HR To Do: June

Hello June! The summer season is in full swing, bringing with it a sense of relaxation and the opportunity to recharge. As we reach the halfway mark of the year, it’s an ideal time for HR professionals to reflect on their department’s performance, while also prioritizing personal well-being.

In this blog, we’ll explore key HR tasks for June, ensuring a seamless transition into the second half of the year without neglecting the importance of work-life balance.

Dates to Remember:

National Employee Wellness Month

National Employee Wellness Month, observed in June, is an excellent opportunity for companies to promote and enhance the well-being of their employees. Here are several initiatives that companies can implement to support employee health and wellness:

• Health Screenings and Assessments: Offer free or subsidized health screenings, such as
  blood pressure checks, cholesterol tests, and fitness assessments.
• Mental Health Support: Offer workshops on stress management, mindfulness, and mental health awareness.
• Work-Life Balance: Encourage employees to take regular breaks and use their vacation days to recharge.

Juneteenth June 19th

Juneteenth, observed on June 19th, commemorates the end of slavery in the United States and is a significant day for reflection, education, and celebration of African American culture and history. Here mare several ways companies can celebrate Juneteenth in the workplace:

• Diversity and Inclusion Training: Offer training sessions on diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) to foster a more inclusive workplace culture. Provide resources and tools for employees to learn about unconscious bias, allyship, and ways to support their colleagues.
• Communication and Awareness: Use company communication channels to share the history and significance of Juneteenth with all employees. Highlight stories and contributions of African American employees, leaders, and historical figures.
• Recognize the Day as a Paid Holiday: Consider making Juneteenth a paid holiday to allow employees to observe and celebrate the day. Encourage employees to take the day off to participate in local Juneteenth events and activities.

Workplace Violence Prevention Standard: SB 553 must be established and implemented by July 1st.

All employers, subject to few exceptions, must establish, implement, and maintain an effective workplace violence prevention plan (WVPP), by July 1, 2024.

SB 553 doesn’t apply to:

• Employees teleworking from a location of the employee’s choice;
• Places of employment where fewer than 10 employees are working at the place at any given time and are not accessible to the public;
• Health care facilities operating under Cal/OSHA’s Violence Prevention in Health Care regulation; and
• Law enforcement agencies.

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Update Your Vacation Calendar:

While summer vacations are essential for employee well-being, it’s crucial to ensure adequate coverage to keep your business running smoothly. Take a moment to review and update your vacation calendar, ensuring that there’s sufficient staff available to maintain operations during absences.

Revitalize Your Employee Recognition Program:

Engaged and recognized employees contribute to a positive work culture. Evaluate your existing recognition program and consider updates to ensure it aligns with the evolving needs and expectations of your workforce. Implementing fresh initiatives can foster motivation and boost employee morale.

Pursue “Best Places to Work” Awards:

Recognition as a top workplace can enhance your employer's brand and attract top talent. Research the deadlines and application process for local “Best Places to Work” awards in your area. Mark the relevant dates in your calendar and seize the opportunity to showcase your organization’s exceptional work environment.

Onboard Seasonal Employees and Interns:

If your company employs seasonal staff or summer interns, ensure they receive proper onboarding and integration into your team. A structured onboarding process ensures a positive experience for new hires, leading to increased productivity and engagement during their tenure.

Hiring minors? Keep in mind there are some things that are different from your usual new hires. Don’t miss these important legalities!

Mid-Year Check-ins:

Encourage managers to conduct mid-year check-ins with their direct reports. These discussions provide an opportunity to reflect on progress, set goals, and offer support. By fostering open communication, you can empower your employees and address any challenges they may face.

Audit Your HR Resources:

An up-to-date and informative internal HR website is essential for employees to access important resources. Take the time to review and update your HR website, ensuring it provides relevant and accurate information on policies, procedures, and employee benefits.

Organize and Review HR Files:

Maintaining well-organized HR and employee files is critical for compliance and efficient record- keeping. Conduct an audit of your HR files, ensuring all necessary documents are present and organized. Take this opportunity to gather any missing paperwork and maintain a robust and accessible filing system (whether it’s a digital or hard copy system).

As we navigate all of our HR responsibilities, it’s vital to remember that life extends beyond work for you too! Embrace the summer season, and don’t forget to take care of yourself. Balancing your professional obligations with personal well-being contributes to overall success and fulfillment. So, grab your sunscreen and make time for relaxation and enjoyment. After all, a harmonious work-life balance creates a thriving workplace culture.

Wishing you a productive and rejuvenating summer season!