Leadership

The workforce is evolving, with a noticeable demographic shift toward an aging population. Businesses must recognize the value of these experienced workers as life expectancy rises and people remain active in their careers longer.

Adapting company practices to support and retain older employees is a strategic move that enhances productivity and ensures valuable knowledge stays within the company. Fostering an inclusive environment where older workers feel valued enables businesses to reduce turnover, maintain a diverse and skilled workforce and thrive in a competitive market.

Traditionally, performance management considered big projects and employee interactions with management and often involved an annual performance review. With modern tools, however, employees are demanding more structure and regular feedback to grow their skills and improve opportunities for promotion. 

Since “The Great Resignation,” companies have struggled to attract and retain top talent. Many business leaders have shifted the benefits they offer their workers, including creating a stronger and more positive company culture. Handling performance management in ways the younger generation relates to requires overhauling the entire process. 

It’s 2024, and the calls for implementing greener initiatives as a business imperative are louder than ever. Consequently, there has been a marked shift in consumer preferences toward brands that demonstrate sustainability principles. Eco-conscious marketing has emerged as a vital part of meeting this obligation and standing out in an increasingly competitive landscape.

This venture can look like any number of things in action — from an eco-friendly product to recyclable materials and purpose-driven practices. The important thing is it stems from a genuine sustainability foundation mixed with the proper techniques to achieve desired outcomes.

Many companies measure operational health by evaluating the productivity of their customer support teams. They track the number of emails sent, product demos booked, and tickets closed, focusing on the sheer volume of tasks completed. 

These activities are crucial for determining whether employees are performing well, but they only tell part of the story. To truly understand the impact on customer satisfaction and long-term success, companies must look beyond these metrics and measure the quality of customer relationships.

The line between blue-collar and white-collar roles has always been well-recognized. However, as leaders seek clever ways to address the white-collar talent shortage, overlooked blue-collar professionals may help fill the gap. 

Recruiting former blue-collar talent could be a game-changer for businesses, especially since these individuals often deliver a wealth of knowledge, unique skill sets and an incredible work ethic. Here's why leaders should embrace blue-collar hiring, plus several ways to overcome the challenges of a dynamic workforce.

Many companies strive for an inclusive workplace culture, but it can be challenging without the help of some well-placed tools. In a perfect world, each co-worker would put themselves in others’ shoes. The team would value their input and see the strengths they bring to their role.

Unfortunately, empathy training rarely goes as smoothly as leaders would like. Fostering an inclusive work environment requires targeted education. At the same time, brands must be aware of taking a centered approach that makes everyone feel valued and wanted. Virtual reality makes improving company culture and creating a cohesive workplace easier. 

In the much-anticipated new book, "Dare to Relate: Leading with a Fierce Heart," trailblazing former federal agency CEO, TEDx speaker and renowned relational leadership expert Cheryl L. Mason, J.D.

In the workforce, career management has always been a major goal for many people. Climbing the corporate ladder meant success, with each promotion being a milestone in their professional journey. However, a recent discussion around an anticipated shortage of middle management leaders is arising. Middle management is crucial to any organization, but the coming shortage poses a serious challenge for businesses.

Many companies struggle to find talent willing to step into these roles. With a strong middle management team, businesses can succeed in decision-making and overall productivity.

Going from a school setting to the full-time corporate world can be jarring for new hires just entering the workforce, to say the least. Fortunately, there are many things you can do to smooth the transition and make them feel like a valuable part of the team.

1. Prepare Leaders

Generation Z has different experiences and expectations than those that came before. Leaders should work to understand how to communicate with Gen Zers better and what to expect regarding rules and tasks. The generation is highly technological, having grown up with cell phones, computers and automation.

In today’s fast-changing industries, staying relevant is a constant challenge. Skills employers highly value now were irrelevant only a few years ago, partly due to the rapid evolution of technology. Companies must actively encourage ongoing learning to keep up to date.

Yet, what can employers do to ensure future innovative success? One way they guarantee growth and commitment to upskilling is through incentives. By making continuous learning attractive, professionals can achieve long-term success with today’s in-demand skills.