Showing posts with label Employee. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Employee. Show all posts

Wednesday, August 15, 2012

Comments From Personnel Files

Comments From Personnel Files

“This employee has reached rock bottom and has started to dig”.
“His men would follow him anywhere, but only out of morbid curiosity”.
“When she opens her mouth, it is only to change feet”.
“He would be out of his depth in a parking lot puddle”.
“This employee should go far - and the sooner he starts the better”.

Saturday, June 16, 2012

Workplace Harassment

Workplace Harassment

Frequently Asked Questions

What is workplace harassment?Workplace harassment is any unwelcome or unwanted conduct that denigrates or shows hostility or an aversion toward another person on the basis of any characteristic protected by law, which includes  an individual's race, color, gender, ethnic or national origin, age, religion, disability, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or other personal characteristic protected by law. A conduct is unwelcome if the employee did not solicit, instigate or provoke it, and the employee regarded the conduct as undesirable or offensive.
What is sexual harassment?Sexual harassment is a form of sex discrimination that involves unwanted or unwelcome conduct of a sexual nature. This applies to harassment by a person against another person of the opposite sex as well as harassment by a person against another person of the same sex. The California Fair Employment and Housing Act defines sexual harassment as “harassment based on sex or of a sexual nature; gender harassment and harassment based on pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions,” and includes many forms of offensive behavior.
Why is harassment illegal?Workplace harassment is a violation of Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, the Age Discrimination in Employment Act, the Americans with Disabilities Act,  and the California Fair Employment & Housing Act.  Both the federal and state laws impose liability on employers for failing to remedy or prevent a hostile or offensive work environment of which management knew or should have known about the workplace harassment.
When does harassment occur?Harassment occurs when an employer creates, condones or permits a hostile, intimidating or offensive work environment. That may include discriminatory treatment and/or retaliation for filing a complaint or participating in an investigation.
What is the obligation of the employer in preventing harassment in the workplace?
  • The employer must take all reasonable steps to prevent discrimination and harassment from occurring.  If harassment does occur, the employer must take immediate and effective steps to stop further harassment and correct any effects of the harassment.
  • The employer must develop and implement a harassment preventive policy. The policy should describe the types of prohibited behavior, provide complaint procedures to follow, explain the investigation process, provide assurance that prompt and effective corrective action will be taken, and ensure that there will be no retaliation for either filing a complaint or for participating in an investigation.
  • The employer must also educate its employees as to the kind of behavior that is to be avoided. The employer should tell employees that it is against company policy and against the law to harass another person in the workplace.
  • The employer must have an effective mechanism to prevent and promptly correct any sexual or other harassing behavior.
  • With the passage of AB 1825, effective January 1, 2006, all California employers with 50 or more employees are required by law to provide two hours of harassment training every two years for their managers and supervisors. All newly hired supervisors or individuals promoted into a supervisory role must be trained within six months of becoming a supervisor. Training must be at least two hours and must be interactive.
  • The employer must post the DFEH employment poster in the workplace.
  • The employer must distribute an information sheet on sexual harassment to all employees.  The employer may use the DFEH 185 pamphlet or develop an equivalent document.
What must the employer do when there is a harassment problem in the workplace?The employer must conduct an immediate and thorough investigation, followed by an appropriate remedy to correct the problem. This includes disciplining or terminating the harassing employee. If the individual doing the harassing is not an employee, the employer must address the problem directly with that individual and/or organization that he/she represents, and insure the conduct is stopped immediately. The employer’s response must be reasonably calculated to end the harassment and prevent it from happening again.
What is “quid pro quo” sexual harassment?“Quid pro quo” (this for that) harassment occurs when an employee is offered some job benefit such as promotion, pay raise, etc., in return for sexual favors or is subjected to some adverse action because of a refusal to submit to a request for sexual favors.
What is “hostile work environment” sexual harassment?“Hostile environment” harassment occurs when an employee is subjected to unwelcome or unwanted sexual conduct that is sufficiently pervasive or severe to alter the terms or conditions of the employee’s employment,  such conduct unreasonably interferes with an employee’s work performance or creates an abusive, intimidating, offensive or hostile work environment.  A manager, supervisor, co-worker, or even a non-employee such as a vendor, customer or third party can create a hostile environment.
What is the employer’s liability if it fails to deal with a harassment problem in the workplace? The employer is responsible for the harassing conduct of its managers and supervisors in “quid pro quo” and “hostile environment” situations. The employer can also be liable for harassment of an employee by co-workers and even of non-employees, if the employer knew or should have known about the harassment and failed to take immediate and appropriate action. The employer must treat all complaints seriously, investigate them thoroughly, and document its efforts completely.
