Business ethics are increasingly demanded of staff, but are rarely taught
Companies increasingly require staff to follow business ethics codes but rarely provide training on ethical dilemmas, according to a new report. While 41% of firms offer ethics training, compliance is now contractually mandated by most companies with codes, yet proactive guidance remains limited.
Book review: Weaving complexity and business: engaging the soul at work
This book explores how complexity theory applies to business management and organizational culture. Using case studies and practical examples, the authors argue that companies function as complex adaptive systems requiring human-centered approaches rather than rigid planning and control. They demonstrate how empowering employees and fostering meaningful relationships drives organizational success.
ASSESSMENT / PSYCHOMETRIC TESTS
Discover psychometric and assessment test suppliers that don’t require formal training to administer. Find recommendations for both paper-based and computer-based testing programs suitable for organizations seeking accessible assessment solutions.
LEARNING RESOURCE CENTRES – THE BENEFITS
Learning resource centres offer organizations centralized access to training materials, improved employee development, and enhanced knowledge sharing. Companies implementing them report better staff engagement, reduced training costs, and stronger organizational performance. Successfully pitching these centres to senior management requires demonstrating measurable ROI and clear alignment with business objectives.
Today is RSI awareness day
International RSI Awareness Day (February 28) highlights repetitive strain injuries affecting approximately 500,000 British workers annually, costing employers at least £200 million in lost working days. The Health and Safety Executive has released updated guidance on preventing upper limb disorders through workplace risk assessment and management strategies.
Firms ambivalent on effects of equal opportunities legislation
A UK survey of small and medium-sized enterprises reveals mixed views on Equal Opportunities legislation, with 63% saying it has no business impact, while equal proportions (19% each) consider it beneficial or unfavorable.
Pensions – more warnings, more alarming figures and more calls for action
Pension schemes are declining dramatically, with 1.8 million fewer employees in final salary plans over the past decade. Multiple organizations warn that without mandatory employer contributions and urgent government action, retirement security for millions remains at critical risk.
Executives’ attitudes to safety
A MORI study of British business leaders reveals that while most prioritize profit and customer satisfaction over safety, many recognize potential consequences of corporate killing legislation, including reputational damage, employee morale issues, and customer demands for improved health and safety practices.
Companies fail to use knowledge
Most companies fail to leverage their employees’ collective knowledge effectively, according to a CIPD report. The research urges HR professionals to create incentives for knowledge sharing, implement communities of practice, and prevent critical expertise from being lost when workers depart.
Put your feet up, it’s National Slacker Day!
National Slacker Day encourages people to take a break from work and do nothing for a day to improve their health and happiness. The UK-based event highlights excessive working hours and stress culture, promoting rest as essential to overall wellbeing.
Risk to pensions growing
Companies are closing final salary pension schemes and shifting investment risk to employees, with the new accounting rule FRS17 cited as a major driver. Former social security minister Frank Field and pension funds warn this trend threatens retirement income security for UK workers.
Many managers ignorant of the skills and performance of staff
New research reveals that many managers lack basic awareness of their workforce, with one in five companies unable to account for all employees and half unaware of staff skills. The study found that poor employee knowledge costs businesses significantly, as firms struggle to match workers to roles efficiently and resort to costly recruitment instead of internal redeployment.
Assessment tool
A new assessment tool is being developed to help Employment Advisors match jobseekers with suitable personal training programs. Organizations are invited to share existing assessment tools and data on their effectiveness in this area.
CIPD warns on distrust over pensions
The CIPD warns that companies replacing final salary pension schemes for current staff risk damaging employer-employee trust and harming workplace motivation and productivity. Employers should carefully communicate pension changes and consider the retention benefits of maintaining these schemes.
HR Zone Any Answers Digest #1 – Mentoring schemes, marketing training, combatting prejudice
The first HR Zone Any Answers Digest covers key HR topics including setting up mentoring schemes, externally marketing training, managing disciplinaries, and identifying prejudice. This biweekly digest compiles community questions and expert answers on current HR issues.
Payback clause – EU legislation (Further Education Policy)
A CIPD legal advisor confirms no known EU legislation alterations regarding payback clauses in further education policy. Ruth Taylor seeks clarification on current and future regulatory positions while updating organizational policies.
qualifications in personnel
This page outlines personnel qualifications from foundational level through advanced credentials, including course details, locations, and pricing information to help professionals advance their payroll and HR careers.
How do I cater for individual differences through an employee development strategy
An effective employee development strategy must accommodate individual differences in learning styles, career goals, and skill levels. Personalizing development plans, offering diverse learning formats, and providing mentorship opportunities help ensure all employees can grow according to their unique needs and strengths.
Pay awards are based on personalities
A CIPD survey reveals that pay awards in UK organisations are often determined by employee-manager relationships rather than ability, with widespread perception that pay structures are unfair and secretive. The findings show senior executives are viewed as significantly overpaid, and lack of pay transparency negatively impacts recruitment, retention, and employee commitment.
Data Protection
A small export company in London navigates data protection compliance requirements. This guide outlines essential policies and practical implementation steps for meeting Data Protection Act obligations.
