Greensboro, N.C. – Capital Associated Industries, Inc., (CAI), the largest employers’ association in the state, works with approximately 300 Triad companies, both large and small. In good economic times, the human resources function is imperative to managing hirings, 401(k) s, and other benefits. Yet, representatives of CAI say in recent months they’ve focused their efforts on helping companies manage particular human resources issues that arise during a sluggish economy.

“In tough economic times, there are just as many employee relations issues as there are in a booming economy, if not more, and companies really need to make sure they’re communicating with their employees,” says Lynn Unsworth, CAI’s regional manager, who has been working in the human resources field for twenty-seven years. “When businesses are forced to layoff employees it affects the rest of the staff and this can be very challenging for managers.”

According to the state’s Employment Security Commission, unemployment in the Greensboro-High Point metropolitan statistical area reached six percent in May of this year, the highest it had been since June of 2004.

Employers often turn to layoffs in tough economic times, but this can affect the rest of the workforce too. Unsworth says remaining employees can become fearful of uncertainty and as a result turnover becomes an issue. Claims of age discrimination may also be made over choices of which employees are laid off.

“Companies need to implement good human resources practices, especially when business is uncertain,” adds Unsworth. “Careful planning and excellent communications are critical components for any business considering reorganization.”

Formerly known as Piedmont Associated Industries (PAI), CAI was created out of a merger in 2005 and provides all the same services as PAI including HR training, compliance advice, salary survey, and policy data.

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About CAI, Inc.
CAI is a non-profit employers’ association founded in 1963 and serves the greater Research
Triangle, Piedmont Triad, and 65 central and eastern counties in North Carolina. With offices in
Raleigh and Greensboro, CAI provides over 1,000 member companies with management information, day-to-day telephone guidance, and training and human resources services.

To learn more about CAI, visit: http://www.capital.org

CONTACT:

Alison Beckwith

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919.459.8157