trust.
Six Years, Six Benchmark Studies: What the Data Means for Employee Relations
HR Acuity CEO Deb Muller takes a look at the key findings of the Sixth Annual Employee Relations Benchmark Study.
5 Tactics to Up Your Employee Relations Game
ER plays a role in influencing the employee experience. If The Great Resignation has taught us one thing, it’s that employees aren’t necessarily leaving because of pay, many are leaving due to company culture.
Assessing Credibility in Workplace Investigations
We recently hosted a webinar with Beth Gramigna, an employment attorney and the Founder of Tribu Partners, who discussed in detail what to look for when trying to determine who is telling the truth in a workplace investigation, using a fictional case.
Title IX Sexual Harassment: The Grievance Process From Formal Complaint to Resolution
Sexual harassment cases in colleges and universities are becoming everyday news headlines, bringing certain risk to the school’s reputation and legal battles that can cause further damage and result in large payouts to victims. Handling these cases right from the start goes a long way to mitigate this risk.
What is Employee Relations?
“What is the definition of Employee Relations? What are some employee relations best practices? Why is Employee Relations Important?” Check out this blog for answers to these questions and more.
Title IX Needs to be More Than Just a Policy in a File
Rebecca Trotsky explains why colleges and universities are in the news … and for all the wrong reasons.
The March Madness of Gender Inequality
HR Acuity CEO Deb Muller discusses how unconscious bias hurts women and other underrepresented employees.
Expert Webinar: The Great Resignation and the Future of Work
VP of Talent and ER Strategy Rebecca Trotsky shares a few highlights from our recent webinar, The Great Resignation and the Future of Work.
Sexual Harassment and Assault Victims Finally Get Their Day in Court
What the end of forced arbitration in these cases means to victims and their employers .
Expert Webinar: Designing and Optimizing Your ER Organization
VP of Talent and ER Strategy Rebecca Trotsky shares three of the biggest insights that she came away with from our recent webinar on Designing and Optimizing Your ER Organization.
Employee Relations: Building a Culture of Trust Through Transparent Processes
HR Acuity CEO Deb Muller introduces the first of three pillars that will drive the future of employee relations.
Empowering People Leaders to Effectively Manage Employee Issues
Rebecca Trotsky recaps our recent webinar on Empowering People Leaders to Effectively Manage Employee Issues and shares her key takeaways.
Why Protocols Are Essential in Workplace Investigations
Investigation protocols are a set of standard statements that publicly explain the process and expectations that guide the process. Once they’re put in place, they exert tremendous power in making sur
Meet Employees’ Needs and Performance Will Follow
What do your employees want more than anything? Suzanne Lucas shares the answer in her recent blog and how leaders can work with their team to make it happen.
2022 – What Matters Most to Employee Relations Professionals?
HR Acuity CEO Deb Muller shares what will matter most to ER professionals as we enter 2022.
Why ER is Your Greatest Tool During the Great Resignation
Suzanne Lucas, The Evil HR Lady, shares ways that ER can serve as your greatest tool during the Great Resignation.
3 Workplace Issues Managers Are Struggling to Oversee
HR Acuity VP of Talent and Employee Relations Strategy, Rebecca Trotsky, discusses three workplace issues that managers are struggling to oversee.
Survey Suggests Managers Need Help to Make the Jump to a Hybrid Workplace
HR Acuity CEO Deb Muller discusses the recent Manager Survey results and why managers need help leading in a hybrid work environment.
The Solution to Your DE&I Efforts Lies in Your Data
Guest blogger, Suzanne Lucas explains how the solution to your DE&I efforts lie in your data.
Global Strategy, Local Implementation – The Key to Global Employee Relations
Guest blogger, Suzanne Lucas provides the key to scaling your organization globally without forgetting local implementations.
Building a Positive Culture at Your Tech Company
HR Acuity CEO Deb Muller shares some tips on how growing tech companies to build positive, productive cultures that are inclusive for everyone.
Up-Level Employee Experience with the Right Employee Relations Tech Tools
HR Acuity CEO Deb Muller shares tips on how you can take your organization's employee experience to the next level with the right employee relations technology.
HR Acuity Employee Spotlight: Brian Boisier
We would like to introduce you to Brian, our Digital marketing Manager at HR Acuity. Learn more about Brian and his role with HR Acuity!
Performance Improvement Plans for a Hybrid Workforce
Guest blogger, Suzanne Lucas answers some questions you may have about handling performance issues when working with a remote or hybrid workforce.
HR Acuity Named One of the 2021 Best Small & Medium Workplaces ™
We are excited to announce that we have been recognized for the second time in a row by Great Place to Work and Fortune magazine as one of the 2021 Best Small & Medium Workplaces™.
HR Acuity Employee Spotlight: Jayme Pandorf
We would like to introduce you to Jayme, our Engagement Specialist at HR Acuity. Learn more about Jayme and her role with HR Acuity!
Learnings from the Fifth Annual Employee Relations Benchmark Study
HR Acuity CEO Deb Muller takes a look at the key findings of the Fifth Annual Employee Relations Benchmark Study.
Employee Relations Success Starts (or Stops) with People Leaders
Managers play a huge role in making or breaking employee relations. Frontline people leaders are the most direct connection between brand and employee.
Top Tips for a Productive Return to Office
Guest blogger, Suzanne Lucas shares the most productive tips for returning to office.
It’s Time to Start Walking the Talk on DE&I
HR Acuity CEO Deb Muller discusses how businesses can take action to make diversity, equity and inclusion (DE&I) a reality in the workplace.
How to Conduct Fair HR Investigations [6 Best Practices]
Follow these six best practices and protocols to conduct fair HR investigations in the workplace.
How Employee Relations Professionals Can Work Smarter Not Harder
Guest blogger, Suzanne Lucas shares how ER professionals can work smarter and not harder by collaborating with other employee relations peers.
HR Acuity Employee Spotlight: Keith Cloutier
We would like to introduce you to Keith, our Senior SDR at HR Acuity. Learn more about Keith and his role with HR Acuity!
Overlooking Minor Misconduct Prevents a Safe and Happy Workplace
Guest blogger, Suzanne Lucas discusses how overlooking minor misconduct is a big mistake, as over time it can grow into gross misconduct issues.
