Contrary to popular wisdom, encouraging staff to increase their distractions can actually improve productivity and reduce the risk of burnout, says a performance coach.
Instead of expecting workers to be "firing on all cylinders" the moment they return from the summer break, employers should try to keep January fun, says engagement and performance expert Kate Boorer.
In a decision that contains useful guidance for HR professionals on when "undesirable" management behaviour is also "unreasonable", the Fair Work Commission has ruled that displaying intolerance or low-level anger towards a worker does not necessarily constitute bullying.
Working towards the right kinds of goals can help change perceptions that HR is just another business cost centre, says performance expert Terry Reynolds.
This year has been an exceptionally challenging one for HR professionals. The new anti-bullying jurisdiction kicked off; social media evolution outpaced the development of associated workplace policies and responses; and there was no shortage of new case law on everything from unfair dismissal to restraint clauses.
Most New Year's resolutions are short-lived, and more likely to induce a sense of failure than to drive success, according to behavioural strategists Dan Gregory and Kieran Flanagan, who say the same is often true of organisational goals.
Smartphones can be a major source of distraction for employees, and frustration for employers, but they can also be a highly effective tool for "bite-sized" learning and coaching, says Saba senior director Charles DeNault.
Leaders should use "good old-fashioned discussions" - not employee surveys - to close the gap between what they think motivates staff and what actually does, says leadership expert Andrew Henderson.
Leadership and management styles that encourage constructive thinking can improve employees' work satisfaction and personal effectiveness, advises leadership expert Shaun McCarthy.
Many employees always feel busy and struggle to meet their own productivity goals, but according to engagement and performance specialist Kate Boorer, it's generally not their work load, but their work habits, that need to change.
When an employer receives a complaint or becomes aware of a conduct issue, it's not always appropriate to go down a traditional disciplinary path. This HR Daily Premium Q&A will discuss alternative options and how to determine which is best in various circumstances.
Recent constructive dismissal claims highlight the risks involved in accepting a resignation from an employee who is experiencing mental health issues. Watch this Q&A to understand the rulings' implications for all employers.
