US Media Studios Shares News on What Matters Most to Employees

Most workers know what it will take to keep them happy and dedicated to their jobs and to the companies they work for. If only CEOs would listen and hear what matters most to employees.

It’s Not about the Money

While true that people appreciate a bonus for a group goal, and the occasional cost of living raise on their work anniversary, what matters more is gratitude. A recent report found that 60 percent of workers surveyed placed more value on being appreciated by management than a monetary reward. Gratitude plays a significant role in employee satisfaction and retention. A genuine thank you from the boss or a manager makes the world of difference for many American workers.

Say It Ain’t So

There are some bosses and managers who fall into these categories and US Media Studios hopes they hear us:

• Uncommunicative and emotionally distant bosses do not rank high on any employee’s list about good leaders.
• Business leaders who do not give credit to workers are high on the list (32% of respondents).
• Business leaders who do not give praise or express support fall closely behind not giving credit (28%).
• Business leaders that do not help employees with promotion is a major turn off for most workers (24%).
• Business leaders who view staff as replaceable (and remind them of that now and then) is another factor that compels employees to bolt (13%).

What Matters Most to Employees

Respondents (and most workers, in fact) want to feel appreciated by their managers. They want to know, in real time, that their hard work and dedication is appreciated. They don’t necessarily want to wait until the dreaded mid and year end performance review. If an employee did a good job on something today, let him or her know today. If it was a team effort, then thank the whole team.

USMedia Studios encourages business leaders to show and give gratitude and appreciation to your staff. It goes a very long way in convincing them you care.

US Media Studios Examines Strategies to Cut Healthcare Costs

Health care is getting more expensive every day. Employees are paying more for health care than they were in previous years. Fortunately, there are thrifty strategies to help cut health care costs, as US Media Studios relays.

Stash Some Cash

One of the most effective methods of reducing the personal cost of health care is to contribute to a Flexible Spending Account (FSA) or Health Savings Account (HAS). Both of these savings plans offer employees a way to contribute pre-tax dollars into the accounts to be later used for prescriptions, co-pays, medical equipment, and the like. But there are differences in each plan to note:

The money in an FSA cannot be rolled over at the end of the employer’s health coverage. It must be used before the next pre-enrollment period begins. So, you use it or lose it.

The money put in an HSA is the employee’s to keep no matter where they go. However, the health care plan must be a high deductible one in order to qualify for this savings.

Another caveat is that some employer-paid health care plans do not offer either savings option.  But if they do, take one. Savings average about 30 percent.

Save on Prescriptions

Research and compare the price of prescriptions within your geographical area with GoodRX.com. This site shows you differences in prices for one prescription within a zip code range. People who have to pay out of pocket for prescriptions could find price comparison shopping advantageous.

Additional Ways to Reduce Health Care Costs

Warehouse clubs like Costco and BJ’s can be beneficial when consumers want to save money. 

Get a 90 day supply of the prescription because it saves money in the long run.

US Media Studios suggests looking into The Partnership for Prescription Assistance, a free service that helps consumers get access to needed prescriptions.

Community centers offer free health checks once a month. Drug stores provide low cost vaccinations.

There are many ways to save on health care costs. We hope these suggestions are helpful.

US Media Studios Relays Workplace Concepts for Success

No matter what size business it is, good, sound workplace concepts help both the business and the employees grow and be successful.

Empowering Staff for Better Results

The guts of any successful business are the people who make it operate every day. Employees, managers and business leaders are the blood in the veins of the company. Flexibility in both scheduling and work location gives employees the ability to work the hours they need and where it is most convenient for them. If staff can get their work done from home a few days a week, as opposed to being in a strict office environment, then they should be able to do so. Many people relay how they get more work done, are more creative and proficient at home than in the office. Flexible work schedules are more accepted now than in previous decades. When someone does not have to use creative time to commute to an office, they start work earlier and are more productive.

The Two-Way Street of Common Sense

Common sense seems to be absent from so many aspects of living and working today. From the rabid comments and posts on social media to the workplace, it’s curious how we manage. Common sense is best when applied by employer and employee. If there are changes in structure, work responsibilities, schedules, benefits, etc, both parties need to be practical and flexible. Good employees do not need to be managed. Good managers need to communicate if any workplace concepts change. US Media Studios reminds that common sense in the work place is a two-way street. No one can get away with something that any other business would not allow.