HR Acuity Employee Spotlight: Salman Munawar
We would like to introduce you to Salman, our Senior Product Designer at HR Acuity. Learn more about Salman and his role with HR Acuity!
Scaling Employee Relations as Your Organization Grows
Guest blogger, Suzanne Lucas shares the importance of scaling your employee relations as your organization grows.
HR Acuity Employee Spotlight: Amanda Tufano
We would like to introduce you to Amanda, our Enterprise Account Executive at HR Acuity. Learn more about Amanda and her role with HR Acuity!
Why Data and Analytics Provide the Best Insight Into DE&I
Guest blogger, Suzanne Lucas shares how data and analytics provide the best insight into DE&I.
Managers and HR Need to Work Together to Prevent Harassment
Guest blogger, Suzanne Lucas shares the important role that managers play in preventing harassment in the workplace.
Let’s Make the Cuomo Scandal a Breakthrough Moment
HR Acuity CEO Deb Muller shares her thoughts on New York Governor Andrew Cuomo and the sexual harassment allegations he faces.
HR Acuity Employee Spotlight: Susan Suhar
We would like to introduce you to Susan, our Account Manager at HR Acuity. Learn more about Susan and her role with HR Acuity!
Is your D&I Approach Getting Lost in the Chain of Command?
Guest blogger Robin Schooling shares the dos and don'ts of your organization's D&I approach and how to ensure it doesn't get lost in the chain of command.
Checking in on HR & ER Teams
ER / HR people are trying to keep their staff afloat, need to remember to check in on themselves too. "The Evil HR Lady" shares tips to do this.
International Women's Day: Choose to Challenge
HR Acuity CEO Deb Muller discusses how our employee relations community "Chooses to Challenge" not only on International Women's Day, but everyday.
6 Tips for Maintaining Employee Morale While Working Remotely
While there are many perks that come with working remotely, it comes with its fair share of challenges. Here are 6 tips for maintaining employee morale while working remotely.
HR Acuity Employee Spotlight: Susan Kovalesky
We would like to introduce you to Susan, our Accountant at HR Acuity. Learn more about Susan and her role with HR Acuity!
Employee Relations is a Team Sport
Guest blogger Suzanne Lucas, "The Evil HR Lady" shares why it is important for ER leaders to be a team.
Protect Your Workforce from the “Other Pandemic”
The COVID-19 pandemic and workplace fallout effects are impacting virtually every company and its employees, Deb Muller shares what you can do to support your workforce through the mental health challenges.
HR Acuity Employee Spotlight: Dipika Mistry
We would like to introduce you to Dipika, a Senior Software Developer. Learn more about Dipika and her role with HR Acuity!
10 Things Employee Relations Professionals Can Do to Make 2021 a Great Year!
Guest blogger Suzanne Lucas, "The Evil HR Lady" shares 10 tips that can help ER professionals make 2021 a great year.
Reimagining Performance Management for 2021 and Beyond
Guest blogger Suzanne Lucas, "The Evil HR Lady," discusses the love/hate relationship that employees and HR have with performance appraisals.
HR Acuity Employee Spotlight: Nathan Brush
We would like to introduce you to Nathan Brush, an Account Executive at HR Acuity. Learn more about Nathan and his role with HR Acuity!
Thank You!
As 2020 comes to a close, Deb Muller has a few words to say to the employee relations community.
5 HR Trends in Employee Relations to Watch in 2021
Deb Muller shares 5 HR and employee relations trends that she expects to see as we enter 2021.
Why HR (and Employee Relations) Equals Public Relations
Guest blogger Suzanne Lucas, "The Evil HR Lady" explains the similarities of public relations and human resources and how they go hand-in-hand.
HR Acuity Employee Spotlight: Beth Prunier
We would like to introduce you to Beth Prunier, the Vice President of Sales at HR Acuity. Learn more about Beth and her role with HR Acuity!
Giving Thanks for 2020
2020 has been a strange and challenging year, but it’s also brought out the best in people. Here are some things Deb Muller would like to give thanks for.
Reflections from the Employee Relations Roundtable
The Employee Relations Roundtable brings together ER Leaders to discuss challenges and best practices. Our CEO Deb Muller reflects on this year's event.
Your Company Ethics Hotline Might Not Be Enough
Your Company Ethics Hotline Might Not Be Enough
Managing Social Media Challenges in Today’s Employee Relations World
Suzanne Lucas, The Evil HR Lady, provides advice on managing HR social media challenges in today's employee relations world.
How to Recognize and Address Misconduct While Employees Work Remotely
Guest blogger, Kia Roberts provides 5 insights and actionable steps for how HR leaders can remain engaged in the the employee experience while employees work remotely.
HR Acuity Employee Spotlight: Lynda Przedpelski
We would like to introduce you to Lynda Przedpelski, the Marketing & Community Leader at HR Acuity. Learn more about Lynda and her role with HR Acuity!
How to Turn Your HR Data into Insights with Predictive Analytics
HR data and predictive analytics are powerful sources of value to your business. HR Acuity CEO Deb Muller shares 5 steps to get more from your data.
A Global Tour: How HR Teams Around the World are Handling the Pandemic
We know how companies are responding to COVID-19 in your area, but this is a pandemic that affected the entire world. What is it doing to business around the globe and how are HR people coping?
HR Acuity Employee Spotlight : Kat Ireland
Meet Kat! Kat is a Client Engagement Manager at HR Acuity. She shares her experience of working at HR Acuity and her favorite memories!
Rise and Shine! How the Racial Equity Movement is Changing Human Resources
Guest blogger Stephanie Miller, Director of Associate Relations for Lowes, addresses why now is the time for HR and employee relations to rise and address racial injustice.
4 Steps to Successful Workplace Investigations in the “New Normal”
When employees report allegations or complaints, how do you investigate? Follow these time-tested best practices, even in the new normal.
Love, Love, Love: What Makes HR Acuity Different
What makes HR Acuity different from other platforms? Our VP of Client Success, Mimi Larkin shares what she hears from our clients and how everyone at HR Acuity is committed to making workplaces fairer and safer for all!
Diversity & Inclusion: Using Employee Data to Combat Racism and Bias
Employee relations data is vital in getting started on anti-racism and D&I efforts in your organization. HR Acuity CEO Deb Muller provides five ways to use your ER data to act now to identify and root out racism and bias in your workforce.
