2008 set to be ‘rocky’, warns TUC
TUC General Secretary Brendan Barber warned that 2008 would be “rocky” for businesses, citing financial instability rather than fundamental economic problems. He urged focus on proper regulation and called for political debate on fair taxation and public sector pay reform.
BAA workers vote to strike
BAA workers across seven UK airports have voted to strike in January over the closure of the final salary pension scheme to new employees. Unite union members voted 1,108 to 1,946 in favor of strike action, with a 24-hour stoppage scheduled for January 7.
Website launched to help HR support dyslexic employees
A new website launched by iansyst Ltd provides HR professionals with guidance on supporting dyslexic employees and complying with disability discrimination laws. The resource offers practical adjustments, information about assistive technologies, and training services to help employers recognize dyslexic workers’ strengths while addressing their needs.
2007 Christmas gadget countdown – the people’s choice
The Nintendo Wii was crowned “Gadget of the Year” in this 2007 Christmas countdown after members of multiple online communities voted for their favorite tech. Digital PVRs came in as the editor’s top pick, while Apple’s iPhone ranked second in overall community votes.
UK employers losing billions due to workers’ mental health
UK employers lose over £25 billion annually due to workers’ mental health issues, costing businesses £1,000 per employee. Sickness absence, staff turnover, and reduced productivity are the main drivers, but simple interventions like manager training could save up to £8 billion yearly.
Here’s to your good health – and safety
Many employers blame health and safety concerns for dampening Christmas celebrations, yet research shows 82% report no actual complaints from office parties. Health and safety officials clarify that festive decorations are permitted with sensible precautions like proper step-ladders, not outright bans.
Employer-induced sickness: Is dismissal still fair?
When an employer causes or contributes to an employee’s illness, can they still fairly dismiss them? The Court of Appeal says yes, ruling that employer responsibility for ill health doesn’t prevent fair dismissal based on incapacity alone.
Can your company cope in a crisis?
Learn how to prepare your company for crises through effective business continuity planning. Experts discuss essential strategies including clear communication, employee support, and the five key areas businesses should address to survive major incidents and protect their reputation.
HR tip: Interviewing skills
Master the fundamentals of effective interviewing with these four essential skills: identify what information you need, ask targeted questions to obtain it, listen actively rather than talking too much, and take detailed notes for fair candidate evaluation.
Scrooge scoops worst boss gong
Ebenezer Scrooge has been voted the world’s worst fictional boss in a survey of office workers, narrowly beating Miranda Priestly from The Devil Wears Prada. Darth Vader came third despite his abusive management style, while David Brent was named the best fictional boss.
Parents choose work over a family Christmas
One in 10 workers will skip Christmas Day to work, according to a YouGov survey. The study found 11% of respondents missed major family events including Christmas and New Year’s Eve due to work commitments, with East Midlands workers most likely to miss the holidays.
Plans to compensate pension victims given cautious welcome
An estimated 140,000 victims of failed pension schemes will receive compensation under new proposals announced by Work and Pensions Secretary Peter Hain. The Financial Assistance Scheme aims to bring workers closer to the benefits of the more generous Pension Protection Fund, though experts urge clarity on who will bear the costs.
Government consultation begins on qualifications
The government has launched a consultation on qualifications regulation, proposing an independent regulator and development agency to replace the QCA. The plans aim to align national qualifications with business skills needs and allow employers to gain recognition for their own qualifications.
‘Slow down’ is PAs Christmas wish to bosses
Personal assistants want their bosses to slow down and work less in the new year, according to a survey by recruitment firm Crone Corkill. Nineteen percent of PAs cited excessive work schedules as their top wish for change, while others hoped their bosses would take more holidays and reduce stress.
Practical jokers create office havoc at Christmas
Three out of four office workers play practical jokes during Christmas, with sales teams leading the pranks and managers concerned about productivity. A new survey reveals 46 percent of workers increase joke-playing as the festive season approaches, though bosses worry the trend creates workplace disruption.
Salary Sacrifice for Stock
Salary sacrifice for company stock allows employees to exchange wages for shares at a predetermined company rate. This arrangement offers potential tax benefits but requires careful attention to legal compliance and tax regulations to implement correctly.
HR in 2008: Predictions, forecasts and crystal ball gazing
HR directors and commentators shared their 2008 predictions, including expanding employee assistance programs to address debt-related stress, strengthening diversity and inclusion initiatives, and improving the Employment Tribunal System. Key focus areas included safeguarding vulnerable populations, enhancing employee flexibility and retention strategies, and encouraging global mobility opportunities.
Top HR Zone stories in 2007
HR Zone’s 2007 most-read articles covered critical workplace issues including employee references, part-time worker rights, working mothers’ discrimination, change management, notice periods, and smoking bans. This roundup highlights the year’s most important HR topics discussed on the site.
Organisational development in 2008
Organisational development in 2008 must evolve beyond traditional growth models focused on structures, staff, and skills to address today’s rapidly changing business environment. As products evolve quickly and organisations become more fluid, OD practitioners need a strategic approach emphasizing development of others and adaptability rather than static maturity frameworks.
The impact of HRM on Company Performance
Human Resource Management significantly impacts company performance through talent recruitment, employee development, training, and engagement strategies. This dissertation explores how HR professionals perceive their contribution to competitive advantage and organizational success.
