Managing, monitoring, and promoting legally compliant programs and policies that impact the employee experience.
This is the highest-weighted functional area on the PHR exam. It covers applying knowledge of programs, US federal laws, and regulations to promote outreach, diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) through affirmative action, employee resource groups (ERGs), community outreach, and corporate social responsibility (CSR). HR professionals must support workplace programs related to US federal health, safety, security, and privacy laws including OSHA, workers' compensation, emergency response, workplace violence prevention, substance abuse policies, legal postings, documentation, and investigations. The area also covers providing interpretation and ensuring compliance with organizational policies, processing and supporting the resolution of employee complaints through investigation, documentation, and ADR procedures, and promoting positive employee and labor relations with knowledge of US federal laws affecting union and nonunion workplaces. (20% of exam)
5 minutes
5 Questions
Employee and Labor Relations (ELR) is a critical function within Human Resources that focuses on managing the relationship between employers and their workforce, encompassing both individual employees and collective labor groups. This discipline ensures harmonious workplace dynamics, compliance with labor laws, and effective conflict resolution.
Employee Relations involves managing individual employee concerns, grievances, and performance issues. HR professionals in this area handle disciplinary actions, performance management, employee engagement initiatives, and career development opportunities. They act as intermediaries between employees and management, ensuring fair treatment and adherence to company policies. Effective employee relations fosters loyalty, reduces turnover, and enhances organizational productivity.
Labor Relations specifically deals with unionized environments or collective bargaining agreements. Labor relations professionals negotiate contracts, manage union communications, handle labor disputes, and ensure compliance with collective bargaining agreements. They work to maintain productive relationships with union representatives while protecting the organization's interests.
Key responsibilities include conducting investigations into workplace complaints, interpreting and enforcing employment policies, organizing employee engagement activities, and providing guidance on employment law compliance. ELR professionals must understand employment legislation, including anti-discrimination laws, wage and hour regulations, and workplace safety requirements.
Effective ELR practices include open communication channels, transparent policy enforcement, fair compensation structures, and respectful treatment of all employees. Professionals in this field must possess strong communication skills, emotional intelligence, and conflict resolution abilities.
In today's dynamic workplace, Employee and Labor Relations has evolved to address remote work arrangements, diversity and inclusion initiatives, and changing employee expectations. The function remains essential for creating positive workplace cultures, minimizing legal risks, and supporting organizational strategic objectives through motivated and engaged employees.Employee and Labor Relations (ELR) is a critical function within Human Resources that focuses on managing the relationship between employers and their workforce, encompassing both individual employees and collective labor groups. This discipline ensures harmonious workplace dynamics, compliance wit…