The HR Book: Human Resources Management for Business

Janet Arnett is the former campus manager of adult education at Ontario’s Georgian College. She is the author of Antiques and Collectibles: Starting Small, The Grange at Knock, and 673 Ways to Save Money.

New business owners and supervisors with no previous business experience
will welcome this simplified introduction to the field of personnel
work. For experienced managers, it can function as a detailed checklist
or as arefresher if human resources functions are performed only
occasionally. The book uses Canadian references throughout and offers
parallel sections on Canadian and American legislation.

The big issues for human resources management are cost containment and
legislation. When and how to hire, when and how to fire, and all the
complications of the labor laws are covered. Recruiting by Internet,
using a selection grid, a chart of legal and illegal areas for
questioning, rating applicants, a sample nondisclosure agreement, and a
termination checklist are some of the most valuable items. These
supplement the more traditional content of personnel how-to books:
interview questions, reference checking, payroll basics, benefits
administration, orientation programs, employee handbooks, dealing with
absenteeism, and performance management.

Because the work is intended for small businesses, union issues are not
included. The book’s physical shape is very awkward, making it hard to
hold. Except for this flaw, it is quite practical, if basic. It’s also
well organized, and includes numerous sample forms and enough detail to
identify the potential tar pits.