4 Tips for Better Workplace Investigations
How could your organization use investigations to make your business a better place to work? The Evil HR Lady, Suzanne Lucas, shares 4 tips on how to conduct proper workplace investigations.
5 Employee Relations Lessons I Learned in the Painting Studio
Employee relations is like painting. It takes best practices, techniques, and it helps to keep the big picture in mind. Here are five lessons Deb Muller learned in the (virtual) studio that relates to employee relations.
Top 10 Trends in Employee Relations & HR Analytics in 2020
The pandemic, racial inequality and remote working have changed the role of employee relations and heightened the importance of HR Analytics.
How Employee Relations Technology Can Boost ROI in HR
The benefits of investing in ER technology far outweigh the costs for organizations as the increase in employee investigations rise.
HR Acuity Employee Spotlight: Kyle Thomas
Meet Kyle! Kyle is a member of our SDR Team. He shares his experience working at HR Acuity and why he believes its a great place to work.
HR Investigations: A Case for Case Management
Case Management solutions improve efficiency, privacy and help centralize data. Natalie Ivey emphasizes why all teams should use technology and her tips from leveraging HR Acuity.
7 Tips Every HR Leader Needs for Handling Employee Complaints
Natalie Ivey shares best practice and tips every HR Leader needs for handling employee complaints.
What is the Future of Inclusion at Work?
Diversity is one thing, but what about inclusion? Suzanne Lucas, the "Evil HR Lady" discusses what it means to be inclusive in today's new workplace.
Building a Smarter, Fairer Workplace through Data and Insight
Pat McParland chats with our VP of Product, Dushyant Zutshi on the product roadmap and how employee relations data is creating an insight- driven workplace.
What Will Employee Experience Look Like Post-Pandemic?
Suzanne Lucas, The Evil HR Lady provides insight on what employee experience will look like post-COVID and the boundaries employees need to implement.
HR Acuity Employee Spotlight : Monica Rodriguez
Meet Monica! Monica is on the Client Success Team and started at HR Acuity in 2019. She shares her experience of working at HR Acuity and her favorite memories!
Act Against Racism Now, In Your Own Organization
HR Acuity CEO Deb Muller challenges companies to take charge and use data to drive change through behavior to act against racism in their organization.
19 Action-Oriented Words of Wisdom on Ending Systemic Racism in the Workplace
It's time to take action and end systemic racism in the workplace. Read more from HR Leaders on how to start to conversation and create safer workplaces.
How the Employee Relations Job Function is Changing: A Look at the HR Acuity Benchmark Study
HR expert Suzanne Lucas discusses what the findings of the Fourth Annual HR Acuity Employee Relations Benchmark Study mean to ER and HR Leaders.
Juneteenth: Taking Action Against Racism
Juneteenth, June 19, commemorates the emancipation of the last slaves in Texas in 1865. Actions against racism are needed today. Read more from our CEO.
Inside the Fourth Annual Employee Relations Benchmark Study: A Look at the Results
HR Acuity CEO Deb Muller takes a look at the key findings of the Fourth Annual Employee Relations Benchmark Study.
Standing Up and Starting a Conversation about Racism at Work
HR Acuity CEO Deb Muller speaks out about what we can do to spark dialogue about racism at work.
Resilience, Recovery and Reimagining – Perspective on How HR Leaders Can Survive and Thrive through the Pandemic: Part 2
HR Acuity CEO Deb Muller spoke to HR strategist Nancy Altobello about COVID-19 pandemic recovery and HR learnings. Read part 2 of the interview here.
3 More Pandemic Best Practices from the Employee Relations Roundtable
The pandemic isn't over and nor are the questions. See what our employee relations experts have to say on performance management, furloughs and more.
How Employee Relations and HR Teams Can Manage Mental Health During COVID-19
Layoffs, furloughs, return to work... stress levels are at all-time highs. How can employee relations leaders help teams deal with mental health issues?
Resilience, Recovery and Reimagining – Perspective on How HR Leaders Can Survive and Thrive through the Pandemic: Part 1
HR Acuity CEO Deb Muller spoke to HR strategist Nancy Altobello about her three-part pandemic framework: resilience, recovery and reimagining. Read part 1 of the interview here.
The Post-Covid-19 World: 4 Ways HR Will Look Different in the “New Normal”
What will the world -- and human resources -- look like after COVID-19? "Evil HR Lady" Suzanne Lucas explores the new normal.
How Are You Doing? 7 Tips for Managing Employee Relations During the “New Normal”
How can you manage employee relations in the COVID-19 pandemic environment? Get tips from HR Acuity Vice President of Client Success Mimi Larkin.
4 COVID-19 HR Best Practices from the Employee Relations Roundtable
Employee relations specialists and leaders, you're answering COVID-19 questions, but you need help too. Get answers from our panel of HR experts.
Are You Documenting These 50 Common Employee Relations Examples?
Improve the employee experience and manage organizational risk when you address and document these common employee relations examples.
How to Identify Exclusion in the Workplace [5 Examples]
Exclusion in the workplace can take on many forms, but no matter how it happens, it should always be documented and investigated. Be aware of these five types of bullying.
How to Recognize & Investigate a Hostile Work Environment [Sample Questions]
Learn the legal requirements of a hostile work environment so you're ready to conduct a fair and thorough investigation if your employee files a complaint.
5 Ways to Manage a Human Resources Crisis During COVID-19
As an employee relations specialist, you are not exempt from the stress of COVID-19. Here are 5 ways to manage a human resources crisis while also taking care of yourself.
Navigating the COVID-19 Crisis: 5 Employee Relations Fundamentals
As COVID-19 continues to change the workplace, here are best practices for employee relations professionals to communicate with their team.
The Importance of Exit Interviews [10 Reasons to Conduct Them]
Learn the importance of exit interviews to risk management across the enterprise and how to conduct them with consistency to improve your organization.
Important Workplace Investigation Questions to Ask [Sample Guide]
Our step-by-step guide offers sample workplace investigation questions to help your organization can conduct fair and effective interviews with the accused.
How the New NLRB Rulings on Joint Employer Standard & Investigations will Impact You
The National Labor Relations Board issued new rules and regulations on determining joint-employer status and providing confidentiality in workplace investigations.
