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Jennifer Loftus Articles

Written by: Jennifer Loftus

Civility in the Workplace---Is it Decreasing? - Click To Read Article
A major highlight of the second annual Civility in America poll, released by Weber Shandwick and Powell Tate in partnership with KRC Research, is the reported increase of incivility in the workplace. A whopping 43% surveyed experienced incivility at their place of work. Even more disturbing is the 38% who believe the workplace is becoming increasingly uncivil. What does this mean for human resources? Astronology investigates.

Addressing the Needs of Seasonal Employees - Click To Read Article
Tis the season…for more workers! In many places, especially retail locations, the fall season signifies a flurry of seasonal, temporary workers to help make the holiday rush activity function smoothly. How can workers become quickly acclimated to the organization’s culture, in order to yield the desired levels of productivity and efficiency? Furthermore, the season itself carries stress. How can an organization and all its employees survive the pressure? In this issue of Astronology, we take a look at these challenges.

The ROI of Employee Engagement - Click To Read Article
Over the years there have been recent talks on how to keep employees engaged. The engagement challenge is especially pertinent in this economy, where organizations are feeling pressure to keep their talented employees. Consumers still expect the best from the organizations they patronize, and the only way to produce such results is with talented employees. An employee’s attitude about the organization shows in his / her productivity and quality of work. In order to keep such employees stimulated, organizations have to keep their employees engaged.

Salary Budget Projections of 2012 - Click To Read Article
It’s that time of the year when Human Resource professionals are asked by senior management to provide compensation program budget projections for the upcoming fiscal year. Two authoritative sources are now available: the WorldatWork 2011-2012 Salary Budget Survey and the Mercer 2011/2012 Compensation Planning Survey.

Social Media in the Workforce...Enhancement or Interruption? - Click To Read Article
Blogging, LinkedIn, Facebook, Twitter. These are various forms of social media that have infiltrated lives across the globe and have also entered many organizations’ workspaces. This technology is changing the way workers interact with each other. As great as a gift social media has been for some organizations, there is also criticism over its usage. In light of the pros and cons of social media, organizations worldwide have to decide whether social media will hinder or support their organizational cultures.

Evidence-Based Human Capital Management Lessons We Can Learn From Healthcare - Click To Read Article
Nicholle Bilodeau expands on Human Capital Management within the Healthcare field.

The Role of Self-Awareness - Click To Read Article
We are fortunate to live in a world that offers unlimited opportunities and where dreams can be achieved at every turn. So, why is it that many people feel frustrated, unable to accomplish much? Usually the reason is that these individuals have vested little time in reflecting within themselves to find and develop their own potential. Astronology guest writer Stacey Jerrold explains.

Preserving the Dignity of Our Workforce - Click To Read Article
We Americans celebrate Labor Day each September as a reminder of how those who toil daily are important to their families and to the country. I might offer to you that the first Monday in September is also Employers’ Day, for without employers, there are no employees. We in the human resource profession find ourselves in a no-man’s land as both an advocate for our employees and an instrument of our employers. Guest Writer Richard Virgilio explains.

2011 SHRM Annual Conference and Exposition Recap - Click To Read Article
t was hot hot hot in Las Vegas last month, as thousands of HR professionals from around the globe gathered for the SHRM 2011 Annual Conference and Exposition. Although temperatures were at or above 100 degrees each day, the weather wasn’t the only hot topic of conversation. The conference provided four outstanding days of continuous learning experiences and good times.

6 Months on Capitol Hill - Click To Read Article
Every year Astronology examines legislation coming from Capitol Hill, and how these changes influence Human Resource practices. Two major developments in the first half of 2011 affecting Human Resources are the possible adjustments to Healthcare reform, such as the CLASS Act, and the Legal Workforce Act of 2011. What challenges should we expect as a result of these pieces of legislation?

Low Cost Techniques for Employee Recognition - Click To Read Article
Everyone wants to be recognized for their hard work. Recognition gives incentive for employees to stay loyal to their organization, and promotes their continued hard work. Although the economy has gotten better, there still seems to be some challenges in financially supporting some employee recognition programs. In this issue of Astronology, we will explore low-cost ways of engaging employees, and helping them to see, even in challenging times, that their loyalty and dedication are appreciated.