Can an employee be personally liable for harassment?Yes, effective January 1, 2001, an employee is personally liable for any harassment prohibited by the California Fair Employment and Housing Act that is perpetrated by the employee, regardless of whether the employer knows or should have known of the conduct and fails to take immediate and appropriate corrective action.
What can happen if a supervisor does not take the employee’s complaint of harassment seriously?A supervisor places the company in jeopardy. Ignoring the problem may be construed as an admission that the company intentionally failed to act. Supervisors should take any comments or statements of harassment seriously, no matter how casual, and report the incident to management so that a prompt and thorough investigation can be conducted.
What are some examples of workplace harassment?Workplace harassment can take many forms including, but not limited, to these examples:
  • Verbal – Sexual innuendoes and other suggestive comments; racial or ethnic slurs; humor, jokes or teasing about sex, race, age, religion, disability or gender-specific traits; repeated requests for dates; sexual advances or propositions; comments about a person’s body, dress, excessive flattery or questioning of a personal nature; abusive language or insults; or threats.
  • Visual or Non-Verbal – Leering or staring in a sexual manner; whistling or hooting; suggestive or insulting looks; vulgar sounds or gestures; offensive or hateful pictures, posters, calendars, cartoons or obscene e-mail; excessive attention in the form of love letters or gifts; or offensive or derogatory written materials.
  • Physical – Inappropriate touching of the body (e.g., brushing, patting, hugging, pinching or shoulder rubs); kissing or inappropriate display of body parts; coerced acts of a sexual nature; physically blocking another individual’s movement, assault; exclusionary or demeaning actions or activities based on age, ethnicity, sex or race.
How does one know if an offensive conduct or harassing behavior has created a hostile work environment?Harassment must be viewed in its totality. Mere discourtesy, rudeness or lack of sensitivity should not be confused with harassment. The harassing behavior must be sufficiently severe or pervasive so as to alter the conditions of employment and create an abusive working environment. The more severe the conduct, the less pervasive it must be. The required showing of severity varies inversely with the frequency of the conduct. A single incident, simple teasing, off-hand comments or isolated instances of offensive sexual conduct or remarks generally will not be sufficient to create a hostile work environment. A hostile environment claim generally requires a showing of a pattern of offensive conduct. However, a single severe incident of harassment can be a violation of the law, particularly when the harassment is physical or quid pro quo.
What factors determine whether an environment is “hostile?”The EEOC has established the following factors to determine whether a hostile work environment has been created:
  • Whether the conduct was unwelcome or unwanted;
  • Whether the conduct was verbal or physical, or both;
  • Whether the conduct was a one-time occurrence or was repeated (e.g., continuous period of harassment);
  • Whether the conduct was hostile and offensive;
  • Whether others joined in perpetrating the harassment; and
  • Whether the harassment was directed at more than one individual.
How can an employee make sure that his or her conduct is appropriate at all times?
  • Avoid behavior that demeans, degrades, abuses or shows disrespect to any individual.
  • Recognize that the same remarks or gestures that seem acceptable to some people may be embarrassing or offensive to or unwanted by others.
  • Consider how you would react if the same behavior were directed toward your spouse or family member.
  • Ask yourself whether you would act the same way in front of your spouse, significant other, or child.
  • Ask yourself how you would feel if your behavior were captured on video, reported in a newspaper, or featured on the nightly news.
What should an employee do if he or she is harassed by another person at work?
O
ften, the most effective method to put an end to harassment is to tell the person to stop. Let the person know the action is unwelcome. Be direct and say something like “I’d like to keep our relationship strictly professional” or “I think ethnic jokes are offensive, so please do not tell them in my presence.” Ignoring the situation will not make it go away. If the direct approach does not solve the problem, then report the situation to a supervisor, a human resources representative or a member of management.
What if a supervisor is harassing the employee?The employee is not required to report harassment to a supervisor who has engaged in harassment against the employee or who is a close associate of the person who has engaged in the harassment. In this situation, the employee should report the problem directly to human resources or a member of management to handle the problem.
What happens after the employee has reported harassment?Each report of harassment will be evaluated on an individual basis. Management will need the employee’s full cooperation to thoroughly review and investigate the problem. Throughout the process, confidential or sensitive information will be shared only with those who have a need to know. After the investigation, an employee who is found to be in violation of the company’s policy on harassment will be subject to appropriate corrective action, up to and including termination. Management will advise the employee who has been harassed of the results of the investigation. Retaliation against any employee who reports a problem or files a complaint of harassment, or anyone who participates in the investigation will not be tolerated.
What can the employer do about a complaint of harassment that occurred after work and away from company premises?Generally, the company should not intrude or become involved with the private lives of employees. However, supervisors may be viewed as company representatives when off the job, depending upon the circumstances. If there is a report or complaint of supervisory harassment, the company should look into the matter and ascertain if the employee’s outside activity has a nexus to the workplace or a harmful effect on the employer’s operation.

