5 minute HR FEED

Compliance Considerations for Summer Internships

In this concise and informative episode of the Five Minute HR Feed, we focus on the key compliance issues that employers should consider when designing or managing internship programs. With summer approaching, it’s the perfect time to review legal obligations, program structure, and intern protections to ensure a safe, rewarding, and compliant experience for all involved.
Episode Highlights:
Paid vs. Unpaid Internships: Learn how to determine if your internship qualifies as unpaid under the Fair Labor Standards Act using the Department of Labor’s Fact Sheet #71.
Intern Protections and Safety: Ensure your interns are covered under your organization's anti-harassment, safety, and emergency protocols—just like regular employees.
Policy and Documentation Prep: Discover how updating offer letters, handbooks, and benefit plans helps clarify intern expectations and ensures legal clarity.
Plan ahead and audit your internship program now to avoid legal pitfalls later. If you have questions or need assistance, reach out to our HR hotline or email us. We’re here to help you create a legally sound and meaningful intern experience.
Related Resources:
MRA’s HR Resources – Explore more tools and guidance from MRA.
MRA's 24/7 HR Hotline - MRA’s team of experienced HR professionals to answer all your HR questions and provide sound HR advice.
MRA Membership - Your business receives access to a comprehensive set of HR solutions and support.
Enjoyed the episode? Subscribe and leave a review to help us reach more listeners. Share this episode with your team to enhance your talent development strategies.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this podcast is for educational purposes and should not be considered legal advice.

EEO-1 Reporting Update: What Employers Need to Know

In this short but essential episode of the Five Minute HR Feed, we bring you the latest on EEO-1 reporting obligations. Employers have been waiting for clarity, and while the official EEOC website remains unchanged, recent developments provide insight into what’s ahead for 2024 reporting cycle.
Episode Highlights:
The OMB has proposed eliminating the nonbinary gender option in EEO-1 reporting, aligning with Executive Order 14168.
The proposed 2024 EEO-1 reporting window is May 20 to June 24, though this is pending official confirmation from the EEOC.
No immediate changes appear to impact federal contractor reporting obligations tied to Executive Order 11246.
Stay proactive—monitor the EEOC data collection website for final guidance. If you have questions about how these changes might affect your organization, reach out to our HR hotline or email us. We're here to help you stay compliant and informed.
Related Resources:
MRA’s HR Resources – Explore more tools and guidance from MRA.
MRA's 24/7 HR Hotline - MRA’s team of experienced HR professionals to answer all your HR questions and provide sound HR advice.
MRA Membership - Your business receives access to a comprehensive set of HR solutions and support.
 
Enjoyed the episode? Subscribe and leave a review to help us reach more listeners. Share this episode with your team to enhance your talent development strategies.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this podcast is for educational purposes and should not be considered legal advice.

Strategies for Integrating Philanthropy Into HR Practices

In this episode, we explore how businesses can integrate philanthropy into their practices to enhance employee engagement, build stronger community ties, and improve overall company morale.
Episode Highlights:
Encourage employees to give back by offering paid time off for volunteering, which boosts morale, fosters community connections, and increases loyalty and productivity.
Implementing matching gift programs allows the company to amplify employee donations to charities, enhancing engagement and demonstrating the company’s commitment to important causes.
Organize team activities like charity runs or building homes, which promote teamwork, strengthen interpersonal relationships, and create a sense of shared purpose around a common cause.
Integrating philanthropy into your company’s culture can create a more motivated, loyal, and productive workforce. By implementing strategies like volunteerism, matching gift programs, and recognition initiatives, businesses can foster a positive corporate reputation while driving employee engagement and success.
Related Resources:
MRA’s HR Resources – Explore more tools and guidance from MRA.
MRA's 24/7 HR Hotline - MRA’s team of experienced HR professionals to answer all your HR questions and provide sound HR advice.
MRA Membership - Your business receives access to a comprehensive set of HR solutions and support.
 
Enjoyed the episode? Subscribe and leave a review to help us reach more listeners. Share this episode with your team to enhance your talent development strategies.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this podcast is for educational purposes and should not be considered legal advice.

