Employment law
training programme
Handling social media misuse
London – 11 June 2013
Workshop: 09.00 - 11.30
Restrictive covenants – protecting your business
London - 18 July 2013
Workshop: 09.00 - 11.30
Mock Employment Tribunal – the new system
London - 12 September 2013
Half day seminar
Tackling employee fraud
London - 9 October 2013
Half day seminar
International assignments
London - 21 November 2013
Workshop: 09.00 – 11.30
Annual HR Planner
London - 23 January 2014
Half day seminar
The year ahead
The last few years have seen the Government publish various calls for evidence, consultations and responses, all intended to reform employment law. This year will see many of these changes come into force, impacting on key aspects of the workplace. Alongside existing employment law issues, employers will be faced with a whole host of changes to their day-to-day work.
The Employment and Pensions Group at Field Fisher Waterhouse LLP have designed this training programme to provide support during this period of reform and also address particularly challenging areas of employment law.
Our programme will be useful for HR professionals, senior managers and in-house lawyers.
Our approach to training
Our approach to training is both fresh and practical. Our long-established and popular training programme is designed to enable employers to manage a range of employment law issues. Comprehensive and focused, our workshops and seminars are packed full of illustrations, scenarios and humour to make sure that participants are fully engaged in our training and can implement our advice in the workplace. Our workshops are informative, interactive and appropriate for all those dealing with employment issues, with a particular emphasis on senior HR professionals and managers. As well as providing an overview of the main legal principles, we use tailored case studies to illustrate the impact of key employment issues in practice. Our workshops are designed to enable participants to benefit from a more focused, practical discussion forum.
Our seminars focus on topical and challenging areas of employment law. For example, our programme contains seminars on international assignments and protecting restrictive covenants, alongside a Mock Tribunal and the Annual HR Planner, providing invaluable training for all those dealing with employment issues.
Bespoke training
We regularly tailor our seminars and workshops to the requirements of a variety of organisations from a range of sectors and have significant expertise in providing bespoke training. We can provide training on the full range of employment issues, including handling grievances, disciplinaries and dismissals, managing redundancies and restructuring, tackling absences, misconduct and poor
If you have a specific training need or would like to discuss how any of our workshops or seminars can be tailored to the requirements of your organisation or delivered in-house, please contact [email protected].
In house lawyers
In addition to the above range of seminars and workshops, we regularly arrange legal training sessions led by specialist employment barristers with whom we work, and which will be of interest to in house lawyers. If you would like to register for any of our forthcoming sessions, please contact
How to register
All the workshops and seminars in this programme are
free of charge (unless otherwise indicated).
Invitations will be sent out four weeks in advance. If you would like to reserve your place before then, simply book your place by emailing [email protected], specifying which session you would like to attend.
If you and/or your colleagues would like to be added to our mailing list, please contact [email protected].
Comprehensive service
The training opportunities in this programme are supplemented by a range of value added services. These include our Employment Law Blog, providing instant commentary on employment law developments and publications, providing guidance on key employment issues that have practical consequences for HR professionals, senior management and in-house lawyers.
Here is just a snapshot of the feedback we
have received for our employment law training
programme:
Feedback from delegates
A useful, informative session with just the right level of detail. Presenters were knowledgeable and credible.
Senior Manager – HR, Non-Departmental Public Body
A very info rmative an d stimulating s ession. Governme nt Departme nt
Excellent event. Very practical and informative for operational HR. HR Manager, N on-Departmental Public Body Content of seminar wa s interesting and insightf ul.
HR Retail Partner, Ret ailer
Great knowledge brush up!
Head of HR, Retailer very thoughtfuOffers valuabVery informatle insights and ive event!
l approach.
People Programmes Manager, Publishing and Education Company Really usef ul informa tion and case s tudies. Assistan t Personn el Manager , Retailer
Very informative. Case studies are a good way to learn.
Head of HR, Venture Capital Company
A really good workshop and very useful and relevant case studies. HR Advisor, Retailer
A really good workshop and very useful and relevant case studies. HR Advisor, Retailer Concise and practical course. An excellent introduction as well as a practical update to changes.
HR Business Partner, Fire Protection and Security Company A useful sem inar to high light pitfalls. Director of H uman Resources , Agricultu ral Company
Great informative seminar with knowledgeable presenters.
HR Business Partner, Insurance Company
Very good explanations of relevant issues - delivered
in a clear and easily understood way.
Director, HR Shared Services,
Telecommunications Company
Really useful and clear. Use of case studies and
discussion – very engaging and learned a lot.
HR Assistant, Bank Very be neficial f ormat. N ot too man y slides and enjo yed the worki ng grou ps. Head of H R, Inve stment Manag ement F irm
A very informative and interactive conference. The speakers were knowledgeable and engaging - a worthwhile day.
Head of HR, Professional Body
Good opportunity to discuss relevant topics and speak to others regarding best practice.
HR Advisor,
Construction Services Company
Very useful and timely seminar for employers.
HR Officer, Statutory Body
Very useful a
nd practical - excellent level and detail.
