United Parcel Service has agreed to pay $4.9 million to settle a lawsuit filed by the US Equal Employment Opportunity Commission that alleges the company's uniform policy--about hair and beards--discriminates against workers whose religious beliefs conflict with the mandates. UPS disagrees with the claims but will revise its policies to support workers' religious beliefs, writes Samantha Christmann. The Buffalo News (N.Y.) (tiered subscription model) (12/23)
How do your leave policies stack up? Around the world, companies are offering — and countries are requiring— paid parental leave. Why? Because it helps them boost employee engagement and recruit top talent. Unum's latest complimentary white paper, Leave By Example, can show you how your company's policies compare.
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Recruiting & Retention
Companies rely on culture to fill vacant positions Some small businesses are tapping into company culture to attract and retain talented workers amid a tight labor market. For example, Vinnie Sposari, who runs a Mr. Rooter location in Seattle, offers perks and gifts such as baseball tickets to reward staffers who do a superior job. The Associated Press (12/19)
Study says retail salary growth outpaces inflation Retailers are committed to increasing wages, providing benefits and rewarding those who commit to their roles and businesses, according to research by Mercer released by NRF. The annual US Retail Compensation and Benefits Survey found that retail salary growth has outpaced inflation, that retail jobs continue to see wage growth even without promotions, and that retailers provide benefits even for part-time employees. Learn more. National Retail Federation (12/21)
The HR Leader
5 tips for improving communication online and in person We encounter an onslaught of messages online every day, so write your emails succinctly, starting with your main point, says Nick Morgan. Give others your full attention during meetings, and when it's your turn to speak, use the power of the pause to encourage others to stop and listen, he says. Public Words (12/20)