Employee Relations Leaders Leading through Change – Lessons from Riding with the Peloton Squad
Employee relations leaders are facing changing workplaces, from employee activism to creating positive employee experience. Get advice for leading change.
What’s Next in Human Resources Data Privacy and Compliance
With the digital transformation of HR, employee privacy & data privacy concerns are growing. What is the future of compliance in the workplace?
10 Employee Investigation Questions & Best Practices
While investigations are challenging, having a good plan and a core set of questions for interviewing complainants can help investigators resolve matters as quickly as possible.
The 5 Most Common Types of Workplace Harassment
#MeToo helped to shine a light on sexual harassment, but it’s only the beginning. Be aware and prepared for these 5 types of harassment in the workplace.
10 Steps for Successful Technology Change Management
Follow these 10 steps to ensure a successful technology adoption using validated change management principles.
4 Emerging HR Trends that Will Improve the Workplace in 2020
From employee assistance programs to new technology, we share 4 of the latest HR trends that will help you to create a more efficient workplace this year.
Do Your Employees Trust Your Company’s Workplace Investigation Process?
Our survey found workers are hesitant to report misconduct at work. Having a workplace investigation process that is fair makes companies attractive.
Why Specialization is at the Heart of Employee Relations
Managing employee relations requires heart, specialization and best practices to elevate the conversation. Read more from our CEO Deb Muller.
Investigative Reports: How HR Technology Improves Your Process
Learn how HR technology can greatly enhance the investigations process, build trust in the workplace, and improve efficiency for everyone involved.
Customer Profile: Employee Relations Made to Order at Sheetz Inc.
See how family-owned convenience store chain manages employee relations with HR Acuity in this customer profile.
3 Tips to Better Manage Your Remote Employees
When it comes to managing remote employees, the keys to success are the same as managing an in-office team, but it requires some additional effort.
3 Employee Relations Lessons I Learned in the Kitchen
Employee relations is like cooking. It takes best practices and techniques. It's an art and a science. It requires learning, data and sharing. Learn more from HR Acuity CEO Deb Muller.
Employee Experience – What Does That Really Mean?
When it comes to crafting a positive employee experience in your workplace, pay and trust are at the forefront.
5 Workplace Behaviors That Are Actually Misconduct
Some outwardly trivial employee behaviors may be more serious than you think, and with the appropriate workplace guidelines in place, companies can take legal recourse to combat them.
Two Years of #MeToo: Evaluating the Impact on Employees
On the second anniversary of the #MeToo movement, we evaluate the impact on employees and the way they now feel about coming forward with workplace issues.
7 Steps to Build A Workplace Mental Health Initiative
Many of us endure mental health challenges at work that aren’t easy to see. Mental health initiatives are an investment no company can afford to ignore.
Learning the Difference Between Employees and Contractors in Today’s Gig Economy
The makeup of our workforce is rapidly changing from its traditional structure. Companies must draw lines in the sand between employees and contractors, or risk some rather costly consequences.
#MeToo Legislation Across the Country: 5 Things You Can Do
New workplace fairness acts are arising in reaction to #MeToo. Here’s how you can make sure you comply and create a harassment-free workplace.
The Future of Work is… Human! Let’s Talk About Artificial Intelligence in HR
Ultimately, decisions need to be made by humans for the benefit of humans. Here’s what the future of work looks like in terms of artificial intelligence in HR.
Team Member Profile: Sue Bowens, Client Engagement Manager, Joins People and Technology for Great Relationships
Meet Sue Bowens, client engagement manager at HR Acuity. Sue says her background is a “marriage of people and technology” and she excels at building relationships.
How to Recover From an Employee Relations Crisis and Thrive in its Wake
Mishandling a crisis in the workplace due to employee behavior can be costly. Learn how you can be prepared, transparent and wise as an HR professional.
Building the Brand of Employee Relations
It’s time to stop the negative image of employee relations in the workplace. Here are four ways to improve ER’s “brand” and how your employees see you.
Hey, Folks! Time to Leave Gender at the Door
If we want to see change, we need to tackle the everyday microaggressions separating the “girls” from the “boys.” HR Acuity CEO Deb Muller weighs in on why we need to leave gender at the door when addressing co-workers.
Whistleblowing: Why It Should be Embraced and How to Make it Effective
Addressing problems, or whistleblowing, in the workplace shouldn’t be an avoided topic. Here’s how to encourage your employees to do so and help your business.
Holistic, Strategic Employee Relations: 5 Key Findings from the 3rd Annual HR Acuity Benchmark Report
Top 5 emerging trends in employee relations that can help your organizations run efficiently and effectively.
A Guide to Conducting Workplace Investigations that Ensure a Fair Outcome
Need to conduct a workplace investigation? Read our expert guide on how to get it right and ensure a fair outcome
Infographic: Third Annual Employee Relations Benchmark Study - Key Findings
See the 5 key takeaways from HR Acuity's 3rd Annual Benchmark Study. The report includes data from 158 companies & identifies best practices and trends.
How Embracing Kintsugi Can Help Improve Your HR Department
Improving your human resources department isn’t about throwing away what’s not working, it’s about fixing what’s broken and making it even better.
5 Employee Relations Challenges Confronting Healthcare
There may be no other industry that confronts quite the array of employee relations challenges seen in healthcare. Here are five employee relations challenges confronting healthcare now and set to try human resources for years to come.
Are Chatbots the Answer to Sexual Harassment Reporting?
Chatbots can be helpful in everyday life, but not when it comes reporting sexual harassment in the workplace. These processes call for human interaction.
Are You Making the Most of Your HR Data? Here’s What Businesses Are Doing with HR Analytics
What types of HR data are organizations collecting, and why? We decided to ask to help direct your own company’s efforts.
4 Tactics to Manage HR Stress Levels
HR burnout is a threat to each and every professional in the industry. Make sure to follow these four steps to protect and put your mental health first.
HR Acuity Team Member Profile: Pradipta Ghosh, Lead Developer
Meet HR Acuity lead developer Pradipta Ghosh. He joined the team in 2016 and has been driving growth and making our product secure for clients ever since.
