The quest for a truly diverse and inclusive workforce is a constant challenge in the ever-evolving hiring landscape. While some fear AI might exacerbate bias, innovative applications of this technology are actually paving the way for a more equitable future. In this week’s HR Query, Dr. Lindsey Zuloaga, Chief Data Scientist at HireVue – a Human Potential Intelligence company that is empowering teams to identify candidate potential and skills that better predict future success – delves into the potential of AI to create a level playing field for candidates. Here’s what she had to say. Is ..read more

The rise of the global gig economy and its transformative impact on the workforce cannot be denied. Location-based services such as rideshares and food delivery are ubiquitous, and online gig assignments account for up to 12.5% of the global labor force according to The World Bank Group’s report, Working Without Borders. The surge allows companies to increase their talent pools, find specialized skills, and expand into new markets.  While the trend opens up opportunities for companies and workers across geographies, sectors, and socioeconomic conditions, the report also points to the cha ..read more

There is generally a love-hate relationship with our mobile devices – we’re always connected, but unfortunately, we’re always connected. One of the consequences of this “always-on” phenomenon is that workplace engagement is at an all-time low. According to a survey by research firm Gallup, employee engagement has reached its lowest since it began tracking this metric in 2015. Today, employee engagement in the US is only 32%. Disengaged employees routinely underperform engaged ones, negatively affecting vital business outcomes. Workplace disengagement is a complex issue that can arise fro ..read more

The modern workplace has experienced a radical transformation in recent years. Remote and hybrid models aren’t just trends, they’re the future of work. With the hybrid work environment in full swing, a new normal necessitates new leadership strategies to foster a people-first, distributed workforce. Organizations must implement technology, policies, and processes in thoughtful, innovative, and intentional ways to foster collegiality and find deeper points of connectivity across work styles. The leaders who successfully build trust, fight bias, and create vibrant hybrid cultures position their ..read more

Darcy Mackay’s path to HR leadership isn’t your typical climb up the corporate ladder. Instead, her journey began in the bustling world of business operations, where she honed her leadership skills at the helm of large global teams. This experience, coupled with a keen eye for talent and a passion for empowering people, ultimately led her to the SVP of HR and client services role at Rippling. Darcy Mackay For over two decades, Mackay thrived in diverse leadership positions at CBRE, a global leader in commercial real estate. From overseeing infrastructure projects to managing workplace solution ..read more

For many, merit increase season is coming to a close. Often, pay equity related increases are coordinated with the merit cycle. But reviewing pay equity after merit increases are finalized provides opportunities to: Counter any potential bias that might occur in the allocation of merit increases Ensure that merit increases are not altered by managers to undo the intended effects of pay equity adjustments Manage a budget, distinct from the merit budget though perhaps carved out of it, focused on pay equity and potentially market-related pay changes Adequately coordinate and communicate with l ..read more

In the bustling marketplace of job opportunities, where companies vie for top talent, the job posting stands as the initial handshake—an introduction that can either captivate or repel potential candidates. But beyond the standard qualifications and responsibilities, there lies a deeper layer—one that speaks to the heart of organizational culture and values. Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging (DEIB)—these four pillars are not mere buzzwords; they are the foundation on which thriving workplaces are built. The Power of DEIB: A McKinsey Revelation Before we delve into the nuances of job ..read more

The U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) has published its final rule amending the overtime regulations of the federal wage and hour law, the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA). The new rule requires an increase to the salary threshold for executive, administrative, and professional workers (EAP) and Highly Compensated Employees (HCE) to qualify for exemption from overtime. Employers must comply with the final rule by July 1, 2024. The final rule also phases the salary threshold changes in two incremental increases and provides for regular updates of these salary thresholds every three years beginning ..read more

Summertime is nearing, and one of my favorite summer traditions after a long week is to make a big bowl of popcorn, get myself and my dog cozy on the couch, and turn on an old movie. Recently, I rewatched 9 to 5, a classic screwball comedy that will have you rolling on the floor one minute and thinking about workplace discrimination the next (hard to believe, I know, but trust me). Source: 20th Century Fox 9 to 5 stars Jane Fonda as Judy Bernly, a woman who starts a job as a secretary at Consolidated Companies following her divorce. Judy soon befriends Violet Newstead, played by Lily Tomlin, a ..read more

In recent years, mental health has become a central topic in workplace discussions, reflecting a broader shift toward well-being and employee support. Organizations are increasingly recognizing the importance of mental health and are implementing innovative programs to help employees manage stress, anxiety, and other mental health issues. Emergence of Mental Health Awareness With the rise of remote and hybrid work environments, many employees are facing new types of work-related stress, along with the ongoing challenges of work/life balance. In response, progressive companies are not only ack ..read more