An Office Problem - You Input is Requested (..and no I'm not involved)

My name is Nancy and here is my office problem. I have worked in my current job as an admin for two years. This was my first job after I completed my education and I started out here feeling eager to prove myself. I’ve done fairly well here and my performance reviews each year have been good. But recently I made a terrible mistake that has damaged my reputation, and I’m not sure what I can do about it.

I was alone in the office one lunch hour and went to a colleague’s cubicle to leave some paperwork on her desk. I noticed a file sitting in the middle of her desk and saw that the label read “salaries” and there was a stamp on the front of the file that read “confidential.” I have no explanation for what I did next, but I opened up the file and discovered it contained a list of staff salaries and proposed raises for each person.

I began to scan the list for my own name and, of course, saw what other people were being paid and what their raises would be. I didn’t spend long looking at it, but my bad luck was that my colleague’s manager came into the cubicle, saw what I was doing and grabbed the file out of my hands. He was very angry but merely said he would be reporting what I did to my manager.

Later in the day I got called into my manager’s office and was severely reprimanded. She said that she would be putting a letter in my human resources file documenting what I had done. If there are any further incidents of this nature, she said I would be fired. Needless to say, I also did not receive a salary increase.

Unfortunately, my colleague found out from her manager what had happened and now it seems everyone in the office knows. People have made some snide remarks to me and have called me “Nosy Nancy.” I’m no longer being invited out to lunch by colleagues and am generally being treated to a very cool and unwelcoming environment in the office. I realize I did something wrong but can’t help wondering why a confidential file was left on my colleague’s desk where anyone could look at it.

I’d really like to try and regain my good reputation but don’t know what to do. Do you have any advice for me?

HR Quote of the Day

Rating:	★★★★★
Category:	Other

"As long as they stay stupid, I work another day."

~Me~

It's open enrollment time (any fellow benefits administrators know this is hell on earth) & no matter how many graphs, charts, outlines, face to face meetings, etc., I provide, most of these folks just don't get it...and in this day & age, I'm glad of it!

FMLA Flow Chart

This should come in handy for managers & employees, alike.

Attachment: FMLA Flow Chart.pdf

Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA) Plans Rock!

http://msmo72.multiply.com/journal/item/75/HR101_-_Flexible_Spending_Accounts_FSA
Thanks to this plan, I will have the extra mad money I'll need for my upcoming vacation. Take a look, read the comments & feel free to ask any questions.

Unintended Victim May Assert Claim of Workplace Sexual Harassment

http://hrwatch.counciloned.com/HRS-2007/May-June-2008/SexualHarassment.html
Caution: Contains Graphic Language

Democrats Seek to Bolster Wage and Hour Enforcement | workforce.com

http://www.workforce.com/section/00/article/25/65/10.php

Casual Dress WEEK!

Rating:	★★★★★
Category:	Other

Despite a lot of the dumb (imho) shit that goes on around here, it's the little things that count & since the lay-offs, employee morale is understandably low.

Since the office is closed on Friday (and I'm taking off Thursday as well), I decided we need a red, white & blue casual dress week! What's the point in having this fancy title they gave me it I can't use it for anything but business cards? Not to mention I can get dressed in 5-10 minutes flat on casual day.

It's the little things that can change one's attittude toward the workday.

What has little thing(s) has your employee done lately, that people really appreciate?

EEOC Gives Up Trying to Define “Internet Applicant”

http://hrwatch.counciloned.com/HRS-2007/May-June-2008/EEOC.html

The Office Professional Job Board

http://jobs.officeproletter.com/home/index.cfm?site_id=504

Workplace Longevity

This past March marked my 12th anniversary with my agency.  {Wow!}  When I first started, I was in a different, entry-level position in a brokerage unit & honestly didn't think I'd last thru my 90-day probationary period.  I'll have to tell you about the man I worked for (and still do, but in an HR capacity) someday.

I've been in HR since 1989 (HS senior year).  HR is where I started and I know this my calling.  I really enjoy what I do can't see myself doing anything non-related.  It's a dirty job....well, you know the rest.

My question to you is: what's the longest you've ever been on job?

PS HR People need love too! *giggles*

Unemployment Compensation

This only applies to those who work in the State of Missouri. I have no knowledge of the practices of other states.

There has always been a huge misconception in the black community about this topic. Allow me a few minutes to clue you in.

