Handbook Purgatory
The new handbook of the Tribune Co., apparently generated by new Tribune owner Sam Zell, has received considerable attention since it was distributed to employees. See my posts titled “Handbook Heaven” (January 23) and “Handbook Hell” (January 29).
One of the notable handbook provisions says, “Question authority and push back if you do not like the answer. You will earn respect, and not get into trouble for asking tough questions.” As reported in the Los Angeles Times, when Zell was recently meeting with employees at the Orlando Sentinel (another Tribune Co. newspaper), an employee questioned something Zell said. The employee was chastised by Zell, who punctuated his rebuke with profanity.
Oh, well. A lot of the old handbooks talk about a fictional open door policy. The more handbooks change, the more they stay the same.
About Chris Parker
Chris Parker's practice focuses on the representation and counseling of companies in matters pertaining to the workplace and the protection of their intellectual property and trade secrets. In addition to serving as an advocate for clients, Mr. Parker is also trained as a mediator and frequently serves as a third-party neutral.
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About Jimmy Daniel
Jimmy Daniel provides counseling to businesses of all sizes related to the employment relationship. He assists in the drafting of employment agreements, policies, and handbooks, as well as provides guidance related to compliance with federal, state, and local legislation such as the Fair Labor Standards Act and the Family and Medical Leave Act.
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About Larry Bridgesmith
While serving in an Of Counsel relationship with the firm, Mr. Bridgesmith also serves as the Executive Director at the Institute for Conflict Resolution at Lipscomb University and as an officer and principal in Strategic Resolutions Group, LLC. In these roles, Mr. Bridgesmith brings over 30 years of legal experience in dispute resolution and innovative workplace strategies to clients, students and business entities alike.
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