Legal Counsel, Advertisin g Company Really inte resting ses sion - was good t o work on the case s tudies and g et additional a dvice and opinions. HR and T raining Manager , Bar and Restaura nt Opera tor
Very clear and concise. Extremely useful case studies that provided good discussion and cemented understanding.
Solicitor, Mutual Business
Very informative & accessible, particularly given I am from a non employment area. Head of Legal, Financial Services Organisation
Clear and concise - good structure to workshop and very well presented. Solicitor, Mutual Business
Great overview and mix of content.
In-House Employment Lawyer, Charity
A really g ood day. E xcellen t case st udies an d real li fe exampl es. I love d the interna tional a spect. Senior Le gal Advis er, Manag ement a nd IT Cons ulting an d Techno logy C ompan y
Good to have the case studies to put the “learning into practice” and apply to “real life” examples. Well presented.
Finance Director, Property and Infrastructure Solutions As ever, we ll paced an d very inform ative. Case studies wer e excellent and totally r elevant to session. HR Busine ss Partner , Workforc e Solution s Provider
The case study approach brings it to life, rather than just a perception of key points. Great to see the international perspective.
Data Protection Manager, Legal & R
egulatory, Energy Supplier
Informative workshop, questions answered clearly and simply.
Managing Director, Contract Cleaning Company
Informative and user friendly, always enjoyable.
HR Consultant, Non-Departmental Public Body
Handling social
media misuse
London – Tuesday 11 June 2013 Workshop: 09.00 - 11.30
Social media use continues to grab headlines and is a cause for concern for many employers. Whether or not social media is used during working hours, comments made on social networking sites or blogs (which might concern the employer, colleagues, clients or customers), can potentially breach confidentiality and/or damage an employer’s reputation. Depending on the circumstances, social media misuse can be treated as misconduct, leading to disciplinary action, including dismissal. Employers may be liable for an employee’s misconduct (e.g. where online bullying occurs). Comments on social media sites can also be defamatory. This interactive workshop will guide you through the process of handling social media misuse. We will review the key terms of a comprehensive social media policy, outline the growing body of case law in this area and highlight the lessons learned for employers. Rhys Griffiths, a partner in our Dispute Resolution Group, will also examine the implications of online defamation and explain how employers can protect both their confidential information and reputation.
Programme in detail
Restrictive covenants
– protecting your
business
London – Thursday 18 July 2013 Workshop – 09.00 - 11.30
Knowing how to protect the business is vital for all employers, irrespective of the industry or sector in which they operate. Whether this involves safeguarding confidential information or intellectual property rights or preventing the departure of staff or clients, restrictive covenants form a core part of this protection. They are also particularly important in the context of team moves, which can be potentially damaging for many employers. It is therefore important for employers to have a good understanding of the scope of restrictive covenants and how they work in practice.
Our interactive workshop, drawing on the expertise of solicitors in both our Employment and Dispute Resolution teams, alongside Counsel, will highlight the value of having well-drafted and tailored restrictive covenants in contracts of employment. We will also focus on how restrictive covenants can be enforced in the court, from both the employer and the employee perspective, providing a helpful guide to the often complex litigation process.
Programme in detail
Mock Employment
Tribunal –
the new system
London – Thursday 12 September 2013 Half day seminarThe Employment Tribunal system is at the heart of the Government’s ongoing review of employment law. During the course of this year, we will see a number of changes come into force, including new Employment Tribunal fees, new Employment Tribunal rules and changes to unfair dismissal compensation. New financial penalties are also expected to come into force in 2014.
Now is the ideal time to get to grips with the new Tribunal process. The prospect of being taken to Tribunal is often daunting, even for the most experienced managers. Our mock Employment Tribunal will allay those fears. It will guide you through the key stages of the process, highlighting the changes, and provide an unmissable opportunity to understand the process from receipt of an ET1 right through to the decision of the Employment Tribunal. It will also provide an important insight into the procedure and enable you to identify the range of issues which can arise during the Tribunal process.
The mock Employment Tribunal will be an invaluable
experience for both HR professionals and senior management and will be particularly useful for those who may have to give evidence at Tribunal in the future.
Programme in detail
Tackling employee
fraud
London – Wednesday 9 October 2013 Half day seminar
Employee fraud is on the rise. According to the latest KPMG Fraud Barometer, fraud perpetrated by either management or employees accounted for 80% of the financial loss through fraud experienced by UK businesses in 2012. The value of employee fraud has more than doubled from £12.0 million in 2011 to £25.1 million.
Tackling employee fraud can be particularly complex for employers, involving significant risk management. Disciplinary investigations need to be instigated, often involving suspension, the police and/or particular regulators may need to be informed and employers may need to consider managing the employee’s departure. Depending on the nature of the fraud, forensic accountants may need to be appointed to assist with tracing and recovering assets. This half day seminar will provide you with an invaluable insight into how to handle employee fraud. We will examine the most effective ways of handling employee fraud, involving investigation, disciplinary and dismissal procedures, and dealing with police involvement. Tony Lewis, a partner in our Dispute Resolution Group, will also share his significant experience of handling employee fraud and recovering assets, highlighting key issues for employers to consider.