http://www.strategichr.com/shrsweb2/harassment_01.shtml

Saturday, July 23, 2011

Monday, February 28, 2011

Four Management Lessons

Four Management Lessons
by Shovna



* Lesson Number One *

A crow was sitting on a tree, doing nothing all day. A small rabbit saw the crow, and asked him, "Can I also sit like you and do nothing all day long?"

The crow answered: "Sure, why not."

So, the rabbit sat on the ground below the crow, and rested. All of a sudden, a fox appeared, jumped on the rabbit and ate it.

Management Lesson: To be sitting and doing nothing, you must be sitting very, very high up.


* Lesson Number Two *

A turkey was chatting with a bull.

"I would love to be able to get to the top of that tree," sighed the turkey, "but I haven't got the energy. "Well, why don't you nibble on some of my droppings?" replied the bull. "They're packed with nutrients."

The turkey pecked at a lump of dung and found that it actually gave him enough strength to reach the first branch of the tree. The next day, after eating some more dung, he reached the second branch. Finally after a fortnight, there he was proudly perched at the top of the tree. Soon he was promptly spotted by a farmer, who shot the turkey out of the tree.

Management Lesson: Bullshit might get you to the top, but it won't keep you there.


* Lesson Number Three *

When the body was first made, all the parts wanted to be Boss. The brain said, "I should be Boss because I control the whole body's responses and functions."

The feet said, "We should be Boss as we carry the brain about and get him to where he wants to go." The hands said, "We should be the Boss because we do all the work and earn all the money." And so it went on and on with the heart, the lungs and the eyes until finally the asshole spoke up.

All the parts laughed at the idea of the asshole being the Boss. So the asshole went on strike, blocked itself up and refused to work. Within a short time the eyes became crossed, the hands clenched, the feet twitched, the heart and lungs began to panic and the brain fevered. Eventually they all decided that the asshole should be the Boss, so the motion was passed.

All the other parts did all the work while the Boss just sat and passed out the sh*t!

Management Lesson: You don't need brains to be Boss, any asshole will do!


* Lesson Number Four *

A little bird was flying south for the winter. It was so cold, the bird froze and fell to the ground in a large field. While it was lying there, a cow came by and dropped some dung on it. As the frozen bird lay there in the pile of cow dung, it began to realize how warm it was. The dung was actually thawing him out!

He lay there all warm and happy, and soon began to sing for joy. A passing cat heard he bird singing and came to investigate. Following the sound, the cat discovered the bird under the pile of cow dung, and promptly dug him out and ate him!

Management Lessons Summary:

1. Not everyone who drops sh*t on you is your enemy.
2. Not everyone who gets you out of sh*t is your friend.
3. When you're in deep sh*t, keep your mouth shut!

http://www.fropki.com/four-management-lessons-vt37303.html

Sunday, February 13, 2011

Cancer Survivors and Factors Affecting Employment

Cancer Survivors and Factors Affecting Employment
Article by Dr. Sloan, MD.

Disease Related Factors
Cancer type has the strongest determinant in employment of cancer survivors. Lower employment and work ability are commonly seen in cancer patients of nervous system, lung and hematological (leukemia). The fact that the recurrence rate of the cancer of nervous system is rather high coupled with the unpleasant side effects of the treatment and complications of the cancer, such group of cancer patients are less favored when it comes to employment. As for lung cancer, the survival rate is low with 10% men and 13% women achieve five year survival rate.

Breast, colorectal, prostate and testicular cancers are among the most prevalent and have higher survival rate due to advances in cancer treatment. Thus, the chances of returning to work following diagnosis and treatment within these groups are comparatively higher.

Other existing chronic illness like diabetes, hypertension and hyperlipidemia would also affect the return to work and work ability of the employees.

