November 2012

In This Issue:
Employment Law Note
The Holidays: Your Wellness Program's Worst Nightmare
And how about a little DESKERCISE???
Six Ways to Make a Great Impression with Your Presentation

Employment Law Note: Washington Supreme Court Holds That Employees May be Entitled to Overtime Compensation For Missed Rest Periods
The Washington Minimum Wage Act (MWA) unequivocally requires employers to pay non-exempt employees overtime for all hours worked in excess of 40 hours in each work week. Regulations issued by the Washington State Department of Labor and Industries (L&I Rest Period Regulation) are equally clear that employers must provide non-exempt employees with a paid 10-minute rest break for every four-hour period worked. Under such standards, an employer may likely believe that it has satisfied its legal obligations in circumstances where an employee misses a rest period during his or her scheduled 40-hour work week yet is provided additional compensation for that time at his or her regular hourly rate. Not necessarily, says the Washington State Supreme Court. In a recently decided opinion, the Supreme Court justices unanimously ruled that an employee who misses his or her rest period will be entitled to overtime compensation for the missed 10-minute break time if the "hours worked" exceed 40 hours in the week.

Click here for the full review.

The Holidays: Your Wellness Program's Worst Nightmare
It may sound crazy to talk about wellness when everyone is thinking about pies and cookies. But right now is when your employees need your help the most. Show them you care by implementing one or more of these employee wellness tips.

And how about a little DESKERCISE???
Yes, you can actually get a workout while at your desk. While deskercise won't replace a trip to the gym, it's a great way to stretch your muscles and release stress.

Download our Simple Guide to Deskercise!

Did you miss last month's Talent Matters?
It gave six tips for turning yourself into a better--if not great--public speaker