US Media Studios Relays FDA Finding on Antibacterial Products

What cleans hands better than soap and water?

The FDA Findings

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration, (FDA), recently published its findings on the effectiveness of antibacterial soaps. In its report, the federal agency found that among several ingredients in antibacterial soaps, triclosan and triclocarban are not more effective than using soap and water to wash hands. Then two named ingredients are intended to be used with water, and rinsed off. Manufacturers of over-the-counter antibacterial products which include those two ingredients are now no longer permitted to market them as such. The FDA also states that manufacturers of products with those ingredients have not proven that that they are safe for long term use, nor any more effective than using soap and water.

Cold and Flu Season, Schools, Workplaces

US Media Studios long believes that the most effective way to prevent the spread of germs in commonly populated spaces, and when germs are most likely to be spread, is to wash hands regularly with warm water and soap. No special soap is needed as most are effective in killing germs. Schools and workplaces, where more people are located and congregate, should consider antibacterial soaps with regular soap dispensers and running hot water.

If soap is not available, and hot water is not provided, a hand sanitizer product with 60 percent alcohol is recommended, such as disposable wipes and hand gels. Washing hands is one of the most effective ways to prevent the spread of germs. Other methods of germ prevention is cleaning desks, telephones, doorknobs, lunch and break room tables and other objects with a germ-killing solution or spray.

Nothing cleans hands better than soap and water. Read more on the topic here. 

US Media Studios Accents the Rehire of Boomerang Employees

People resign from jobs and are let go from jobs for a variety of reasons.  Some of these former employees won’t consider coming back to the company they left. Some will. There are employers who will rehire an employee who resigned or was let go or who wants to come back. Boomerang employees are ultimately a good asset for the business.

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Why Rehire a Boomerang Employee

US Media Studios accents why rehiring a returning employee is a good for the business:

• Returning employees are already familiar with the company, its goals and policies, and culture.
• If returning to the same position, they already know the job what is needed to get it done.
• They know their co-workers and supervisors work personalities and know how to get along with them.
• They bring their knowledge, skills and experience with them, and also bring new skills and knowledge to the job.
• They work harder at their jobs because they are grateful to be back in familiar territory and have that steady paycheck.
• Boomerang employees boost morale in their departments and in the business as a whole.

Learning from the Boomerang Employee

It should also be noted that there are good lessons to learn from the returning employee:

• “The grass is not always greener in another yard”. A new job may not have been as good as the one left and returned to.
• Employment opportunities are not that great no matter what industry someone wishes to move into.
• Not all CEOs or managers are equal.
• Starting over someplace else is sometimes not the best choice.

Employers might want to ask the boomerang employee why they want to come back. US Media Studios also reminds employers to ask why the employee resigned. Take time to define to the returning employee any new brands or business processes that started since the employee was gone.

The boomerang employee is a good company asset. Consider all sides of their request to return and bring them back onboard if all signs are positive. 

US Media Studios and the Entrepreneur Role Model

Entrepreneurs and business leaders can have a positive effect on employees by leading through example.

The business owner is more than just the person who sets the direction and goals for the company. They can also be an example of how to work smarter, take risks, and enjoy life outside of the office.  US Media Studios relays some ways in which smart entrepreneurs and business owners can motivate and inspire staff.

The Little Details and Minor Problems

The smaller the details and the small problems can bog down the most focused business leader. These are the perfect examples of everyday tasks to delegate to someone who can slay them. Pass the minute tasks and obstacles to the best person and move ahead.

Start Networking

Entrepreneurs and small business owners can take advantage of social events, even when schedules are tight. Social media platforms and online networking meetings are great places to join and lead discussions about the topic of the moment.  Weigh in, join the chat, post relevant content and share news and information about the industry when possible.

Break Away and Get Out

US Media Studios knows that Americans are the hardest working people in the world. We hardly ever take breaks during the work day, and some even leave paid time off on the table at the end of the year. Set the example for staff that it’s okay to get up, go outside, take a walk and breathe. Let it be known that taking a breather is acceptable. Encourage employees to use their paid time off and enjoy life, family, and nature.

The smart entrepreneur is a business leader that his or her employees respects and admires, not just for the direction they provide every day. Good leaders encourage a healthy work-life balance.