Chemotherapy being a common treatment modality for cancer usually causes side effects like fatigue, menopause and cognitive impairment as compared to other mode of treatments. Fatigue level independently predicts how soon an employee with cancer is ready to return to work and significantly impact on work ability. Treatment related symptoms significantly decrease the quality of life among patients undergoing treatment. Such side effects should be addressed during follow up in order for the medical team to make necessary adjustments on the treatment.

Sociodemographic Factors
Sociodemographic factors of the employees do play a role in employment and work ability of cancer survivors. Employers are less likely to hire those who are older, working in blue collar jobs and have lower educational backgrounds. It is not uncommon for lower educated employees to work in more physically demanding jobs. Physical capacity of the these cancer survivors may be compromised by the diseases or even the treatment itself. Thus, it is not surprising that cancer survivors with a lower education might be more likely to discontinue their work after a bout with cancer than those with a higher education.

Work-Related Factors
The work ability of the employees resuming a job upon treatment would be improved greatly if there is practical support from their supervisors in the form of taking the illness into consideration when allocating work tasks to the employees at the workplace.

Potential social issues that cancer survivors may encounter upon rejoining the workplace are, fear of discrimination, unwillingness to change work tasks, and unwillingness to change their current jobs for the fear of losing insurance coverage. Such worries and fears have a negative impact on their quality of life and productivity.

The social support from the workplace, occupational physician and the willingness of the employer to accommodate the cancer survivors are the important factors in assisting cancer survivors to return to work.

Impairment of work ability associated with cancer varied in various reports from about 20% to 30%. It is crucial to identify those cancer survivors who are at the highest risk of impaired work ability and would most likely discontinue their working life earlier. Once this group of employees are identified, a more comprehensive type of return to work program could be designed and serve as a part of management of cancer survivors in returning to work via early assessment and intervention program.

References
i) Cancer survivors in the United States: Age, Health and Disability. J Gerontol A Biol Sci Med Sci

ii) F.Munir, J.Yarker and Hilary McDermott; Employment and common cancers: correlates of work ability during or following cancer treatment. Occupational Medicine 2009

iii) Lee MK, Lee KM, Bae-J et al. Employment status and work related difficulties in stomach cancer survivors compared with general population. Br J Cancer 2008

iv) Taskila T, Martikainen R, Hietanen P, Lindbohm ML. Comparative study of work ability between cancer survivors and their referents. Eur J Cancer 2007



Read more: http://www.brighthub.com/health/cancer/articles/92050.aspx#ixzz1DupEZ7Bt

Sunday, January 9, 2011

Friday, October 15, 2010

Spotlighting Your Social Responsibility

http://www.entrepreneur.com/marketing/publicrelations/prcolumnistrachelmeranus/article206850.html

Spotlighting Your Social Responsibility
Strategies to keep people from thinking you're only in it for the money
By Rachel Meranus | May 28, 2010


Corporate Social Responsibility, or CSR, is a term for describing activities and initiatives that businesses undertake as a means to connect with or give back to the communities in which they do business. CSR can range from charitable programs and community service, to environmental-impact awareness. The goal of CSR is to ensure that companies uphold and promote high ethical standards as they simultaneously pursue profits.

While CSR activities have long been part of the business fabric, companies have wrangled with the best approach for communicating these efforts. To some, making the public aware of charitable work is an excellent way to extend visibility and create goodwill for a company. However, to others CSR and PR should be kept separate to avoid the perception that a business is engaged in such activities for only self-serving purposes. It's essential to understand the latest trends and regulations that companies now must consider as they strategize about their CSR activities.

Why Bring Attention to "Non-profit" Work?
The rise toward greater transparency has impacted all aspects of how companies are expected to communicate to their public. Investors, employees, customers, stakeholders and the media are all seeking more information on the companies with which they're directly involved or have interactions.

This focus on disclosure most often involves business activities and financial performance, but to many--especially those in the local community--the degree to which a company gives back to the greater good can be a deciding factor in how that business is perceived. Given this reality, one could argue that companies that fail to communicate their CSR work could be doing themselves more harm than good.

Whether a company is a global behemoth or a mom-and-pop, the value of communicating one's hidden assets cannot be understated. In many cases, the value of a business is expressed as much by how it treats its employees, the programs it has for environmental sustainability or its charitable associations as it is its revenues or sales projections. Companies that are looking to gain an edge on the competition can actually benefit from making such hidden assets more widely visible.

