POPS! The People Ops Podcast: Recent Episodes
Zenefits
POPS! shares stories of pivotal people moments in small businesses while answering your human resource questions with one thing in mind: people first.
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Having a conversation with an employee about why you’re letting them go is never fun. Sometimes it can even be difficult or challenging.
In this episode, Jill Shroyer, Founder and CEO of Expedition HR and best-selling author of the book Conquer Sticky Situations, shares helpful phrasing for when you need to let someone go. This five-step formula will give you the basics to handle any tough conversation. She also shares some tips to accommodate for the nuanced “what if” scenarios.
Additional Resources:
- Order your copy of our book People Operations: Zenefits.com/pops-book
- Submit your People Ops questions: https://www.zenefits.com/workest/ask-a-question/
- Check out Jill’s book, Conquer Sticky Situations: https://www.amazon.com/dp/1736213407
On this episode, you’ll hear:
- [00:45] An overview of the steps
- [02:22] Tips to keep in mind
- [04:37] Sample employee termination script
Even though employee engagement is all the rage right now, according to Gallup, only 33% of employees feel engaged at work.
In this episode, David Watson, Product Marketing Manager at Zenefits, shares why engagement is so important to a company’s success and how to survey your employees to gauge where they’re at.
Additional Resources:
- Order your copy of our book People Operations: Zenefits.com/pops-book
- Submit your People Ops questions: https://www.zenefits.com/workest/ask-a-question/
On this episode, you’ll hear:
- [00:25] The benefits of an engaged team
- [01:30] Addressing the need to create happier, more engaged employees
- [2:40] Customizing your surveys
When you’re putting a lot of resources toward recruitment efforts, it’s important to understand what those costs are to determine only if they are worth the return you’re getting.
In this episode, Catie Grigsby, Senior Product Marketing Manager at TriNet Zenefits, shares ways you can calculate cost per hire and ultimately decide if what you’re doing is worth continuing.
Additional Resources:
- Order your copy of our book People Operations: Zenefits.com/pops-book
- Submit your People Ops questions: https://www.zenefits.com/workest/ask-a-question/
On this episode, you’ll hear:
- [00:26] Costs that contribute to hiring
- [01:15] Personnel costs
- [01:45] Employee turnover rates
It's no secret. If you want to build a great company, you must start by investing in your people. Without this proactive approach, it’s hard to grow.
In this episode, Morgan Furchner, Associate Product Marketing Manager at TriNet Zenefits, shares how you can help train, develop, and grow leaders to push your business to the next level.
Additional Resources:
- Order your copy of our book People Operations: Zenefits.com/pops-book
- Submit your People Ops questions: https://www.zenefits.com/workest/ask-a-question/
On this episode, you’ll hear:
- [00:28] Invest in your people to grow your organization
- [00:50] What happens when employees don’t get training
- [01:34] Treat the employee experience like the customer experience
- [02:44] The power of building relationships
- [03:15] Establish what’s in it for them
Only a decade ago, HR teams had to be careful of leaving sensitive employee information on a copy or fax machine. Technology has changed drastically since then, making cybersecurity a much more real issue.
Lourdes Rivera, Senior Director of People at Electric, shares why cybersecurity matters for HR professionals.
Additional Resources:
- Order your copy of our book People Operations: Zenefits.com/pops-book
- Submit your People Ops questions: https://www.zenefits.com/workest/ask-a-question/
On this episode, you’ll hear:
- [00:27] How technology has changed
- [01:32] What the pandemic did to security
- [03:01] IT needs are evolving quickly
- [04:05] Where there are challenges
- [04:50] Ways to protect your people and business
- [06:45] How Electric could help
In 2021, we saw almost 50 million people quit their jobs in what was dubbed as “The Great Resignation.” In this war for talent, how do organizations create an exceptional brand to attract and retain talent?
Ankur Patel, Product Marketing Manager at TriNet Zenefits, joins the show to share his insight.
Additional Resources:
- Order your copy of our book People Operations: Zenefits.com/pops-book
- Submit your People Ops questions: https://www.zenefits.com/workest/ask-a-question/
On this episode, you’ll hear:
- [01:55] Brand building is emotional
- [02:30] Lead with your values
- [03:42] Share your story
- [05:08] Find your brand ambassadors
- [06:50] Don’t underestimate tone and voice
There’s been a shift among organizations to focus more on their employees, because if employees are thriving, it will in turn help customers. So who is responsible for this culture of employee growth? Ankur Patel, Product Marketing Manager at TriNet Zenefits, joins the show to share how the CEO fits into the puzzle.