People please, do not quit your job with the hopes of chilling at the crib for a few weeks collecting unemployment! 9 times out of 10, it's not going down like that.

Unemployment compensation funds are reserved for those who involuntarily lose their job due to being laid-off or fired. The system is not designed to compensate folks who just don't feel like working anymore.

I can only speak for my agency, but we will contest any claim filed by a person who voluntarily quits their job.

Of course I don't advise anyone stay at a job where laws are being broken, one that makes you unhappy, offers less than pleasant working conditions, etc., etc. Just keep in mind, if and when you quit your only source of income, you better have a Plan B.

As always, if you have any questions, let me know.

Lay Offs - The ONE thing that completely sucks about my job.

Rating:	★
Category:	Other

You know I really enjoy what I do & I'm damn good at it (if I must say so myself.)

Lay-offs/RIFs (Reduction in Force) are the worst part of HR and management.

Today, I had 3 lay offs and I have 1 firing (poor performance) this afternoon.

The last time we had layoffs was in 2004 and 10 people (2 friends included) lost their jobs. Gladly all landed on their feet.

Who's buying? I need a drink!

Revised Family Medical Leave Act (FMLA)

Rating:	★★★★★
Category:	Other

On January 28, President Bush signed the National Defense Authorization Act, which contains the first expansion of the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) since 1993.

This FMLA expansion requires employers to provide 12 weeks of leave to the spouses, children or parents of members of the armed forces called to active duty in the U.S. military. Employers also must provide 26 weeks of unpaid leave to employees caring for family members suffering from a serious injury or illness as a result of serving in the U.S. military.

HR 101 - Appearances

This week's lesson centers around attire, makeup & hairstyles in the corporate world.

 

We, as black people, are definitely a colorful & creative people. However, when seeking professional employment in a corporate structure, keep in mind, there's a time & place for everything.

 

Ladies - your outfit should not be tight and/or revealing, your make-up should be modest, your perfume should be used sparingly & your hair and jewelry should not be distracting.

 

Unless you live in Florida, never go to an interview with bare legs. (I hear it's acceptable down there.) Also, the "creative" nails should be omitted as well.

 

Visible piercings, other than the ears should be removed as well.

If you're ever in doubt, leave it out!

 

Here's a simple reminder, if you'd wear it to the club, on a sexy date, to wash the car, or to bed, do not wear it on a corporate interview.

 *******************************************************************************************************

Gentleman - most of the same rules apply. While ethnic hairstyles such as neatly coiffed twists & dreads are acceptable, the Allen Iverson braids & the Dennis Rodman dye jobs are not.

Your jewerly should be limited to a ring or two and a watch.  If your ears or any other visible part of you is pierced, remove them.

Everyone - all tattoos should be covered.

Any questions?

HR101 - Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA)

If your employer offers an FSA program & you have any out-of-pocket costs, it would behoove you to learn more & enroll when you get the chance. 

This is a federally mandated, tax savings program & with the exception of medical spending limits, the rules are the same nationwide

I won't get into a lot of details now, but will answer any questions you have.

Here's some info on qualified & non-qualified expenses (please ignore the hypelinks as all the info is listed):

