Around election time, we hear a couple of questions that consistently come up by our clients. Time off for voting, the do’s and don’ts of how to handle politics in the workplace, and most importantly, how to encourage voter participation. Find out how I respond to these questions below!

I had the opportunity to attend NOVA SHRM’s 2016 Legal Academy and gained a wealth of information about current and potential future legislation and how it impacts businesses in the DC metro area. One of the speakers was Martin S. Ebel,the Director of Field Management Programs at the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC). Mr. Ebel provided us with metrics, dived into the claims process at the EEOC, and discussed the areas of focus in the 2016 Strategic Enforcement Plan for the EEOC.

The federal government has spent a significant amount of time attempting to assure equality throughout the United States' workforce. Whether it is ensuring the EEO statement includes gender identity, sexual preference, or genetic information; ensuring there are not vast discrepancies between the salaries of men vs. women or based on race, or deciding whether to provide paid paternity leave. The world is changing and expectations of employers are too. Is your organization prepared to be inclusive for all?

You have an exciting work environment...people are running around like crazy, lots of energy and enthusiasm all over the place, and everyone is having a great time...except for one employee who doesn’t “get into that”. This employee is sitting at the desk, quietly doing his/her work. And you notice when you are in meetings, this employee rarely speaks up. Do you see them as a hindrance to your organization? Hopefully not!

By now, I am sure you are aware of the changes made to the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 by the Obama Administration. Designed to address the barriers associated with employment of individuals with disabilities, Section 508 of the Rehabilitation Act outlines the compliance requirements for federal contractors.

If you are like me, you've probably made at least one or two New Year’s resolutions like going to the gym more or tackling some projects around the house this year. What about resolutions at work? Sure, you probably know the timeline for required reporting and plan accordingly each year, but what about those other activities that are not associated with an annual requirement that you keep putting on the back burner? Do you make plans for when you accomplish those?