2011 Office Spring Cleaning - Click To Read Article
After a harsh winter of snow, snow, and even more snow for most of the country, it’s seems like everyone is looking forward to the spring weather! Part of preparing for the new season is the usual spring cleaning not only of one’s home, but also at the office

Technology in the HR World - Click To Read Article
Technology. Its constant evolution forces everyone to keep up. In the HR world, there are many questions regarding the role of technology, as HR’s major concern is the human aspect of the working world. How can Human Resources keep the human at the forefront while using current technology for advancement? In this issue of Astronology, we explore technology and how it can be used effectively in the HR world.

Making the Most Out of Social Media for Your Organization - Click To Read Article
In terms of marketing, digital marketing can help tremendously…if done right. For instance, page activity doesn’t always equate to new sales or qualified candidates for position openings. For organizations just testing out the waters of social media, this can be very frustrating. How does one use Social Media to his / her organization’s advantage in this digital age?

2011 Compensation Budget Forecasts - Click To Read Article
The following is a general summary from a number of large consulting firms and national research organizations. (Note the following is a summary of overall budget projections.

Affirmative Action Compliance Essential in Stimulus Era - Click To Read Article
Given that many companies will become federal contractors for the first time after receiving stimulus funding, it’s more important than ever to understand and comply with the current laws governing affirmative action plans.

Time Management: How to Become a To-Do List Conqueror - Click To Read Article
Do you always perform at your peak? Do you always provide ample support and attention to the projects and people in your life? Do you always finish your work and leave your job at the end of the day with a clean desk and an agenda for the next day? If you have answered “yes” to all these questions, congratulate yourself and move on to another article.

Win At Selling Your Value - Click To Read Article
Does this situation sound familiar? You’ve been working at your company for a couple of years, performing well, getting good feedback, and positive annual reviews. You and your manager have talked about the possibility of you taking on more responsibilities and becoming more integrated into the organization. The first year you heard this, you were excited. The second time around you’re left wondering if this will be the year. You ask yourself why no one seems to see the worth and value you can bring to your position and the organization.

The Office Romance Dilemma - Click To Read Article
Office romance is becoming a more prevalent issue for the world of HR every day. In time for the Valentine’s Day holiday, Astronology takes a peek into this seemingly taboo subject.

The Fearful FLSA Audit - Click To Read Article
In this issue of Astronology, we take a look at the Department of Labor audit, and the steps you can take in order to avoid one.

Bedbugs in the City - Click To Read Article
hroughout 2010, many places of business throughout the United States reported bedbug infestations. In this issue of Astronology, we explore the sudden manifestation of these insects, and what you can do to prevent an infestation in your office and home.

2011 Salary Increase Update - Click To Read Article
As we explored in Astronology last year, many organizations were projecting an optimistic 2011. The sense was that the economy would be on the mend, inflation low, and the stock market on the rise. But much has happened over the past few months which may run contrary to these hopes - from the unsettled Arab world, skyrocketing oil prices, and labor unrest in America’s heartland.

The Importance of WhistleBlowing - Click To Read Article
Whistle blowing. While some may view it as “snitching”, others may view it as bravery and a dedication to proper ethics. In this issue of Astronology, we take a look at the importance of whistle blowing, along with the positive and negative benefits from it.

Supervisor Training - Click To Read Article
The time has come within your organization to elect a new leader for a project, or to supervise a new expansion. What recognizable marks are there to help identify a potential supervisor amongst the organization? How do you train this new leader to effectively guide in such a way that proves successful? In this issue of Astronology we list some helpful tips in identifying and properly training potential and expectant supervisors.

How to Eliminate Workplace Negativity - Click To Read Article
As mere humans, we are bound to make mistakes such as say things that may not be perceived well, or perhaps make a decision that can affect themselves and several fellow employees negatively. Unfortunately, with workplace negativity these small issues, if not handled accurately, can fester into bigger issues within the entire organization. The extra time and effort spent to correct, an already festering negative environment could be conserved if small efforts are made to identify, and eliminate the small sparks. In this astronology article, we will find the identifying marks of a festering negative culture, and list the many ways organizations can overcome the dilemma.

