Running a company in today’s modern world is a complicated endeavour. First, you have to have a great business model and a fine-tuned strategy for success. Competition in the marketplace is fierce, and if you are in an industry with a low barrier to entry more competitors can come in anytime. The rise of social media also plays a factor. In years past, companies needed large budgets to be able to advertise and get customers using regular media channels. Today, a new player in the market can generate viral buzz, quickly attract customers and eat into your profitability.
In addition to all of the business marketing and profitability challenges, there are a myriad of rules and regulations that can apply to your organization. It’s important for your business to be in compliance with all of the laws and regulations that apply to your industry. There will be strict rules that apply to product quality, working conditions and even record and document retention. You will also want to consult with or retain Employment law services so you keep up to date with all the changes in applicable labour law. Failure to follow business laws, regulations and the latest rulings can be extremely costly to your enterprise.
Advice Regarding Discrimination
If you are an employer, you cannot discriminate unlawfully against employees of your company. Furthermore, you have to take steps to ensure that your workplace as a whole is free from any unlawful discrimination. Thus, you must take action if you find that some of those who work for you are engaging in conduct that is unlawful and discriminatory.
Some of the areas protected against discrimination include race, sex, religion, sexual orientation and age. It is also critical that you respond correctly in cases of disability and illness discrimination, or when there are issues associated with mental health. An employment lawyer can guide you in fully understanding these laws and regulations.
Policies and Procedures in the Workplace
All companies and organizations need to have policies and procedures in place that specify exactly how staff is expected to conduct themselves when working for the company. Procedures that should be detailed include sickness and absence policy, procedures for addressing grievances and discipline and the whistleblowing policy.
It’s important to consult with a labour attorney to make sure your internal procedures and policies are crafted in accordance with all applicable rules, laws and regulations. Failure to do so could cause violations or result in unforeseen obligations for the employer.
Redundancy
During times of economic downturns or loss of business profitability, many companies and organizations find themselves needing to downsize and reduce their staff. If your firm is facing this challenge, it’s critical that you follow the correct processes and procedures.
When you don’t follow the rules, you may find yourself before an employment tribunal facing a claim of unfair dismissal or discrimination. An employment solicitor can give you advice on giving notice to employees, redundancy pay due under statute and how to fairly select those who are going to be made redundant.