If you are running a business, chances are you have used Google to research a variety of HR issues at some point in your career. For the occasional form or broad level question, it isn’t a bad thing, but if you’re someone who’s uncomfortable with uncertainty, it’s best to avoid the practice altogether.

Because information on internet can be unreliable, organizations should avoid seeking advice about issues that could have serious legal consequences. Know who you are dealing with, before you trust their information.

Risks of Googling for HR Guidance Can Include:

• Source Credibility – who is providing this information? Are they professionals in the HR field.
• Accuracy – is the information provided correct for your state? Are the documents the most recent and up-to-date ones available?
• Soapboxes – Was this put online as part of a website trying to push a political or other agenda?
• Phishing – Websites posing to be from more reputable organizations, that are trying to collect your personal information.
• Hoaxes – is this site trying to deliberately mislead you with erroneous information?

This practice is simply NOT productive. There is far too much contradicting or risky information available. These issues can be costly and potentially litigious, exposing you to serious penalties, fines and consequences. It’s imperative that you turn to a professional.

When you use a professional HR resource, like, you will be communicating with trained HR professionals who can give you personalized advice and consultation. They can assist with a variety of HR topics, including federal compliance, employee relations, building an employee handbook, sexual harassment training and much more.

CorpStrat can help businesses with Human Resources consulting with two levels of services. HR On Demand provides unlimited access to a dedicated HR Consultant for questions about policy, procedure, and compliance. See HR on Demand here.

Guardian HR provides the benefits of our HR on Demand services, plus unlimited employment law consulting, employee dispute resolution, an online training library, legal mediation & HR investigation assistance, and more – see all of the value Guardian HR Provides here.