Skip to main content
Skip to main content
Knowledge Hub

HR Resources &
Insights

Free checklists, templates, guides, and articles from a SHRM-SCP certified HR professional — built specifically for Maryland and DC Metro employers.

Free DownloadsMaryland-Specific2026 UpdatedExpert-Authored
Free Downloads

Templates & Checklists

2026 Employee Handbook Compliance Checklist
Featured
Compliance
Checklist12 pages

2026 Employee Handbook Compliance Checklist

A 47-point checklist covering every required policy for Maryland employers — from at-will employment to Maryland's expanded paid leave requirements effective 2026.

Last verified: April 2026
I-9 Self-Audit Guide for Maryland Employers
Compliance
Guide8 pages

I-9 Self-Audit Guide for Maryland Employers

Step-by-step instructions for conducting an internal I-9 audit, correcting errors, and establishing a compliant ongoing process. Includes DOL penalty schedule.

Last verified: April 2026
FLSA Classification Decision Tree
Wage & Hour
Template4 pages

FLSA Classification Decision Tree

A visual decision tree and worksheet for evaluating exempt vs. non-exempt status under the FLSA. Reflects the current enforced federal threshold of $684/week ($35,568/year) — the 2024 DOL rule raising it to $1,128/week was vacated by a federal court in November 2024.

Last verified: April 2026
Performance Improvement Plan (PIP) Template
Performance
Template6 pages

Performance Improvement Plan (PIP) Template

A legally-sound PIP template with instructions for managers. Includes documentation best practices, timeline guidance, and a sample completed example.

Pay Equity Analysis Framework
Featured
Compensation
Framework10 pages

Pay Equity Analysis Framework

A practical framework for conducting a pay equity analysis, including data collection methodology, statistical approach, and remediation planning guidance.

Last verified: April 2026
New Employee Onboarding Checklist
Talent
Checklist5 pages

New Employee Onboarding Checklist

A comprehensive 90-day onboarding checklist for HR and managers — covering pre-boarding, Day 1, Week 1, Month 1, and the 90-day review milestone.

HR Insights

Latest Articles

Maryland's 2026 Employment Law Changes: What Every Employer Must Know
Compliance8 min read

Maryland's 2026 Employment Law Changes: What Every Employer Must Know

From expanded paid leave requirements to updated non-compete restrictions, Maryland employers face significant new obligations this year.

Read Article
The Hidden Cost of a Bad Hire: A Framework for Smarter Recruiting
Talent Strategy6 min read

The Hidden Cost of a Bad Hire: A Framework for Smarter Recruiting

A mis-hire at the manager level costs an average of 213% of annual salary. Here is how to get it right the first time.

Read Article
Using AI in HR Without Creating Legal Liability: A Practical Guide
AI in HR10 min read

Using AI in HR Without Creating Legal Liability: A Practical Guide

AI screening tools and automated onboarding can transform HR efficiency — but they carry EEOC and FCRA exposure if implemented incorrectly.

Read Article