Employer Advice

Workplace conflicts can disrupt your business. To resolve them effectively, encourage open communication, active listening, and mediation. Consider outsourcing your HR functions to a professional provider for expert guidance and support.

Effective onboarding sets the stage for employee success. To achieve this, create a welcoming environment, clearly communicate expectations, provide comprehensive training, and schedule regular check-ins. For additional support, consider outsourcing your onboarding process to a professional HR provider like MSS - The HR People.

Employers in Ireland should address workplace discrimination by implementing clear, compliant policies, providing regular training on equality and anti-discrimination, and ensuring staff are aware of their rights and responsibilities. Regular training empowers employees to identify and prevent discriminatory behavior, creating a respectful and inclusive work environment.

Creating a positive workplace culture involves clear communication, recognition programs, and regular training to reinforce values like respect and teamwork. Encouraging open feedback, celebrating achievements, and supporting employee growth help foster an inclusive, motivated environment where staff feel valued and engaged.

Employees with at least six months of continuous service have the right to request flexible working hours under the Work Life Balance Act 2023. Employers should carefully consider these requests, assessing business needs while striving to support work-life balance. Clear, documented procedures and open communication are key in responding fairly to flexible working requests.

When hiring remote employees, start by ensuring you are compliant with all relevant employment laws, including contracts, data protection, and health and safety obligations for remote setups. Define clear expectations, communication protocols, and provide any necessary training to support productivity and engagement. Regular check-ins and a strong onboarding process are essential to integrate remote hires into your company culture.

Managing employee expectations around promotions and salary increases requires transparency, regular performance reviews, and clear criteria for advancement. Setting achievable goals and providing ongoing feedback help employees understand how they can grow within the company. 

Improving communication between management and employees involves establishing regular check-ins, promoting an open-door policy, and using clear, accessible channels for updates and feedback. Providing training on effective communication skills can help managers and staff engage more openly and effectively. Encouraging two-way feedback fosters trust and keeps everyone aligned with company goals and values.

If an employee resigns without notice, review their contract to understand any notice obligations and document the resignation in writing. Assess any immediate operational needs, and consider reallocating tasks or arranging temporary cover to minimise disruption. Conducting an exit interview, if possible, can provide insight and help prevent sudden resignations in the future.

Handling underperforming employees involves addressing the issue promptly through a structured performance management process. Start by identifying specific performance gaps, setting clear improvement goals, and offering support such as additional training or mentorship. Regular follow-ups and documentation are essential, and if performance doesn’t improve, formal disciplinary procedures may be required in line with fair employment practices.

Employers can improve employee retention by fostering a positive workplace culture, offering competitive compensation, and supporting career development through training and growth opportunities. Regular recognition, open communication, and flexible work arrangements also play a crucial role in keeping employees engaged and valued. Listening to employee feedback and acting on it shows commitment to their well-being and job satisfaction, which strengthens loyalty.