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# The Workplace Advisors

We help businesses navigate their workplace challenges, so they can grow.

## Sitemaps

- [XML Sitemap](https://theworkplaceadvisors.com/sitemap.xml): Contains all public & indexable URLs for this website.

## Posts

- [2026 Mid-Year Labor Market Summary: July Update](https://theworkplaceadvisors.com/2026-mid-year-labor-market-summary-july-update/) - A mid-year look at the 2026 labor market: job growth, wages, inflation, and legislative updates every employer should know.
- [Consistency Is Critical](https://theworkplaceadvisors.com/consistency-is-critical/) - Consistent management earns employee trust, brings company values to life, and reduces legal risk. Learn the four practices that make it work.
- [Critical Conversations: The F.R.I.E.N.D. Framework](https://theworkplaceadvisors.com/critical-conversations-the-f-r-i-e-n-d-framework/) - Struggling with difficult workplace conversations? Use the F.R.I.E.N.D. framework to navigate conflict, build trust, and reach real resolution.
- [Prohibited Interview Questions: Why Interviews Carry More Risk Than You Think](https://theworkplaceadvisors.com/prohibited-interview-questions-why-interviews-carry-more-risk-than-you-think/) - Learn which interview questions are illegal, why they create legal risk, and what HR leaders should ask instead to build a compliant, defensible hiring process.
- [The Workplace Advisors and VRMA Announce Strategic Partnership to Strengthen Workforce Development Across the Vacation Rental Industry](https://theworkplaceadvisors.com/the-workplace-advisors-and-vrma-announce-strategic-partnership-to-strengthen-workforce-development-across-the-vacation-rental-industry/) - FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Jamesville, NY – [May 7, 2026] – The Workplace Advisors, a leading national HR and workforce solutions firm, and the Vacation Rental Management Association (VRMA), the leading professional trade association for the vacation and holiday rental property management and hospitality industries, announced a strategic partnership designed to expand workforce development resources available
- [ICE Reclassifies Some Form I-9 Errors to “Substantive”](https://theworkplaceadvisors.com/ice-reclassifies-some-form-i-9-errors-to-substantive/) - I-9 errors now carry higher penalties after ICE changes. Learn which I-9 errors are now substantive and how employers can avoid fines.
- [The Case for Strategic Workforce Planning](https://theworkplaceadvisors.com/the-case-for-strategic-workforce-planning/) - Struggling to hire? Discover a 4-step strategic workforce planning approach to close talent gaps and grow in a tight labor market.
- [Forgiveness: The Ultimate Leadership Superpower](https://theworkplaceadvisors.com/forgiveness-the-ultimate-leadership-superpower/) - Discover how forgiveness strengthens leadership, builds trust, boosts performance, and creates resilient workplace cultures without sacrificing accountability.
- [2025 Year-End Labor Market Summary](https://theworkplaceadvisors.com/2025-year-end-labor-market-summary/) - 2025 Year-End Labor Market Summary: job growth, wages, unemployment, inflation, layoffs, and 2026 outlook in today’s frozen U.S. labor market.
- [Preparing Your Workplace for AI: A Practical Employer’s Guide](https://theworkplaceadvisors.com/preparing-your-workplace-for-ai-a-practical-employers-guide/) - A practical guide to AI in the workplace: benefits, risks, compliance tips, and implementation steps to boost productivity without replacing employees.
- [The Importance of the Right Paid Time Off Strategy](https://theworkplaceadvisors.com/the-importance-of-the-right-paid-time-off-strategy/) - Learn why there’s no one-size-fits-all PTO policy and how the right paid time off strategy improves retention, culture, compliance, and hiring competitiveness.
- [2026 Employer Outlook: Key Federal and State Changes](https://theworkplaceadvisors.com/2026-employer-outlook-key-federal-and-state-changes/) - Get ready for 2026 with a breakdown of key federal and state changes- labor trends, immigration rules, AI policies, minimum wage increases, and new leave laws.”
- [State Paid Leave and Time Off Laws with Upcoming Changes](https://theworkplaceadvisors.com/state-paid-leave-and-time-off-laws-with-upcoming-changes/) - Stay compliant with 2025 state paid leave and time off laws. Explore updates, new programs, and upcoming changes across the U.S.
- [Scary HR Stories: Real Workplace Nightmares](https://theworkplaceadvisors.com/scary-hr-stories-real-workplace-nightmares/) - Discover spooky but true HR horror stories- ghosting, gossip, and more- and learn how to handle these real workplace nightmares like a pro.
- [Workplace Update: How to Make Legal Employment Decisions in 2025](https://theworkplaceadvisors.com/workplace-update-how-to-make-legal-employment-decisions-in-2025/) - Understand employee termination risks and how smart employment decisions can reduce legal exposure through documentation, fair processes, and compliance.
- [Pay Transparency: A New Standard](https://theworkplaceadvisors.com/pay-transparency-a-new-standard/) - Navigate evolving pay transparency laws with confidence. Learn how to stay compliant, avoid pay history pitfalls, and build trust in your hiring process.
- [2025 Mid-Year Labor Market Report: What Employers Need to Know](https://theworkplaceadvisors.com/2025-mid-year-labor-market-report-what-employers-need-to-know/) - Explore key 2025 labor market trends—job growth, AI impact, wage shifts, unemployment, and compliance updates—in this mid-year business summary.
- [The Frozen Labor Market – What Is It and Why Should You Care?](https://theworkplaceadvisors.com/the-frozen-labor-market-what-is-it-and-why-should-you-care/) - Learn how the "frozen" labor market is impacting hiring, retention, and workforce strategy—and what your business should do about it.
- [Office Temperature Wars](https://theworkplaceadvisors.com/office-temperature-wars/) - Question: We have two employees who keep complaining about the temperature. One says it is too warm, one says it is too cold. It is a small office so there isn't a way to allow them to sit in different areas. No one else complains or has an opinion either way. What can we do? Answer: Having
- [Strategic HR Moves to Make This Summer](https://theworkplaceadvisors.com/strategic-hr-moves-to-make-this-summer/) - Make the most of summer with strategic HR moves—from policy updates to employee check-ins—to boost compliance, retention, and year-end success.
- [Prioritizing Mental Health in the Workplace](https://theworkplaceadvisors.com/prioritizing-mental-health-in-the-workplace/) - Support employee mental health to improve retention, boost productivity, and strengthen your employer brand in today’s competitive job market.
- [Pay Discussions Are Important – How to Get Good at Them](https://theworkplaceadvisors.com/pay-discussions-are-important-how-to-get-good-at-them/) - Learn how to navigate pay discussions effectively, address employee concerns, and ensure fair compensation with these essential tips for managers.
- [State of Immigration in the Workplace](https://theworkplaceadvisors.com/state-of-immigration-in-the-workplace/) - Prepare for ICE workplace visits. Develop a response plan, designate key personnel & maintain proper documentation ensuring compliance & protect your business.
- [Bridging the Gap: Gen Z's Workforce Revolution](https://theworkplaceadvisors.com/bridging-the-gap-gen-zs-workforce-revolution/) - Explore how Gen Z is reshaping the workplace with their unique values, tech-savvy skills, and expectations. Learn to bridge the generational gap for success.
- [Federal Judge Strikes Down DOL's Overtime Rule](https://theworkplaceadvisors.com/federal-judge-strikes-down-dols-overtime-rule/) - The federal minimum salary threshold for the Executive, Administrative, and Professional (EAP) exemption is once again $684 per week (annualized to $35,558) and $107,432 per year for Highly-Compensated employees after a federal court in Texas reversed the DOL’s increase announced earlier this year. While previous injunctions applied to specific plaintiffs, this ruling applies to all
- [Key Labor Trends to Watch as 2025 Nears](https://theworkplaceadvisors.com/key-labor-trends-to-watch-as-2025-nears/) - The labor market continues to adapt to various economic, technological, and social factors as we close out the year. Figures fluctuate due to these factors, and understanding the context behind them is important in making hiring and broader business decisions. It is important to note that labor figures and other key indicators are fluid; a
- [Demanding Civility in the Workplace](https://theworkplaceadvisors.com/demanding-civility-in-the-workplace/) - Being nice in the workplace matters. Civility has a tremendous impact on workplace dynamics, culture, and organizational performance. Maintaining a standard of respectful and courteous behavior may seem like a simple initiative, but the costs of incivility in the workplace can be severe. With added factors like remote working environments and the upcoming November elections, prioritizing
- [Job Growth & Wage Trends](https://theworkplaceadvisors.com/job-growth-wage-trends/) - Legislative updates include changes to salary thresholds, noncompete agreements, and workplace safety regulations. Stay up to date with The Workplace Advisors.
- [Employee Benefits: Traditional & Creative Trends](https://theworkplaceadvisors.com/employee-benefits-traditional-creative-trends/) - Several trends in traditional and non-traditional benefits are transforming the HR and benefits landscape. As technology advances and employee expectations shift, companies must adapt to retain top talent.
- [DOL Exempt Minimum Salary - Now What?](https://theworkplaceadvisors.com/dol-exempt-minimum-salary-now-what/) - The Department of Labor new exempt minimum salary update and what it means for businesses as explained by The Workplace Advisors.
- [Compensation Hot Topics](https://theworkplaceadvisors.com/compensation-hot-topics/) - The Great Resignation is over, the red-hot recruiting market has cooled a bit, and inflation is down. That’s some of the good news for employers in 2024. But don’t relax too much – compensation is still important. In a recent Compensation Best Practices Report published by Payscale, a majority of employers reported compensation as their
- [The Power of Leadership Coaching](https://theworkplaceadvisors.com/the-power-of-leadership-coaching/) - Coaching offers a personalized and transformative approach to leadership development. Ideas for making this effective for youfrom The Workplace Advisors.
- [Beyond Resumes - 10 Pro Tips for Recruiters](https://theworkplaceadvisors.com/beyond-resumes-10-pro-tips-for-recruiters/) - 10 Pro Tips from The Workplace Advisors recruiters to help your company take your hiring efforts to the next level!
- [Changes As Your Company Grows](https://theworkplaceadvisors.com/changes-as-your-company-grows/) - As you add employees, the number of employment regulations your company falls under changes as well. The Workplace Advisors shares what companies should know.
- [Employment Trends & Challenges for the Year Ahead](https://theworkplaceadvisors.com/employment-trends-challenges-for-the-year-ahead/) - A new year means new employment laws, trends, and challenges. Here are some of the important trends we are following as we enter 2024. General Trends Uncertainty With the volatile political climate heading into the 2024 presidential race, inconsistent predictions for the economy, and escalating incidents of violence, employees are facing new challenges at and
- [Social Media & Work](https://theworkplaceadvisors.com/social-media-work/) - Question: An employee posted concerning comments on their personal social media page. I am worried this may impact our business. Can I take any action against the employee? Answer: Maybe. While an employee’s social media postings are personal, they are not private since they are shared with a broad audience. There are some posts which
- [FFCRA PTO Changes](https://theworkplaceadvisors.com/ffcra-pto-changes/) - Question: We were required to offer employees paid time off under the Families First Coronavirus Relief Act (FFCRA) last year. Do I still need to? Answer: While it is no longer mandatory for employers with fewer than 500 employees to offer this time off, it is voluntary. The Consolidated Appropriations Act signed by President Trump
- [Returning to Regular Practices](https://theworkplaceadvisors.com/returning-to-regular-practices/) - Question: During the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, we had to make changes to our paid time off policy. While we normally do not allow carry-over, we did give our employees the option in 2020. Now that people are able to travel again to use time off, can we go back to our previous practice?