AI in HR: Transforming Workplaces with Innovation and Responsibility

In this episode of 5-Minute HR Feed, host Nicole Morehouse explores the growing role of artificial intelligence in the HR space. AI is no longer a futuristic concept—it’s here, reshaping how businesses manage talent acquisition, employee performance, payroll, and even career development.
Episode Highlights:
The benefits of AI in HR, from automating tasks to enhancing decision-making
Potential risks, including data privacy concerns and algorithm bias
How HR professionals can ease employee concerns and implement AI responsibly
AI can be a powerful tool—but with great power comes great responsibility. Tune in to learn how to balance innovation with ethical considerations to create a more efficient and inclusive workplace.
Related Resources:
MRA’s HR Resources – Explore more tools and guidance from MRA.
MRA's 24/7 HR Hotline - MRA’s team of experienced HR professionals to answer all your HR questions and provide sound HR advice.
MRA Membership - Your business receives access to a comprehensive set of HR solutions and support.
 
Enjoyed the episode? Subscribe and leave a review to help us reach more listeners. Share this episode with your team to enhance your talent development strategies.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this podcast is for educational purposes and should not be considered legal advice.

Managing Employee Resignations: Should You Cut the Notice Period Short?

In this episode of MRA’s Five-Minute HR Feed podcast, Nicole Morehouse, Manager of MRA’s 24/7 Hotline, discusses a common employer question: Should you shorten an employee’s resignation notice period? She covers key considerations, including at-will employment, company policies, legal implications, and the impact on workplace morale.
Episode Highlights:
At-Will vs. Contractual Employment – Understand if you have the right to shorten notice based on employment agreements.
Company Policies & Past Practices – Consistency is key. Review past decisions and policies to avoid potential claims.
Legal Considerations – Ensure compliance with municipal, county, state, and federal laws.
Pay in Lieu of Notice – If notice is shortened, determine if pay is required or optional.
Impact on Workplace Culture – Cutting notice periods may discourage future employees from giving proper notice.
Handling Unique Situations – While policies provide structure, some circumstances may warrant flexibility.
Related Resources:
MRA’s HR Resources – Explore more tools and guidance from MRA.
MRA's 24/7 HR Hotline - MRA’s team of experienced HR professionals to answer all your HR questions and provide sound HR advice.
MRA Membership - Your business receives access to a comprehensive set of HR solutions and support.
 
Enjoyed the episode? Subscribe and leave a review to help us reach more listeners. Share this episode with your team to enhance your talent development strategies.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this podcast is for educational purposes and should not be considered legal advice.

New Year, New Laws: Key Legislative Updates for HR Professionals

In this episode of MRA’s Five-Minute HR Feed podcast, Nicole Morehouse, Manager of MRA’s 24/7 Hotline, covers key legislative updates for HR professionals as we head into the new year. Nicole discusses the importance of staying compliant with new laws and provides practical advice for updating HR policies to reflect the latest changes in legislation.
Episode Highlights:
Why it’s essential to review and update HR policies regularly to stay compliant with new or amended laws
Key legislative changes taking effect this year, including updates in Illinois, Minnesota, and other states
The importance of checking minimum wage rates and other annual updates
How to stay ahead of significant legal changes affecting your organization and employees
Practical resources to help HR professionals navigate these updates
Whether you’re looking to stay informed or ensure compliance with the latest laws, this episode offers valuable insights to help HR professionals manage legislative changes effectively.
Related Resources:
MRA’s HR Resources – Explore more tools and guidance from MRA.
MRA's 24/7 HR Hotline - MRA’s team of experienced HR professionals to answer all your HR questions and provide sound HR advice.
MRA Membership - Your business receives access to a comprehensive set of HR solutions and support.
 
Enjoyed the episode? Subscribe and leave a review to help us reach more listeners. Share this episode with your team to enhance your talent development strategies.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this podcast is for educational purposes and should not be considered legal advice.

Strategic Career Pathing: A Key to Attracting and Keeping Talent

In this episode of MRA’s Five-Minute HR Feed podcast, Sara Strohschein, HR Business Advisor at MRA, dives into the importance of career pathing and how it impacts employee engagement, retention, and organizational success. Sara discusses the strategies and benefits of developing clear career paths within your organization.
Episode Highlights:
Defining career pathing and why it matters for employee retention and satisfaction
The role of career pathing in motivating employees and fostering long-term loyalty
Key steps to implement a successful career path program in your organization
Tips for HR professionals and managers on how to identify growth opportunities and align career paths with organizational goals
Whether you're starting out or enhancing your career pathing efforts, this episode is filled with valuable strategies to help you guide employees toward fulfilling, rewarding careers within your company.
Related Resources:
MRA’s HR Resources – Explore more tools and guidance from MRA.
MRA's 24/7 HR Hotline - MRA’s team of experienced HR professionals to answer all your HR questions and provide sound HR advice.
MRA Membership - Your business receives access to a comprehensive set of HR solutions and support.
Enjoyed the episode? Subscribe and leave a review to help us reach more listeners. Share this episode with your team to enhance your talent development strategies.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this podcast is for educational purposes and should not be considered legal advice.