Tools and Tactics to Communicate CSR
The press release remains a very effective way to communicate CSR initiatives and milestones, especially when companies make a fundamental change to the way they do business or address community concerns. Companies that make an effort to address social inequities and obstacles interest the media. A news story detailing such initiatives can create a great deal of social capital in the minds of consumers.

But it's not necessary to rely solely on traditional marketing to communicate CSR causes. Some companies use social networking sites like Twitter and Facebook to communicate their CSR activities in real time as well as to garner feedback from the online community. Tweeting during a community cleanup or posting a status update heralding an upcoming food drive is a simple and effective way to communicate a company's CSR initiatives.

Lastly, many companies are now building CSR-focused pages on their corporate websites where they are able to post press releases, news articles and even create interactive "calls-to-action" that highlight CSR programs and encourage engagement among all interested parties. Given the importance of maintaining a CSR presence online, many companies are turning to outside resources to help keep consumers informed about their CSR practices.

Will CSR Disclosure Become a Government Mandate?
On January 28, 2010, the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission issued interpretive guidance on existing SEC disclosure requirements. The guidance indicates that companies must disclose to investors the physical impact that climate change has on assets and the consequences of regulations curbing greenhouse gas emissions. This is still not an official policy, but it clearly suggests that the SEC believes that environmental impact--a non-financial metric--may be material information to investors and should be properly disclosed. This is definitely the blossoming of a trend, no doubt.

CSR's Shining Stars
Some companies are very successful at communicating their CSR activities by marketing a socially responsible service or product. Zipcar , for example, uses its website to promote the company's positive impact on the environment as well as its cost-savings to drivers. Zipcar's mission to reduce dependence on personally owned vehicles resonates with socially minded pragmatic consumers looking to cut pollution and lessen the consumption of oil. It's estimated that each Zipcar takes 15-20 personal vehicles off the road.

Ben & Jerry's earned a reputation for incorporating socially responsible and sustainable practices directly into their business model. When Ben & Jerry's pledged only to use RBST-free milk in their products, they paved the way for others to follow suit and pressured the FDA to allow companies to label their products BGH (Bovine Growth Hormone) free. The company's pledge to use hormone-free milk in their products and their strong support of family dairy farms garnered excellent media coverage both locally and nationally and cemented their reputation as a socially responsible business leader.

Starbucks is another example of a company that leads the way in showcasing their CSR efforts. The website includes a full "responsibility" page that features updated CSR practices and initiatives in community, environment, ethical sourcing, wellness and diversity. The responsibility page includes embedded video content for each area of CSR concentration, among them an extended clip about how the company spearheaded a grassroots effort to aid the city of New Orleans post-Katrina. There's even a featured post each month written by a Starbucks employee detailing their personal social responsibility goals.

CSR Activities Worth Pursuing and Promoting
Most people associate charitable work, like fundraisers, volunteer programs and sponsorships, with CSR. All of these activities are suitable for promotion, not only for added visibility, but also for increasing participation in the events themselves. But charitable work is just one element of CSR. Environmental sustainability, public education and employee safety all fall under the umbrella of CSR and should be incorporated into a company's overall communication effort.

Tips to Gain More Visibility for CSR Efforts

Build exposure into your website: A company's website can be an effective tool to communicate its CSR efforts. In order to demonstrate an authentic commitment, it's important to embed pieces of CSR stories within each page as well as to have a dedicated page within the site that details CSR efforts.
Use social media: Social media is a tremendous tool for issues advocacy. Through its use companies can better understand the concerns of their communities and direct their CSR efforts to address those concerns. Companies that are in touch with their communities and actively assist or lead efforts to better them (globally or locally), can use social media to organize and enlist others in their cause. This grassroots action can build supporters who take it upon themselves to help communicate the company's efforts.
Tap employees: Often employees are just as powerful as consumers in getting the word out about a company's business practices. Encourage your employees to engage in the company's CSR efforts. They'll feel good doing it and will likely tell others about it.


Rachel Meranus is vice president of communications at PR Newswire, an online press release distribution network based in New York. Get more information about PR Newswire and public relations with their PR Toolkit for small businesses.

