A study by the Chronicle of Higher Education, in 2013, found that approximately 50 percent of hiring managers complained of inadequate skills among college graduates. Typical skills cited as lacking were the ability to adapt, to communicate effectively, and the ability to solve problems. Nancy Hellmich, contributor to USA Today, [...]

Our pets’ reactions are purely instinctual. They are based on survival and essential needs including food, warmth, and companionship. Although many of us like to think that we have evolved beyond the animal species such as dogs and cats, there is a lot we can learn from their behavior that [...]

In a competitive business environment, where innovation and new ideas are essential, companies must protect themselves against loss. Intellectual property rights refer to products such as copyrighted works, trademarks, patentable inventions, and industry knowledge or trade secrets. If such proprietary knowledge or products are lost, it will be detrimental to [...]

Stressed out employees spells trouble for an employer. Not only does morale and productivity plummet but staff turnover may increase. According to Kathryn Dill of Forbes, a study by Monster that included approximately 7,000 workers found that 42 percent had left a position on their own volition because of stress; [...]

According to Jon Katzenbach, author of The Wisdom of Teams, effective teamwork measurably improves an organization’s success. Encouraging collaboration can improve interpersonal relationships and reduce conflicts and distractions. The American Management Associationstates that team building activities are designed to foster trust. Communication, a commitment to a goal, and a willingness [...]

Setting salaries or pay rates for employees can be complicated. Higher compensation rates can attract superior performers, but a company must also be aware of gender, racial, and age discrimination factors when developing a salary framework. A salary structure must be fair and equitably applied. According to the Bureau of [...]

Tom Friedman of the New York Times, interviewed Laszlo Block in February 2014. Block is personnel chief at Google, and shared his perspectives with Friedman concerning Google’s lauded staffing success. The company is renowned for its hiring expertise and exceptionally talented employees. Google’s hiring policy does not rely on impressive [...]

Twenty states and the District of Columbia now allow the possession of marijuana for medical purposes. As the medical benefits of the drug become more apparent, employees who use marijuana are increasingly invoking the Americans with Disabilities Act to protect them against discrimination. Matt Ferner, contributor to The Huffington Post, [...]

Reports that smartphones are detrimental to health are nothing new. Boston Magazine reported in December 2013 that constant checking of social media, email, and text messages on smartphones causes eye and vision problems. Symptoms reported by doctors at the Massachusetts Eye and Ear infirmary include dizziness, dry eyes, headaches, and [...]

The American Diabetes Association reports that over eight percent of the population is affected by the disease. Employers are expected to provide reasonable accommodations for diabetic employees under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Reasonable accommodations refers to adjustments to a job, employment practice, or the work environment, and must [...]