EEOC Statistics Show that Businesses Must do More to Tackle Sexual Harassment
What the latest EEOC Statistics reveal about sexual harassment in the workplace and what businesses need to do differently
Infographic: The State of Technology, Data and Metrics Across Employee Relations
HR Acuity surveyed ER professionals at 158 organizations on their use of data, tech, and metrics. We outline 3 key takeaways to help improve your organization.
Top 5 Ways Organizations are Using Employee Relations Analytics
How are organizations using employee relations analytics to create better employee experiences and drive business growth?
A Visit to the Employee Relations Roundtable
As a new HR Acuity employee, I was privileged to be able to attend the Employee Relations roundtable in April. Here are a few of the key takeaways I had to share.
5 Emerging HR Trends Employee Relations Teams Are Talking About in 2019
We've noticed five emerging HR trends that are top of mind for leaders. See how they are transforming organizations and their protocols for the better in 2019.
HR Acuity Announces New SaaS Solution to Address Rising Harassment and Workplace Risk in Smaller & Mid-Size Businesses
HR Acuity announces Essential Edition, a SaaS solution for small & mid-sized businesses struggling to address employee issues in a post-#MeToo environment.
10 Ways Technology Can Impact Your Employee Relations Strategy
Is your organization still using manual systems to document workplace issues? Here are ten reasons why it's time to adopt employee relations management technology.
HR Acuity Team Member Profile: Lisa House, Senior Product Specialist & Black Belt in Customer Success
We're kicking off our new series of team member profiles with Lisa House, Senior Product Specialist. Lisa joined the team in 2012 and has been earning her black belt in customer success ever since. Learn about her knack for problem solving and why she's passionate about the work she does at HR Acuity.
How the #MeToo Movement Is Making an Impact on Workplace Sexual Harassment Policy
Did the #MeToo movement make a lasting impact on company policy and culture? We talked to HR leaders about changes taking place within their organizations.
The Importance of Transparency in Human Resources
Your employees need to know you take their concerns seriously. Here’s how to be transparent in human resources while protecting people's privacy.
Termination Best Practices
Terminations are a hard part of managing, but if done correctly, they can help your business thrive. Here we explain 4 best practices for conducting terminations.
HR Analytics for 2019 and Beyond: Here's what You Should be Tracking
Good HR reporting can give you invaluable insight into what’s going on in your organization. We outline ten HR reporting trends that you should be analyzing in 2019.
Managing Marijuana Policies in the Workplace: Should You Be Drug Testing Employees?
As more states legalize marijuana, many companies have given up on drug testing employees. Learn more about your obligations as an employer and how to establish drug policies in the workplace.
How TIAA is Elevating ER and Creating a Chief Employee Relations Officer
Learn how TIAA, a Fortune 100 financial services organization, elevated their leadership team by creating the Chief Employee Relations Officer role.
Nearly a Year After #MeToo - Lessons Still to be Learned
Nearly a Year After #MeToo - Lessons Still to be Learned
Key Steps to Ensuring Honesty During Investigations
Key Steps to Ensuring Honesty During Investigations
Considering the Employee Experience During the Investigative Process
Creating a positive employee experience usually focuses on perks and benefits, but what happens when an investigation is needed? Create a culture where employees report incidents, knowing that issues
Addressing Sexual Harassment in University Settings
Female academic faculty face harassment at levels second only to the military. Employers need to take a hard look at how they address sexual harassment, how they enable female employees and students t
Oops! Here's What Happens When Managers Don’t Document Key Employee Conversations
How often have your managers presented a plan to fire a problem employee, when the employee’s performance records on file are stellar? Learn the best ways to capture and store performance information
4 Types of Employment Litigation Expenses Employers Should Track
Expenses add up fast for employment litigation cases. Does your organization track time, legal fees, and other associated costs? It makes sense for employers to know these costs for planning purposes.
4 Best Practices for Making Employee ADA Accommodations
Reasonable accommodation can be a tricky issue for employee relations. Good legal counsel can provide perspecitve, but these practices that can also help simplify the process of accommodating employee
How to Help Employees Set Priorities
Workplace stress can hamper productivity and employee engagement. When employers set clear priorities and leaders provide the systems, processes and tools their employees need, the employees can focus
Five Alternatives to an Employee Reduction in Force (RIF)
A reduction in force (RIF) is painful for employees receiving the decision, and remaining employees face low morale and higher demands. Employers should think critically and creatively when consideri
How Much Should a Manager Know About an Investigation?
You’re deep into the investigative process - interviewing witnesses, gathering evidence and capturing your findings. At what point do you loop the manager in and to what degree? Read on to find out ho
Reductions In Force: How To Stay Compliant
A reduction in force (RIF) can be hard on the workplace. However, there are times when an RIF is essential to business operations. Here are some key things to know about RIFs.
Studies Show Positive Workplace Culture Brings Financial Gains
Evidence shows a positive work environment fosters employee engagement and boosts productivity, thereby making a company more profitable. Here are metrics and methods HR professionals can use to contr
Spotting and Dealing with a Toxic Employee
Toxic workers can create a negative, highly stressful work environment in addition to bringing down productivity. Here are some best practices to consider for recognizing and managing toxic employees.
The Right and Wrong Way to Use Humor in the Workplace
While some humor can have a positive impact on the workplace, inappropriate humor has nothing but negative consequences. Understanding the difference between the right and wrong way to use humor is cr
Top HR Metrics and a Primer for Achieving Them
Metrics tell you where you’ve been and indicate how well you’ve done. Today, business leaders, including HR and ER, must consider the ROI and metrics that gauge the effectiveness of programs and servi
The Anatomy of an EEOC Complaint Pt. 4
In this wrap up of our series on EEOC claims, we’ll look at how to examine the claim and any lessons learned that might be able to be gleaned from the time and effort invested into the process.
The Anatomy of an EEOC Complaint Pt. 3
Upon completion of the process, the EEOC can issue one of two things: a Dismissal and Notice of Right to Sue or a letter of determination with an offer to resolve the issue via conciliation. Part 3 of
Managing the Growing Request for Non-Traditional Accommodations
Many employers find it tricky to navigate what is a reasonable accommodation and what isn't, especially with increasing requests for accommodations for health concerns that are not as clear. Learn how
Are You Ready for #MeToo Movement in Your Workplace?