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US Media Studios Reveals Why We Do Not Get Enough Sleep

Work. A recent survey from CareerBuilder found that almost 44 percent of American employees lose sleep because they worry about work-related issues. Nearly one in four of those surveyed said they do not get enough sleep at least once a week. Another survey, from 2013, found that three in four people questioned lost sleep over work. US Media Studios also has seen more workers doing more than one person's job since the recession in 2008. Workers let go during the economic downturn have yet to be replaced, leaving less people to do more.

Technology does not help the matter either. Many people sleep with the smart phone or tablet beside the bed. Some use the alarm clock function, but still wake up when emails come in, or texts arrive.  American employees will take the time to reply to a text or an urgent email. We can also factor in the sounds and lights that go off when items arrive.

So how can we turn work off when we go to bed? Move the smart phone away from the bed. Set a time to prepare for bed and rest. Don't let anything get in the way of it. Let co-workers, managers, bosses, and colleagues know that there will be no replies after a certain time at night. Get more exercise during the day and after dinner. This eases stress that builds during the day and early evening. Go to bed at the same time every night, if possible. Find a relaxing way to wind down before climbing into bed. Pleasant dreams.

US Media Studios Relays Tips to Relieve Stress

Stress wreaks havoc every part of the body no matter what our lives our like every day. US Media Studios relays some helpful tips to relieve it – no matter where you are.

Stress raises blood pressure and the heart rate, makes us feel lightheaded, angry and frustrated. We break pencils and pens. Or we can find a less dramatic way to relieve stress both at work and home. Eighty percent of workers feel some stress in their jobs. Business owners feel it too, as do entrepreneurs and small business owners.

Step away from the desk at work and go outside. A fifteen walk relieves the mind of aggravating thoughts, loosens stiff joints and eases muscles aches. Take advantage of the sunshine.

Take time to write down what is causing the stress. Think about the answer to it and write that down. The mental process of working out a problem can be therapeutic.

Get some exercise. This is not the same as taking a relaxing walk. If going to a gym or health club is the norm, focus on the equipment and the steps to complete one round. Exercise rebuilds the cells in the mind because stress erodes them. US Media Studios encourages readers to work it out.

Stress at work and at home can create problems and not just with the body. It causes people to be snappy and can hurt relationships. Find the best way to relieve stress and then do it. 

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US Media Studios Digs Out the Best Tips for Winter Storms

No matter where one lives, winter storms can wreak havoc. From heavy, wet snow piling up on sidewalks, driveways and roads to heavy rain flooding street, US Media Studios digs out the best tips for handling winter storms.

Here it comes, America. A massive blizzard threatening to bury the nation’s capital under 2 feet or more of snow. In the South, heavy rain and the possibility for tornadoes is in the wind.  How do we deal with it all?

Snow, Ice and Cold Weather

Snow and the underlying ice under it can cause roads to be especially hazardous to pedestrians and vehicles. Snow can also be very heavy to shovel for even the most fit person. Shovel heavy snow in small increments. Go slowly. Work one foot at a time. After each section is clear, throw some rock salt on it to melt the ice. Then move on to the next one foot of space.

Wear warm clothing in layers.  Don’t forget to wear a hat and something to cover most of the face. This can helpful in the prevention of frostbite and hypothermia. Also, wear warm, waterproof boots when walking in the snow and on ice. If heading to work, carry dress shoes in a tote bag.

Driving in snow and on snow is no fun. Always be sure the vehicle is in top condition with proper snow tires and with at least a half a tank of gas. Keep a warm blanket in the car with non-perishable snacks like granola and protein bars. Keep smart phones fully charged if possible. Let others know the route and estimated time of arrival.

Rain, Flooding and High Wind

US Media Studios is located in South Florida where even brief periods of torrential rain can flood surface streets and limit visibility to less than two feet. Contrary to what most people believe, it is not recommended to turn on emergency lights when driving slower than the speed limit in heavy rain. This leads other drivers to think there is a problem. Instead, turn headlights on low and take it as slowly as needed.

High wind can also wreak havoc on the road and at home. To avoid accidents and damage, move small objects like potted plants and yard decorations into a secure shed or garage. Find a parking spot away from flooded areas.

If stuck indoors for a few hours, be sure to have the supplies needed.  High wind and blinding rain are good reasons to stay home.  Never try to venture out in rough weather.  If one must head out, take extra towels in a plastic bag to dry off in the vehicle.  Make sure all lights and the windshield wipers are in good working order. Wear seatbelts and take your time.

