Episode 14 - Labor Laws: Keeping Your Team Protected
Episode 14 - Labor Laws: Keeping Your Team Protected
Hey Store Manager! Mike back with you on "Smoke Break." Today we're talking labor laws - the rules that protect your most valuable asset: your team. Getting this wrong doesn't just cost money - it can destroy morale and land you in serious trouble.
Think about your team for a minute. Each person counts on their paycheck being right and their workplace being fair. That's not just good management - it's the law.
Let's start with wages. Minimum wage is the floor, not the target. Know your local minimum wage - it might be higher than federal. Pay attention to overtime rules. If someone works over 40 hours, they need that time-and-a-half. No exceptions.
Scheduling deserves careful attention. Some states require predictive scheduling - giving workers their schedules well in advance. Keep accurate records of all hours worked. If someone picks up an extra shift, document it.
Here's something crucial - discrimination and harassment policies. These need to be clear, written down, and followed every time. Everyone deserves a workplace free from harassment and discrimination. Train your team on what's not acceptable and what to do if they see problems.
Young workers need extra protection. Know the rules about hiring minors - what hours they can work, what tasks they can do. These rules are strict for good reason. Don't risk breaking them.
Question: Why is it important to document every change in an employee's schedule, even if it seems minor?
Think about it. The answer? Accurate records protect both the store and the employee if questions arise about hours worked or overtime pay. Plus, many states require detailed scheduling records.
Your action item for this week:
Review your last month's schedules and time cards. Look for any patterns that might signal compliance issues. Make sure your documentation is complete and accurate.
Don't forget to hit subscribe for more "Smoke Break" episodes. Share these tips with other managers - we all benefit when workers' rights are protected.
For more resources on managing your team legally and fairly, visit cstorethrive.com.
That's all for today, Store Manager. Next time, we'll cover consumer protection compliance. Until then, keep your team happy and your practices legal!
