Today's top stories.

Congressional Leaders OK Release of $200 Million to IRS

Congressional leaders have approved the release of $200 million for the next step of the Internal Revenue Service's sweeping business systems modernization project. "This moves us another step forward in our long-term effort to modernize IRS business systems," Paul Cosgrave, IRS chief information officer, said. The $200 million comes from $577 million previously set aside by Congress in a special Information Technology Investment Account ( ITIA).

Unions Stalk Dot-Coms

Union-organizing efforts at Amazon.com, etown.com and ShopAudioVideo.com signal an approaching wave of labor activity in the e-commerce sector.

Rehiring Ex-employees a Valid Option

Rehiring ex-employees is viable for companies seeking skilled personnel who can fit in to the corporate environment without the need for additional training.
"In this red-hot economic climate, every day that the necessary talent isn't on board translates to lowered productivity, competitiveness and profitability," said Pamela Harper, president of Business Advancement Inc., a New Jersey business consulting firm.
The Right Fit
Silicon Valley Bank knows the value of rehiring former employees. The bank has rehired a number of employees who left to pursue other interests and wished to return.
"You already know their skills, fit and effectiveness," said Denise Caruzzi, SVB's director of people and organizational effectiveness. "They make great role models and PR staff for other employees who may be thinking of leaving."

Practice Management Part 2 -- Building Bridges
How To Manage Employees Successfully

Money still talks. In fact, these days it's shouting. Survey says that 46% of working Americans chose "a raise" as the most important factor in deciding to keep their current jobs. Find out other ways to keep the planners in your firm happy.