One of our employees is returning from FMLA next month. Is it okay for their manager to contact them before they return?

Yes. Employer-initiated contact during a protected leave is permissible, but it should be minimal and limited to necessary updates (like relocation of the workplace or a change in operating hours), confirmation of return dates, or expressions of goodwill. Occasional,...

Do I need to do anything when employees come to me to vent?

It depends on what they’re venting about. If they’re complaining about conduct that might be illegal, such as harassment or threats of violence, you’ll need to investigate. This is true even if the employee asks you not to take action. If the situation doesn’t pertain...

What is progressive discipline?

Progressive discipline is a process for addressing performance or behavioral issues with corrective action. Instead of immediately demoting, suspending, or terminating an employee who messes up, you remind them of your policies, give them a chance to do better, and...

We’ve recently learned that one of our employees is planning to leave the company and has been applying for positions elsewhere. Can we terminate them?

Answer from Kelley, PHR: Terminating employment because an employee is looking for work elsewhere isn’t expressly prohibited by law, but we wouldn’t recommend it. You might be surprised by how many of your employees are looking for other opportunities—either actively...

One of our employees was arrested today. Can we terminate their employment?

Answer from Laura, SHRM-CP: We would recommend against terminating employment simply on the basis of an arrest. For one thing, the fact of an arrest is neither proof that criminal conduct occurred nor an indication that the arrested employee will be convicted of a...