The cloud. It’s not a relatively new concept for the world, but for HR, the benefits of cloud computing are still catching on. The supporters of the technology claim it boosts performance, helps recruit the best talent, increases employee engagement, betters innovation and organizes data. It’s also said cloud computing has helped close the communication gap that exists between HR teams, employees, and management. MORE

With all the buzz around sexual harassment, many would assume that it would be the number one thing bothering the C-suite. However, a new study shows that’s not the case. . The biggest worry on executives’ minds, around the world, isn’t recession, global competition, or labor relations. It’s not even cyber-security. In fact, only 14% of CEOs believe they have the leadership talent to execute their strategy. MORE

Christmas Carol and the Old 97’s are two things that make me very happy. When the Old 97’s sing a Christmas carol. For this week’s musical share, I bring you Rhett and the boys performing “A Holly Jolly Christmas.” If this doesn’t put you in the holiday mood, nothing will. Click here to enjoy (sadly, the Austin American-Statesman doesn’t offer an option to embed the video). Boomer Bust — Ageism in the Workplace — via Workforce Magazine. MORE

Compliance training is usually a part of every employee’s initial training process. It generally consists of a long list of code of conduct which includes topics such as anti-harassment, bribery, FCPA (Foreign Corrupt Practice Act), protection of company data, client interactions, usage of company property and data security etc. Are your Compliance Training Resources Effective? Employees quickly glance through them and go for the start test button. MORE

Personally, December is my favorite time of the year. I love the joy and togetherness of the holiday season. After we’ve decked the halls and sung the last bars of Auld Lang Syne , companies get back to work, including the work of managing their most important asset—their employees. Now that business is back in session, employers need to figure out the issues that will keep them up at night over the next 12 months. Cyber-Security. MORE

Compliance training is usually a part of every employee’s initial training process. Compliance training resources and modules generally consist of a long list of code of conduct which includes topics such as anti-harassment, bribery, FCPA (Foreign Corrupt Practice Act), protection of company data, client interactions, usage of company property and data security, etc. Are your Compliance Training Resources Effective? MORE

Many organizations are now focusing on when and how to reopen, and what changes to make before employees return to the physical workplace. Empathy is one of the essential HR leadership skills, and this is the time to shine a light on the human side of HR. MORE

While every business has its own risks, these risks are also opportunities, points out Brian Dershaw, a partner in Taft Stettinius & Hollister LLP’s Labor & Employment group , during our conversation with him on the topic of risk mitigation and the tie to employee engagement and culture. He’s appeared in state and federal trial and appellate courts in discrimination, harassment, retaliation, wrongful discharge, non-compete, trade secret, and contract litigation. MORE

Here’s the rest of what I read this week: Discrimination EEOC on Transgender Harassment, Discrimination, and Restrooms — via Phil Miles’s Lawffice Space A white employee tossed banana peels at work, and HE claims discrimination. via Eric Meyer’s The Employer Handbook Blog Are fraternities subject to title III of the ADA? — I was a Sesame Street kid. Muppets taught me to read, count, and have manners. I’m a tad late, however, to Game of Thrones. MORE

When a commenter starts his thoughts with “Hey faggot,” you know you have one for the internet-troll hall of fame. This post generated the above-referenced comment on Workforce.com (which cross-posts my blog daily). The rest of this winning comment? Let me also suggest (if you can stomach it) that you check out his account on Disqus.com , which exposes his views on a range of topics, including LGBTQ people, the Jews, and school shootings as false flags. MORE

But the price of that connection is the severe risk to privacy and security as cybercriminals, virus writers and hackers are waiting to take advantage of users’ personal information. It’s reported that 1 in 5 relationships begins online. MORE

2017 was a banner year in the mergers and acquisitions (M&As) business. These are just a few of the more high-profile business dealings that joined the list of hundreds of M&A transactions throughout the year. In many ways though the year wasn’t too very different from previous years as the reasons behind the activity tended to be the same – to expand into new markets, acquire new technology or reduce competition. MORE

Many companies still run without a VPN, which basically provides a secure network for all company data. Without this, all company and client data is open for business, so get on one of these ASAP, and be sure to train all staff, even those working from home, on how to use it and stay on it. MORE

Across L&D, compliance is considered a necessary evil: the scourge of both employees and learning practitioners and an annual box to check for risk-averse company executives. Ask an employee, and they’ll say compliance training brings to mind 1980s-era harassment videos coupled with requirements to change your password every 90 days. It’s no wonder compliance training has come to be seen as something to dread by everyone involved. MORE