Federal HR news topics include federal employee unions, labor relations, bargaining, pay/leave and benefits.
A little-known bill pending on Congress could be the “mother lode” of bureaucracy for one small federal agency. State and local governments may not like more power being transferred to an agency in Washington but what they want may not make much of a difference.
How can a bargaining team get a reasonable contract for a federal agency? “Be gentle with the union’s chief negotiator” (Rule 11) Here are several tips for getting through the bargaining process successfully from an experienced negotiator.
An earlier article on dress codes in the federal workplace generated many comments from federal employees. Here is a follow-up article to address some of the issues raised by readers.
If you are getting ready to bargain an agreement with a federal employee union, you should have a good understanding of the concepts and processes involved in the bargaining arena. Here are some practical tips you can use to reach an acceptable agreement in less time.
Violence in the workplace can happen anywhere. Despite the myths that often accompany violent behavior, agencies can take action that can prevent violence.
A manager in the VA completed his probationary period but also put him on a performance plan (PIP) because of performance deficiency. The PIP was extended a couple more times but he was ultimately fired for poor performance. The case ultimately went to court for review but the former VA employee stays fired.
Are dress codes an anachronism in federal agencies? Should employees be able to wear plastic flip-flops and tank tops when they come to work? Should agencies care about their public image? Here are several observations from a former federal human resources professional on the subject.
If you think your agency is about to remove you from your job, what are your options?
A Bureau of Prisons senior officer specialist was deployed to Iraq after his Marine Corps unit was activated. He was court-martialed for dereliction of duty and assault as a result of his interaction with Iraqi prisoners. After he returned to work, the agency removed him and the case went to court.
If you are a federal manager or supervisor, you will have to learn how to counsel employees about a problem. Most people find that planning such a meeting causes apprehension and, if not done correctly, it can create more problems than it will solve. Here are tips for properly handling such a meeting.