Be safe this winter.

US Media Studios Reviews Retirement Savings Plans for Boomers

As baby boomers face retirement in the coming years, most are not financially prepared to live the life they envision. In fact, many plan to keep working as long as possible to keep earning money. Others plan to work part-time jobs to keep some income coming in. US Media Studios reviews retirement savings plans for boomers.

A recent survey from TransamericaCenter for Retirement Studies (PDF) found that two-thirds of the baby boomers they interviewed plan to keep working past age 65 or don’t plan to retire at all. This is a common plan among workers age 50 and up. With fluctuating pay rates, periods of lengthy unemployment, poor job opportunities, and illness, it is increasingly more difficult to save for the non-working years. The little most people can put away in a retirement plan barely adds up at the end of the year.

More than one-third or 39 percent of those surveyed said they expect to earn income by working into and during retirement. Part-time and contract work are two employment types that help retirees make ends meet or give them a little extra padding in the wallet. But many people expect to earn the same salary in retirement as they do when working full-time, even though this is not realistic.

US Media Studios finds it alarming that one-third or 35% haven’t made a retirement plan, and only 14% have a written plan. As most people know, a household budget keeps expenses in line. It makes sense then to have a written retirement plan.

Workers in their 50s might want to reduce living expenses, have automatic withdraws from payroll checks to deposit into retirement accounts, and work with a financial professional to hammer out retirement plans. Retirement comes sooner than most of us expect. 

US Media Studios Reviews Employment Trends

Finding a job is not as easy as it may seem to some people. Employers are also not finding the kind of employee they want either. This situation can lead to a unique new type of job applicant called the boomerang applicant. US Media Studios reviews what this is and current employment trends.

A recent survey found that more than three-quarters of employers are willing to hire back an employee who left the company and wants to come back. Hiring managers in the past have said that their company would not hire back someone who resigned from a job. The so-called “boomerang employees” – those left a company and reapply for the same job or another one are now being considered for open positions.

Employees who return to a former employer do so for the benefits, comparable pay, need to work, and a known career path. Returning employees provide their companies with an already skilled, experienced and knowledgeable worker who needs no training. This trend and others acknowledge that both applicants and employers are having the same hiring problems. People who are out of work may find their former position is advertised and wish to apply for it. In some cases, another job is advertised which the former worker finds desirable. USMedia Studios notes that companies or businesses are seeing a better financial situation now than in previous years. This usually leads to listing jobs once eliminated due to reduction in workforce. Hiring is picking up some momentum. Employers and “boomerang” applicants should determine if rehiring or accepting a job from a former employer is worth it in the long run.  

US Media Studios Shares How to Best Work with Remote Teams

Tele-commuting is not only efficient but is desired by both employers and employees who are spread across time zones.  This way of working does have it challenges though. US Media Studios share how to best work with remote teams.

A recent Forrester Research survey found that 43 percent of the U.S. workforce will be tele-commuting by the year 2016. That’s roughly 63 million people. Working from home is a perk that some employees enjoy, even for one day a week.  Below are some suggestions for keeping remote teams and workers in the loop and productive.

• Hold daily meetings with all workers. Utilize the best forms of video conferencing and document sharing.
• Keep records of the meeting to be sure everyone knows what the objectives are and when deliverables are due.
• Set clear work hours and job responsibilities. Keep in touch throughout the day via phone and video conference to be sure work is being done. Create documents on shared Cloud drives where completed tasks can be recorded.
• Before hiring a remote worker, ask for and check references carefully. Ask about quality of work, amount of work, and work ethics.

US Media Studios recognizes that some people work better in a tele-commute situation than others. These are the people who are organized, goal oriented and thrive in their work.  Remote teams can easily and seamlessly get the job done when everyone is on the same page and communicating with each other. 

US Media Studios Explains Why Good Interpersonal Skills are Beneficial

In today’s international and digitally-minded business world, business leaders should be able to communicate both verbally and virtually well in order to be successful. US Media Studios explains why good interpersonal skills are beneficial.

Long ago, when the Internet was relatively new, a few guidelines were set when communicating via email. One of those guidelines was you can’t read tone in text unless it is expressed. This means that if the words are in bold, underlined or expression symbols such as the exclamation mark are indicated, no stress on the text is meant.  Email notes and chat windows used for business communication should contain the same professional courtesy one would normally give in person. USMedia Studios also notes that good interpersonal skills also involve the ability to speak with clarity, understand the mood in the room or conference and be able to measure your reply.

