Workforce

Biometrics are an increasingly common part of everyday IT functions. Facial or fingerprint scans offer a streamlined, reliable way to secure access to sensitive systems or bolster multi-factor authentication (MFA) practices, but they’re not without their controversies.

As cybercrime and digital privacy concerns have risen, the use of biometrics in the workplace can face scrutiny. Employers and IT managers should consider the potential drawbacks and create a formal plan to address them before implementing any biometric security measure.

Creating accessible and inclusive workplaces is essential for modern businesses aiming to thrive in a competitive industry. Prioritizing this aspect ensures employees of all abilities can fully participate, contributing their unique skills and perspectives. This commitment fosters innovation by encouraging diverse approaches to problem-solving.

Inclusive workplaces boost team satisfaction by creating environments where everyone feels valued and supported. Embracing usability can position organizations as forward-thinking, ethical and ready to meet the needs of a dynamic workforce.

The gig economy has grown exponentially in recent years, revolutionizing how companies approach staffing and workforce management. Characterized by freelance and short-term contracts, this dynamic workforce model offers flexibility, cost-efficiency and access to specialized skills.

Understanding how to harness the gig economy can give businesses a competitive edge. Here are 10 strategies for effectively integrating gig workers into their operations.

The holiday season can be a complicated time for people. Many emerge from this period and realize they pushed themselves too hard. How can you as a leader stay mindful of that reality and provide the best support for your workforce?

Learn What People Need 

Although you can probably take an educated guess about some of the season’s biggest stressors, they don’t impact everyone with equal intensity. Someone facing the first holiday season after losing a close family member will probably have felt different pressures and challenges than one with money troubles as the primary concern.

Artificial intelligence (AI) has big implications for the workforce of tomorrow. While some employees may fear the technology will replace them, it can help them expand their careers in some cases. Optimized training and development is an increasingly popular application, especially as roles shift amid broader AI adoption.

Savvy businesses can use AI to upskill their existing workforce to meet such changing demands, but doing so requires careful planning. Here are some crucial steps to follow.

More stay-at-home parents (SAHP) are returning to the workforce to engage in either part-time or full-time work, and this shift presents an incredible opportunity for your business. These individuals bring valuable skills like multitasking, problem-solving and adaptability — traits honed through managing households and raising kids. But rejoining the workforce isn’t without challenges.

Many parents struggle with outdated skills, a lack of confidence, or balancing work and family life. Creating a welcoming environment and offering flexibility allows you to help them transition smoothly and gain loyal, hardworking employees.

Hiring the right candidate is essential for your business's success. When you bring someone on board who aligns with your company culture and goals, they can drive productivity and boost morale.

However, you may miss the early signs that a new hire is not a good fit. This can lead to more significant issues like poor performance, disengagement and turnover down the line. Spotting these red flags early can address potential problems before they snowball. It will save you time, energy and resources while keeping your team on track.

Effective communication between IT teams and the rest of the organization has become a critical success factor as organizations increasingly rely on digital technologies. Misunderstandings can expose the company to cyberattacks, delay projects and ultimately hinder overall business growth.

Explore these strategies for bridging the gap between technical expertise and everyday business operations to facilitate more effective organizational interactions. 

Businesses with multiple departments often have a diverse mix of employees with different backgrounds and various perspectives. Conflicts are more likely to happen when people communicate in different ways or fail to understand where the other person is coming from. 

Leadership can implement practices to avoid many misunderstandings, but occasional tension will still occur. Knowing the best strategies to try to stop conflict before it starts and manage it when it does can keep the team moving forward and a company’s culture thriving. 

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.