Employment contracts which are not fit for purpose
Employment contracts need to be regularly updated, in particular following promotion or a change of role. Contracts should comply with statutory requirements and protect the employer’s commercial interests. For senior employees, the employment contract should have detailed clauses to protect the employer’s confidential information and intellectual property. They should also have relatively long notice periods and the right to place employees on gardening leave during notice. It is also important to consider appropriate restrictive covenants to protect against senior employees taking employees or customers with them.
HR policies and procedures
While most employers have policies dealing with discipline, performance management, grievance and dignity at work, there is very often a challenge in implementing such policies fairly and consistently. Very often a performance or disciplinary issue is let go unchecked or the outcome of a disciplinary process is pre-determined from the outset. Also, many employers do not have clear policies on whistleblowing, social media/email usage and data protection including CCTV usage. Employers should regularly update their employment policies in line with the radically changing employment environment and communicate such changes to their employees.
Retirement
More and more, employees are resisting the mandatory retirement at age 65 – and a compulsory retirement is often challenged as age discrimination under the Employment Equality Act. Employers need to be very clear on retirement age and be able to show an objective basis for seeking to enforce a retirement age.
Independent contractors
Engaging “independent contractors” where in reality the relationship is more closely an employer/employee relationship can be a costly option for employers. Such a practice should be avoided and can be the source of significant legal, tax and pension exposure down the line. Costly legal exposure can also arise in relation to the inappropriate use of fixed term contracts or agency workers.
Parting company
Ending the employment relationship can be a particularly complex process and employers can make the mistake of not carrying out the process properly. Dismissing an employee in breach of contract or without following fair procedures is a common mistake. Employees have strong legal rights and are entitled to the protection of their good name and reputation. Apart from taking a claim to the Workplace Relations Commission, an employee could potentially apply to the High Court seeking an injunction which could be very costly for an employer to defend – not to mention it could be the source of embarrassing negative publicity. Protect your business by ensuring you are following fair procedures.
Conclusion
It is important for employers to invest the necessary time and resources at the outset to protect their commercial business interests and comply with legal obligations. Contracts and policies should be fit for purpose and tailored for the specific requirements of the business.