- [Mandating the COVID Vaccine](https://theworkplaceadvisors.com/mandating-the-covid-vaccine/) - Question: Can I as an employer require my employees to get a vaccine for COVID? Answer: Yes, the EEOC recently advised that employers are within their rights to require a COVID vaccine as a condition of employment. (https://www.eeoc.gov/wysk/what-you-should-know-about-covid-19-and-ada-rehabilitation-act-and-other-eeo-laws) Employers must, however, provide reasonable accommodation for those who cannot take the vaccine due either to a
- [REOPENING THE OFFICE](https://theworkplaceadvisors.com/reopening-the-office/) - Question: We are re-opening the office and have some employees who are vaccinated while others are not. Do we have to implement any different procedures or policies? Answer: Allowing fully vaccinated individuals to unmask and requiring those without a vaccine to continue masking adheres to the recent CDC (and in many instances state and local)
- [Formal Driving Policy](https://theworkplaceadvisors.com/formal-driving-policy/) - Question: We do not have formal drivers in our company. Do I need a driving policy? Answer: Yes, we recommend even companies without formal driving positions have a Driving for the Company policy in their handbook. In fact, some business insurance carriers recommend or require it as well. Most companies have employees who may drive on
- [Religious Exemption to Vaccine](https://theworkplaceadvisors.com/religious-exemption-to-vaccine/) - Q: Our company is requiring all employees to get vaccinated for COVID. We received a request for an exemption to the vaccination requirement on the basis of a sincerely-held religious belief. Can we require some form of documentation or verification? A: Under Title VII of the Civil Rights Act, employees cannot be required to get
- [Non-Exempt Employee Deductions](https://theworkplaceadvisors.com/non-exempt-employee-deductions/) - Question: What deductions can we take from a non-exempt employee’s paycheck? Answer: First, make any deductions required by law such as taxes, unemployment, and Social Security. This would also include garnishments required by a legal authority such as the courts or IRS. Any other deductions would need to be categorized as those for the employee’s
- [Should I Confront My Employee?](https://theworkplaceadvisors.com/should-i-confront-my-employee/) - Question: I just received a call asking for a verification of employment for one of my employees. I thought everything was good based on recent conversations, but now I’m not sure what is going on. Can I ask them if they are job hunting? Answer: Legally, yes, you can ask since you learned about the
- [Disruptive Phone Behavior](https://theworkplaceadvisors.com/disruptive-phone-behavior/) - Q: We have an employee who is constantly on their phone for personal business. While we understand they need to check in with their family, it gets out of hand and keeps them from doing work. It also disrupts the office keeping everyone else from being able to do their work efficiently. What can we
- [Hiring a Remote Employee](https://theworkplaceadvisors.com/hiring-a-remote-employee/) - Q: We are thinking about hiring our first remote employee. Is there anything we need to do differently? A: Yes, there are several employment aspects to consider when hiring an employee who will be working outside of the office. You should establish policies around remote work such as availability, use of equipment, confidentiality, and information
- [REMOTE EMPLOYEE UNAVAILABLE](https://theworkplaceadvisors.com/remote-employee-unavailable/) - Question: We have a remote employee who works their required number of hours each day but usually outside of our normal work hours. They are often unavailable for calls or meetings with management or co-workers and even clients have expressed frustration with their unavailability. While we believe employees should have some flexibility in when they
- [NON-EXEMPT HOLIDAY PAY](https://theworkplaceadvisors.com/non-exempt-holiday-pay/) - Question: Do I have to pay non-exempt employees for a holiday if we are closed? Or a special rate If they work? Answer: Probably not. There is no federal law to pay non-exempt employees for holidays if they do not work or to pay a premium rate if they do work. Massachusetts and Rhode Island
- [INJURY AT WORK](https://theworkplaceadvisors.com/injury-at-work/) - Question: My employee tripped on a pothole in our parking lot and broke their arm. Do we have any obligations? Answer: Probably. If you own and maintain the parking lot and the employee was injured while coming to or from work, then it may fall under Workers' Compensation. If not, it may fall under your
- [EXIT INTERVIEWS](https://theworkplaceadvisors.com/exit-interviews/) - Question: Do I need to conduct exit interviews with employees who are separating from the company? Answer: No, exit interviews are not required. They are tools that can help you gather information about the employee's experience at your company when they may feel freer to be more honest and open. If you decide to conduct exit
- [EMPLOYEE GIFTS](https://theworkplaceadvisors.com/employee-gifts/) - Question: With rising costs, I want to give my employees a gift card to reward them for their hard work. What should I consider? Answer: Acknowledging an employee's contribution to the company is almost always a good thing. Making the effort to recognize an employee's hard work helps to reinforce their commitment to the company. When
- [PETS AT WORK](https://theworkplaceadvisors.com/pets-at-work/) - Question: Now that we are back in the office, my dog is having separation anxiety. Can I bring him to work with me if I keep him in my office? Answer: While a lot of people enjoy having a dog around, there are several things to think about before starting to bring your dog to work.
- [SICK EMPLOYEES](https://theworkplaceadvisors.com/sick-employees/) - Question: A few of my employees have shown up for work sick. I appreciate their dedication, but I’d rather they not come to work when ill. Can I send them home and require that they use their sick leave? Answer: Yes, you can. Recognize that there may be reasons why employees are showing up sick that might include:
- [Vacation Requests](https://theworkplaceadvisors.com/vacation-requests/) - Question: An employee has put in a request for a 4-week vacation even though our policy only allows 2 weeks off to be taken at a time. Do I need to approve it? Answer: When deciding to approve or deny a time off request you should look at your policy, past precedent, and the circumstances
- [Office Clutter](https://theworkplaceadvisors.com/office-clutter/) - Question: We allow employees to personalize their work areas. However, we have one employee who has so many pictures, plaques, sayings, and other trinkets on their desk that there is little space left to work. Can we make them take some of it down? Answer: Allowing an employee to make their workspace "their own" is
- [Employee's Organ Donation](https://theworkplaceadvisors.com/employees-organ-donation/) - Question: We have an employee who matched as a living donor. What do we need to offer them? Answer: First of all, it's wonderful that your employee is considering being a living donor! As an employer, it's important to support your employees in their personal endeavors whenever possible. You should treat this situation like any
- [Recruiting in Today's Tough Job Market](https://theworkplaceadvisors.com/recruiting-in-todays-tough-job-market/) - The headline of a recent Fox Business article on October 16, 2018 declared, “Job openings hit record 7 million, plenty for the 6 million unemployed.” This is both true and a little misleading. Job openings have increased to 7.1 million and unemployment has decreased to 3.7% or 6 million people. However, this does not take
- [Federal and State-Based Changes from 2018 and Coming in 2019](https://theworkplaceadvisors.com/federal-and-state-based-changes-from-2018-and-coming-in-2019/) - In 2018, the federal government had fewer than average laws passed that impact labor and employment law. This was due to focus on other areas as well as political gridlock. There were a few changes that employers should be aware of: New FLSA rules for handling tips: The Consolidated Appropriations Act restricts an employer from
- [Alternate Types of Employees in Today's Workforce](https://theworkplaceadvisors.com/alternate-types-of-employees-in-todays-workforce/) - The composition of the American workforce has been changing and will continue to evolve. Whereas regular employment used to be almost the only classification of worker, now more and more in the “gig economy” people are hired as temporary employees or independent contractors. According to the latest job report from the Bureau of Labor Statistics,
- [Time To Talk About Pay!](https://theworkplaceadvisors.com/time-to-talk-about-pay/) - Recruiting new employees and retaining current employees was a difficult task for many employers during 2018. And 2019 will continue to present many of the same challenges. The decade since the Great Recession has seen high unemployment rates, slow job growth, and slower wage growth. But all that is changing – and changing fast. Here’s
- [Coronavirus Workplace Checklist](https://theworkplaceadvisors.com/coronavirus-workplace-checklist/) - Download the checklist here!
- [COVID-19 Pandemic in the Workplace](https://theworkplaceadvisors.com/covid-19-pandemic-in-the-workplace/) - As the COVID-19 pandemic continues and businesses reopen under restrictions which vary by city, county, and state, Affinity HR Group continues to monitor several topics and issues to help our clients through these confusing times. Below are some of the current topics we are seeing. Employer COVID Liability: Employees being in the workplace increases their
- [I'm Fine (And Other COVID Lies)](https://theworkplaceadvisors.com/im-fine-and-other-covid-lies/) - One day this past week, Lisa Ritchie, our VP of Recruiting and Talent Selection, and I were on a video call. She was having a rough day and needed to vent about something non-work related: managing the virtual schooling of her children due to COVID school closures. “You know,” she said, “I’m perfectly fine going
- [Mandating COVID Vaccinations](https://theworkplaceadvisors.com/mandating-covid-vaccinations/) - As 2020 drew to a close, we started fielding questions from clients about whether they could require employees to obtain a COVID-19 vaccine as a condition of employment. These questions were sparked by the initial roll out of vaccinations for front line health care workers and nursing home residents and the alarming spike of COVID
- [Managing Employees' Online Behavior](https://theworkplaceadvisors.com/managing-employees-online-behavior/) - We have all read stories of someone’s unacceptable or illegal actions going viral and the public using social media to identify that person and where they work and live. While we normally think of social media as a personal pastime, social media can be a valuable resource for business purposes. And, employee behavior on social
- [Preparing for Workplace Re-Entry During COVID-19](https://theworkplaceadvisors.com/preparing-for-workplace-re-entry-during-covid-19/) - To view or print the PDF checklist version click here! As state, local, and municipal governments take steps to re-open businesses across the country, employers must take a fresh look at their physical workspace, their workplace practices, and their communication and training of employees in order to prohibit the spread of the coronavirus and to
- [What Do All Those Comp Terms Mean Anyway?!?](https://theworkplaceadvisors.com/what-do-all-those-comp-terms-mean-anyway/) - Welcome to Compensation 101 where we define and give examples for those boring compensation terms we throw around all the time. You’ve heard a lot of them recently and probably experienced some of them, too, as we navigate through a volatile, often unexplainable, labor market. Let’s begin with the basics! Compensation Strategy Developing and implementing
- [Labor Market Summary- January 2021](https://theworkplaceadvisors.com/labor-market-summary-january-2021/) - To view or print the PDF Labor Market Summary click here!