Straightening Ties - Click To Read Article
As employers compete to hire information technology (IT) professionals in this sellers' market, many are seeking help to develop and implement strategies for staffing their organizations that are more productive and cost-effective and less aggravating. by Kenneth R. Cohen and Ross Reinhold September 2000 - Healthcare Informatics

Finding the Right Fit: A Leadership Selection Model for the Redesigned Organization - Click To Read Article
Over the past several years, companies across every industry have sought ways to improve profitability and service while decreasing costs. As labor expenses usually account for the single largest segment of the company's budget, downsizings are one of the first options that senior executives consider when trying to cut costs. By Kenneth R. Cohen, Ph.D.

Employee Frustration in a Customer-Based Organization - Click To Read Article
By now we all must have heard of the infamous Steven Slater formerly of JetBlue, whom made a vivid exit from his place of employment after reaching his breaking point on the job. While many employees who have had their fair share of frustration on the job applaud his approach…many wonder what caused a man who had a 20-year career in customer service to end it as dramatically, and unexpectantly as he did. In this edition of Astronology, we take a look at the customer-based frustrations employees face.

Finding and Keeping The Organizational “Keepers” - Click To Read Article
As we hopefully near the end of rough economic times, many organizations fear and dread an increase in turnover rates. In this issue of Astronology, we discuss what it takes to find and keep employees who will stay with an organization to help it succeed and grow.

Winter Blues: Motivating Employees - Click To Read Article
Although the winter season is mostly noted for its joyous holiday festivities, in the workplace this time of year can signal a time for slowing down. Many employees become distracted due to seasonal merriment or the exhaustion the festivities often bring. This issue of Astronology takes a peek into how HR leaders can motivate employees, even when there are economic hardships, distractions, or exhaustion present within the organization.

What Type of Managerial Attitude Do You Have? - Click To Read Article
Many of us are familiar with the inspirational phrase, "your attitude determines your altitude." In the worlds of human resources and management, this phrase holds much truth. In this issue of Astronology, we take an in-depth look into managerial attitudes, and how they affect the overall health and functioning of an organization.

'Tis the Season...for Employee Relations Nightmares? - Click To Read Article
This issue of Astronology will feature an article from the archives. We'll be back with a brand new edition on January 12th.

Valentine’s Day: Friend or Foe of the Workplace? - Click To Read Article
Cupid. Candy colored hearts. Cards. Every February 14th, many people in the United States look forward to Valentine’s Day. In this issue of Astronology we offer you a smorgasbord of Valentine’s goodies. We’ll take a look at the history of the potentially amorous holiday, as well as explore some tips on office-safe ways to recognize the day.

The Rising Cost of Healthcare…Can Small Business Keep Up? - Click To Read Article
Three words. Health Care Reform. Combined, they have become a hot topic in recent months. Although the thought of any reform on America’s health care will affect all Americans, a special group of interest is small business. As Capitol Hill struggles to create a bill that will satisfy all, small businesses face a critical turning point in regards to keeping up with healthcare changes.

The Electronic Workplace - Click To Read Article
BlackBerries, Iphones, laptop computers, Myspace, Facebook, and Twitter. These are just a handful of the everyday technology advances impacting most every avenue of life, including the workplace. Along with technological advances in hardware systems, the social networking boom is changing the productivity of the workplace. In today's issue, Astronology reviews some of the many advantages and disadvantages of a more electronic workplace.

Team Building Of What Benefit Is It? - Click To Read Article
Just how important is it really for an organization to acquire a team-building environment? Are you an HR representative or leader that has wondered if you should look into introducing such a program to your organization? In this issue of Astronology, we give you a smorgasbord of information in regards to team building; the importance of it and how you can introduce the culture of team building to your organization.

The Interviewing Process: Do You Know the Rules? - Click To Read Article
As we draw closer to the summer, and spring semester of higher education creeps to closure, everyone in HR realizes that the time has come to prepare for the upcoming flood of job applicants. Are you up to date on the rules on conducting job interviews? Or, are you playing the role of the interviewee and don’t know the Do’s and Dont’s of interview etiquette? In this issue of Astronology, we will review the rules of interviewing-for both sides of the table.

Retaining Talented and High Performing Management Staff - Click To Read Article
With the economy starting to pick up, proactive HR professionals want to make sure their key talent doesn’t walk out the door. But what are the most effective ways to ensure employee retention? With all the motivational tools out there, it’s hard to know which is the "right" one to use. In this issue of Astronology we examine research results prepared by the Forum for People Performance Management and Measurement. Not familiar with the Forum? The Forum’s goal is to generate a better understanding of how organizations can and should implement award / motivational programs for success. Additional, the Forum strives to examine the extent to which these programs can achieve a broad range of organizational objectives.

