Several companies accessible over the internet (and through more traditional means) provide payroll services at a very reasonable cost.   Even a small firm with only one or two employees can find a payroll service that will take them on.   Using a payroll service means that someone else keeps on top of government regulations and tax compliance issues, tracks payroll deductions and issues appropriate tax slips to employees in a timely manner.  For all that a payroll service provider does, the fees are reasonable and the peace of mind is priceless.

Another web resource that may prove helpful are virtual assistants (VA) -- individuals that you may never meet but who can perform a multitude of tasks for you at a reasonable cost.  Consider using such a service during a period when the firm's workload has increased temporarily or to give you time to advertise, interview, test and hire the right permanent person.  For as little as $7 per hour, an off-shore VA can be hired to perform administrative tasks that require nothing more than a telephone, fax, computer and access to the internet.  North-American based VA services are generally more expensive but offer local knowledge and understanding that an off-shore VA will not have.

Join me and Ellen Freedman at the ABA TechShow on April 3 to learn more about these ideas and others.  We'll share information about tools and resources that can reduce the time and cost demanded by HR management responsibilities and maybe even increase the enjoyment factor!