- [Out-of-State Employees](https://theworkplaceadvisors.com/out-of-state-employees/) - Among the many changes to “business as usual” forced upon businesses during the COVID-19 pandemic is the reality of more employees working from home. Whether due to regulatory shutdowns or the requirement to self-quarantine or-isolate due to COVID-19 exposure or symptoms, many businesses have had to create solutions to allow employees to remote work in
- [Performance Management During COVID](https://theworkplaceadvisors.com/performance-management-during-covid/) - COVID-19 has made many aspects of employee management difficult. Now, one year into the COVID-19 pandemic, employers are having to adapt to the extended repercussions of the COVID-19 workplace. One persistent challenge is effective performance management, including performance appraisals and disciplinary action. Performance management suffers from distance, reduced face-to-face interactions, changing job duties, and increased
- [Diversity, Equality & Inclusion](https://theworkplaceadvisors.com/diversity-equality-inclusion/) - Federal and in some instances state and local law protects several groups of people in the workplace based on their sexual or gender identity. Given the newness of these protections, as well as the diversity of characteristics and people within this group, some employers are finding it difficult to know how to react to and
- [Legalized Marijuana and Work](https://theworkplaceadvisors.com/legalized-marijuana-and-work/) - Marijuana is now legal in some form in 35 states and Washington, D.C. with 7 additional states having decriminalized marijuana possession and 2 states legalizing CBD oil use. (You can find the current status of marijuana legality in your state here.) Many experts expect the continued expansion of legalization of various forms. Much
- [Hybrid Work](https://theworkplaceadvisors.com/hybrid-work/) - Operating your business in the current COVID world with the relaxing of COVID restrictions across the country requires considering what your future workplace will look like. According to a survey conducted by Forrester Research, while only 10% of companies offered remote work options prior to the pandemic, going forward more than 70% plan to offer
- [How to Survive the 2021 Labor Shortages](https://theworkplaceadvisors.com/how-to-survive-the-2021-labor-shortages/) - I’m writing this the morning of August 6, and the monthly jobs report from the USDOL has just been issued. Last month’s report was somewhat underwhelming, so this one has been eagerly awaited. It has lots of good news: The economy added over 943,000 jobs in July, well ahead of economic forecasts. The biggest gains
- [Employee Engagement During COVID](https://theworkplaceadvisors.com/employee-engagement-during-covid/) - In addition to a tight labor market and increasing wages, employers are dealing with employee “bored out” (chronic boredom leading to feeling totally meaningless) and “the big quit” (with 4 million people quitting their jobs in April 2021 alone), while also trying to balance client demands and the changing business environment. Making an effort to
- [Vaccine Accommodations](https://theworkplaceadvisors.com/vaccine-accomodations/) - We know there is a lot of confusion around vaccine mandates and applicable accommodations. In order to provide more in-depth information for you to consider when planning the best course for your company, we wanted to share some of the resources we have found on these topics. President Biden’s “Path Out of the Pandemic” Vaccine
- [5 Steps to Hiring & Retaining Talent](https://theworkplaceadvisors.com/5-steps-to-hiring-retaining-talent/) - I was recently sharing a cab with the business owner of a print manufacturer heading to an industry conference where I was slated to be a presenter on workforce trends and solutions. He turned to me and said, “Ok, then tell me… where the heck did everyone go? Where are the workers and how do
- [White Paper: OSHA Vaccine Mandate](https://theworkplaceadvisors.com/white-paper-osha-vaccine-mandate/) - Notice On November 6, 2021, the 5th US Court of Appeals issued an injunction based on a legal challenge filed in its courts. On November 12, 2021, the 5th Circuit ruled that this injunction applies country-wide and has ordered OSHA to "take no steps to implement or enforce...until further court order." Therefore, OSHA has currently
- [Hiring & Retaining Talent in 2022](https://theworkplaceadvisors.com/hiring-retaining-talent-in-2022/) - I was recently sharing a cab with the business owner of a print manufacturer heading to an industry conference where I was slated to be a presenter on workforce trends and solutions. He turned to me and said, “Ok, then tell me… where the heck did everyone go? Where are the workers and how do
- [Regulatory & Compliance Trends](https://theworkplaceadvisors.com/regulatory-compliance-trends/) - Trends and legislative agendas indicate that employers are facing some new challenges in 2022 while battling old ones. When possible, it is critical that businesses prepare for these changes in advance of implementation. Below are some major regulatory and compliance trends we are watching as well as some actions we recommend taking throughout the year.
- [Battling the Big Quit](https://theworkplaceadvisors.com/battling-the-big-quit/) - The current trend known as “the Big Quit” or “the Great Resignation” is expected to continue into 2022. In 2021, a monthly average of 3.95 million workers quit their jobs for various reasons as indicated by different reports and polls. Joblist conducted a survey which indicated dissatisfaction with how their employer treated them during COVID-19,
- [Compensating Your Sales Force](https://theworkplaceadvisors.com/compensating-your-sales-force/) - By now your sales force is through the first quarter of 2022. For a lot of organizations, 2020 was a terrible sales year and 2021 brought record sales. So what will happen in 2022? Affinity HR Group doesn’t have any crystal balls, but we do have some ideas about how to be best prepared to
- [What Do You Need to Pay a Non-Exempt Employee?](https://theworkplaceadvisors.com/what-do-you-need-to-pay-a-non-exempt-employee/) - A recent story reported that Delta Airlines will begin paying flight attendants half-time for boarding duties, a change from the industry-standard of only paying once the doors close. Delta is implementing this change to stave off a push to unionize their flight attendants. However, it raised a critical question for many people – are there
- [Labor Market Overview](https://theworkplaceadvisors.com/labor-market-overview/) - The following labor market summary was prepared by Susan Pale, Vice President of Compensation. Where has 2023 gone? It’s a question I keep asking myself, and I’m guessing many of you are asking the same thing. It seems we were just ushering in a new year. But a lot has happened – inflation rates are
- [Quiet Quitting in Your Workplace](https://theworkplaceadvisors.com/quiet-quitting-in-your-workplace/) - “Quiet quitting” started as a TikTok video describing how one employee was finding work-life balance by changing how they approached their job without actually quitting. The now-viral video has generated numerous articles and news stories, many with different takes on what “quiet quitting” actually means. Some of these theories include: Employees are setting boundaries: The
- [Where Did All the Workers Go?](https://theworkplaceadvisors.com/where-did-all-the-workers-go/) - Recently I was sharing a cab with a client on my way to speak at a conference. He turned to me and said that he was interested to hear what I had to say about the state of the U.S. labor market. When I asked him what specifically he was hoping to hear in my
- [4 Real Life HR Lessons to Learn From](https://theworkplaceadvisors.com/4-real-life-hr-lessons-to-learn-from/) - The workplace has its fair share of scary stories. By bringing them to light, we hope they can become important lessons on what to do and not do. Unwelcomed birthday party cost employer $450,000: Knowing that the company celebrates employee birthdays, an employee asked the office manager to not throw him a party. However, the
- [Compensation Planning Basics](https://theworkplaceadvisors.com/compensation-planning-basics/) - Understanding compensation is critical to staying competitive in today’s volatile labor market. Real wage growth is a concept that is particularly important. Real wages/income is calculated by dividing the current wage by 1 plus the current inflation rate. For an employee currently making $40,000, the individual’s real income is reduced to $36,866 when the current
- [Understanding Total Comp & Total Cash Comp](https://theworkplaceadvisors.com/understanding-total-comp-total-cash-comp/) - As strong demand for qualified workers continues to be a challenge for employers in 2023, compensation remains at the forefront for businesses trying to retain and recruit talent. Having a better understanding of compensation can ensure you spend your dollars wisely and are able to communicate the true value of your employees’ compensation with clarity.
- [2023 Workplace Trends to Watch](https://theworkplaceadvisors.com/2023-workplace-trends-to-watch/) - From return-to-office, which was Glassdoor’s Word of the Year, to quiet quitting, 2022 introduced us to several new labor market concepts. It’s still too early to predict what terms will define our workplaces in 2023, but here are a few labor market trends to look for as the year progresses. #1-Where Are Your Employees? –
- [Employee Retention Ideas](https://theworkplaceadvisors.com/employee-retention-ideas/) - Most employers have felt the impacts of the tight labor market. Employees have been resigning at a rate of over 4 million per month for over a year. Low unemployment rates continue across the country. The labor market participation rates are reduced by 8 million employees due to factors like COVID, immigration, and employees who
- [Organizational Changes to Improve Engagement](https://theworkplaceadvisors.com/organizational-changes-to-improve-engagement/) - Employees stay at companies where they feel valued and safe. Employees leave companies where they feel discounted, taken advantage of, or disconnected from managers and co-workers. Increasing the engagement and retention of good employees can propel a company’s success, allowing leaders to focus on proactive strategies instead of reactively putting out fires. While some more
- [Mental Health in the Workplace](https://theworkplaceadvisors.com/mental-health-in-the-workplace/) - Please note: In this article, we follow NAMI’s example by using the terms “mental health illness” and “mental health condition” interchangeably. Since 1949, May has been recognized as “Mental Health Awareness Month” in the US. The goals of this campaign include destigmatizing mental health problems, increasing public awareness, and creating support for the millions who
- [The AI Revolution: Impacts on Workplaces & HR](https://theworkplaceadvisors.com/the-ai-revolution-impacts-on-workplaces-hr/) - Conversations about artificial intelligence (AI) have been everywhere recently. Congress held hearings about it. News outlets have written articles about it, including that content providers have sampled AI’s abilities by having it draft something for them. But how does it impact companies and Human Resources? According to the Pew Research Center, 62% of Americans believe
- [Cool Ideas to Attract and Engage Employees!](https://theworkplaceadvisors.com/7337-2/) - One of the best aspects of my job is that I am asked to speak before audiences of diverse sizes and industries on topics relating to people management. For many years, and to this day, I am asked to speak about how to hire top talent. For quite a while, millennials in the workplace was
- [Planning to Hire? Let's Talk About Pay](https://theworkplaceadvisors.com/planning-to-hire-lets-talk-about-pay/) - Last month we talked about the tight labor market and some of the difficulties it will present for employers during 2019 and beyond. This month’s focus is the unique compensation challenges that occur when hiring a new employee. Here’s the too-frequent dilemma. You find the perfect candidate for your open accounting position. They have the
- [Holidays](https://theworkplaceadvisors.com/holidays/) - Now that fall is here, we all know what is next: the holidays. And while the holidays are supposed to be a time of fun and good cheer, they can also bring stress and anxiety. As an employer, there are a lot of things you should consider. Religious holidays of different faiths: From October through
- [Employee Handbooks](https://theworkplaceadvisors.com/employee-handbooks/) - Human Resources professionals often advise companies about the importance of an employee handbook. But why are they so important? Employee handbooks serve as a valuable communication resource for company-specific and legally-mandated policies. These policies inform employees of their rights, responsibilities, and benefits and cover a wide range of topics important to the workplace. An employee
- [Supervisor Training](https://theworkplaceadvisors.com/supervisor-training/) - Supervisors and managers serve as a company’s direct connection to their employees. The larger the company, the more essential supervisors and managers are for increasing sales and production, implementing company policies and procedures, communicating company goals and values, and handling any issues that arise day-to-day. Consequentially, these supervisors and managers increase a company’s legal exposure