As a decades-old movement is revived, here's what HR and ER must do to create a proactive plan to handle #MeToo incidents and change workplace culture.
The Anatomy of an EEOC Complaint Pt. 2
Employers with a firm grasp of the EEOC complaint process and a good system to track employee relations have a better chance of successfully navigating claims. Explore how to handle an EEOC complaint
The Anatomy of an EEOC Complaint Pt. 1
Employers with a firm grasp of the EEOC complaint process and a good system for tracking employee relations have a better chance of successfully navigating a claim. Learn the early stages of the EEOC
Guest Post: The Hidden Value of Employee Relations
This post is brought to you by Wendy Silver, Founder and President of Beyond the Workplace, LLC- thanks for sharing your thoughts Wendy! I am always i ...
Skillfully Planning Investigation Logistics
The ultimate goal of a workplace investigation is to find the truth to help an employer comply with the law and maintain a healthy, productive work environment for all employees. Here’s a quick guide
Sexual Harassment Training … for 2017
Clearly traditional sexual harassment training is not working - a different approach is needed. Organizations must take action by putting meaningful processes in place to protect their employees. Here
Social Media Misconduct: A Costly Risk Employers Can’t Afford
While social media can be effective to hire talent, improve employee engagement and retention and raise productivity, it can also be a conduit for misconduct. Here are some considerations for handling
Handling Employee Relations in Matrixed and Flat Organizations
How a company is structured and managed affects employee direction and motivation. Similarly, a company's employee relations strategy needs to take into account the type of structure. Here are the cha
Workplace Investigations and the Power of Body Language
During workplace investigations, noting body language is as important as listening to a person's words. These nuances can be indicators that more questioning should occur and can guide decisions made
Types of Investigation Evidence: Physical, Documentation and Testimony
Workplace investigations always involve evidence. All physical, documentation and testimony evidence must be collected and managed in different ways. The evidence must also be protected and leveraged
What Do HR Professionals Do When Their Boss Is Unethical?
Unethical behavior can negatively impact a company and tarnish its reputation. When an ethics investigation arises due to misconduct, the HR leader must work with their boss towards the best possible
When Is a Workplace Investigation Necessary?
When HR receives a complaint, or something seems suspicious, one of the first steps is to determine if an investigation is needed. A proper investigation can benefit both the employer and employees.
Are Millennials More Conflict-averse than Other Generations?
Three generations are now in the workplace together and the youngest has created quite a stir. Millennials have been painted as conflict-averse. True or not, proper coaching and encouragement can guid
When HR Should Step In or Out of a Boss-employee Conflict
You’ve known for some time that a certain employee and his boss aren’t getting along. You have valuable advice for both parties but hoped they could w ...
Enhancing Employee Relations During Rapid Company Growth
Rapid growth can be both exciting and stressful for all departments in a company, including HR. Here are some strategies HR leaders can use to prepare for change and navigate their company through a t
Who Does What? The HR/Employee Relations Balancing Act
As businesses become more complex, many are shifting responsibilities in an effort to find the right balance between personalized service and cost sav ...
How to Know if Employee Relation Processes Are Working
Effective employee relations efforts foster mutual respect and trust between employee and employer. Environments where employees have confidence in le ...
Q&A: What Your Legal Counsel Wishes You Knew About Investigations
HR leaders and employee relations professionals find dealing with legal can be a wild card in the investigation process. This interview with Jamie Brabston, Sr Legal Consultant at Redstone Government
How to Hold C-level Executives Accountable for Culture
Company leaders set an organization’s standard for values, but it’s the responsibility of HR leaders to focus on how behavior and decisions impact the culture. Here’s how HR can hold C-level executive
Ways HR Can Get a Seat at the C-suite Table
HR professionals play a large role in any organization but are seldom seen as strategic leaders. Here’s why it’s beneficial to include HR in organizational strategy and what can be done to overcome ba
Setting Up No Fraternizing Protocols and Policies
It’s important to establish protocols and policies regarding fraternization in the workplace, especially between managers and subordinates. Here are a few things to take into consideration when establ
Best Practices for Preventing and Addressing Retaliation
Although illegal, retaliation can still occur at work. Consider these best practices for establishing protocols and monitoring signs of retaliation for a fair and productive workplace.
How to Use Exit Interview Data Strategically
Data collected from exit interviews can aid an organization in many ways. One key benefit is understanding why people leave the organization, which can spark measures to reduce turnover.
Keys to Successful Stay Interviews
Stay interviews help an organization understand employee career goals as well as reinforce a culture of transparency and trust. Consider the following practices for successful and constructive stay in
Identifying Bias by Leveraging Employee Relations Data
Bias in the workplace can be hard to track. Fortunately, an employee relations management system can help employers identify and prevent bias in the workplace to enable fair treatment for all employee
Attorney-Client Privilege: What It Is and Why It Matters
Attorney-client privilege is an important legal privilege available to individuals and businesses alike. To protect this privilege and ensure confidentiality, here’s what HR leaders need to consider.
4 Strategies for Preventing Employee Relations Burnout
Employee burnout is a significant threat to workforce engagement. Avoid stress and frustration by considering these practices.
Mutual Respect: The Bedrock of Strong Employee Relations Practices
It’s no surprise that establishing a culture of mutual respect is a good employee relations practice. Less obvious are the positive outcomes, such as higher employee engagement and productivity.
Effective Strategies for Creating a Whistleblower Program
An effective whistleblower program not only mitigates risk, it also creates a fair work environment in which employees feel safe. Here’s what to consider when creating one.
What Your CEO Wants from a Good Investigation Program
In addition to reducing risk, there are other positive outcomes business leaders want from a strong investigation program. Here’s what your program should do to create a better work environment.
Best Practices in Documenting Employee Performance
Quality employee performance documentation both protects a company from future litigation and benefits its employees by providing feedback for improvement. Many companies are moving away from the trad
3 Timely Considerations for Conducting HR Investigations
Investigations are one of the least-loved aspects of employee relations, yet my hypothesis is that if HR leaders took more time to properly plan and carry out investigations, it would dramatically imp
How Open Offices Affect Workplace Investigations
The open-office wave has undoubtedly soaked offices around the country. In the shuffle to appeal to millennial talent, however, organizations are finding difficulty maintaining daily office procedures
How to Pace Your Workplace Investigation to Be Thorough and Timely
HR professionals in the role of Investigator are under enormous pressure: by concerned employees asking for case updates and by management looking to quickly conclude the investigation and move on.