Religious Accommodation…Keeping the Balance - Click To Read Article
For many, religion is a private and sacred part of their lives. Still, this delicate subject impacts an employee’s professional life and his / her organization. Many organizations are quite conscious of the sensitivity needed when addressing employees’ requests for religious accommodation. However, some organizations are not aware of how to keep a balance between satisfying their employees and keeping the organization productive. This edition of Astronology takes a closer look into the topic.

Online Networking and the Workplace - Click To Read Article
In today’s world of fast technology, organizations face the task of how to handle the online social networking craze headlined by popular sites such as MySpace, Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn. In this edition of Astronology, we take a look into the online social networking phenomena and its impact on the workplace.

Honoring Ted Kennedy - Click To Read Article
On August 25, 2009, Edward Moore “Ted” Kennedy passed away. Ted Kennedy, as the public called him, and his work had a great influence on the human resource practices of today. In this special issue of Astronology, we pay tribute to Ted Kennedy by examining 6 areas of influence he had on Human Resources. The Senate will not be the same without Ted Kennedy.

How to Deal: Difficult Employees - Click To Read Article
What do you do when your most excellent, productive employee is also the one that causes the most headaches when it comes to other aspects of organizational cohesiveness such as teamwork, and communication between other members? Instead of finding ways to terminate the employee, perhaps understanding the root of the problem, and attempting to help alleviate the isolated issue could be more efficient. Astronology present its three-part issue on How to Deal. This week’s topic is difficult employees.

How to Deal: Difficult Leaders - Click To Read Article
Your office morale is low, although your productivity is at a constant, sub par level. The atmosphere in the organization is that of sheer terror and dissatisfaction, not because of a near miss deadline, but because a supervisor has an overly authoritative approach to leading his team, or department. Such a scenario is not as far-fetched as it may seem. In many organizations, an over zealous (but well meaning) supervisor or manager may exercise severe leadership tactics in order to create the most successful team possible. Unfortunately, for the employees, such a leadership leads to dissatisfaction to the organization and later, a loss of talent for the organization as dissatisfied employees begin to leave. In this edition of Astronology, The How to Deal trilogy will discuss difficult managers.

How to Deal: Office Disputes - Click To Read Article
One of the most feared days has come for you as a manager, or human resource representative. An office dispute has landed in your office between two employees, or worst yet, between a manager and an employee. It’s a natural inclination to want to solve the issue rather quickly, or to shoulder the mediating skill on to someone else. However, it is more practical to resolve the issue and take preventative steps to assure such disputes can be kept at a minimum, or none at all. Astronology continues a popular series called, How To Deal with the topic of: Office Disputes

How to Deal: Performance Reviews - Click To Read Article
On both sides of the conference table, Performance reviews are considered one of the most disliked, or often feared parts of working within an organization. On one side, the employer or manager, may have not kept accurate records of an employee’s progress is stuck on highlight performance highs and lows, and how to encourage the employee to set new goals based on the performance review. Employees may feel they did not receive the performance review they truly deserve…perhaps viewing their employer or manager as overly critical. How does an organization get past these issues and make performance reviews enjoyable? Astronology investigates the concerns in performance reviews.

Giving Thanks to Our Top Performers - Click To Read Article
In honor of Thanksgiving, this edition of Astronology will examine how to identify, and more importantly, to thank top performers within an organization for a job well done. Considering the economic conditions that many of us are experiencing, thankfulness shown through monetary exchanges may not be feasible. No matter your budget, it is critical to acknowledge those who go above and beyond their assigned capacity. Such behavior demonstrates loyalty and dependableness…key assets for any organization!

Giving Constructive Criticism - Click To Read Article
It’s a fact of life we can’t avoid. Whether it’s working in a professional environment, learning in the educational realm, or interacting with friends or family, at some point in time we all have to face criticism. How we may perceive that criticism depends on whether we are on the giving or receiving end. When done right, constructive criticism is not meant to hurt or humiliate a person. Rather, constructive criticism is meant to build a person and push them to reach the next level of success. Learning how to give constructive criticism makes a difference in regards to how others view an individual and also how he or she demonstrates leadership. This issue of Astronology takes a deeper look into how to give constructive criticism in the workplace.