- [Trends in State Employment Law](https://theworkplaceadvisors.com/trends-in-state-employment-law/) - Many state and local legislatures are taking action in several areas of employment law due to the confusion, sluggishness, and/or inaction on the federal level. Some laws passed are part of long-evolving trends such as restricting inquiries into criminal and pay history, while others are responses to new social movements such as #MeToo. The following
- [Supreme Court Decision on Arbitration-What It Means for You](https://theworkplaceadvisors.com/supreme-court-decision-on-arbitration-what-it-means-for-you/) - On Monday, May 21, 2018, the Supreme Court issued a split 5-4 decision (along party lines) regarding the enforcement of arbitration agreement clauses prohibiting employees from seeking class or collective action for certain employment claims, in this case, FLSA claims. The decision consolidated 3 cases (Epic Systems Corp. v. Lewis, NLRB v. Murphy Oil Co,
- [An Exercise in Frustration - Hiring Talent in a Tight Labor Market](https://theworkplaceadvisors.com/an-exercise-in-frustration-hiring-talent-in-a-tight-labor-market/) - From trucking to construction to car care to print distribution, across all sectors in which we work, there is one common trend that our recruiting team has noticed – there’s a shortage of skilled and unskilled workers to fill available jobs. And this shortage significantly impacts our clients, particularly the small businesses with whom we
- [Lovers at Work - Tips for Managing Complicated Workplace Relationships](https://theworkplaceadvisors.com/lovers-at-work-tips-for-managing-complicated-workplace-relationships/) - Employers have a responsibility to create and maintain a non-discriminatory and non-harassing workplace where employees can perform the duties of their jobs as effectively and safely as possible. As most of us have experienced, co-workers spend a lot of time together, working and interacting with each other and, not infrequently, developing romantic relationships with one
- [Violence at Work - How To Keep Your Employees Safe](https://theworkplaceadvisors.com/violence-at-work-how-to-keep-your-employees-safe/) - Recent events in the world have many employers thinking about gun violence and what appropriate measures to take to ensure their workplace is a safe place for employees, clients, vendors and all others who enter. While protecting against gun violence at work is a serious, important, and timely topic, violence at work in general is
- [Sales Vs. Customer Service - Natural Conflicts in the Workplace](https://theworkplaceadvisors.com/sales-vs-customer-service-natural-conflicts-in-the-workplace/) - A client called recently with a major worry. “We have a big problem with our customer service representatives (CSRs) not getting along with our sales people. Our CSRs are not being supportive of the new sales associates that we just hired,” she shared. “If our company is to survive, we need these new sales associates
- [You Asked What Questions in the Candidate Interview?](https://theworkplaceadvisors.com/you-asked-what-questions-in-the-candidate-interview/) - Every so often we find the need to revisit a topic of great importance. This is one of those times. While most of our clients are aware that, in the hiring process, it is illegal to discriminate against a candidate based on nationality, religion, age, marital or family status, gender, health and physical ability, military
- [Creating a Harassment-Free Workplace](https://theworkplaceadvisors.com/creating-a-harassment-free-workplace/) - The cascading allegations against men of power in the arts, entertainment and political realms – and the rise of the #MeToo movement in response – have focused the nation’s attention on the extent of sexual harassment in the workplace. Many working women like myself are finding that few if any in our circle of friends
- [Performance Rewards - A Year-End Ritual](https://theworkplaceadvisors.com/performance-rewards-a-year-end-ritual/) - The holidays are upon us, and for many employers, this means bonuses and performance reviews. While both activities may seem harmless – even positive – handled improperly, they become legal landmines. So, how do you handle these year-end rituals without exposing the organization to unnecessary risk? Bonuses Year-end bonuses, especially when unexpected, are arguably one
- [Recruiting for Hourly Low-Skilled Workers](https://theworkplaceadvisors.com/recruiting-for-hourly-low-skilled-workers/) - Whenever we ask our clients about their most difficult challenge, they almost always say it is hiring qualified people. This is particularly true, they say, when it comes to hiring entry-level, unskilled hourly workers. Whether we’re talking about warehouse employees, janitors, car care technicians, or delivery workers, finding and keeping this type of talent is
- [Employees and Off-Duty Conduct](https://theworkplaceadvisors.com/employees-and-off-duty-conduct/) - In the days following the violent rallies in Charlottesville, Virginia, several rally participants found themselves fired from their jobs for their participation. This has many employers wondering if they can fire an employee based on what they do off the clock. The answer depends on many factors, including the individual circumstances, the context of the
- [Rethinking Drug Testing for Marijuana](https://theworkplaceadvisors.com/rethinking-drug-testing-for-marijuana/) - I received a call from a client two weeks ago who was struggling with a tricky personnel issue on the topic of drug testing. Bob, who owns a company in Vermont and has a policy of mandatory drug testing for all new hires, wanted to hire a new shift manager for his small manufacturing plant.
- [Trump and the Workplace - What to Expect](https://theworkplaceadvisors.com/trump-and-the-workplace-what-to-expect/) - Over the past six months, since the start of the Trump Administration, I have delivered perhaps a half-dozen presentations on what workplace regulations and changes employers can expect from the new President. My sessions always had to begin with a disclaimer – we really don’t know what to expect from the new Administration, so all
- [Tips for Conducting an Effective Job Interview](https://theworkplaceadvisors.com/tips-for-conducting-an-effective-job-interview/) - Much has been written about how ineffectual job interviews can be for employers who are looking to hire. Critics often point to the lack of forethought that goes into the questions, as well as too much focus on the candidate’s physical appearance and too much reliance on the interviewer’s “gut feeling” about a candidate. We
- [Introducing Generation Z!](https://theworkplaceadvisors.com/introducing-generation-z/) - I am bewildered by the multi-tasking capabilities of my two teenage sons. It is not uncommon for them to be watching television while simultaneously playing a video game on a laptop computer and streaming a YouTube video on their smartphone – all while their Spotify playlist emanates from the Sonos speakers. How do they do
- [A Message From Your Friendly, Pessimistic HR Expert](https://theworkplaceadvisors.com/a-message-from-your-friendly-pessimistic-hr-expert/) - I really do hate to be the bearer of bad news. There is no “but…” to follow that. It is simply a statement of fact. In recent weeks, at conference presentations and in conversations with clients, I have found myself in the role of dampening the enthusiasm of business owners and executives when they begin
- [Your Employees Use Their Own Cellphones at Work. But You Still Need a Policy.](https://theworkplaceadvisors.com/your-employees-use-their-own-cellphones-at-work-but-you-still-need-a-policy/) - Over the past two decades, cellular telephones have morphed from being primarily luxury items and accessories for business executives to a must-have item for just about anyone who ever leaves their house. Many people, particularly those under 35 years of age, don’t even have landline phones. And today’s smartphones serve as much more than communications
- [Tips for New Employee Onboarding](https://theworkplaceadvisors.com/tips-for-new-employee-onboarding/) - So you’ve made a great hire and you are looking forward to onboarding your newest employee. Expectations are high and optimism abounds. But before you rely too heavily on those positive feelings, here are some sobering statistics to consider: · Up to 20 percent of turnover happens within the first 45 days of work. ·
- [Confidentiality, Non-Compete and Non-Solicitation: Protect Your Company, but Tread Carefully](https://theworkplaceadvisors.com/confidentiality-non-compete-and-non-solicitation-protect-your-company-but-tread-carefully/) - While a cornerstone of employment law is employment-at-will, a doctrine which holds that the employment relationship itself is not a contract and therefore can be terminated at any time by either the employee or the employer, many companies add contract language to protect themselves both during and following an employee’s tenure. Confidentiality (or non-disclosure), non-compete
- [HR Resolutions for 2017](https://theworkplaceadvisors.com/hr-resolutions-for-2017/) - Employment-related lawsuits have been climbing steadily for years, as have government enforcement actions and penalties for violations. So, it is more important than ever to make a commitment to protect your business by ensuring compliance with regulations governing the workplace. Here below are some compliance hot spots for your 2017 priority list: 1. Job Descriptions:
- [Changes to the I-9 Form](https://theworkplaceadvisors.com/changes-to-the-i-9-form/) - The federal I-9 form, which verifies an employee’s identity and right to work in the United States, is one of the most important compliance requirements all employers have, regardless of their size. For the past 30 years, any newly-hired or rehired employee has been required to complete the I-9 process within the first three days
- [On the Clock Or Off the Clock – What Is Compensable Time?](https://theworkplaceadvisors.com/on-the-clock-or-off-the-clock-what-is-compensable-time/) - While most employers understand their minimum wage and overtime obligations for non-exempt employees, not everyone is familiar with the complexities of determining what time is considered compensable. This is an important distinction. Obviously, time in the office during the work day is working time, but there are a number of other ways employees may spend
- [Calculating Overtime Pay: Often Not Such a Simple Proposition](https://theworkplaceadvisors.com/calculating-overtime-pay-often-not-such-a-simple-proposition/) - With the deadline for the new overtime rules rapidly approaching – they go into effect December 1 – many employers are looking at converting salaried/exempt employees to hourly in order to stay in compliance with the new, higher pay threshold of $47,476 a year. What they may not know, however, is that calculating hourly pay
- [Managing a Protected Employee](https://theworkplaceadvisors.com/managing-a-protected-employee/) - The most common challenge that our clients face involves navigating how to correctly handle the performance failures of protected-class employees. Whether it is the decline of a longtime, senior employee’s performance, the frequent leave requests of a chronically ill worker or the erratic behavior of a suspected substance-abuser, these situations can be a huge headache
- [How to Create an Employee Incentive Program that Works](https://theworkplaceadvisors.com/how-to-create-an-employee-incentive-program-that-works/) - If there were a surefire way to encourage employee engagement and increase company productivity, you’d want to know about it, right? Well, here’s some good news - there is! It’s called an employee incentive program. Before you say the idea is nothing new, consider this: Not all incentive programs are created equal. The difference between
- [Avoiding Discrimination Lawsuits](https://theworkplaceadvisors.com/avoiding-discrimination-lawsuits/) - Having been involved in more than a thousand investigations, I have learned some important things along the way about how organizations of any size can prevent and handle complaints of discrimination, harassment and/or retaliation. While no company actually condones harassment or discrimination, many are unaware that some seemingly innocuous actions – or even those that
- [Your Employees: To Exempt or Not to Exempt?](https://theworkplaceadvisors.com/your-employees-to-exempt-or-not-to-exempt/) - You’ve just hired an entry-level employee and, to avoid all the hassle of tracking hours and paying overtime, you’ve decided to put your new hire on salary. Well, guess what? You may very well have violated the law. While we often use the terms “hourly” and “salaried” to designate an employee’s payroll status, there is
- [Five Common HR Mistakes and How To Avoid Them!](https://theworkplaceadvisors.com/five-common-hr-mistakes-and-how-to-avoid-them/) - Let’s face it, no one loves human resources. Very few people get excited about HR – I have yet to meet someone who went into business for the purpose of hiring and managing employees. Tackling thorny “people issues” is hard and can be frustrating. But the reality is that once you hire employees, you own
- [Five Updates To Your Employee Handbook](https://theworkplaceadvisors.com/five-updates-to-your-employee-handbook/) - If it has been a few years since your last employee handbook (and if you don’t have one, we need to talk), now might be the time to dust it off and give it a good update. On the federal, state and even local levels, there have been many new laws enacted and critical court
