Despite an organization’s best intentions, it only takes one untrained manager to cause a Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) or Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) related lawsuit. With new laws going into effect, staffing shortages, remote workplaces, new strands of COVID popping up, and states enacting new and different leave programs, the need for training is even more important today.

Using a case-study format for this session, we discussed the importance of training managers to handle situations with empathy and understanding. We demonstrated how an untrained manager could undermine otherwise compliant processes within the organization. We also focused on proper training and supports employers can provide to their managers to help ensure their leave process is compliant and flows smoothly for all of employees.