Using Total Rewards to Motivate Sales Professionals During Uncertain Economic Times - Click To Read Article
Confused on what to do in an unsure economy with your sales professionals? Need new ideas to help motivate and retain the best performers? This article will help spark some fresh thoughts for your compensation packages.

ROI – 411 for Measuring Human Capital - Click To Read Article
Looking for a quick lesson on ROI? This article explains what exactly ROI is, how it relates to HR, and easy techniques to utilize within your organization.

REVISED 2009 Compensation Budgets - Click To Read Article
During the last 6-8 weeks of 2008, Astron Solutions received many inquiries regarding the impact of the unsettled economy on 2009 budget plannings. We took an in depth analysis of the situation, and alongside research have concluded with the following.

2009 SHRM Annual Conference and Exposition Recap - Click To Read Article
It was rainy and damp, filled with good times and great learning experiences. The SHRM 2009 Annual Conference and Exposition drew over 6,000 Human Resource professionals from across the country to New Orleans, LA for 4 days of learning and fun.

FLSA Pitfalls and Innocent Errors - Click To Read Article
Inspired by the presentation given by Astron’s own Michael F. Maciekowich, in partnership with Bond, Schoenick, & King, entitled: “Can Your Compensation System Weather the (Hurricane) Winds of Change from the Obama Administration?” this edition of Astronology will tackle some of the pitfalls and innocent errors organization sometimes find themselves in when handling serious issues with the Fair Labor Standards Act, or FLSA.

Helicopter Parents Descending onto Your Organization - Click To Read Article
Has your organization seen an increase in the number of "helicopter" parents involving themselves with their child's work, social and personal life? If so, you're not alone. This trend has definitely taken an upswing the past few years, and has become so common that there are organizations trying to devise strategies on how to combat this phenomenon.

Changes in Human Resources: What Should we Look For in 2009? - Click To Read Article
2009 has been promised as a year of change. How will this affect your organization, specifically in a Human Resources way? Well, in a few ways. With new FMLA laws, new amendments to the ADA law, and a talent retention crisis looming on the horizon, use this article to better prepare your organization for any change which will affect your HR department.

Keeping Your Variable Compensation Programs in Compliance with the FLSA - Click To Read Article
Ever wondered how to keep your bonus/incentive programs within the FLSA guidelines? Then this is all you need.

What are Some Best Practices in the Area of Sabbatical Leave - Click To Read Article
Debating on whether or not you should implement that sabbatical leave practice? There are ways to use this sometimes forgotten policy and to use it well.

Deal or no Deal: The All or Nothing Mentality in Negotiations - Click To Read Article
Risk aversion is one of the main factors that may be holding people back from both finding that million dollar case AND finding that million dollar job. A look at how the most captivating game show in recent years is very relevant for negotiations in the business world.

Open Communication…How Important is it really? - Click To Read Article
This week, Astronology discusses open communication, and how important it really is for an organization.

Employee Engagement: How to Keep From Boring Your Employees - Click To Read Article
Have you ever wondered how your organization can keep its employees from feeling stale? Have you ever felt stale? In this article we explore ways to help keep employees feeling fresh and involved within their organization.

Facial Hair in the Office? The Pros and Cons - Click To Read Article
Facial hair is one of many ways that a man can shape their image. Some organizations allow facial hair of all kinds, while others only want clean shaven faces. Which works the best? This article explores these options, and everything in between.

The Top 6 Ways to Violate the FLSA - Click To Read Article
The title says it all here: 6 ways that organizations violate the Fair Labor Standards Act.

How to Strengthen Your Organizational Communication Practice - Click To Read Article
With these six easy steps, you can guarantee that your organization will have the best communication practices possible.

Is There Financial Literacy in Your Workplace? - by Rich Virgilio, SPHR - Click To Read Article
Some companies will spend plenty of time discussing financial management with their employees. Other companies may spend minimal time or even no time at all. See how your company stacks up against the rest.

Addressing Political Activism in the Workplace - Click To Read Article
With the 2008 Presidential Election swiftly approaching, learning how to treat political debate and actions in the office is the best way to prevent any future problems.