HR Acuity Releases Groundbreaking Employee Relations Study
Employee Relations technology provider HR Acuity recently released the findings of its inaugural 2016 Benchmark Study.
Collecting and Storing Workplace Investigation Documents
When the decision is reached to conduct an investigation, several processes are activated.
Unconscious Bias Training: A Conversation With Desiree Dancy
Employees play a major role in the diversity and inclusivity of office environments.
How to Articulate the Reporting of a Bad Attitude
Employees with a bad attitude lurk in every office behind furrowed brows, frowns, and sarcastic remarks. They demoralize the workplace, bringing coworkers down to their negativity.
Assessing and Documenting a Messy Workspace
“Cleanliness is next to Godliness.” A phrase first coined by John Wesley, has since become a mantra related to organization.
Identifying and Preventing Workplace Bullying
Bullying is a major problem within almost every industry. Learn how leaders can identify a bully before impacting the company’s brand, and how bullying to prevent bullying in the first place.
Why and How Employee Tardiness Must Be Documented
Almost every state has adopted an “at-will” employment arrangement, but not having a consistent process for managing tardiness – or other behavioral issues – can set up organizations for frivolous and
The 3 P’s of Arbitration Every Employer Must Know
Sometimes voluntary and at other times mandatory, arbitration clauses are often portrayed as legalese put in employment contracts to protect the employer. However, employers – not just employees – are
6 Credibility Assessment Strategies For Workplace Investigations (Infographic)
A thorough investigator has the responsibility to analyze the facts as uncovered, assess the credibility of the parties involved and come to some reasonable determination – even in a “he said, she sai
How to Handle He Said She Said Situations: 6 Credibility Assessment Strategies to Employ
Managing employee relations can be challenging, especially when one employee accuses another of serious allegations. Learn how to handle “he said, she said” situations in a consistent and fair way.
Managing Employee Relations Risk: Moving Beyond the Spreadsheet
Open a laptop and load your spreadsheet of choice. What you’ll see is a compilation of data that is probably 13 columns across and about 37 rows deep. ...
5 Reasons Why Organizations Need an Anti-Nepotism Policy
In reality, the negatives of permitting nepotism in the workplace far outweigh any positives, and an anti-nepotism policy has become an essential component of employee relations best practice.
6 Common Exit Interview Myths Dispelled
Exit interviews are an important employee relations tool, yet often misunderstood and poorly executed. Here are 6 common exit interview myths dispelled.
3 Ways Documentation Can Help Fight Internal Fraud
The Fraud Triangle is a well-known concept that has its roots in criminology. Largely attributed to researcher Donald Cressey, he believed that people ...
Traffic Lights, Documentation and Workplace Investigations
Remember the childhood playground game, Red Light–Green Light? One person gets to be the traffic light and stand at the front with his/her back facing ...
Ethics Hotlines: Employee Relations Boon or Bust?
Ethics hotlines are growing in popularity. They provide an accessible and anonymous way for employees to report potential wrongdoing; and in principle ...
10 Milestones That Changed Employee Relations
HR Acuity® turns 10 years old this month, and we’re taking the opportunity to look back at 10 employee relations milestones from the past decade. We c ...
5 Shocking Employee Relations Headlines and the Lessons Behind Them
Bad headlines drive readership, and stories about people have the added advantage of tugging on our emotional heartstrings as well. In a recent articl ...
5 Compelling Metrics Behind the HR Case Management Trend (Part 1)
Big data is slowly permeating the workplace. Managers are tracking engagement, enterprise platforms are monitoring employee social media activity, wor ...
25 Employee Relations Trends That Will Impact The Workplace in 2016
With the close of 2015, many of us are reflecting on the year that passed and, of course, the one that lies ahead. The employee relations landscape ch ...
3 Must-Know Facts About Workplace Retaliation
Workplace retaliation is a form of misconduct that can be difficult to identify, but is posing an increasing financial and legal risk to organizations. Here are 3 must-know facts about workplace retal
10 Trending Employee Relations Issues for 2016 (Infographic)
From same-sex marriage benefits to protecting employee confidentiality in a workplace investigation, the employee relations landscape is in constant f ...
Tattoos — A Trending Employee Relations Issue for 2016
The green and black headline announces, “TATTOOS. Yes!” and is accompanied by a thumbs up graphic sporting a coffee cup tattoo on the wrist. Along wit ...
5 Ways an Aging Workforce Is Changing Employee Relations
Aging Americans are working longer – a lot longer. By 2022, almost 32% of the population between 65 and 74 will be working – almost double the labor p ...
5 Employee Relations Tips From Top Practitioners
Thursday was full of surprises. Just when the HR Acuity® team thought we knew the consensus view, someone’s commentary would change the course of the ...
Employee Relations and Social Media (Infographic)
Employee Relations and Social Media
The Role of Data-Driven Insights in Employee Relations
The Role of Data-Driven Insights in Employee Relations
Higher Ed Employee Relations and Title IX — It‘s Complicated
In a response to an inquiry by three U.S. Senators, the Office for Civil Rights (OCR) admitted that the average duration of a Title IX investigation ...
5 More Workplace Behaviors That Are Actually Misconduct
Can a casual comment at the water cooler land you in hot water with your employer? How about if you tell a group of co-workers a joke laced with foul ...
When You Don't Like What Your Employees Are Posting on Social Media
Hiking through the mountains with a tour guide from a well-known travel company, I learned that the company recently asked all of its guides not to sh ...
Medical Marijuana — 5 HR Must-Knows for a Compliant Employee Relations Policy
There is no doubt that the debate over medical marijuana has heightened public awareness and played a role in shifting sentiment, but the issues surrounding medical cannabis remain complex.
“Dear Colleague” — A Checklist for Title IX Coordinators
Are Title IX Coordinators the answer to the growing wave of litigation on American campuses? They are certainly part of the solution, but the responsibilities inherent in the job are vast.
The HR Dilemma: Employee Misconduct or Just Work-Life Balance
According to a survey by Captivate, a digital media company, over half of employees spend time in the office on their Facebook, Twitter or other socia ...