- [8 Tips For New Managers](https://theworkplaceadvisors.com/8-tips-for-new-managers/) - Let’s face it, people aren’t typically promoted into supervisory roles because they demonstrate a natural talent for managing and developing others. They get promoted because they are trusted, hard workers, competent in their jobs – they are doers. The problem is, supervising and managing others is nothing like doing. It is a tough job…one of
- [Making and Managing Promises: It Starts with You](https://theworkplaceadvisors.com/making-and-managing-promises-it-starts-with-you/) - Whether you are the CEO of a Fortune 100 company or the manager of a small department, chances are that one of your priorities is to ensure that your team is instilled with a sense of accountability. Are team members keeping their commitments, performing to the best of their abilities and adhering to the mission
- [5 Key Workforce Trends for 2016](https://theworkplaceadvisors.com/5-key-workforce-trends-for-2016/) - Whenever we start the process of closing out one year and planning for the next, it is always useful to identify and take stock of the major workforce trends for the coming year. So, as you prepare your budget for the year ahead and develop your annual workforce strategy, we’ve identified five key trends for
- [How Low Does the Radar Go: EEOC’s Priorities May Include You](https://theworkplaceadvisors.com/how-low-does-the-radar-go-eeocs-priorities-may-include-you/) - The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) enforces a number of federal laws including Title VII, which prohibits discrimination based on race, color, national origin, religion and sex (including pregnancy). Title VII applies to employers with 15 or more employees. However, even if an employer is not covered under the federal law, it may still be
- [Managing Millennials - how to attract, retain and motivate your young workers](https://theworkplaceadvisors.com/managing-millennials-how-to-attract-retain-and-motivate-your-young-workers/) - “I see no hope for the future of our people if they are dependent on the frivolous youth of today, for certainly all youth are reckless beyond words. When I was a boy, we were taught to be discrete and respectful of elders, but the present youth are exceedingly wise and impatient of restraint.” Sound
- [Restoring Trust In The Workplace](https://theworkplaceadvisors.com/restoring-trust-in-the-workplace-2/) - Trust is a concept familiar to many and is often discussed as an essential component to effective working teams. We talk about “trusting environments” and “trust-building exercises.” In fact, trust is present in almost everything we do in our jobs, from working collaboratively within teams to the relationships we have with our clients, vendors and
- [5 Tips To Reduce Employee Turnover](https://theworkplaceadvisors.com/5-tips-to-reduce-employee-turnover/) - According to a recent article in The Wall Street Journal, employee turnover costs companies more than double an employee’s yearly salary. Finding and training a replacement takes financial resources as well as management time and energy. Additionally, turnover can often hurt office morale and disrupt critical client relationships. Experts agree that the best way to
- [New Overtime Rules – What They Mean For Your Business](https://theworkplaceadvisors.com/new-overtime-rules-what-they-mean-for-your-business/) - An upcoming federal rule change announced recently by President Obama has the potential of making millions of workers newly eligible for overtime and thereby impacting many of our clients and industry partners. This change, which does not require congressional approval and which is slated to go into effect in 2016, will affect businesses of all
- [Updates for Your Employee Handbook](https://theworkplaceadvisors.com/updates-for-your-employee-handbook/) - Every employer – regardless of size, industry or location – should have an employee handbook, which provides important information about the company’s rules and expectations. But having one is only part of the equation. Your company or organization should also review the employee handbook on a regular basis in order to make sure it is
- [Employee Engagement and You](https://theworkplaceadvisors.com/employee-engagement-and-you/) - Recently, a client asked how to get his employees more engaged and energized. His assessment was that they were not motivated, were not “giving it their all,” and his recent efforts to put in place a bonus incentive program had done little to change any of that. Sound familiar? Keeping employees engaged and motivated is
- [Questions that are OK to Ask Candidates in Job Interviews](https://theworkplaceadvisors.com/questions-that-are-ok-to-ask-candidates-in-job-interviews/) - Wow! We received so many e-mails relating to last week’s HR Minute on illegal interview questions that we’ve decided to offer up some interview questions that are perfectly legal to ask when screening a candidate. As we discussed last week, it is illegal to discriminate against candidates for employment based on their nationality, religion, race,
- [Questions NOT to Ask Candidates in Job Interviews](https://theworkplaceadvisors.com/questions-not-to-ask-candidates-in-job-interviews/) - Most of our clients are aware that in the hiring process it is illegal to discriminate against a candidate based on nationality, religion, age, marital or family status, gender, health and physical ability, military status and, in some locations, sexual identity and criminal background. What they don’t realize is that many seemingly-benign questions can lead
- [Discrimination in the Workplace - What Can We Learn From Ferguson?](https://theworkplaceadvisors.com/discrimination-in-the-workplace-what-can-we-learn-from-ferguson/) - Discrimination is again becoming a sensitive issue. We have all heard about the events in Ferguson, MO which ended in, whether justifiable or not, the tragic killing of an 18-year-old boy. You can probably think of other incidents in recent news of people being targeted or mistreated because of their race, gender, religion, disability, age
- [Do's and Don'ts During Your Hiring Process](https://theworkplaceadvisors.com/dos-and-donts-during-your-hiring-process/) - From a legal compliance standpoint, interviewing and screening applicants is a time of high risk for your company. Most employers know that it is illegal to discriminate against a candidate in the hiring process based on nationality, religion, age, marital or family status, gender, health and physical ability, military status and, in some locations, sexual
- [Telecommuting Policy Tips](https://theworkplaceadvisors.com/telecommuting-policy-tips/) - Mobile technology, cloud-based work applications, internet phone and video conference services – all of these technologies have made business operations more efficient and cost effective. They have also given rise to a growing workplace trend: telecommuting. By one estimate, 24% of workers telecommute at least some hours each week and, according to the U.S. Census
- [High Maintenance vs. Difficult Employees... and how to deal with them!](https://theworkplaceadvisors.com/high-maintenance-vs-difficult-employees-and-how-to-deal-with-them/) - Dealing with High Maintenance Employees: It’s said that “Difficult Employees” are easy to spot, but before you assign that label to an employee, consider “Stewart.” As a candidate and as a new hire he was impressive, but now --- not so much. Stewart has become aggressive and lacks tact. He wants to take on too
- [Workplace Hot Topics for 2015](https://theworkplaceadvisors.com/workplace-hot-topics-for-2015/) - Each new year brings with it new business opportunities and challenges. As you start making plans for 2015, you should consider several employment regulation issues that could impact your workplace. Obamacare – By now most everyone knows the Affordable Care Act (ACA) is being implemented in 2015 for companies with 100 or more employees. These
- [Keeping Holidays Happy at the Workplace](https://theworkplaceadvisors.com/keeping-holidays-happy-at-the-workplace-2/) - Ahh, the holidays are here again! A time to be merry and to share special time with family. While this time of year is one of joy and festivity, for employers it is also fraught with risk. This is because even the very best of intentions for celebrating the holiday season at work can alienate,
- [Keeping Holidays Happy at the Workplace](https://theworkplaceadvisors.com/keeping-holidays-happy-at-the-workplace/) - Ahh, the holidays are here again! A time to be merry and to share special time with family. While this time of year is one of joy and festivity, for employers it is also fraught with risk. This is because even the very best of intentions for celebrating the holiday season at work can alienate,
- [10 Tips for D.I.Y. Recruiting](https://theworkplaceadvisors.com/10-tips-for-d-i-y-recruiting-2/) - These days, in-house recruiting has never been easier. Gone are the days when an employer’s only good option was to use expensive professional recruiters in order to access their proprietary lists of candidates. Now, qualified candidates are a key-stroke away. That said, simply having access to these resources does not mean that businesses are improving
- [The Art of Firing Employees](https://theworkplaceadvisors.com/the-art-of-firing-employees/) - No one, except perhaps Donald Trump, likes to fire people. Typically it is a stressful, scary and upsetting experience for everyone involved. So is it possible that there is actually an “art” to firing an employee? In a word, yes. There are not enough fingers and toes in my entire household to count the number
- [Managing Emotions In The Workplace](https://theworkplaceadvisors.com/managing-emotions-in-the-workplace/) - Some time ago, we were contacted by a client who was having a significant challenge within the organization. The company was experiencing significant growth and was promoting managers and supervisors who were not trained to handle the stress and challenges of managing others. Even senior managers were struggling with the stress of rapid growth. After
- [Compensating Your Sales Force: Questions To Ask Yourself NOW](https://theworkplaceadvisors.com/compensating-your-sales-force-questions-to-ask-yourself-now-2/) - In the post-recession economy, companies have had to re-think their business strategies in order to maintain their market position. As part of this evaluation, many are finding that they need to make changes in how members of the sales force are compensated. New products are making old ones obsolete, new sales channels are needed to
- [Creating Your Own Future - the case for strategic planning](https://theworkplaceadvisors.com/creating-your-own-future-the-case-for-strategic-planning/) - Why engage in strategic planning? Many successful companies have achieved their success without a strategic plan. Others have engaged in strategic planning only to have the resulting plan encased in a binder and placed on a shelf to catch dust. (We call these plans “vinyl trophies” or “strategic bookends.”) So why bother? Well, the principal
- [Tips for New Employee Orientation](https://theworkplaceadvisors.com/tips-for-new-employee-orientation-2/) - So you are taking on a new employee. As a hiring manager, you have invested a lot. You curtailed other priorities to spend time and energy on the recruitment and selection process.Your time is money to your business. So make your investment in hiring count by extending it into his or her first days, weeks,
- [Social Media In The Workplace](https://theworkplaceadvisors.com/social-media-in-the-workplace/) - It’s time to face facts. Virtually everyone everywhere is on social media – or at least it seems that way. Whether on the desktop computer or on a tablet, on a smart phone or on a laptop, at work or at home, access to and use of social media is everywhere. According to the Pew
- [Five Mistakes to Avoid When Hiring Sales People](https://theworkplaceadvisors.com/five-mistakes-to-avoid-when-hiring-sales-people-2/) - According to a recent survey by CareerBuilder, of employers planning to hire in 2014, most will be recruiting for sales positions. That’s great news if you’re in sales. That’s not so great news if you are the hiring manager because hiring salespeople can be tricky and challenging. If you are planning on hiring a sales
- [Inclement Weather Policies](https://theworkplaceadvisors.com/inclement-weather-policies/) - Now that we are in the full grip of winter and its associated weather challenges in much of the country, we thought we would dedicate this week’s HR Minute to issues surrounding inclement weather policies. First, let’s cover your obligations to employees in cases where the office is closed due to bad weather, or where
- [DIY PERFORMANCE MANAGEMENT - THE CRITICAL COMPONENTS OF PERFORMANCE REVIEW](https://theworkplaceadvisors.com/diy-performance-management-the-critical-components-of-performance-review/) - I often get requests from clients seeking a performance evaluation form so that they can start a new review process in their workplace. My response, which always surprises them, is “forget about the form – what are the goals?” Performance management has very little to do with the evaluation form and almost everything to do
- [Employment Trends - What To Expect for 2014](https://theworkplaceadvisors.com/employment-trends-what-to-expect-for-2014/) - From a human resources perspective, many of the trends we saw in 2013 will, for better or worse, be continued into the current year. The good news is that businesses are optimistic about 2014, salaries are slated to rise and many jobs that were sent overseas in decades past will be returning to our shores.