Programme in detail
International
assignments
London – Thursday 21 November 2013 Workshop: 09.00 – 11.30
International assignments are on the increase, reflecting the growing importance of international markets and the redeployment of senior skills and leadership roles overseas. According to recent research, one in five employers who manage international assignments say that they have sent more employees abroad over the past few years. Two thirds are looking to maintain or increase their current level of international assignments over the next few years. International assignments are therefore an increasingly regular feature of the workplace.
Although they are growing in popularity, international assignments can give rise to a host of complex legal and practical issues for the employers. Our workshop will provide an overview of the key issues to consider when handling international assignments. We will look at how international assignments should be structured, establishing an appropriate salary package, the implications of employees working in troubled locations, repatriation and termination. Employees on international assignment may also have employment rights both in the home country and the host country. We will examine the growing body of case law in this area and the implications for employers.
From its origins on automated assembly lines, it’s likely there’s now a cross head screwdriver in every tool box. By being adaptable and flexible a business can move with the times and remain commercially viable.
Annual HR Planner
Annual HR Planner
London – Thursday 23 January 2014 Half day seminar
With the numerous reforms to employment law, you may be struggling to remember the key developments of the year. If so, why not join us at our popular Annual HR Planner. We will showcase the ‘need to know’ highlights of 2013 and look ahead to the major developments for 2014. Focusing on the practical implications for all employers, we will bring you up to speed with the most important changes and enable you to plan effectively for the coming year.
International programme
We are currently planning a programme of international seminars, looking at various employment issues in a number of jurisdictions.
If you are interested in receiving further information about our international programme, please contact [email protected].
Galileo and Newton are just two of the enquiring minds who have been instrumental in the development of the telescope. Being empowered by a passion to see further and know more leads to the most inspirational achievements.
Soft skills training
Presenting with confidence – an introduction to
presentation skills
This session is aimed at participants who are new to
presenting and introduces them to methods of ensuring that their presentation is designed and delivered effectively in a professional setting. The session gives participants plenty of opportunity to put into practice and to improve on their presentation skills, and participants are asked to prepare a 5 minutes presentation (without PowerPoints). The course covers:
• dealing with nerves
• techniques for planning and structuring presentations • delivering the presentation - engaging your audience • using visual aids
• review and feedback of individual presentations
How to manage your time – foundation course
This session is designed as an interactive and practical course which looks at how to manage your time effectively. The trainers help you explore the concept of time management together with the key steps to planning your working day, and how to deal with interruptions and other distractions that might crop up.
The session is very practical in nature and equips you with various tools to help you become more effective and efficient, and a mindset to successfully take control of the time you have available.
The objectives of the session are to help you gain a fuller understanding of:
• time management
• how to plan your day - the key steps to consider • how to assess urgency Vs importance
• how prioritisation can help you control your day • procrastination - how to manage it
• time stealers - how to deal with them • delegation and being delegated to
In addition to the training led by our lawyers, we are also able to offer clients CPD-accredited soft skills training through our dedicated in-house training team.
The training is appropriate for both lawyers and non-lawyers, and can be tailored according to delegates’ needs. It can take place either at our offices or at your own premises. The cost of such training is highly competitive and available on enquiry. It will be assessed by reference to a number of factors including where appropriate number of delegates, your organisation’s relationship with Field Fisher Waterhouse, travel, room hire and refreshments. Please contact
[email protected] for further information. Our range of soft skills training includes the following:
Clear drafting
This training focuses on the essential elements of clear document drafting. Using exercises and examples of good and bad drafting, the session covers:
• structuring a document
• how to avoid uncertainty or ambiguity • keeping drafting simple and plain
Effective legal writing
This session looks at effective legal writing in the context of letters, reports, emails and research memos. Using a variety of writing exercises, the session covers many important elements of good writing, including:
• overall structure of the letter/report/memo • good sentence construction
• how to make your writing concise • best use of punctuation and grammar
This session can be adapted to focus on report writing or business writing.
Soft skills training
Effective appraisal skills
Each firm has its own system for appraisals. This session focuses on the skills needed for preparing effectively, creating personal development plans and ensuring people get the most from the process. Sessions can be run for both appraisers and appraisees.
How to be an effective mentor
This interactive session is aimed at showing how to plan and manage mentoring sessions, and providing guidance on: • the role of a Mentor and the practicalities - including a look
at how to start the process and build up the relationship • further consideration of the role - what it is and what it’s
not, and how to respond if you ‘hit the boundaries’ • the expectations your mentees may have of you and the
range of topics they may want to discuss
• different mentoring styles and their likely effectiveness • the “Grow” Mentoring Model
• how to consider the skills and behaviours of a mentor.
Coaching skills for managers
• Leading, managing, mentoring and coaching – what’s the difference?
• Your current managerial style and how coaching fits in with that
• Benefits and challenges of using a coaching style • Introduction to some coaching techniques: listening,
questioning and the GROW model • Giving quality feedback
