4 MOST COMMON EMPLOYEE RELATIONS ISSUES & HOW TO HANDLE THEM

Jeff Mignault • September 8, 2017
EMPLOYEE RELATIONS

Employee relations issues are part of work in human resources. All companies have to deal with their fair share of employee relations issues. Some are a product of the work environment and company. Others are a result of the type of work or industry. Some are also more common than others.

We’ve put together a list of 4 of the most common worker relations problems and outline some ways to handle them and come to a peaceful resolution:

1. Hours worked and attendance

It’s common for employees to question the number of hours they work. They may overestimate hours worked, and when late, have other people vouch for them. One of the most effective ways to remedy this situation is to invest in a time clock or timekeeping software. Employees can clock in and out, and the HR team can check the logs to ensure accuracy. If there is a discrepancy, you can always check the security camera to ensure the employee clocked in or out when they stated.

2. Pay raises

It’s also common for employees to complain about their rate of pay, especially if someone else recently received a raise in pay. Having a standard procedure for giving out raises ensures everyone is on the same playing field and knows what it takes to qualify for a pay raise.

3. Workplace safety

Maintaining a safe work environment is a must for all businesses. No one wants an employee to get injured or for an accident to happen. Therefore, it’s important to promote workplace safety, have safety rules and regulations, and have a workplace safety team that takes their job seriously. Staying on top of things allows you to have a proactive approach to safety.

4. General conflict management in employee relations issues

Conflict can arise in any work environment. You should expect it will happen. Disputes between employees, management, and workers happen frequently. How you manage conflict is a key for the overall wellbeing of your company.

Have a process in place to deal with conflict. Don’t wait for it to arise and then try to work through it. When you have a policy in place, you will have a clear process to follow and your employees will feel the issue was addressed appropriately.

Get more advice for effective employee relations and management by reading these blog posts:

Jeff Mignault
7 workforce alternatives employers can consider before layoffs
October 21, 2026
Facing tariff pressure or weaker demand? Explore seven workforce options Canadian employers can consider before layoffs, from redeployment to work-sharing.
Three blocks representing tariffs and trade barriers affecting Canadian employers
October 14, 2026
Learn 5 ways Canadian employers can prepare for workforce disruption caused by tariffs, including workforce planning, skills development and retention.
Vacation planning calendar with beach chair.
October 7, 2026
Learn how vacation pay is calculated in Canada and what employers need to know about provincial requirements.
Manager addressing a challenging employee situation.
September 30, 2026
Learn how new managers can address difficult employee behaviour, manage performance and handle challenging conversations.
Employees disengaged during corporate training.
September 16, 2026
Learn eight signs your corporate training program isn't working and how to improve its impact.
Pay equity and equal pay comparison represented by male and female figures.
September 2, 2026
Learn the difference between pay equity and equal pay and Ontario's requirements for employers.
Employee receiving career transition support after a layoff.
August 26, 2026
Are outplacement services worth the cost? Explore the benefits for Canadian employers and employees.
Illustration of a robot carrying office equipment while an employee leaves with a box
August 12, 2026
Discover why AI can't replace human HR expertise. Learn where AI adds value and when experienced HR professionals are essential.
Man making woman uncomfortable in an office representing workplace harassment.
August 5, 2026
Learn Ontario's workplace violence and harassment training requirements to stay compliant and create a safer workplace.
HR professional reviewing an employee termination checklist on a laptop.
July 22, 2026
Follow this employee termination checklist for Canadian employers to reduce legal risk, meet compliance requirements, and manage employee exits professionally.