Flexible working will aid economic downturn
The TUC argues that flexible working practices can help businesses navigate economic uncertainty, as rising long hours and unpaid overtime reduce productivity. Trade unions support employers who implement smarter working arrangements rather than extending work hours.
HR enjoys boosted earnings amidst fear of redundancies
HR sector redundancies are rising to 1.7% despite a 6.6% average pay increase for HR professionals, indicating economic confusion. Junior executives see the largest salary gains, yet resignation rates jump to 7.3%, signaling retention challenges beyond compensation.
Skills fear continues as adults fail basic literacy test
A new survey reveals that 67% of British adults have below basic literacy skills, with women scoring 15% higher than men. The lack of foundational writing abilities costs the UK economy an estimated £10 billion annually in lost contracts and errors.
Remote control: Home working technology
Explore the technology and security requirements for remote workers, including VPNs, WiFi safety tips, and how companies can effectively support a distributed workforce across different remote working models.
Taking control of absence
A Japanese electronics manufacturer in South Wales controlled absence rates by setting high hiring standards, emphasizing stability and reliability, paying competitively, and maintaining firm supervisory practices. The company’s approach combined selective recruitment, thorough inductions, and consistent expectations to prevent the high absenteeism common in the region.
Opinion: A ‘debate’ about Investors in People
HR manager Sue Harrison shares feedback from sector peers about their Investors in People experiences, revealing mixed results. Of six HR managers surveyed, only one found value in pursuing IiP status, while others reported lengthy timelines, complicated processes, and questionable ROI from consultants.
The perfect manager
Discover key strategies for becoming an exceptional manager. Matthew Jennings explores how focus, visualization, and intentional goal-setting can help you develop the behaviors and attributes that inspire others to emulate your leadership.
Agreement reached on agency workers
The UK government has reached an agreement with unions and employers to grant agency workers equal treatment after 12 weeks of employment, balancing workplace flexibility with fairness. The deal aims to resolve European directive negotiations while preserving the working hours opt-out, though some business groups warn it poses risks to job creation and labor market flexibility.
CIPD annual conference to move
The CIPD annual conference and exhibition is relocating from Harrogate to Manchester in 2009 and moving from September to November. The event will be held at Manchester Central Convention Complex from 17-19 November 2009, offering improved facilities and better transport links for delegates.
Ask the expert: Persistent absence
Employers can dismiss an employee for persistent absence, but the procedure depends on length of service and reasons for non-attendance. Employees with less than one year’s service may be dismissed on notice, while those with longer tenure require disciplinary procedures, medical investigation if applicable, and proper documentation.
Absence continues to climb in public sector
Public sector employees take an average of nine days off sick—55% more than private sector workers—according to a new CBI report. The high absence rates cost UK taxpayers £13.2 billion annually, with one in 10 employers questioning the legitimacy of some claims.
Business software not Facebook is top time-waster
A new survey reveals that poorly designed business software wastes more time for workers than social media, with 94% of IT users losing productivity due to unintuitive interfaces, complex navigation, and difficult module switching.
Commute slog saps five years over working career
Workers spend an average of five years commuting over their careers, with the typical commuter spending 54 minutes daily traveling to and from work. Rising fuel costs and congestion waste billions annually, prompting organizations to promote alternatives like carpooling, public transit, and flexible working arrangements.
HR awards presented to top UK employers
Top UK employers were recognised for HR excellence at the DWF Employer Awards 2008, held in Manchester. Winners including Deloitte, Iceland Foods, and Kent County Council demonstrated outstanding achievements in areas such as diversity, employee training, and leadership innovation.
Embrace benefits of flexible working extension
Extended flexible working legislation set to take effect in April 2009 offers businesses significant benefits including improved staff morale, productivity, and retention. Though small businesses expressed concerns, experts advise embracing flexible work policies while noting employers can decline requests for valid business reasons.
Work-life balance: A little flexibility goes a long way
Flexible working arrangements are becoming increasingly common across UK businesses, with small changes in work schedules offering significant benefits for employees balancing work and home life. While legislation supports flexible options for parents, experts emphasize that successful implementation requires moving beyond policies to genuine workplace culture change.
Right to request flexible working extended to older children
The UK government has accepted recommendations to extend the right to request flexible working to parents of children aged up to 16, making an additional 4.5 million working parents eligible. The change aims to support working families while allowing employers to maintain control over approval decisions.
National Staff Dismissal Register: A step too far?
A new National Staff Dismissal Register will list retail workers dismissed for dishonesty, raising concerns about potential blacklisting, lack of regulatory oversight, and the risk of damage to employees’ careers without criminal conviction or tribunal review.
Beating sudden departures
New research reveals that 38% of major companies experienced vulnerability from unexpected senior departures or slow recruitment. Many are turning to interim management as a faster alternative to traditional recruitment, which can take up to six months to fill critical roles.
Millions quit the commute as National Work from Home Day begins
An estimated 5 million UK workers will participate in National Work from Home Day on May 15, demonstrating how remote work can reduce stress and boost productivity. The initiative aims to encourage employers to adopt flexible working practices that benefit both employees and the environment.