Sunday, August 22, 2010

What Kind Of Employee Are You

Aries Employee Profile (march 21 - april 19)

Aries employees make excellent troubleshooters. They'll usually want to be out in the field at a variety of different work sites fixing things. They certainly won't be happy for very long behind a desk in a 9 to 5 schedule. The bored Aries employee who has been forced into a square hole will typically be restless, angry, and careless with details. No amount of money would compensate for being stuck in a routine job. Money in fact isn't why they are working at all. They do want to be paid fairly and need a status position to satisfy their competitive tendencies-- but even more importantly, they'll want challenging new projects They typically like to have a sense of responsibility and need to feel needed. In return, they'll give their all and provide detailed, consistent work. They will literally work themselves to exhaustion to prove themselves. If you want to keep your Aries co-worker productive and happy, you'll want to give them the opportunity to work independently or let them help and lead less experienced workers.

Taurus Employee Profile (april 20 - may 20)

Taureans make some of the best employees. They are loyal, hardworking, and no-nonsense. They work methodically and follow projects through until they are complete. Some may appear to work a little too slowly-usually because they are so careful-but they will always finish what they start. They thrive on structure, schedules, and routine. You'll find them doing the same exact thing at the same time every day. Taureans, however, are not exactly the malleable workers that they often appear to be. If they have to work in a chaotic environment, they won't be happy and will be prone to child-like temper tantrums and stubbornness. They might react similarly if they have to work around ignorant people or at a job where there is no obvious potential for advancement. Taureans will be very unhappy if there isn't a ladder for them to climb. Even in the worst situations, they will find a way to advance slowly, winning over the most difficult people who may stand in their way of progress. Taurus employees will only take so much patiently and happily before they feel they are being taken advantage of. They will gladly accept orders and do whatever dirty work needs to get done, but they expect rewards. They want material gain, salary increases, and the potential for more power. To make your Taurus employees happy, be sure to give them projects through which they will see tangible results-hopefully something that will allow them to express their unique creativity in addition to their practical side. They don't want to feel mired in details for long periods of time. Make sure to schedule re gu lar performance and salary reviews. This show of respect should keep them loyal to the company .

Gemini Employee Profile (may 21 - june 21)

Gemini employees can have difficulty concentrating on one thing for long periods of time. They have quick-moving minds and love to talk and communicate their ideas with others. They thrive on social interaction -- even if their jobs don't particularly support it. You'll be able to find them wandering from desk to desk gossiping about all the sordid news in the office. They can be powerful persuaders in their speech and make ideal salespeople and mediators. They love to negotiate and can work out the best Deal for everyone involved. When properly stimulated, they can manage to keep their wandering mind focused and actually be quite productive. When they are bored, bogged down with mundane detail-work, or forced to work with people who they consider droll, they can become mean-spirited and gossipy. Their moods can fluctuate vastly day to day, as well as their productivity. It is really against their nature to be forced into an average workday schedule and environment. They are happier traveling. lf they are in an office they will need constant new stimulation. Most will be wanting advancement if they see this as a way to escape the limitations of their jobs. This can motivate them to put extra effort into their job. If you work with a Gemini, try to avoid getting into any debates with them - they will surely win and it could end in some hard feelings on your part. They will need an accepting environment- one that supports their need for multi-tasking.

Cancer Employee Profile (june 22 - july 21)

The Cancer employee isn't at work to feed their ego -- their job is just a job and a means to get paid. They work steadily and are usually very reliable. You'll be able to depend on them to show up on time and do what is necessary. They won't get involved in power struggles or get upset when someone advances before them. They are able to accept the situation because they see it simply as a rung on the ladder up. Their motivation is security. They'll want more money the longer they've stayed at a job. They don't want to have to worry about how they'll make ends meet tomorrow so they'll need a stable position without much risk. Cancerian workers can slip into some dark moods on occasion. During these periods productivity tends to drop-as well as everyone else's in the office.. Their moods can be so strong everyone becomes affected. To avoid the frequency of these occurrences, managers and co-workers should try to make the work environment as homey as possible-keep it well heated, cozy, and friendly. Don't press them to reveal their true inner thoughts-their tendency is to be secretive and protective, and they could see prying as an attempt to disturb their security.

Leo Employee Profile (july 22 - au gu st 21)

Leo workers want to be first and at the center of the office. Even if they can't lead, they'll look for every opportunity to increase their own status - and if someone else seems ahead of them, look out. They will make it clear that they aren't happy by pouting and complaining. They want advancement so much that they'll take on more responsibility and carry a heavier load than anyone else does in the office. And they are self-promoters. It is likely that they are telling everyone in the office what a great job they are doing as well as giving everyone unwanted advice. They know they are superior and want everyone to know it as well. This arrogance can sometimes cause problems when working with management. But typically, they are just hard workers out to demonstrate just how good they really are. They thrive in sales positions - they can promote a product or company just as well as they promote themselves. Their strength and arrogance isn't just show either. In a crisis situation, Leos really demonstrate their true courage. Leos want to lead and will be pushing for more responsibility and rewards. They are happy to train and mentor new co- workers as they enjoy giving advice and being in positions of authority. If you are trying to manage a Leo employee, you'll need to give them plenty of praise, responsibility, and independence. They will certainly want to help lighten your load of management responsibilities. Just be careful- the next thing you know they could be taking over your job .