Most business people can hear quite well. But not everyone is a good listener. Listening takes patience and the ability to set aside what is already on your mind to hear the other person’s point of view. Ask open-ended questions, listen to the answer and be polite. Good interpersonal skills are beneficial in every line of business, and at every employee level.

USM Studios – May is Mental Health Awareness Month

Good mental health is something we all want. Yet, so many people struggle with it. USM Studios takes a few moments to make readers aware that May is Mental Health Awareness Month and how it affects workers and offices.

Almost one in five people experience a diagnosable mental health problem in the last year, according to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration.  A good many of these people struggle with depression, anxiety, or other mental illnesses – and no one knows it. Another survey by Buck Consultants at Xerox found that 84% of employers report they feel they have a responsibility to provide a positive work environment that promotes mental well-being. Yet, many fall short of this wieldy goal.

Employees work better in an office environment where co-workers trust each other and management is honest and engaged with the staff. Work performance suffers when the workforce is stressed. Their mental well-being suffers and so does productivity. USM Studios suggests that both employers and employees use the remaining days in May to find ways to improve office mental health. Maybe this means a company picnic, allowing an extra paid day off,  or permitting staff who sit all the day the chance to go outside for 15 minutes. It all benefits. Make time for it.

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USM Studios Weighs in on the Top Employee Trends of the Future

What’s ahead for businesses and the people who work for them? USM Studios peers into the future to find out what employers and employees might contend with in future workplaces.

One of the top workplace subjects going into the future is the generational mix in the workplace. Companies will have a variety of ages, experience levels and knowledge levels to tap. Workers from different backgrounds can help each other adapt and learn new ways of getting specific tasks done. Another key component of businesses in the future will be managing off-site workers such as contractors, freelancers and others. As people aim to work from a more desirable location, such as the home or shared office space, employers may find telecommuters are loyal and work just as hard as in-house staff. But are more happy employees overall. Learn more about these employees, how and when they work best and give them the opportunity to fly.

Social media will also be a major factor in businesses of any size. BYOD (bring your own device) policies will become more standard as the older methods of assigning equipment to employees goes out the proverbial window. USM Studios,Inc. believes BYOD will be the equipment policy of the future, as some younger, technological companies are already in “bring your own” mode. Which way do you think your company will go?

USM Studios Reviews Earth Day Changes for Businesses

April 22 is Earth Day. Businesses can participate in activities on this day and every day by making some Eco-friendly changes suggested by USM Studios.

Every day can be Earth Day with just a few changes in the office or warehouse. Below are some ideas to get started:

Supply water coolers which recycled water. Avoid getting water delivered every month or buying single, serve bottles unless your company has recycling pick up.

Ask employees to bring in their own coffee cups to use instead of providing paper cups.

Choose Eco-friendly office supplies such as folders, tablets and other paper products made from recycled material.

Send printer cartridges back to the manufacturer to recycle.

Reuse shipping boxes.

Encourage employees to avoid printing documents unless absolutely necessary.

Remind staff in all work areas to turn the lights off when they leave the room.

USM Studios, Inc. also suggests using recycled printing paper, investing in motion-sensing lights in offices and motion-sending faucets in the bathrooms. Buy higher quality toilet tissue since lower quality brands mean having to use more.  Perk up the office and reception areas with live green plants. It looks and feels fresh and reminds visitors to go green. 

USM Studios Inc Ponders How to Take a Break from a Career

(we're still in the office)

It happens to the best of us from CEOs to stockroom personnel: we need a break. While paid time off for vacations is appreciated, sometimes we just need something a little more. USM Studios ponders how to take a break from a career.

A career break might sound a little nerve wracking especially if one if afraid of not having a job to come back to after the leave. But there are periods in life when we need to just get away, do something out of the norm, and forget about work and career for longer than a one or two week vacation. How about a career break then?

A career break can help answer the questions we raise every day such as “is this the right path to take in life”, or “what do I want to accomplish in life?”  The trick to answering these questions is to unplug from devices so work and others do not interfere.

A career break can open new doors. Travel to another state, another region, country or continent can open doors not seen before. Take a break to explore. Maybe a new career will sprout.