Spring Cleaning…Let’s get organized!! - Click To Read Article
Spring cleaning is often a common activity at this time of year. Besides the usual personal sprucing in the home, why not carry this positive approach to the workplace?

Finance Terms Made Simple - Click To Read Article
Do terms like "gross margin" and "deferral of taxes" scare you? If so, then this short reference guide is what you're looking for!

How the Madison Square Garden Lawsuit Changes Sexual Harassment in the Workplace - Click To Read Article
Hall of Fame NBA star Isiah Thomas was surrounded by controversy during his very impressive career on the court, and that is still the case now that he is on the sidelines.

Innovative Trends in Non-Profit Executive Compensation - Click To Read Article
Non-profit executives earning 50% more than in 2000 and receiving bonuses? See what's driving these trends and if they will continue on their climb.

Recession Slump…Helping Employees During the Crunch - Click To Read Article
There’s no denying it. There are hiring freezes everywhere, and unemployment statistics increase daily. This recession slump is hitting America hard, and organizations everywhere are trying to stay afloat. In previous recessions, layoffs have been the number one solution to combat rising expenses in the face of lower revenues.

Gaining Competitive Edge Through Learning - Click To Read Article
Learning can help give our organization the competitive edge, taking the lead when you'll need it the most. This article focuses on just that; how to gain that edge and keep ahead of the curve.

2009 Salary Planning Forecast - Click To Read Article
With 2009 coming up quickly, it's time to start planning for the year's plan on compensation budgeting. Need help? This article is the perfect place to start.

Halloween At Your Place of Employment - Click To Read Article
Ever wonder if celebrating Halloween in the office would offend your employees? Or maybe you've always wanted to have that Halloween celebration, but didn't want to step on anybody's toes. Even if you've started planning for your Halloween function at work, did you know you might be breaking the law? This article is your one-stop shop for all things Halloween Celebration in the office.

Time Management Skills & Work - Click To Read Article
Doesn’t it sometimes feel as though there aren’t enough hours in a day to complete all the things you would like to accomplish? No doubt, everyone at one time or another, whether at work, home, or school, has felt like this. However, does this problem exist due to procrastination or lack of time management skills?

The New York Knicks and the New York Yankees – What Can They Teach Us About HR? - Click To Read Article
With basketball season about to head into playoffs and baseball season just about to start, it's a very exciting time in the world of sports. It's also very exciting to see just exactly what professional sports can teach us in HR.

The Employee Free Choice Act - What You Need to Know - Click To Read Article
The Employee Free Choice Act is currently pending legislation, and if passed it may throw organized unions into a frenzy.

The Fair Labor Standards Act: What You Need to know - Click To Read Article
Ever wonder what the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) means for your organization? Here is your one stop shop on the legislation and how it may (or may not) affect your organization.

Telecommuting: Is it feasible for your company? - Click To Read Article
In researching fiscally sensitive lifestyle adjustments, this Astronology reporter discovered the growing trend of telecommuting. While it may not seem like a common HR subject, telecommuting is becoming a highly important topic in organizations.

Succession Planning Whats the Latest - Click To Read Article
Staying ahead of the curve is one way to help prevent problems, and will give you ample time to deal with problems should they arise. Be prepared for the foreshadowed leadership shortage coming up in the next few years.

SHRM 2008 – A First-Hand Overview of the Conference - Click To Read Article
Were you at the 2008 SHRM Conference & Exposition? Did you miss it? Either way, here are high-lights from the big show; enjoy!

Save Your Employees from the Dark Side - Human Resource Lessons Learned from Star Wars - Click To Read Article
If you've ever wondered how the greatest movie franchise in history and HR are similar, than this article is right up your alley. Great HR advice all great companies utilize.

Redefinition of Leadership - Click To Read Article
Ever wonder what strategies work to have successful leadership within an organization? As times continue to change, so do the tried and true standards. Business standards are evolving to keep up with the influx of the new standards of life in the 21st century. This article will help your organization stay ahead of the learning curve and not be left behind.

Protecting Your Employees and Company in the Face of Big Labor's Ambitious Legislative Agenda - Click To Read Article
Changes in labor laws are only a few months away. With the incoming Democratic administration and Congress, these laws that were once on the back burner are now at the forefront. Be ready for these changes, and this article will help you prepare so none of the impending changes will affect your organization.