- [Year End Question and Answers](https://theworkplaceadvisors.com/year-end-question-and-answers/) - Every month, we prepare one or two topical questions and answers for our association clients. Here are the 2013 Q&As, all in one place. Happy Holidays and we look forward to touching base in the new year! Q: Every December my father delights in distributing bonuses to his employees. Unfortunately, the amount he
- [The Workplace Bully](https://theworkplaceadvisors.com/the-workplace-bully/) - By now most people have heard about the Richie Incognito case, where an NFL player is accused of bullying a teammate. Incognito is alleged to have left harassing voice mails for a rookie player that were racially charged and sexually explicit. He is also alleged to have forced the African-American rookie, Jonathan Martin, to pay
- [Employee Incentive Ideas](https://theworkplaceadvisors.com/employee-incentive-ideas/) - In the work we do to help companies enhance their employee engagement programs, we are often asked for ideas on effective but inexpensive employee incentives. While big bonuses and pay raises are nice, there are also many ways to recognize individuals, groups or the whole company without having to spend a lot of money. Here
- [Important Employer Deadline Under Health Reform](https://theworkplaceadvisors.com/important-employer-deadline-under-health-reform/) - As part of the new health care law, starting October 1, 2013, employers with 1 employee or more must provide notices about the upcoming Health Insurance Exchanges to their employees or face a fine. Fortunately, the US Department of Labor has created the notice for you to use. You can find it here: http://www.dol.gov/ebsa/pdf/FLSAwithplans.pdf Your only requirement is
- [Health Care Reform for Small Businesses - October, 2013 Update](https://theworkplaceadvisors.com/health-care-reform-for-small-businesses-october-2013-update/) - Having celebrated its third birthday this past March and the one-year anniversary of the Supreme Court decision upholding the law this past June, the Affordable Care Act continues to be a work in progress. To help you keep up with the requirements under the Act, this article will provide an overview of the topics most
- [Restoring Trust in the Workplace](https://theworkplaceadvisors.com/restoring-trust-in-the-workplace/) - Trust is a concept familiar to many and is often discussed as an essential component to effective working teams. We talk about “trusting environments” and “trust-building exercises.” In fact, trust is present in almost everything we do in our jobs, from working collaboratively within teams to the relationships we have with our clients, vendors and
- [A Lesson At Mile 10](https://theworkplaceadvisors.com/a-lesson-at-mile-10/) - As a dedicated runner who participates in running events around the country (and in Europe, as well) I am always looking to draw parallels between this passion of mine and my professional calling of helping companies manage their employees. I found one such lesson earlier this year while running a 23km “metric marathon” in lovely
- [Potential Employer Penalties Under the Affordable Care Act](https://theworkplaceadvisors.com/potential-employer-penalties-under-the-affordable-care-act/) - Many clients have been asking about the potential employer penalties under the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act. Although many details of practical applications of the new law are still murky as states work to establish (or not establish) their health exchanges, the penalties under the law are well defined. The first thing to know
- [Five Common Human Resources Mistakes and How to Avoid Them!](https://theworkplaceadvisors.com/five-common-human-resources-mistakes-and-how-to-avoid-them/) - At a recent convention our booth banner read “Do you love HR? We didn’t think so.” Human resources is a topic that very few people get excited about – I have yet to meet someone who went into business for the purpose of hiring and managing employees. Tackling thorny “people issues” is hard and can
- [Five Mistakes to Avoid When Hiring Sales People](https://theworkplaceadvisors.com/five-mistakes-to-avoid-when-hiring-sales-people/) - According to a recent survey by CareerBuilder, of employers planning to hire in 2014, most will be recruiting for sales positions. That’s great news if you’re in sales. That’s not so great news if you are the hiring manager because hiring salespeople can be tricky and challenging. If you are planning on hiring a sales
- [Summer's Coming:  That's good...and bad](https://theworkplaceadvisors.com/summers-coming-thats-good-and-bad/) - Summer is finally here. Long days, relief from the routine of school, relaxing vacations, exciting travel – so much fun to be had! But before you swing into summer, consider some workplace planning that will make the season a little more enjoyable – and more productive – for all, and not just for the lucky
- [New Form I9](https://theworkplaceadvisors.com/new-form-i9/) - The United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (“USCIS”) issued recently a newly revised Form I-9 that must be used to verify employment eligibility for new hires starting on May 7, 2013. This form also must be used for any reverification of existing employees (if necessary) and for rehires effective immediately. For new hires, you can
- [Employee Handbooks - Who Needs Them?  You Do.](https://theworkplaceadvisors.com/employee-handbooks-who-needs-them-you-do/) - Employee handbooks are an essential tool in managing employee relations and therefore successfully operating your business. An up-to-date, well-written handbook gives your employees clear guidelines of how you want your business to run. What is an employee handbook? An employee handbook is a guide that has essential legal and regulatory information and company policies –
- [The ABC'S Of Performance Management](https://theworkplaceadvisors.com/the-abcs-of-performance-management/) - One of the biggest challenges for managers is getting top performance from employees. While performance management can be a complicated process, there are three essential components: 1) establishing a clear definition of the position and an expectation of what is to be done; 2) providing feedback on performance as compared to expectation; and 3) rewarding
- [Common HR Mistakes](https://theworkplaceadvisors.com/common-hr-mistakes/) - Every day we get calls from our clients about challenges they are facing at work. As is often the case, most of the concerns we handle are easily avoidable. Below are three common HR mistakes from recent months. #1 – Failure to Document Critical Conversations – Bob, who owns a small business, called and said
- [New York State Wage Notification Requirement](https://theworkplaceadvisors.com/new-york-state-wage-notification-requirement/) - Employers who have employees in New York are required to issue annual notices under the Wage Theft Prevention Act ("WTPA") to all New York employees between January 1 and February 1, 2013. Although a bill was introduced in the New York State Legislature to repeal the annual notice requirement in early 2012 (which was the first year that the
- [Happy Holidays - Workplace Celebrations](https://theworkplaceadvisors.com/happy-holidays-workplace-celebrations/) - By Sallie Biittner, Executive Consultant, Affinity HR Group ‘Tis the season for holiday parties, gift exchanges, year-end bonuses, ringing out the old and welcoming the new. It is a time of enormous opportunity to do good, but also of enormous risk that the best intentions can come back to haunt you like Marley’s ghost. And
- [Hiring Right Using The Right Tools](https://theworkplaceadvisors.com/hiring-right-using-the-right-tools/) - Last week, Fortune Magazine ran an article on how large, fast-growing companies have used the same candidate screening tests (TriMetrix HD assessments) that we use in our recruiting efforts. This article supports our findings that the test is highly effective and useful. Beyond that, I found the article to be both inspiring and exciting because
- [Your Employees are Using Social Media...Is Your Social Media Policy Current and Compliant?](https://theworkplaceadvisors.com/your-employees-are-using-social-media-is-your-social-media-policy-current-and-compliant/) - Do your employees use Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, You Tube or other social media in the course of their employment? Are employees using social media outside of work? Do you have a policy regarding social media use? In May, 2012, the Acting General Counsel for the National Labor Relations Board issued a report reviewing language included
- [How to engage your workforce](https://theworkplaceadvisors.com/how-to-engage-your-workforce/) - We recently held a webinar entitled Ready, Steady, Engage! that explores the affordable and effective ways that employers can improve employee engagement. Studies have shown that improving employee engagement reduces absenteeism, theft and medical costs and improves customer satisfaction, productivity and profitability. This webinar was hosted by the Independent Insurance Agents of New York and
- [Health Care Reform](https://theworkplaceadvisors.com/health-care-reform/) - In June, 2012, the U.S. Supreme Court rendered its decision upholding the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (PPACA). Compliance with the Act may make some small employers eligible for tax credits and grants, while non-compliance may subject some employers to penalties. With requirements for 2012 and 2013 fast approaching, employers who do not have
- [Health Care Reform and the Supreme Court](https://theworkplaceadvisors.com/health-care-reform-supreme-court/) - It is widely anticipated that the Supreme Court will give its opinion on the constitutionality of the individual mandate in the Patient Protection and Affordable Act on Thursday. Its decision can and will affect how health care reform moves forward. The one item that likely will continue no matter which way the Supreme Court decides
- [Steer Clear of Those Illegal Interview Questions](https://theworkplaceadvisors.com/steer-clear-of-those-illegal-interview-questions/) - In general, as business owners and managers you want to stay away from questions that are not job related. Federal and state laws prohibit you from asking questions that deal with race, citizenship, pregnancy status, gender, religion, age, disability, marital status, children, sexual orientation and questions about previous worker’s comp claims. Any question that asks
- [Court Delays Employee Rights Notice Requirement](https://theworkplaceadvisors.com/court-delays-employee-rights-notice-requirement/) - The U.S. Court of Appeals for the D.C. Circuit issued an Order today granting an injunction precluding the National Labor Relations Board from implementing its notice posting rule, pending appeal of a lower court decision upholding the validity of the rule. The notice posting rule was scheduled to go into effect on April 30, 2012,
- [Employers Must Post Employee Rights Poster by April 30, 2012](https://theworkplaceadvisors.com/employers-must-post-employee-rights-poster-by-april-30-2012/) - On March 7, 2012, the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia denied a request made by the National Association of Manufacturers and other business groups to prohibit the NLRB from enforcing its rule requiring employers to post a notice of employee rights under the National Labor Relations Act, pending their appeal of the District Court's March
- [2012 Turnover and Engagement](https://theworkplaceadvisors.com/2012-turnover-and-engagement/) - By: Claudia St. John Looks like 2012 is shaping up to be the recovery year we have long awaited. But there may be a cloud on the horizon. Workers, who have been sticking to jobs they may not enjoy because of the poor economy and limited opportunities, will have new opportunities in 2012 to
- [What to Expect in 2012](https://theworkplaceadvisors.com/what-to-expect-in-2012/) - With New Years day and 2011 behind us, we look forward to 2012 and hope to see a brighter year, one filled with increased economic growth, prosperity and peace. Fortunately, leading indicators are tilting in favor of all of these directions, although expectations are modest. Here are some emerging trends for 2012. Health care costs
- [Child Molestation - What's An Employer To Do?](https://theworkplaceadvisors.com/child-molestation-whats-an-employer-to-do/) - Each day our local paper, the Syracuse Post Standard, brings new and increasingly disturbing news about the alleged abhorrent behavior of SU’s assistant basket ball coach, Bernie Fine. Fine is accused of pedophilia – crimes he committed while employed by Syracuse University, in some instance while on SU property.These revelations come on the heels of
- [Sabbaticals – Not just for teachers anymore!](https://theworkplaceadvisors.com/sabbaticals-not-just-for-teachers-anymore/) - The December 2011 issue of HR Magazine, the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) trade publication, was filled with trends and studies pointing in one direction – impending trouble for companies. Despite high unemployment rates, employers are having great difficulty finding skilled talent; many skilled workers will retire within the next five to ten years,
- [Why is finding top sales talent so hard?](https://theworkplaceadvisors.com/why-is-finding-top-sales-talent-so-hard/) - Recently, a client asked, “If the unemployment rate is so high, why is it so difficult to find experienced, talented sales professionals?” It is a great question and one that we hear a lot. Why is it so hard do fill important positions? Given the high levels of unemployment and underemployment, one would expect to
- [Managing Your 2012 Compensation Dollars Effectively](https://theworkplaceadvisors.com/managing-your-2012-compensation-dollars-effectively/) - Compensation Trends that May Impact Your Business 2011 is quickly drawing to a close. But before the year ends, it’s time to look forward to 2012 and some compensation issues and trends that may impact you and your employees in the New Year. The highly anticipated economic recovery of 2011 didn’t happen for many businesses.
