BizCoachGurus Blog

  I recently set a  goal to read one book per month, my quickest way is to borrow audio books for free and listen at 2x speed.  Reading is a  small but powerful tool and the key ingredient to so many people who have been successful in life! Here are five great reasons to get a  library card and start your free reading today! Free Access to Books & Resources  – Borrow books, audiobooks, and e-books without spending a dime. Many libraries also offer magazines, newspapers, and research databases. Access to Digital Services  – Most libraries provide free access to online learning platforms, language courses, streaming services, and even digital tools like Kanopy (movies) or LinkedIn Learning. Work & Study Space  – Need a quiet place to work or study? Libraries offer free Wi-Fi, comfortable seating, and sometimes even meeting rooms. Community Events & Workshops  – Many libraries host author talks, job training sessions, book clubs, chi...

The HR-to-employee ratio is particularly important in the hospitality industry because of the sector's high employee turnover, labor-intensive operations, and strong emphasis on customer service . Here’s why it matters: 1. High Turnover & Recruitment Demands The hospitality industry experiences turnover rates of 70%–80% in some sectors (e.g., restaurants, hotels). A strong HR presence ensures faster hiring, onboarding, and training , reducing operational disruptions. 2. Compliance & Labor Laws Hospitality employers must navigate complex wage laws, tip regulations, work-hour restrictions, and immigration laws . HR plays a critical role in ensuring compliance, reducing the risk of fines and legal issues. 3. Employee Engagement & Retention High engagement leads to better service, directly impacting customer experience. HR-driven initiatives like career development programs, wellness initiatives, and recognition systems improve retention. 4. Workforce Planning & Sch...

Determining whether a worker is an employee or an independent contractor is essential for businesses to ensure compliance with tax and labor laws. The Common Law Rules help assess the level of control and independence in a working relationship. These rules fall into three key categories: 1. Behavioral Control Does the company control or have the right to control what the worker does and how they perform their job? Employees typically follow instructions on when, where, and how to work, whereas independent contractors have more autonomy. 2. Financial Control Who controls the financial aspects of the worker’s job? Key considerations include: How the worker is paid (salary vs. project-based). Whether the company reimburses expenses. Who provides tools, supplies, and other resources. 3. Type of Relationship Are there written contracts or employee-type benefits such as pension plans, insurance, or vacation pay? Is the work ongoing and a key part of the business ? If a worker has long-...

Ensuring workplace safety and compliance with federal regulations is paramount for employers. Two critical components in this endeavor are understanding the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) recordkeeping requirements and the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) injury and illness reporting obligations. OSHA Recordkeeping Requirements OSHA mandates that employers maintain records of work-related injuries and illnesses. However, there is a partial exemption for some employers with 10 or fewer employees. According to OSHA standard 1904.1, if your organization had 10 or fewer employees at all times during the last calendar year, you are not required to keep OSHA injury and illness records unless specifically informed otherwise. It's essential to note that this exemption applies to recordkeeping requirements; all employers must still report any workplace incident that results in a fatality or the hospitalization of three or more employees. BLS Injury and Illness Reportin...

As 2025 progresses, small businesses in New York City must stay informed about recent changes in employment laws to ensure compliance and maintain smooth operations. Below is a summary of key updates effective this year: 1. Minimum Wage Increase Effective January 1, 2025, the minimum wage in New York City has increased to $16.50 per hour (non-tipped). This adjustment is part of the state's ongoing efforts to raise the minimum wage to reflect the cost of living and support workers. Small businesses should update their payroll systems accordingly to comply with this new rate. 2. Paid Family Leave Expansion Starting January 1, 2025, New York's Paid Family Leave program has expanded to provide up to 12 weeks of leave with increased benefits. Employees can now receive up to 67% of their average weekly wage, capped at 67% of the state's average weekly wage. This expansion aims to offer greater support to employees during significant life events, such as the birth or adoption of a...

As 2025 unfolds, small businesses in Florida must stay informed about recent changes in state employment laws to ensure compliance and maintain smooth operations. Below is a summary of key updates effective this year: 1. State Preemption of Local Employment Regulations Effective July 1, 2024, Florida enacted legislation that centralizes the authority to regulate employment practices at the state level, preempting local governments from enacting their own employment-related ordinances. This means that only the state can set rules regarding employment practices, including regulations related to heat exposure for private employers. Small businesses should review their policies to ensure they align with state laws, as local ordinances may no longer apply. 2. Minimum Wage Increase Continuing its scheduled increases, Florida's minimum wage will rise to $14.00 per hour on September 30, 2025. This is part of the state's plan to incrementally increase the minimum wage annually until it ...