July 4rth Crash Course in History - Click To Read Article
Barbeques. Retail sales. Fireworks. These are a few of the things we think of when we consider the 4rth of July or Independence Day. But was July 4th the real day that America was born? In this issue of Astronology, we take a quick crash course into U.S. History with some startling but fun facts.

Labor Day…Just Another Holiday? - Click To Read Article
Every year, near the end of August, many prepare for the federal holiday of Labor Day on the first Monday of September. A lot of people consider Labor Day the close of summer. Many look forward to the last summer barbeque, time spent with family and friends, and also the Labor Day sales! Interestingly, the origins of the Labor Day holiday are not always discussed. In this edition of Astronology we will crack open the history books to discover the origins of the federal holiday of Labor Day.

I Said it was the Money; But I Lied UPDATED Oct 2007 - Click To Read Article
Same topic as the original, with data and interpretations reflecting the results from 2007.

I Said it was the Money; But I Lied - Click To Read Article
As the economy continues to strain, recruiting and retaining talent will become even more important than ever. This article tackles this urgent topic, explaining many ways to help organizations go about their recruiting and retention methods. If you need any help with this, here is a great way to kick off your program.

How to Make 2008 Great – Employment Branding - Click To Read Article
As American organizations continue its switch over from an industrial to a service-based, employment branding continues to grow in importance. In this article you will find the basics of employment branding and three tips to help your organization stay on top of this important issue.

Holidaze: Beating the Holiday Blues and Stress - Click To Read Article
The holidays are a joyous and jovial time. But for some, this simply is not true. The added pressures and anxieties of this wonderful season can really weigh on someone, and affect both their personal and professional lives. This article can help vaccinate your organization’s employees' holiday blues by taking these preventive measures.

Democrat/Republican HR Positions – Election Preview - Click To Read Article
Earlier this year, Astronology examined the views of our presidential candidates in preparation for Super Tuesday. As voting day closes in on us, it’s imperative that we visit the political subject again. How does this year’s presidential campaign affect the world of Human Resources? With our magnifying glass at the ready, we took an even closer look at our two candidates, examining where they stood in February, and where they stand now.

Custom Survey Do’s and Don’ts - Click To Read Article
If your company opts to utilize a custom survey instead of a published market survey, here is a short guide to creating the perfect survey. With this overview your organization is sure to avoid these classic mistakes.

Business Coaching and Mentoring: Are They Worth the Effort? - Click To Read Article
Many people consider Business Coaching and Business Mentoring to be the same thing. Even though they are both organizational development terms, they are not synonymous. This issue of Astronology investigates the practicality of Business Coaching and Business Mentoring.

Back to School Pt. 3: Work & Parenting...Can They Coexist Harmoniously? - Click To Read Article
Part 3 of our Back to School miniseries gives us a look at how a career and parenting can live together. We see that if parenting and a career are fighting for the same allotment of time, the consequences are nothing short of quite costly. Here are some tips on how to alleviate that stress from life, and how to make this tricky relationship between career and parenting work, and work well.

Back to School, Part 1/3: Working and Learning – Can They Be Balanced? - Click To Read Article
How can work and school be balanced? Does the organization gain any benefits from employee’s continuing education? Can an organization assist their employees? If so, then how? If you and your organization find yourselves asking these questions, then this article is for you. Just the first part of a three part series regarding going to school while having a career.

Back to School, Part 2/3: Internships – Creating an Internship Experience That Benefits Both Parties - Click To Read Article
Part 2 of 3 of the Back to School series shows us what internships can do for both the intern and the employer.

April Fools Day: Employee Morale and How to Kill it in 5 Easy Steps - Click To Read Article
For our first article in April, in recognition of April Fool’s Day, we’ve decided to make light of a serious topic. As an August 2008 Training Trends e-newsletter pointed out, there are “countless articles and books that promise to tell employers how to boost employee morale.” Why not take a shortcut from buying and reading all of those books and take a look at the top 5 ways to kill employee morale?

A Look Back at All That Happened in 2008 - Click To Read Article
2008 was a very busy year. Astronology takes a look at the major happenings of 2008 and their implications on the human resource industry.

2007 - The Year in Reviews in Human Resources and a Look at 2008 - Click To Read Article
A look through 2007 and what should we focus on in 2008 to make it the best year yet.





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