- [Social Media and the Workplace – The New Frontier](https://theworkplaceadvisors.com/social-media-and-the-workplace-the-new-frontier/) - When Dan Leone vented his frustration with the Philadelphia Eagles for failing to sign Brian Dawkins on as a player, his expletive-filled Facebook status update landed him in the national media spotlight virtually overnight. It also landed him among the ranks of the unemployed after his employer of six years, the Philadelphia Eagles, fired him
- [What the Badger and Coyote Can Teach Us About Collaboration](https://theworkplaceadvisors.com/what-the-badger-and-coyote-can-teach-us-about-collaboration/) - You wouldn’t call the coyote and the badger friends. Both are relatively fierce creatures, and there’s very little that is friendly about them. In the arid American Southwest, they actually compete for the same scarce food – mostly rodents, and birds. But despite the competition, the fact is the coyote and the badger are competitive

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## YouTube Videos

- [Non-Compete Agreements in 2026: The FTC Ban Failed - What Employers Need to Know](https://theworkplaceadvisors.com/videos/non-compete-agreements-in-2026-the-ftc-ban-failed-what-employers-need-to-know/) - The FTC tried to ban non-compete agreements nationwide in 2024, but that ban didn't survive legal challenges. So where does that leave employers? Claudia St. John, CEO of The Workplace Advisors, breaks down the current state of non-compete law, which states have moved forward with their own bans (California, Oklahoma, Wyoming, Montana, Minnesota, and more),
- [When an Employee Dies: How to Support a Grieving Workplace](https://theworkplaceadvisors.com/videos/when-an-employee-dies-how-to-support-a-grieving-workplace/) - When an employee passes away, most HR teams know the process: contacting the family, reconciling benefits, handling the administrative details. But what about everyone else? How does the rest of the team grieve? In this video, Claudia St. John, founder and CEO of The Workplace Advisors, shares what she's learned from employers navigating the loss
- [How to Handle Difficult Conversations at Work- FRIEND Method](https://theworkplaceadvisors.com/videos/how-to-handle-difficult-conversations-at-work-friend-method/) - Difficult conversations at work don't have to go sideways. In this video, Claudia St. John, founder and CEO of The Workplace Advisors, shares the FRIEND method: a six-step framework for navigating critical conversations with employees, coworkers, and leaders. Why are these conversations so hard? Usually because three things are true: the stakes are high, opinions
- [Are Pay Raises Keeping Up With Inflation? 2026 Labor Market Trends](https://theworkplaceadvisors.com/videos/are-pay-raises-keeping-up-with-inflation-2026-labor-market-trends/) - Are employee pay raises actually keeping up with inflation in 2026? Claudia St. John, Founder & CEO of The Workplace Advisors, shares an early look at the trends every employer should be watching. Ahead of our semi-annual Labor Market Survey Report, Claudia breaks down where compensation, benefits, and hiring are heading this year, and what
- [Mastering Interview Formats for Employers - HR Minute with The Workplace Advisors](https://theworkplaceadvisors.com/videos/mastering-interview-formats-for-employers-hr-minute-with-the-workplace-advisors/) - Want to improve your company's interview process? Claudia St. John of The Workplace Advisors shares tips for improved interview format strategies. Craft a winning interview process that leaves a lasting impression on candidates. Discover the best interview formats that guarantee success, including expert tips on panel interviews: Panel Power: Harness the collective wisdom of a
- [Compensation Trends for 2025 - HR Minute with The Workplace Advisors](https://theworkplaceadvisors.com/videos/compensation-trends-for-2025-hr-minute-with-the-workplace-advisors/) - In this informative video, Claudia St. John, President of Workplace Advisors, breaks down the latest compensation trends for 2025 based on data from The Conference Board. Key points covered: • Projected 3.9% salary increase for 2025 • Comparison to previous years' increases • Strategies for businesses to adjust compensation plans • Importance of non-monetary incentives
- [Department of Labor Independent Contractors Ruling - HR Minute with The Workplace Advisors](https://theworkplaceadvisors.com/videos/department-of-labor-independent-contractors-ruling-hr-minute-with-the-workplace-advisors/) - On January 9th, 2024, the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) announced a final rule aimed at clarifying the distinction between employees and independent contractors. Claudia St. John of The Workplace Advisors breaks down this rule and addresses the six factors that guide the analysis of a worker's relationship with an employer. This ruling holds immense
- [Using Key Accountabilities When Hiring for Executives -  HR Minute with The Workplace Advisors](https://theworkplaceadvisors.com/videos/using-key-accountabilities-when-hiring-for-executives-hr-minute-with-the-workplace-advisors/) - In today's competitive hiring landscape, finding the right executive talent can be tough. Claudia St. John explores the unique challenges and effective strategies involved in recruiting for executive and C-suite positions. The Workplace Advisors understand the complexities involved in sourcing executives who not only possess the necessary skills and experience but also align with your
- [The Importance of Coaching - HR Minute with The Workplace Advisors](https://theworkplaceadvisors.com/videos/the-importance-of-coaching-hr-minute-with-the-workplace-advisors/) - In the dynamic landscape of modern workplaces, coaching emerges as an indispensable tool for developing leaders. Claudia St. John of The Workplace Advisors underscores the importance of coaching in fostering the growth and development of your team in this week's video. Coaching serves as a catalyst for leaders to assess, refine, and elevate their skills,
- [Active Listening & Empathy: The Leadership Skill Most Managers Miss](https://theworkplaceadvisors.com/videos/active-listening-empathy-the-leadership-skill-most-managers-miss/) - When an experienced employee starts under-performing, most leaders ask: "What's wrong with them?" But that's the wrong question. In this video, Claudia St. John shares a real client story about a CFO who was ready to give up on her new accountant — until one question changed everything. It's a powerful reminder of how empathy
- [At-Will Employment Explained (Before You Fire Someone… Watch This)](https://theworkplaceadvisors.com/videos/at-will-employment-explained-before-you-fire-someone-watch-this/) - Think “employment at-will” means you can fire anyone, anytime, for any reason? Not exactly. In this video, Claudia St. John breaks down what employment at-will actually means and, more importantly, where employers get into trouble. From protected classes and retaliation risks to how your own handbook language could unintentionally limit your rights, this is a
- [Why Annual Performance Reviews Fail (And What to Do Instead)](https://theworkplaceadvisors.com/videos/why-annual-performance-reviews-fail-and-what-to-do-instead/) - Are annual performance reviews actually helping your team or holding them back? In this video, Claudia St. John shares why traditional once-a-year reviews often fall short and what high-performing organizations are doing instead. If your team feels disconnected, goals go stale, or feedback comes too late to matter, it might be time to rethink your
- [Hybrid Teams Are Failing for This Simple Reason (And How to Fix It)](https://theworkplaceadvisors.com/videos/hybrid-teams-are-failing-for-this-simple-reason-and-how-to-fix-it/) - Hybrid work is here to stay, but most leaders are still managing it like an in-office team. In this video, Claudia St. John, Founder and CEO of The Workplace Advisors, shares real-world lessons from running a fully hybrid company for over 15 years. These aren’t theories; they’re practical leadership habits that improve engagement, accountability, and
- [How to Fire an Employee the Right Way (Keep It Short, Honest & Legal)](https://theworkplaceadvisors.com/videos/how-to-fire-an-employee-the-right-way-keep-it-short-honest-legal/) - Firing an employee is one of the hardest moments in leadership, and one that most managers are never trained for. In this HR Minute, Claudia St. John shares a real-world story that highlights a common mistake supervisors make during termination conversations: saying too much and getting pulled into defending the decision. If an employee doesn’t
- [Leadership Conflict Isn’t the Problem—Ignoring Behavioral Differences Is](https://theworkplaceadvisors.com/videos/leadership-conflict-isnt-the-problem-ignoring-behavioral-differences-is/) - Conflict at the leadership level can quietly threaten an entire organization, especially when it’s misunderstood or ignored. In this video, Claudia St. John, Founder & CEO of The Workplace Advisors, shares a real client situation involving senior IT and sales leaders whose unresolved behavioral differences nearly led to the loss of a long-tenured executive. The
- [Your 2026 Strategy Is Missing This: Workforce Planning in a Tight Labor Market](https://theworkplaceadvisors.com/videos/your-2026-strategy-is-missing-this-workforce-planning-in-a-tight-labor-market/) - As business leaders finalize their 2026 strategic plans, there’s one critical piece many are overlooking: Your workforce strategy. In this video, Claudia St. John, Founder & CEO of The Workplace Advisors, explains why today’s tight labor market makes workforce planning a strategic necessity, not just an HR task. Despite economic uncertainty, unemployment remains around 4.2–4.3%,
- [Phased Retirement: The Win-Win Solution for Employers and Employees](https://theworkplaceadvisors.com/videos/phased-retirement-the-win-win-solution-for-employers-and-employees/) - As the labor market tightens and baby boomers retire in record numbers, many organizations are facing a serious brain drain. In this video, Claudia St. John, Founder and CEO of The Workplace Advisors, explores how employers can rethink retirement to retain experience, foster inclusion, and strengthen their workforce. Learn about: ✅ The benefits of phased
- [5 Innovative Employee Benefits That Attract & Retain Talent](https://theworkplaceadvisors.com/videos/5-innovative-employee-benefits-that-attract-retain-talent/) - Want to stand out in today’s competitive talent market? Traditional benefits like health, dental, and retirement are no longer enough to attract and retain the next generation of employees. In this video, Claudia St. John, Founder & CEO of The Workplace Advisors, shares five innovative benefits that forward-thinking companies are using to boost employee satisfaction
- [What Gen Z Wants at Work: 5 Keys to Attract and Retain the Next Generation](https://theworkplaceadvisors.com/videos/what-gen-z-wants-at-work-5-keys-to-attract-and-retain-the-next-generation/) - Are you struggling to attract and retain Gen Z talent? In this video, Claudia St. John, founder and CEO of The Workplace Advisors, shares five key things Gen Z employees are looking for from their employers. You’ll learn how to: - Offer the flexibility they value through hybrid work - Build a purposeful, authentic workplace
