In today’s rapidly changing legal landscape, human resources professionals must be vigilant and proactive in keeping abreast of new laws and employment regulations. This is essential not only for compliance but also to foster a fair and equitable work environment.
Here are 8 strategies to help HR professionals stay informed and effective:
1. Leverage Technology and Data Analytics
Utilize technology solutions that offer regulatory updates and compliance management tools. Platforms like Fieldglass, as used by Panther Workforce Solutions (PWS), enable HR professionals to manage contingent labor while ensuring compliance with current regulations. Such tools often include features for tracking changes in laws that could affect various aspects of employment, from hiring to payroll management.
2. Regular Training and Education
Commit to continuous learning through professional development courses, webinars, and seminars that focus on employment laws and HR best practices. Many HR associations and legal groups offer sessions on specific changes in the law, such as those related to worker classification which are crucial in determining correct employment statuses and complying with IRS guidelines.
3. Networking and Professional Groups
Join industry and professional groups where peers share insights and experiences regarding navigating new regulations. Networking can provide firsthand accounts of compliance strategies and real-time updates on legislative changes.
4. Consultation with Legal Experts
Establish a relationship with legal experts specializing in employment law. Regular consultations can help your organization preemptively adjust policies and practices to meet new legal standards. Legal experts can provide tailored advice that considers your organization’s specific circumstances, especially in complex areas like independent contractor classifications and the implications of misclassification.
5. Subscribe to Legal Updates
Sign up for newsletters and updates from legal advisories, government agencies, and HR consultancies. These resources often provide summaries of recent changes and analysis on how they could impact various industries and workforce management practices.
6. Implement Effective Compliance Management
Adopt a robust compliance management system that includes regular audits, risk assessments, and reviews of HR policies. Ensure that your systems are adaptable to incorporate new legal requirements as they arise. Tools and support from an MSP like PWS can be invaluable in this area, as they bring a deep understanding of compliance management and the nuances of employment law as it pertains to contingent and permanent workforce management.
7. Use Vendor Management Systems (VMS)
Engage with a VMS to streamline the process of hiring and managing contingent workers, ensuring that all contractual terms, including compliance with employment laws, are met. Systems like Fieldglass not only facilitate the management of temporary labor but also ensure adherence to the legal standards.
8. Partner With Panther
With Panther Workforce Solutions, you gain access to our extensive industry knowledge, staffing expertise and contingent workforce management tools. We bring all your staffing vendors into one channel of communication and help you better navigate laws and regulations.
Panther’s MSP Solutions Can Help Your Organization Reach Its Goals
For HR professionals, staying informed about new laws and regulations is crucial for managing risks and ensuring organizational compliance. By leveraging technology, engaging in continuous learning, and utilizing expert resources, HR teams can navigate the complexities of employment law effectively. Remember, an informed HR professional is your best defense against compliance risks and litigation.
Learn more about how Panther Workforce Solutions can help you manage your workforce. Learn more about our Managed Services Provider (MSP) solution, Talent Management, Payrolling and Supplier Diversity. Contact our team today to learn more.
