Hearing officers play an important role. Companies must ensure that they select and train the right people. So, what does it take?
A great hearing officer is someone who:
- Is a good listener
- Maintains an orderly proceeding
- Rules fairly with respect to each party's objections
- Is well versed in general arbitration principles under the Railway Labor Act (especially railroad cases)
- Rules on cases after a thorough review of the facts and evidence presented, while thoroughly understanding and applying the proper burden of proof (substantial evidence)