- [Taxing Overtime Pay- What Employers Need to Know About the New Law](https://theworkplaceadvisors.com/videos/taxing-overtime-pay-what-employers-need-to-know-about-the-new-law/) - The recently passed One Big Beautiful Bill Act introduces an important change for employers: the overtime “half-time” portion is no longer subject to federal income tax. In this video, Claudia St. John, Founder & CEO of The Workplace Advisors, explains: - What part of overtime pay is tax-exempt under the new law - How employers
- [Why Summer Hours and & Fun Work Programs Boost Engagement | HR Tips from Claudia St. John](https://theworkplaceadvisors.com/videos/why-summer-hours-and-fun-work-programs-boost-engagement-hr-tips-from-claudia-st-john/) - Summer is the perfect season to rethink your workplace culture—and it starts with fun, flexibility, and connection. In this video, Claudia St. John, Founder and CEO of The Workplace Advisors, shares creative ideas to boost employee engagement through summer hours, flexible schedules, and out-of-the-box programs. Whether you’re dealing with burnout or looking to strengthen team
- [Summer Internships: What Employers Need to Know | Tips from HR Expert Claudia St. John](https://theworkplaceadvisors.com/videos/summer-internships-what-employers-need-to-know-tips-from-hr-expert-claudia-st-john/) - Thinking about hiring an intern this summer? You're not too late—and it could be one of the smartest moves you make to build your future workforce. In this video, Claudia St. John, Founder & CEO of The Workplace Advisors, explains the difference between a bona fide internship and a paid internship, and why it matters
- [Employee Retention vs Turnover and Why They Matter - HR Minute with The Workplace Advisors](https://theworkplaceadvisors.com/videos/employee-retention-vs-turnover-and-why-they-matter-hr-minute-with-the-workplace-advisors/) - Are your retention strategies actually fixing the right problem? Claudia St. John, CEO of The Workplace Advisors, dives into the real difference between retention and turnover rates — and why not understanding both could be hurting your business. In this video, Claudia shares: - The key difference between retention vs. turnover - How to use
- [The #1 Reason Employees Quit (And How to Prevent It) - HR Minute with The Workplace Advisors](https://theworkplaceadvisors.com/videos/the-1-reason-employees-quit-and-how-to-prevent-it-hr-minute-with-the-workplace-advisors/) - Are your managers and supervisors the weakest link in your organization — not from lack of effort, but from lack of training? In this video, we dive into why leadership development is crucial for retention, performance, and a healthy workplace culture. Discover how tools like DISC behavioral assessments, emotional intelligence training, and critical conversation skills
- [The Essential Guide to Discussing AI With Employees](https://theworkplaceadvisors.com/videos/the-essential-guide-to-discussing-ai-with-employees/) - Artificial Intelligence is everywhere, from applicant tracking systems to performance evaluations. But what does it mean for your job and your organization? Join Claudia St. John, President and CEO of The Workplace Advisers, as she explores the impact of AI on the modern workplace. Learn how to develop effective AI policies, reassure employees about job
- [Thinking Creatively About Benefits - Tips to Help You Retain, Recruit, and Grow!!!](https://theworkplaceadvisors.com/videos/thinking-creatively-about-benefits-tips-to-help-you-retain-recruit-and-grow/) - In today's competitive job market, innovative employee benefits are crucial for standing out and retaining top performers. Join Claudia St. John, President and CEO of The Workplace Advisors, as she shares cutting-edge benefits strategies that can transform your workplace. Discover how benefits like unlimited PTO, sabbaticals, pet insurance, and more can impact employee satisfaction and
- [Is DEI Dead - The Future of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in the Workplace](https://theworkplaceadvisors.com/videos/is-dei-dead-the-future-of-diversity-equity-and-inclusion-in-the-workplace/) - Join Claudia St. John, CEO and founder of The Workplace Advisors, as she explores the current state of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives. With major companies like Walmart, McDonald's, and Meta publicly scaling back their formal DEI programs, it's natural to wonder if DEI is losing momentum. However, Claudia argues that while formal programs
- [Top 5 Must-Have Workplace Priorities For 2025 - Tips From The Workplace Advisors](https://theworkplaceadvisors.com/videos/top-5-must-have-workplace-priorities-for-2025-tips-from-the-workplace-advisors/) - Claudia St. John, CEO of The Workplace Advisors, reveals the top 5 HR priorities that will define workplace success this year: 📈 1. Compensation Strategies - including average increases, the critical importance of staying competitive, and how to review & adjust pay structures. 🤝 2. Innovative Hiring Practices - navigating the labor market, finding qualified
- [Overcoming HR Burnout: Effective Support for Your Team - HR Minute with The Workplace Advisors](https://theworkplaceadvisors.com/videos/overcoming-hr-burnout-effective-support-for-your-team-hr-minute-with-the-workplace-advisors/) - Claudia St John, President of The Workplace Advisors, addresses the challenges faced by HR professionals in today's evolving work environment. She emphasizes the importance of recognizing and appreciating the efforts of HR teams, especially in light of the difficulties that have arisen since the COVID-19 pandemic. Key points discussed include: Current HR Landscape Claudia highlights
- [Transforming Your Hiring Practices- The Impact of Behavioral Assessments](https://theworkplaceadvisors.com/videos/transforming-your-hiring-practices-the-impact-of-behavioral-assessments/) - Unlock the Power of Behavioral Assessments in Your Workplace! Discover how behavioral assessments can revolutionize your hiring process, boost retention rates, and enhance employee development. In this video, Claudia St. John, President of The Workplace Advisors, shares valuable insights on leveraging DISC, motivators, emotional intelligence, and other assessments to improve hiring success, leadership coaching, and
- [The Financial Importance of Workplace Culture - A CEO Perspective](https://theworkplaceadvisors.com/videos/the-financial-importance-of-workplace-culture-a-ceo-perspective/) - In this HR Minute video, Claudia St. John, President of The Workplace Advisors, shares her experience speaking to a group of CFOs and controllers about the critical importance of workplace culture. She highlights how executives are now recognizing culture as a key factor in attracting and retaining talent, directly impacting the bottom line. Key points
- [Exploring Alternative Sources of Candidates - HR Minute with The Workplace Advisors](https://theworkplaceadvisors.com/videos/exploring-alternative-sources-of-candidates-hr-minute-with-the-workplace-advisors/) - Claudia St. John, President of The Workplace Advisers, discusses the pressing issue of worker shortages and the need to explore alternative candidate sources. Drawing insights from the latest SHRM magazine, Claudia highlights several underutilized talent pools that businesses should consider. Claudia emphasizes the importance of reevaluating hiring strategies and practices to accommodate these diverse groups.
- [Career Pathways - Performance Management to Evaluate, Provide Feedback, and Support Employee Growth](https://theworkplaceadvisors.com/videos/career-pathways-performance-management-to-evaluate-provide-feedback-and-support-employee-growth/) - Claudia St. John of The Workplace Advisors dives into the essential components of an effective performance management system. Whether you’re an employer of a small business or a larger organization, we can help you learn how to: - Evaluate employee performance and provide constructive feedback - Identify resources to support employee development - Set clear
- [Mastering Civility at Work - HR Minute with The Workplace Advisors](https://theworkplaceadvisors.com/videos/mastering-civility-at-work-hr-minute-with-the-workplace-advisors/) - A recent study by the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) reveals that incivility is on the rise, with 171 million people experiencing it, 40% of whom faced it at work. As employers prepare for increased incivility, especially during election years, it’s essential to take proactive steps to maintain a respectful and productive work environment.
- [The Latest Labor Trends Unveiled: HR Minute With The Workplace Advisors](https://theworkplaceadvisors.com/videos/the-latest-labor-trends-unveiled-hr-minute-with-the-workplace-advisors/) - Claudia St. John of The Workplace Advisors discusses labor market data and what it could mean for employers. These numbers are fluid and The Workplace Advisors stays on top of these findings for our clients. Connect with us for help with the most up-to-date figures and impacts to your business. As of August 2nd, the
- [Dispelling 5 Myths of Forgiveness - HR Minute with The Workplace Advisors](https://theworkplaceadvisors.com/videos/dispelling-5-myths-of-forgiveness-hr-minute-with-the-workplace-advisors/) - We often hear the phrase "forgive and forget," but we know that forgiveness is challenging, and forgetting can feel nearly impossible. Yet, in leadership, the ability to forgive is a critical skill that complements empathy, conflict management, vulnerability, and trust. Claudia St John's newest keynote, "Forgiveness as a Leadership Superpower," explores the true meaning of
- [Vacation Stats - HR Minute with The Workplace Advisors](https://theworkplaceadvisors.com/videos/vacation-stats-hr-minute-with-the-workplace-advisors/) - Vacation time is a crucial element of employee well-being and organizational productivity. The United States remains one of the few developed countries without a federal mandate for paid vacation days, resulting in diverse policies across different companies and industries. Claudia St. John of The Workplace Advisors discusses the current data and trends surrounding vacation time
- [Why You Need A Killer Compensation Strategy - HR Minute With The Workplace Advisors!](https://theworkplaceadvisors.com/videos/why-you-need-a-killer-compensation-strategy-hr-minute-with-the-workplace-advisors/) - The Great Resignation is over, the red-hot recruiting market has cooled a bit, and inflation is down. That’s some of the good news for employers in 2024. But don’t relax too much – compensation is still important. Claudia St. John from The Workplace Advisors shares how the latest Department of Labor update to the minimum
- [FTC Announces Noncompete Rule Change - HR Minute with The Workplace Advisors](https://theworkplaceadvisors.com/videos/ftc-announces-noncompete-rule-change-hr-minute-with-the-workplace-advisors/) - On April 23, 2024, the US Federal Trade Commission (FTC) announced its final rule banning most noncompete agreements based on the argument that they are an unfair method of competition. Claudia St. John with The Workplace Advisors discusses this ban which will go into effect 120 days after it is published in the Federal Registry.
- [Develop Your Employees- HR Minute with The Workplace Advisors](https://theworkplaceadvisors.com/videos/develop-your-employees-hr-minute-with-the-workplace-advisors/) - According to the latest data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the American economy saw an increase of 303,000 jobs in March, accompanied by a slight drop in the unemployment rate to 3.8 percent. These numbers help illustrate why it is increasingly important for businesses to invest in the development of their existing employees. With

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