In this week's episode of OK at Work, Sarah Sawyer and Russell Berger, attorneys at Offit Kurman, discuss the recruitment of new hires in light of recent changes in federal government employment under the new presidential administration. The discussion includes strategies for attracting experienced federal workers affected by job terminations, layoffs, or changes in remote work policies. Given the unique impact on the DMV area, the conversation highlights the potential for private sector employers to create stable, flexible, and appealing work environments to attract these talented individuals. They also explore the added value these seasoned professionals could bring to private organizations.

00:00 Introduction and Overview

00:21 Impact of Federal Job Changes on Recruitment

00:49 Opportunities for Private Sector Employers

01:37 Leveraging Remote Work as a Recruitment Tool

02:14 Creating a Culture of Stability

02:27 Highlighting Stability in Recruitment Efforts

02:54 Benefits of Hiring Former Federal Employees

03:34 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

In this week's episode of OK at Work, attorneys Sarah Sawyer and Russell Berger from Offit Kurman discuss the recent surge in ICE enforcement actions and changes in immigration policy under the Trump administration. They provide crucial advice for employers on how to handle ICE inspections and deportation warrants, emphasizing the importance of I-9 compliance and the option of using E-Verify. Tune in to stay informed and ensure your business is prepared.

00:00 Introduction to OK at Work

00:05 ICE Enforcement Actions and Immigration Policy Changes

00:34 Employer Concerns and Procedures for ICE Visits

02:01 I-9 Compliance and Best Practices

02:29 E-Verify and Business Continuity

03:18 Considering Alternatives

04:03 Conclusion and Podcast Announcement

In this week's episode of OK at Work, attorneys Sarah Sawyer and Russell Berger from Offit Kurman discuss essential strategies for managing employee transitions. As the new year prompts organizational changes, they offer guidance on planning restructures, handling terminations, and ensuring stability. Learn how to navigate these changes effectively for a smoother workflow.

00:00 Introduction to Employee Transitions

00:51 Planning for Organizational Restructuring

01:32 Managing Employee Roles and Severance

02:19 Communicating Changes Effectively

03:00 Formalizing Transitions and Agreements

03:49 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

In this week's episode of OK at Work, attorneys Sarah Sawyer and Russell Berger from Offit Kurman discuss the legal implications following the recent inauguration. They break down the roles of various branches of government, the impact of executive orders, and what businesses should consider amidst the barrage of headlines. Emphasizing caution over reactionary measures, they advise companies to analyze laws and understand the positions of federal agencies and courts before making decisions. Additionally, they highlight the importance of considering state laws and staying informed about changes in agency priorities.

00:00 Introduction and Inauguration Overview

00:45 Understanding Legislative and Executive Branches

01:08 Impact of Executive Orders and Agency Changes

02:37 State Laws and Business Considerations

03:41 Concluding Thoughts and Future Outlook

On this week's OK at Work, Sarah Sawyer and Russell Berger discuss strategies for both the terms and usage of customer contracts. Listen to learn more.

On this week's OK at Work, Sarah Sawyer and Russell Berger discuss both compensation and engagement issues related to snow days and other unexpected office closures, as well as the value of planning ahead for remote work. Listen to learn more.

On this week's OK at Work, Sarah Sawyer and Russell Berger discuss the challenges associated with and actions that can be taken with respect to managing employee performance during an investigation and following a workplace complaint that may entitle the employee to protection against retaliation. Listen to learn more.

On this week's OK at Work, Sarah Sawyer and Russell Berger discuss how implementations of new plans and strategies for 2025 will require thoughtful internal change from management to ensure both team buy-in and effective risk management. Listen to learn more.