Virgo Employee Profile (august 22 - september 22)

In the right situations Virgos love to work. They make ideal employees, happily working late into the night to make sure everything is perfect and in order. If you are looking for an employee who doesn't mind starting from rock bottom in the most entry-level position at the company, hire a Virgo. They'll have no complaints about the position being beneath them. They are CONTENT with basic, honest hard work. Their contentment isn't always apparent, however. They love to complain and worry. They are quick to criticize the way things are done around the office and are the first ones to grumble disapprovingly at what they consider to be extravagance or laziness. They are blunt and honest and don't mince words over what they feel just isn't right. Usually, this will be brought on by someone doing a half-baked job or not being considerate of other co-workers. You'll want to constantly reassure them, but this will do little to quell their anxieties. They actually enjoy worrying, and there is little you can do about it. Just give them a detail - oriented project and let them work alone on it. You won't have to supervise a Virgo worker. They'll check all the facts before getting started and catch their own errors when they are done. To keep a Virgo employee happy, you should also make sure their environment is orderly and calm. You should also provide small gestures of appreciation. They don't need extravagance, just let them know you appreciate them in small ways that won't embarrass them. They will probably just shrug their shoulders and say, "It's no big deal." But deep down inside they need these little reassurances.

Libra Employee Profile (september 23 - october 22)

Libra employees are detailed, dedicated workers with sensitive natures. Managers and co-workers sometimes find them difficult to get a handle on. They pick up the energy of the office and are unable to prevent it from affecting them. Loud noise,
flashy colors, and discordant vibrations will put them off so much that they will have difficulty fulfilling their obligations at work. One day they may seem like the most bright, hardworking, ambitious employee around. The next day they might be down, irritated, and unable to produce. Co-workers shouldn't fret when Libra employees are in a dark mood. It really won't last, as a happy state of mind can come over them just as quickly. When Libra employees are in a balanced frame of mind, they can be a powerful presence at work-they have a way of gracing everything they touch. Underneath that mess of moods, they really are basically happy and stable people. They are capable of profound logical thought and evaluate all sides of a situation before acting. They are one of the most intelligent Signs around. They are expert researchers and mediators. And their sensitivity to their environment makes them naturals at keeping things looking great. They will easily help others resolve conflicts and can act as a go-between with workers and management so that everyone ends up happy. If you want to keep your Libran worker smiling, give them the respect they are due and put them in a position where they can project their great charm and diplomacy. They won't be CONTENT to take orders for very long, either- make sure they are given increased responsibility .

Scorpio Employee Profile (october 23 - november 21)

Scorpio employees usually exude a quiet self-confidence. They are self-sufficient and do not depend on others for a sense of self-worth. They keep their private life separate from work and take complete responsibility for their actions and their situation. They don't make excuses; they just take care of business and expect everyone else to do the same. Those who don't, co- workers and managers- will have to endure the Scorpio wrath. They don't mind being completely vocal about what they feel is wrong with any given situation. And if you tread on their fire be sure to expect retaliation. They won't take insults or opposition lying down. If you manage a Scorpio employee, be sure to follow through with your word and don't break any promises-Scorpio is keeping track and building up some heavy resentments against you if you do. You may not even be aware of it until too late-but when Scorpio gets too much, you'll be sure to know. Scorpio employees will react towards those around them exactly as they are treated. When they get what they want, they will be very accepting. If you are trying to work with or motivate a Scorpio co-worker, be sure to treat them respectfully and act professionally. Give them challenging work that allows them to utilize their awesome self-confidence and courage .

