Posts by Sara Curtis
Seven Steps For Documenting Employee Performance Problems
Documenting performance problems in real time is critical for many reasons. First, is important for coaching employees and giving them an opportunity to improve. Second, documentation protects the company in the event things don’t work out, by demonstrating that disciplinary action is based on legitimate reasons, and not discrimination or retaliation. Be sure to follow these 7 steps to make sure your documentation meets these goals.
Read MoreWhat’s Keeping Employers Up At Night?
Ever wonder what’s keeping employers up at night? We were and in July 2025, CEA conducted a statewide Employer Pulse Survey that drew responses from 253 organizations across a wide range of industries and sizes. Employers were given a list of topics to choose from (and the option to write in their own) to tell us about their top concerns in planning for the future.
Read MoreKim’s Message: Member Appreciation Month
Who doesn’t like a good summer celebration? If you want a good reason to celebrate in August, we hope you will join us for Member Appreciation Month at CEA. Back in 1937 a group of employers who wanted peace of mind, when it came to dealing with employee relations and employment law dilemmas, banded together in San Francisco to create what is today the California Employers Association!
Read MoreAugust is Member Appreciation Month
As a thank you for being a member, we dedicate every August to YOU! We realize it’s only July, but now is the time to sign up for next month’s exciting events. This year, we are proud to highlight three of our members to bring you Chocolates, Sailing and a fun day of Golf as prizes!
Read MoreCompliance Couch: Top 3 Tips for Using AI in HR
With focused strategies and clear company policies in place, AI can be a remarkable tool in the world of Human Resource to foster creativity, assist with key department functions, and more.
Read MorePolitical Shirts at Work: Personal Expression or Policy Violation?
Our subject matter experts take a lot of calls on a variety of HR topics. Here is one we have received from an employer:
Q: An employee came to work wearing a shirt supporting a politician. I don’t like this particular politician, and I told them they were not allowed to wear it, but they claimed it was their First Amendment right. What are my options?
July 2025
July 2025 Kim’s Message: The Hidden Costs of Black & White Thinking Member Appreciation Month Preview July 1 Minimum Wage Increases in California Telework Accommodation Requests on the Rise Can Employers Run Credit Checks? Failing to Address Workplace Gossip Carries High Cost Q&A: Excessive Bathroom Breaks Why HR Certification Matters Especially in California CEA Celebrates…
Read MoreCEA Celebrates Pet Photo Day + Summer Events
We love our pets. Like many workplaces, the team at CEA often share photos and stories about the furry and four-legged members of our family. Friday, July 11 is All American Pet Photo Day, encouraging pet owners to share photos of their pets, highlighting the special bond they share and the joy they bring to our lives.
Read MoreTelework Accommodation Requests on the Rise
As more employers are requiring return to onsite work, CEA’s phoneline has been buzzing with questions about telework accommodation requests. This trend isn’t just limited to private employers, either. Governor Newsom’s controversial Executive Order N-22-25 requires State employees to return onsite for a minimum of 4 days a week, subject to limited exceptions, starting July 1, 2025.
Read MoreFailing to Address Workplace Gossip Carries High Cost
With the advancement in AI technology, bad actors have new ways of causing harm, from mimicking someone’s voice to scam a loved one, to altering images and spreading false information. This type of harm is now finding its way into the workplace, and created a nightmare for Lilian Carranza, a captain in the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD).
Read MoreWhy HR Certification Matters Especially in California
In today’s complex workplace, staying compliant with employment laws and managing people effectively is more critical than ever. For HR professionals and small business owners in California, where employment regulations are among the most intricate in the nation, investing in HR certification is a strategic advantage.
Read MoreMember Appreciation Month Preview
Our valued members are the reason that the California Employers Association was founded in 1937! As a thank you for being a member, we dedicate every August to YOU! Yes, we realize it’s only July but now is the time to sign up for next month’s exciting events. This year we are proud to highlight three of our members to bring you Chocolates, Sailing and a fun day of Golf as prizes!
Read More