In this episode of the Safe Hire 360 podcast, host Crystal Millán and labor and employment attorney Stuart Silverman discuss the critical issues surrounding negligent hiring, retention, and supervision. They explore the legal implications of these practices, share real-life case studies, and emphasize the importance of creating a safe and supportive workplace culture. The conversation highlights the need for effective policies, thorough background checks, and proactive management to mitigate risks and protect employees.

• Negligent hiring and supervision are relatively new concepts in Florida law.
• Companies often fail to implement effective harassment policies, leading to serious consequences.
• It's crucial for companies to communicate their policies clearly to employees.
• A just culture in the workplace encourages open communication and reporting of issues.
• Effective policies can provide legal protection for companies against harassment claims.
• Background checks and thorough reference checks are essential in the hiring process.
• Honesty in communication during interviews can prevent future issues.
• Workplace bullying can have devastating effects on employees and their families.
• HR and management must take all complaints seriously, regardless of their formality.Proactive management can save companies time and resources in the long run.Want to talk prevention strategies? Message us on LinkedIn or visit SafeHire360.com

Attorney Stuart Silverman Linkedin

In this episode of the Safe Hire 360 podcast, host Crystal Millán and guest Patrick Fitzgibbons discuss the challenges veterans face in the workplace, particularly regarding mental health issues like PTSD. Patrick shares his personal journey from law enforcement to behavioral health, emphasizing the importance of empathy and support from both leadership and coworkers. They explore how organizations can create a more accommodating environment for veterans, the significance of education in fostering understanding, and the necessity of advocating for oneself in the face of workplace challenges. The conversation highlights the need for awareness of early warning signs of distress and the importance of documentation in addressing workplace issues.

Introduction: In today's episode of the Safe Hire 360 podcast, host Crystal Millán engages in a heartfelt conversation with Patrick Fitzgibbons, a veteran and behavioral health professional. Together, they explore the critical topic of veterans in the workplace, shedding light on the unique challenges they face and how employers can create a supportive environment for these individuals.

Understanding PTSD in the Workplace: Patrick begins by sharing his own journey, detailing his transition from a 23-year career in law enforcement to becoming a behavioral health professional. He emphasizes that PTSD can manifest differently in various individuals, highlighting classic signs such as irritability, changes in work performance, and sleep issues. Importantly, Patrick points out that PTSD is not exclusive to veterans and first responders; civilians can also suffer from it due to traumatic experiences.

Creating an Empathetic Work Environment: Crystal raises the question of how organizations can foster a more empathetic atmosphere for veterans. Patrick asserts that effective leadership is crucial. He notes that organizations must go beyond mere lip service and actively implement programs that support their employees, including Employee Assistance Programs (EAP). He emphasizes that veterans bring valuable skills to the workforce, and it is essential for leaders to recognize the potential struggles they may face due to past trauma.

The Role of Coworkers: The conversation shifts to the role of coworkers in supporting veterans in the workplace. Both Crystal and Patrick agree that education is key. By understanding the symptoms of PTSD and the challenges veterans face, employees can create a more supportive and compassionate environment. Patrick encourages both coworkers and supervisors to be proactive, addressing behavioral changes in their peers and offering support.

Early Warning Signs to Watch For: Patrick outlines the early warning signs of distress, including changes in behavior, decreased productivity, and withdrawal from social interactions. He stresses the importance of supervisors taking notice of these changes and reaching out to their employees. By fostering open communication, employees can feel safe discussing their struggles and seeking help without fear of judgment.

The Importance of a Support Network: Patrick emphasizes the significance of having a support network. He encourages individuals to seek help when they need it, reminding them that treatment is not a sign of weakness. Addressing the stigma surrounding mental health, he highlights that many people suffer in silence, and it’s crucial to create an environment where seeking help is normalized.

Conclusion: The conversation between Crystal and Patrick serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of understanding and supporting veterans in the workplace. By fostering empathy, education, and open communication, organizations can create an environment where veterans feel valued and supported. Key takeaways include recognizing the signs of PTSD, the role of leadership in creating a supportive workplace, and the importance of a strong support network.