Qualified Expenses - FSA - Unreimbursed Medical

Medical - Qualified Expenses Doctor's fees and co-pays that do qualify for reimbursement Co-pays and other payments to doctors and healthcare providers qualify unless they are reimbursed by insurance: Doctor office co-pays Emergency room co-pays Out-patient surgery co-pays Inpatient admission co-pays Office visits Routine check ups Routine physicals and other non-diagnostic services or treatments. Psychologist and psychiatrist fees Obstetrics and fertility Chiropractor and podiatrist fees Orthodontist and dentist fees Periodontist and endodontist fees Physician and Osteopath fees Acupuncture fees Eye exams Christian Science practitioner's fees Radiology Surgical fees Lab fees Diagnostic fees X-rays and MRI Weight loss programs and fees pertaining to a specific disease Reconstructive surgery in connection with birth defects, disease, or accident. Doctor's fees that do not qualify for reimbursement Cosmetic surgery and procedures unless it is for reconstruction due to disease, birth defect, or accident. Dental bleaching Marriage counseling Weight loss programs for general health or appearance. Over-the-counter items, drugs, or medications that are not medically necessary, or are not prescribed by your physician or health practitioner. Health improvement programs and supplies that do qualify for reimbursement Health improvement programs that qualify unless they are reimbursed by insurance: Physical and speech therapy Weight-loss programs (for specific disease) Quit-smoking programs, patches, and gums Alcoholism and drug treatment Special schooling for a disabled child Body scans Reconstructive surgery associated with birth defect, disease, or accident. Home drug tests Cholesterol tests and monitors Home blood tests Gastric bypass surgery Health improvement programs and supplies that do not qualify for reimbursement Weight-loss programs for general health or appearance. Cosmetic surgery and procedures unless it is for reconstruction due to disease, birth defect, or accident. Dental bleaching Marriage counseling Over-the-counter items, drugs, or medications that are not medically necessary, or are not prescribed by your physician or health practitioner. Health related expenses and equipment that do qualify for reimbursement Generally, the following items require a doctor's prescription to qualify. These expenses qualify unless they are reimbursed by insurance. Humidifiers and vaporizers First aid bandages, gloves, and masks Hot and cold compress packs and wraps Oxygen Pill boxes Shower protection for casts, prostheses, etc. Therapeutic support gloves Elevated toilet seat Thermometers Special school for disabled child Artificial limbs and braces Arches and orthopedic shoes Wigs for hair loss caused by disease Shower bars and safety handles Hearing devices and batteries Crutches and canes Wheelchairs, walkers, and shower chairs Medical alert bracelet and fees Bedpans and ring cushions Travel to doctors or healthcare facilities Ambulance expenses Health related expenses and equipment that do not qualify for reimbursement Expenses and equipment that are not medically necessary or are not prescribed by your health practitioner. Weight-loss programs for general health or appearance. Prescription - Qualified Expenses Prescription and co-pays that do qualify for reimbursement Prescription medications unless they are reimbursed by insurance. Co-pays for prescription medications. Prescription and co-pays that do not qualify for reimbursement Prescriptions taken strictly for cosmetic purposes and are not for reconstruction due to disease, birth defect, or accident. Over-the-counter items, drugs, or medications that are not medically necessary, or are not prescribed by your physician or health practitioner. Over-the-Counter Medicines - Qualified Expenses Over-the-counter medicines that do qualify for reimbursement Over-the-counter items qualify unless they are reimbursed by insurance. Antiseptics Cold, Flu, Asthma, and Allergy Medications Diabetic supplies Ear/Eye Care Health Aids Pain Relief Personal Test Kits Skin Care Stomach Care Dual use items that require a letter from health practitioner to qualify Antiseptics Antiseptic wash or ointment for cuts or scrapes Antiseptic mouthwash Benzocaine swabs Boric Acid powder First aid wipes Hydrogen Peroxide Iodine tincture Rubbing Alcohol Sublimed Sulfur powder Cold, Flu, Asthma, and Allergy Medications Allergy medications Bronchodilator/expectorant tablets Bronchial asthma Inhalers Cold relief syrup, tablets, and drops Cough syrup, tablets, and drops Flu relief syrup, tables, and drops Medicated chest rub Nasal decongestant spray, drops, or inhaler Nasal strips to improve congestion Sinus and allergy nasal spray Homeopathic sinus medications Vapor patch cough suppressant Diabetes Diabetic lancets Diabetic supplies Diabetic test strips Glucose meters Glucose tablets Syringes Needles Ear/Eye Care Airplane ear protection Ear drops for swimmers Ear water-drying aid Ear wax removal drops Homeopathic earache tablets Contact lens solution Health Aids Antifungal treatments Denture adhesive Diuretics and water pills Hemorrhoid relief Lice control Medicated bandages Motion sickness tablets Respiratory stimulant ammonia Sleeping aids Pain Relief   Arthritis pain reliever Bunion and blister treatments Itch relief Orajel Pain relievers, aspirin and non-aspirin Throat pain medications Personal Test Kits Cholesterol tests Colorectal cancer screening tests Home drug tests Ovulation indicators Pregnancy tests Skin Care Acne medications Anti-itch lotion Bunion and blister treatments Cold sore and fever blister medications Corn and callus removal medications Diaper rash ointment Eczema cream Medicated bath products Wart removal medications Stomach Care   Acid reducing gum, liquid, and tablets Anti-Diarrhea medications Gas prevention tablets or drops Ipecac syrup Laxatives Pinworm treatment Upset stomach medications Dual use items that require a letter from health  practitioner to qualify Adhesive or elastic bandages Blood pressure meter Cold or hot compresses Eye drops Foot spa Gauze and tape Gloves and masks Herbs Let or arm braces Massagers Minerals Multivitamins Saline nose drops Special supplements Special teeth cleaning system Thermometers Vitamins Incontinence supplies Over-the-counter medicines that do not qualify for reimbursement Aromatherapy Baby bottles and cups Baby oil Baby wipes Breast enhancement system Cosmetics Cotton swabs Dental floss Deodorants Feminine care fragrances Hair regrowth Low "carb" foods Low calorie foods Oral care Petroleum jelly Shampoo and conditioner Skin care Spa salts Sun tanning products Tooth brushes Over-the-counter items, drugs, or medications that are not medically necessary, or are not prescribed by your physician or health practitioner.   Dental - Qualified Expenses Dental services and supplies Dental services and supplies qualify unless they are reimbursed by insurance: Co-payments Dental fillings, crowns, and bridges Deductibles Dentures Diagnostic fees Oral surgery Orthodontist and dentist fees Periodontist and endodontist fees Prescribed medicines Routine checkups Dental sealants Surgical fees X-rays Dental services and supplies that do not qualify Cosmetic surgery and procedures unless it is for reconstruction due to disease, birth defect or accident. Dental bleaching. Over-the-counter items, drugs, or medications that are not medically necessary, or are not prescribed by your physician or health practitioner. Vision - Qualified Expenses Vision services and supplies that do qualify for reimbursement Vision services and supplies qualify unless they are reimbursed by insurance. Vision co-pays Office visits and routine eye exams Prescribed sunglasses and eyeglasses Contact lenses, solutions, and supplies Corrective eye surgery LASIK surgery Cataract surgery Optometrist fees Physician and ophthalmologist fees Surgical fees and x-rays Vision services and supplies that do not qualify for reimbursement Cosmetic surgery and procedures unless it is for reconstruction due to disease, birth defect, or accident. Over-the-counter items, drugs, or medications that are not medically necessary, or are not prescribed by your physician or health practitioner. Limitation on Qualified Expenses Your plan may restrict the reimbursement of one or more of these items. Check with your plan administrator. The total amount of all qualified expenses paid may not exceed the maximum allowed under the plan. Please review your Summary Plan Description or contact your plan administrator for more information.

