Another year closes...
December 13, 2007 11:52 AM
So the wind howls outside, the conscientious office workers dim the power saving LEDs on their computers. The Works party season is nearly over. The apologies for inappropriate behaviour are almost forgotten and the dry cleaning is still to be collected. Secret Santa prizes lie uncollected under melted plastic trees.
Another year draws to a close.
- Smoking is now banned just about everywhere.
- Mums are slightly better off in terms of the length of their maternity periods.
- Carers now have similar rights to parents in terms of requesting flexible working.
- It is easier now to get a trade mark for the first time.
- Websites and emails needed to contain full company details for the first time.
- We have experienced a year of anti-age discrimination (in theory).
- There are tougher rules for mobile phone users in cars, including company cars (points most definitely do not mean prizes).
- The statutory holidays now have increased to include half of the bank holidays.
- Corporates now have to dispose of electronic equipment responsibly (WEEE regulations).
That was 2007.
So what do we all have to look forward to?
Toasters which brown the bread in 50 seconds, leading to less indigestion for commuters. House prices stabilising and cheaper loans (apparently). Relocating for work purposes has never looked so good. If, of course, you can sell your house. The other half of the bank holidays are to be covered off...
- the government is looking to extend the rights for parents to request flexible working to the parents of older children
- Bearded entrepreneurs are likely to take over the FTSE 100. 2008 will be the year of the hairy-faced man.
- employee tribunals are likely to increase the number of small businesses which fold.
- The government may or may not extend the right of temporary workers who have worked with an agency for more than 6 weeks, to reflect those of permanent workers. It has been mooted for years, but has just been blocked again by Mr Hutton.
And that's just for starters. Have a great festive period, and if you are lucky to be off, re-charge your battteries with whichever method "floats your boat", ready for a smashing 2008.
PS Many people have asked about the beard. It is suitably straggly and I don't think it will survive beyond 2007. I hope that is not a snapshot of the general beard picture. We should encourage the survival of endangered species in our midst.
PPS I believe that May 16th 2008 is a volunteer day across the country, where companies are invited to get out into the community and get involved in green issues which help the local area. We are participating, maybe you could encourage your present or your new employers to do the same. Here is a link to the London version, I believe this will be extended across the country www.londonbettertogether.org.uk
Comments
Perhaps your beard could sell it's current home and relocate to the top of your head as part of it's new job in 2008 to provide more insulation for the little grey cells.
NickHouse - December 19, 2007 4:56 PM
NICK HOUSE, don't be so mean!
Louise.pendlebury - December 20, 2007 9:18 AM