Sagittarius Employee Profile (november 22 - december 21)

The Sagittarian employee is head strong, cheerful, and willing to help. They exude self-confidence and take on tasks like there's no tomorrow. They are willing to tackle even the toughest of projects as long as it is challenging and gets them out of the routine. Lucky for them, their shining personalities and honest enthusiasm seem like a bright spot in the office- otherwise co-workers might begin to build animosity towards someone so arrogant and extravagant.. Their tendency to exaggerate and take on more then they can handle usually results in missed deadlines and dropping the ball-not because they are lazy of procrastinate, but because their enthusiasm just gets the better of them sometimes. Don't let their nonchalance fool you-they really do care about what they are doing. They just have an easy-going attitude that allows them to keep on smiling even when they just messed up big time. Just because they are flexible and easy-going doesn't mean they won't tell you exactly how they feel-what is working for them and what isn't. And they won't just blindly take orders - they need to understand the method and reason behind the process. If you are trying to motivate your Sagittarian employee, be sure to feed them plenty of challenging new projects and hint that some business trips might be on the horizon once deadlines are met. And whatever you do, try not to question their intentions - it is the quickest way to make them upset. They aren't capable of deceit.

Capricorn Employee Profile (december 22 - january 20)

A Capricorn employee with too much to do is a happy worker. They need plenty of projects and responsibility. There is no sadder sight than a Capricorn worker without a sense of responsibility. They need to be needed. They are covertly ambitious - usually not flashy or obvious about it-but you will usually know that they are serious and determined about advancing themselves. They are completely scrupulous, so much so that they can be self-disparaging. But they are no pushovers. They can wear down even the toughest customers. Their persistence is incredible. Once they set their sights on a goal, they work away at it until the bitter end-whether the goal be that hard sell or the new hardware release. Capricorns don't work for free, however. They expect to be paid handsomely and be given more and more responsibility. They need to come out ahead of the pack in the end, and they see the work environment as their primary vehicle. They won't go in for the typical office gossip and politics, though. They want to get down to business at work and see it as no place for fooling around. With a strong sense of duty and respect towards their superiors, it is rare they will join in on boss-bashing or knocking the system. They can get frustrated, however, with blue sky management schemes that lack common sense, and they will interject their dry sense of humor in the most critical ways. If they want change, they will be unyielding. If all their effort leads to naught the result will be deep moods of darkness and depression with a sense of hopelessness. Keep your Capricorn employee happy by paying them fairly and giving them plenty of hard work. Arrange for a path of advancement within your organization for them. If you don't, you might find them looking for other opportunities.

Aquarius Employee Profile (january 21 - february 19)

The Aquarius employee can't tolerate unfairness in the office. Hair brained schemes will get the positive attention they deserve if an Aquarian has anything to do with it. They'll try to help everyone see the good side of a bad situation if it's the last thing that they do. They are so smart-they can't help but hold management in disdain if they feel that they are being unfair and unintelligent. It isn't that they are overly ambitious and think they could be doing a better job- just that they think people in power should know better. Most Aquarius workers are still looking for themselves and will want to try their hand at a variety of jobs in the workplace. Whatever they are doing, they will do conscientiously. They usually have strict personal codes that include a strong work ethic. Their bright, off-beat intelligence, and trustworthi- ness will typically gain them many friends-in and out of work. Beneath that sometimes odd-ball behavior is solid, concrete thinking and sensitivity to co-workers. Keep your smart Aquarius co-worker happy by giving them plenty of opportunity to learn news kills. Raises are less important to them. No amount of money will make it worth their while to stay in a stagnant position. Don't let them get too bored or they will simply find another job as easily as they found this one-their genius is easy to spot.

Pisces Employee Profile (february 20 - march 20)

The Pisces employee can be a loyal and hard-working, if unconventional, worker. In the right position, they are able to keep their daydreams in check and buckle down on the detail work-giving their all to the boss and corporation whom they feel are worthy of devotion. On the flip side, there is no image of extreme misery like that of an ill-placed Pisces worker. They will act as though their cubicle were a prison cell as they daydream of their own business or next vacation. Unhappy Pisces workers usually won't stick around too long. Often Pisceans will drift from one job to another looking for that ideal environment to which they will be able to commit and feel a sense of purpose. And if things are going in a bad direction at the office, Pisces will be the first to sense it. They'd rather pick up and leave then wait until the problem reaches a head. Pisces are often misunderstood by their co-workers. Typically timid and introspective, they usually keep their true nature hidden, for fear it wouldn't fit with the corporate culture. What motivates a Pisces employee to not only stick around but also excel? Try compliments. And show them how their work impacts the entire organization. They need to know that what they are doing is worth something on a grander scale. Acceptance of their unconventional organization and planning will be necessary. Just because their sales report isn't in the typical format doesn't mean it is any less effective. Keep their environment bright and upbeat; and an after-work cocktail wouldn't hurt.

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