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Fixing Benefits Programs Increases Engagement

Organizations continue to focus on helping employees improve their overall well-being, which in turn can positively impact productivity and costs. The key to realizing the value of this focus is an engaged population, yet despite best intentions and large investments, many employers still face low benefits utilization.

Is the Modern Workplace Killing Us? (Part 1)

In his recent book, Dying for a Paycheck, Jeffrey Pfeffer, professor of organizational behavior at Stanford Graduate School of Business, explains how the modern workplace causes all kinds of problems. From chronic illnesses to stress, much about the modern workplace is bad for economies and societies and the success of companies—and, of course, for workers.

An Internal Plan Audit Team Essential for Anticipating Changes

Ensuring that an employer’s 401(k) plan is being administered in accordance with its terms and applicable law is a fundamental fiduciary responsibility. This includes complying with the Internal Revenue Code, the Employee Retirement Income Security Act (ERISA), and the regulations under both.

California Supreme Court Deals Blow to Gig Economy

Over the last 10 years, analysts have told of the decline of traditional employment in favor of independent contractors and the so-called gig economy. Instead, a casual workforce would arise, working when they want and trading security for flexibility. Workers were hired as independent contractors, consultants, franchisees—anything but employees. Gig work seemed like the path […]

Understanding Vocational Learning and the New Workforce (Part 1)

In his State of the Union Address in January, President Trump said, “… let us invest in workforce development and job training. Let us open great vocational schools so our future workers can learn a craft and realize their full potential.” And since then, a lot of experts in politics, higher education, and the U.S. […]

elastic

Can Flex Work and Training Opportunities Help End Gender Inequality?

Did you know that companies that offer flexible work and training opportunities have four times as many female CEOs as companies that don’t?1 Research also indicates that companies that offer flexible work and training opportunities are better at retaining talent and allowing female employees to be productive and successful and to flourish.2

Is Remote Work and Training Only for Managers and Bosses?

Currently, 80%–90% of the U.S. workforce claims that they want to work remotely at least part-time, while only about 50% of the workforce has a job that is currently compatible with remote work opportunities. And most employees who do work from home on a regular basis earn over $60,000 annually and are within the upper […]

sexual harassment

Taking Steps to Prevent Sexual Harassment Is Good for Employer Brand

The spotlight on workplace sexual harassment since fall 2017 has led to high-profile resignations, terminations, and lawsuits. And while the revelations and consequences have prompted ongoing, national conversations about appropriate behavior, only 32% of working Americans said that their employer has taken new steps to prevent and address sexual harassment in the workplace, according to […]