Common employee handbook mistakes and how to avoid them
Employee handbooks can be a useful tool in managing the workplace. When done properly, they offer a number of advantages, such as helping to formalize various processes (fostering consistency and transparency); reduce the risk of arbitrary decision-making and/or favouritism; promote legal compliance; reinforce company culture and values; and defend against potential employee claims and/or complaints.
Vey Willetts LLP
5 minutes read
December 17, 2024 
Performance reviews 101
A performance review, also known as a performance appraisal or evaluation, is a structured process in which an employer assesses an employee’s job performance over a specific period. These reviews aim to provide constructive feedback, recognize accomplishments, and set future goals.
SpringLaw
Common mistakes on a Record of Employment (ROE)
A Record of Employment (“ROE”) is an essential document used by employees to apply for Employment Insurance (“EI”) benefits. Once issued, the ROE is used by Service Canada to determine whether an individual qualifies for EI benefits, what the EI benefit amount will be, what duration it will be paid for, and to ensure the funds are not being misused or provided in error.
Simes Law
Ontario overtime exemption: Managers
In Ontario, managers are exempt from overtime rules, but only if they fall within a fairly narrow exemption for managers and supervisors. That exemption is not nearly as broad as many people believe, which means that many employees who are considered to be managers by their employer are actually entitled to overtime pay.
Rudner Law, Employment / HR Law & Mediation
Occupational stress in the workplace
Occupational stress is a harmful physical and emotional response that can occur when a job’s demands don’t match the worker’s capabilities, resources or needs, often arising from job responsibilities, work environment or organizational factors, which can impact an employee’s overall well-being.
Ted Kenney
Human capital management (HCM): Align workforce and strategy
If your organization resembles the traditional personnel management model, consider adopting the more progressive HCM approach. While implementation may require adjustments and upfront costs, the benefits far outweigh the investment.
Apolone Gentles, JD, CPA,CGA, FCCA, Bsc (Hons)
At-will employment: Canada v United States
In employment, some business owners may not be aware of one of the main differences between Canada and the United States: The concept of at-will employment. At-will employment is not legal in Canada. However, it is well-established in the United States.
Christina Catenacci, BA, LLB, LLM, PhD
Responding to insubordination in the workplace
It is an unfortunate reality that most employers, should they operate long enough, will eventually be confronted with some form of employee misconduct. This article delves deep into one particular type of misconduct: insubordination. To that end, below we will review what “insubordination” entails, consider two brief case studies (one where insubordination was made out, and the other which resulted in wrongful dismissal) and conclude by reviewing employer best practices for responding to insubordination in the workplace.
Vey Willetts LLP
Employment contracts in Ontario: A practical guide for employers
Employment contracts should be used for every employee, regardless of their role, pay level, or whether they are full-time, part-time, or temporary. While the Employment Standards Act, 2000 (ESA) provides basic rights and protections, an employment contract sets additional terms that can be tailored to the specific role or company policies.
SpringLaw