Pay Transparency Considerations for Employers

In this episode of MRA’s Five-Minute HR Feed podcast, Nicole Morehouse, Manager of MRA’s 24/7 Hotline, sits down with HR Business Partner Lisa Hirchert to delve into the essentials of pay transparency and why it’s a critical focus for today’s organizations.
Episode Highlights:
The difference between pay transparency and pay equity
An overview of growing state laws around pay transparency and what employers need to know
How transparency builds trust, fairness, and positively impacts employee performance
Practical strategies for HR professionals and managers to foster openness and trust within their teams
Whether you’re just beginning or are already on the path to transparency, this episode is packed with actionable insights to help make transparency work in your organization. For more support, MRA’s 24/7 Hotline and HR Business Partner Team are here to assist!
Related Resources:
MRA’s HR Resources – Explore more tools and guidance from MRA.
MRA's 24/7 HR Hotline - MRA’s team of experienced HR professionals to answer all your HR questions and provide sound HR advice.
MRA Membership - Your business receives access to a comprehensive set of HR solutions and support.
 
Enjoyed the episode? Subscribe and leave a review to help us reach more listeners. Share this episode with your team to enhance your internal investigation practices.
 
Disclaimer: The information provided in this podcast is for educational purposes and should not be considered legal advice.

Laying the Groundwork for Effective HR Investigations: Part Two

In this episode, host Nicole Morehouse is joined by Maria Monteagudo from MRA’s HR services team. They dive into key steps for conducting thorough HR investigations, including preparing for interviews with complainants, witnesses, and the accused. Maria shares expert insights on how to create a comfortable environment for interviews, the importance of having a note-taker, and how to ensure effective workplace documentation. Learn practical tips for improving your organization’s internal investigation process and setting yourself up for success when issues arise.
Episode Highlights:
Creating a safe and private environment for complainants during interviews
The role of note-takers in improving documentation and focusing on follow-up questions
Importance of allowing the complainant to share their full story before asking follow-up questions
Considerations around asking for written statements from complainants
Defining who should be considered a witness and when to involve them in the investigation process
Tips on preparing for interviews and ensuring a thorough internal investigation
 
Related Resources:
MRA’s HR Resources – Explore more tools and guidance from MRA.
MRA's 24/7 HR Hotline - MRA’s team of experienced HR professionals to answer all your HR questions and provide sound HR advice.
Workplace Investigations - When dealing with a potentially costly employee situation, a workplace investigation can be more effective by a neutral third party.
MRA Membership - Your business receives access to a comprehensive set of HR solutions and support.
 
Enjoyed the episode? Subscribe and leave a review to help us reach more listeners. Share this episode with your team to enhance your internal investigation practices.
 
Disclaimer: The information provided in this podcast is for educational purposes and should not be considered legal advice.

Laying the Groundwork for Effective HR Investigations: Part One

In this episode, we're excited to welcome Maria Monteagudo, HR Business Partner at MRA, as our guest. Maria brings a wealth of experience in managing internal investigations and will guide us through the critical pre-investigation phase. This is Part 1 of a two-part series, where we explore essential strategies to prepare for a successful investigation.
 
Episode Highlights:
Initial Considerations: How to assess and categorize the reported issue, whether it’s a legal concern, policy violation, or a personal matter.
Intervention Strategies: Best practices for addressing safety or security concerns, including the possibility of placing an employee on leave or reassigning duties.
Evidence Collection: Key types of evidence to secure promptly, including payroll data, electronic communications, and witness statements.
Notifications: Effective ways to inform involved parties and manage expectations while maintaining investigation integrity.
 
Related Resources:
MRA’s HR Resources – Explore more tools and guidance from MRA.
MRA's 24/7 HR Hotline - MRA’s team of experienced HR professionals to answer all your HR questions and provide sound HR advice.
Workplace Investigations - When dealing with a potentially costly employee situation, a workplace investigation can be more effective by a neutral third party.
MRA Membership - Your business receives access to a comprehensive set of HR solutions and support.
 
Enjoyed the episode? Subscribe and leave a review to help us reach more listeners. Share this episode with your team to enhance your internal investigation practices.
 
Disclaimer: The information provided in this podcast is for educational purposes and should not be considered legal advice.