Ask if a one or two month sabbatical can be taken. USMStudios, Inc. notes these are possible even if not paid. Sabbaticals allow the employee to take a career break, but come back refreshed, ready to work in their job which was saved for them and more loyal.

A career break, whether taken on our own or with an employer’s blessing, is a great way to redefine what we want in life.  And even more so for those who feel they will need to work well past retirement age in order to maintain their lifestyle.

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USM Studios and Retirement Strategies for Boomers

It is cold, hard fact that Baby Boomers may have to work longer in order to save more for retirement. In fact, USM Studios learns that more than half of working people who were born between 1946 and 1964, feel they will have to work forever.

The Great Recession took its toll on many people and their investments. Hard-earned invested money went right out the window when the stock market crashed. Along with it, employers dropped their end of 401(k) contributions. Wages have barely budged past the stagnant stage leaving middle-aged workers to find ways to save for a retirement of downsized living. A recent study found that 36% of those asked expect to reply on Social Security even though the federal agency keeps mentioning it may fall short. USM Studios, Inc. offers a few retirement strategies for the Baby Boomer who may be behind in saving:

Re-work the household budget to find extra savings from company 401(k) funds, IRAs and other savings vehicles.

Pay yourself first. Set up automatic transfer from checking to savings to occur monthly and pay yourself before paying other bills.

Reduce debt with a plan and stick to it. Don’t overextend yourself in order to pay off debt quickly.

Put away any extra money in a CD or IRA. Stash tax refunds in retirement accounts too.

With fortitude, perseverance and steady employment, Boomers can have a comfortable retirement. 

USM Studios Visits the World’s Happiest Countries

Denmark - The Happiest Country in the World

Where in the world do the happiest people live?  Not in the United States or Europe. Not in Africa nor the Middle or Far East. USM Studios takes a visit to the world’s happiest countries.

If you want to be truly happy where you live, move to Denmark. According to the United National World Happiness Report 2013, this is the happiest place on earth.  It is where the world’s oldest amusement park is located.

Norway is the second happiest place to live. It is a beautiful country with vast open, green spaces to trek through. One might even catch sight of a reindeer there.

Snow sports enthusiasts love Switzerland. This country is known world-wide for having some of the best ski slopes in the world.

People who visit The Netherlands will say that this country has gorgeous tulip fields and other flowers with bulbs that make it a truly beautiful place to live.

Sweden made the list also. Its medieval architecture and heavenly food and drinks are some of the reasons why its residents love living there.

Canada is a huge country in North America which is chock full of national parks from one end to the other. It is a friendly country with national healthcare.  There is always someplace cool to visit with so many interesting provinces to explore.

Finland made the list too. USM Studios, Inc. learns that this is land of Santa Claus. There are lots of wide open spaces to go on reindeer-driven sleigh rides, as well as enjoying some eclectic food.

Music lovers love Austria due to its long and rich history of the art.  While it may be an expensive place to live or visit, it is still laden with breathtaking mountain views and soul-reaching music.

Go Down Under if you want to live in another happy country.  Australia ranked 10^th on the list. Aussies love to explore the Great Barrier Reef, explore the outback and its wildlife, or enjoy exciting cultural events in its renowned cities.

What country do you think is the happiest place to live in the world?

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USM Studios on What Employee Handbooks Cover Today

Not long ago, corporate employee handbooks covered the basics like sick days and dress code. But this is the digital age. USM Studios looks at what the updated handbooks cover.

Today’s employee handbook details the most important company policies that workers at all levels need to know. It reviews company computer use, vacation time, sick time, dress code, equal opportunity rules and more. It also offers guidelines for bring your own device (BYOD), social media use or not on the job, and data privacy. A national HR company, XpertHR, conducted a survey to find the top workplace issues addressed in U.S. employee handbooks. They are:

• Paid sick leave
• Data privacy
• Social media
• E-cigarettes
• LGBT protection
• BYOD policies
•  

USM Studios, Inc. notes that most companies have to constantly update handbooks to reflect the latest labor laws and hot topics for staff. But more importantly, employers need to review what’s in the handbook with newly hired employees. If updates are added, schedule an all-company meeting to review them. Also, new hires are asked to sign off that they received the handbook.  Updates can also be made to handbooks and emailed to everyone. A read receipt can be printed to show the employee received the update and placed in their personnel file. 

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