Even with the best of intentions, HR managers often escalate workplace conflict, but with the right approach they can be incredibly effective at minimising or even preventing it, according to Mindful Mediation founder Caryn Cridland.
The actions HR professionals take in response to employee grievances can have a huge impact on preventing and minimising workplace conflict. Here are 14 ways to de-escalate complaints.
One of the best ways to uncover the truth about a workplace incident or allegation is to build a close rapport with the employees involved, according to undercover operations expert Dr David Craig.
Two employees who were sacked after they punched a supervisor in the head were unfairly dismissed, the Fair Work Commission has found, in a case that illustrates the dangers of "unsophisticated" HR management.
Smartphone technology has made it relatively easy for employees to secretly record disciplinary or performance conversations, says Ashurst Australia partner Marie-Claire Foley, who warns that unlawfully obtained evidence can be admissible in court.
HR professionals should encourage managers to take all employee complaints seriously, because ignoring a "difficult" worker can lead to expensive legal claims and damaging workplace issues, says employment lawyer Shana Schreier-Joffe.
A tribunal has upheld an employer's decision to sack a worker who admitted - then denied - that he sent a s-xually suggestive email from a colleague's account.
An employee sacked for using foul language during an altercation with his supervisor will receive compensation, after the Fair Work Commission found an HR manager misrepresented a "crucial issue" when documenting the incident.
Can HR professionals restrict who attends investigative interviews as a support person? How should interviewers deal with uncooperative respondents? When is it OK to audio-record interviews? This Q&A with expert investigator Harriet Stacey answers these questions and more.
All employers should consider putting in place a workplace s-xual harassment prevention plan, even though such plans are only expressly prescribed in one jurisdiction, according to a risk management expert.
Recent events have shone a spotlight on whistleblowing, placing employers firmly on notice that their response to a protected disclosure could be subject to intense scrutiny. Watch this webcast to understand the role HR plays in this challenging space.