 

HR101 - Ringback Tones & Voice Mail Greetings

Potential employers, (i.e., me!) do not have the time, patience or {sometimes} resources to entertain your cell phone/voice mail creativity.

Here are a few simple, related rules to follow when job seeking.

• If your cell phone ring back tone is "Ridin' Dirty", "Bad Bitch", "Supasoak Dat Ho" or anything of a sexual, gansta or hood-like nature & you refuse to remove it, do not add your cell phone number to your resume or job application.
• If your home and/or cell phone greeting contains background music similar to the ones mentioned above, delete it. Then again, delete all music, pleasant or not.  A simple, "We're not home.  Please leave a message at the tone." will suffice.
• When job seeking all voice mail greetings should be short & to the point, no music, no kids in the background, etc.
• Ring back tones & voice mail greeting music is overkill. You better believe potential employers will not sit thru all of that mess to leave you a message. Also, don't even think about calling back, since most businesses now have *67 capability.

Any questions?  Feel free!

 

HR101 - Resumes & Job Applications

As most of you know, HR Management is how I make a living. Nothing pains me more than to see foolish mistakes on resumes & job applications.

With that being said, here is Lesson #1:

If your email address resembles or falls into the same category, as the ones shown below, do not, I repeat, do not use it on your professional resume or corporate job application.

sweetpuzzy4u@blah.com; eatmeforever@blah.com; bigdick12inch@blah.com; bendmeover@blah.com; lickmeright@blah.com, etc.

I’m here to tell you, when employers see shit like this on resumes and/or applications, you will go directly to the “No Thank You Letter” pile…. qualified or not.

Consider creating email addresses like: jdoe@blah.com; janecdoe@blah.com; jcd1234@blah.com for professional use.

Now if you are applying for a position at “The Nasty Kitty & Co.” or “King Ding-a-Ling, Inc.” by all means, feel free to show your creativity by using these kinds of email addresses on your applications. Otherwise, leave your sexually expressive/suggestive email addresses out of your corporate employment pursuits.

If you choose not to take heed & make the changes I've suggested, don't blame "the man" when the Fortune 500 company you applied with never calls you back.

Feel free to comment with any suggestions, questions or concerns.

Sincerely,

The HR Lady