Describe what the role of a good human resources manager should be in managing employment law issues

Answer 1

The role of a good human resources manager in dealing with employment law issues may be described in 4 major functions:

• Knowing the law when it is clear. This includes recognizing, analyzing and dealing effectively with a variety of employment law issues, setting policies and enforcing them, so that the firm remains in legal compliance.
• Developing a strategy for dealing with legal issues that are still developing. This includes recognizing and coping with ambiguity, and developing long-term legal strategiesfor handling legal issues when what should be done according to the law is not clear. The best HR managers develop strategies that are protective of the firm in the long run.
• Anticipating legal problems and trying to avoid them. The best HR managers are proactive – not waiting for problems to arise, but doing all they can to prevent them from arising at all, setting policies and procedures in place that will address matters that may become legal issues before they become problematic.
• Knowing when to seek the advice of legal counsel. There are many things a good HR manager can do independently, but the best HR managers will also know when to consult with legal counsel. Early consultation can minimize or avoid many problems, and legal counsel can help the manager put in place policies that will accomplish the three functions named above.

Chapter 2
THE EMPLOYMENT RELATIONSHIP
Test Bank Questions, 5e

MULTIPLE CHOICE QUESTIONS