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Why Middle Managers Struggle and 9 Ways to Help

Middle managers occupy a unique and often challenging position within organizations. They are the bridge between upper management’s strategic directives and the operational realities faced by their teams. Despite their critical role, middle managers frequently encounter numerous obstacles that can hinder their effectiveness. Since they can often be one of the most important roles in […]

Travel Pay—Trickier Than It Should Be

Whether time spent traveling is paid work time depends on the type of travel involved: commuting, day travel, and overnight travel. Travel time that is work time is subject to both the minimum wage and overtime pay requirements of the Fair Labor Standards Act. (Don’t forget to check state laws on travel pay; some states, […]

COVID-19

3 COVID-19 Lessons to Help Us Prepare for a Better 2021

From the rapid shutdown of the workplace, to the gradual return to the office, to the day-by-day challenges of coping with stress and dealing with guidance updates, COVID-19 has certainly kept me on my toes. Here are some reflections on when the virus became reality, where it has taken us this past year, and how […]

office

5 Things to Do Before Welcoming Employees Back into the Office

Many companies are welcoming employees back into the office, but there’s much to do before anyone steps foot back into the workplace. As a leader or an HR manager, it’s important to have a comprehensive plan in place before welcoming your team back.

flourishing

Eudaimonia: There’s No Flourishing Without Struggle

In 2015, I changed my job title from Chief Executive Officer to Chief Eudaimonia Officer. I hypothesized that cultivating eudaimonia—the ancient Greek word indicating “human flourishing”—would make Widen one of the world’s best places to work.

Wellness programs

Tips for Improving Employee Participation in Wellness Programs

Many employers offer employee wellness programs with the intent of improving overall employee health levels. Improving employee health has the long-term benefit reducing unplanned absences and can even boost productivity. It can reduce healthcare costs for the employee, which then may, in turn, reduce healthcare benefit costs for everyone. It can have the added benefit […]

Massachusetts

Earned Sick Time Law: Do Unions in Massachusetts Have to Comply?

After Massachusetts voters approved the Earned Sick Time Law (ESTL) referendum in 2014, a group of construction industry employers filed a lawsuit asking a federal judge to declare that the new law couldn’t be enforced against them because they are parties to collective bargaining agreements (CBAs) with unions. So far, the courts have replied that […]