10 Dos and Don'ts for Conducting Workplace Investigations
DON’T rush. Create a plan for your investigation by identifying what issue(s) you are trying to resolve, what documents to review and who to intervie ...
The Scoop on Birthday Parties in the Workplace
It seems innocent enough. A co-worker has a birthday coming up, so a little celebration is organized during the workday to mark the event. A slice of ...
Why the UPS Pregnancy Discrimination Case Is So Important for Employee Relations
The UPS case should be collaboratively discussed by every HR and management team in the country because employee relations is about people, not just the technicalities of HR policy.
Savvy HR in the Age of the Office Romance
HR is often the last to know yet still bears the burden of putting policies in place that protect both the company and employees from the potential repercussions of workplace relationships.
5 Essential Element of an Inclusive Transgender Policy in the Workplace
Companies able to maintain a culture of diversity and inclusion attract the top talent.
Anatomy of a Defensible Workplace Investigation Case File (Infographic)
A defensible workplace investigation case file includes a comprehensive investigation report, interview notes and supporting documentation.
5 Reasons Why Employee Engagement Really Does Matter
Engaged employees, or employees that are emotionally committed to their company and its success, are hugely impactful to the organization’s bottom line. Here are 5 reasons why employee engagement rea
3 Hurdles Ahead for Employee Relations Risk Management
The recent Intuit 2020 Report: Twenty Trends that will Shape the Next Decade highlighted an incredible, emerging workplace trend.
Indirect Discrimination: Do You Know the Signs?
Pick up any newspaper or read the latest headlines on your favorite newsfeed, and you will most certainly find a story about a pending discrimination ...
3 Technology-Driven Workplace Issues You Didn't Even Know You Had
As technology continues to pervade both our everyday lives and the workplace, it ushers in a whole new set of employee relations issues for companies as well.
Title IX and the Growing Wave of Litigation on American Campuses
Title IX underpinned a move to ensure women athletes would have equal access to sports facilities and scholarship funds as well as comparable coaching to their male peers. But there is far more to Tit
Workplace Investigations: Timing Can Be Everything
People often evaluate the success of a new company in terms of its growth rate. In fact, I recently read an article which focused on whether year-on-y ...
Social Media and Employee Relations: More Than a Policy
You might think that social media has no bearing on this particular section of HR, but you’d be wrong.
High Profile Employees Can Mean High Risk
Dealing with a human resource issue involving a high profile employee or situation is not easy – just ask Roger Goodell.
The 4 Cs of Your Workplace Investigations
Learn about the 4Cs of Workplace Investigations - Consistent, Compliant, Comprehensive and Court-Ready - and how to improve your investigation process.
What To Do When a Problem Employee Files a Complaint
When a problem employee files a complaint, the severity and complexity of the investigation automatically increases. Find out how to manage the situation.
How To Avoid Internal Investigation Retaliation in Your Workplace
In 2010 retaliation claims surpassed race discrimination as the most common type of charge filed with the US Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC).
Squeezing the Most Out of Your Onboarding Interviews
There are a myriad of to-dos for Human Resources when a new hire comes on, but the most important step of onboarding a new employee is the post-hire interview.
Pattern of Behavior or Isolated Event? Recognizing the Difference
Patterns of behavior can occur in individuals, in teams and in entire departments, and they can be really tough to identify if you don’t know what to look for. Learn how to recognize them.
Perception Vs. Reality: Employees, HR and the Things We Believe
To employees, HR could be the person they see only when something goes wrong. We‘re there when someone gets fired, during exit interviews, disputes and almost every talk behind closed doors. It’s easy
Out of My Control: A Series on Mitigating Employee-Related Risks
In this series, I would like to define the risks, explain and identify the impact and provide actionable advice on how to take control within your organization.
Webinar Recap: The Changing Face of the CHRO
This week, HR Acuity held a webinar session explaining why employee relations is the next big frontier for CHROs to conquer.
18 Surprising Employee Relations Statistics
Let’s be honest, employee relations is a tricky subject, encompassing everything from bullying and harassment to appropriately terminating an employee.
How Can I Make Employees Feel Safe in Our Process
Imagine this: you have a complaint to lodge about a situation in your work environment, but you are hesitant to speak up because you are paralyzed wi ...
How to Measure Your Employee Relations Strategy: 16 Employee Engagement KPIs
A strong employee relations strategy creates an environment that delivers what people want now or in the near future. Learn how to evaluate your success.
Learn from Employee Relations Disasters: 4 Lessons
HR stories make the news every day, from disgruntled employees to legal precedence, but it’s easy to find the lessons hidden…if you’re looking. Learn from these crazy situations and use your knowledge
Yes, There Is a Right Way To Do Exit Interviews
Interview usually means the start of something. But sometimes, interviews are the beginning of the end. That is the case when it comes to exit interviews, one of business’ most missed opportunities.
Managing Employee Relations (Infographic)
Discover employee relation issues that have concerned organizations, like yours, over the past 12 months with our Annual Workplace Survey Infographic.
Credibility Assessment 101
The next time you are conducting an investigation, assess the credibility of involved parties in the exact same way you assess a candidate in the staffing process. Here's how.
Top Tips for Creating Investigation Documentation
Documenting an investigation is a critical and often overlooked. Proper investigation documentation can be key for legal defense and make or break an employment-related lawsuit. Follow these tips for
How to Use the Exit Interview Process to Retain More Employees
The exit interview can unlock potentially valuable information that may be used to promote an employee retention strategy. Read on to learn ways to make the most of the exit interview, from an HR pro
Types of Documentation in Workplace Investigations
Documentation is the backbone of an internal investigation – it represents research, interviews, data compilation and more. Learn about some of the different types of documentation in workplace inves
Social Media and Workplace Investigations
technology – and social media specifically- is evolving at an extremely rapid pace. But using social media in the workplace can be a slippery slope – and especially in workplace investigations. Here
Interview Questions to Ask During Workplace Investigations
Conducting workplace investigations involves gathering a lot of firsthand information from employees who are involved or are witnesses to the subject of the investigation. Here's a list of five questi
Workplace Investigation Principles — Remember Dignity and End with Grace
Maintaining a few foundational principles in workplace investigations can reduce the risk of litigation and compliment instead of erode employee relations. Let’s explore a few of those areas.