Additional Resources:
- Order your copy of our book People Operations: Zenefits.com/pops-book
- Submit your People Ops questions: https://www.zenefits.com/workest/ask-a-question/
On this episode, you’ll hear:
- [00:38] People want to see the company value them
- [02:05] Where the CEO needs to set expectations
- [03:58] Think through the milestones
Part of having great employees is having a great recruiting and hiring process, which is why it's so important for companies to monitor how successful the process is to ensure continued success for the company.
Lora Patterson, a People Operations Advisor at TriNet Zenefits, joins the show to share ways you can measure this success from both the candidate and manager perspective.
Additional Resources:
- Order your copy of our book People Operations: Zenefits.com/pops-book
- Submit your People Ops questions: https://www.zenefits.com/workest/ask-a-question/
On this episode, you’ll hear:
- [00:45] Remember to serve people who are part of the process
- [01:18] Survey questions to ask hiring managers
- [04:21] Following up on how candidates are performing
- [05:29] Survey questions for your candidates
With a wide range of disabilities that exist, it can be hard to keep track of all the accommodation options you can offer employees needing assistance.
In this episode, Lucy Henry, People Operations Advisor at TriNet Zenefits, shares examples of what accommodations can be made under the ADA and resources to help you find solutions that fit the needs of your employees.
Additional Resources:
- Order your copy of our book People Operations: Zenefits.com/pops-book
- Submit your People Ops questions: https://www.zenefits.com/workest/ask-a-question/
On this episode, you’ll hear:
- [01:05] Examples of ADA accommodations
- [02:15] Resources for employers to find accommodation solutions
If you’re a company with over 15 employees, it is a federal requirement that you comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
****In this episode, Lucy Henry, People Operations Advisor at TriNet Zenefits, helps describe the ADA and the steps involved in complying with the interactive process.
Additional Resources:
- Order your copy of our book People Operations: Zenefits.com/pops-book
- Submit your People Ops questions: https://www.zenefits.com/workest/ask-a-question/
On this episode, you’ll hear:
- [00:35] What is ADA?
- [01:49] How businesses must comply
- [03:00] The ADA interactive process, step by step
- [06:05] What’s considered undue hardship on the employer?
If you’re a company with over 15 employees, it is a federal requirement that you comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
****In this episode, Lucy Henry, People Operations Advisor at TriNet Zenefits, helps describe the ADA and the steps involved in complying with the interactive process.
Additional Resources:
- Order your copy of our book People Operations: Zenefits.com/pops-book
- Submit your People Ops questions: https://www.zenefits.com/workest/ask-a-question/
On this episode, you’ll hear:
- [00:35] What is ADA?
- [01:49] How businesses must comply
- [03:00] The ADA interactive process, step by step
- [06:05] What’s considered undue hardship on the employer?
HR organizational design is the administration and execution of an organization's strategic plan. Ultimately, it's about creating the best fit between the strategic choice of the organization and the organization setting. So how do you do it successfully?
Catie Grigsby, Senior Product Marketing Manager at TriNet Zenefits, shares her insight into how to do organizational design right.
Additional Resources:
- Order your copy of our book People Operations: Zenefits.com/pops-book
- Submit your People Ops questions: https://www.zenefits.com/workest/ask-a-question/
On this episode, you’ll hear:
- [00:24] The definition of organizational design
- [00:51] Five principles of organizational design
- [01:15] Common mistakes companies make
HR organizational design is the administration and execution of an organization's strategic plan. Ultimately, it's about creating the best fit between the strategic choice of the organization and the organization setting. So how do you do it successfully?
Catie Grigsby, Senior Product Marketing Manager at TriNet Zenefits, shares her insight into how to do organizational design right.
Additional Resources:
- Order your copy of our book People Operations: Zenefits.com/pops-book
- Submit your People Ops questions: https://www.zenefits.com/workest/ask-a-question/
On this episode, you’ll hear:
- [00:24] The definition of organizational design
- [00:51] Five principles of organizational design
- [01:15] Common mistakes companies make
The hiring process can be overwhelming, and it can often feel like a guessing game trying to find that perfect candidate for your company and the role you’re trying to fill.
Lora Patterson, a People Operations Advisor at TriNet Zenefits, joins the show to go over the steps your company can take to find those great employees.
Additional Resources:
- Order your copy of our book People Operations: Zenefits.com/pops-book
- Submit your People Ops questions: https://www.zenefits.com/workest/ask-a-question/
On this episode, you’ll hear:
- [00:32] Understand how their career goals fit with the job
- [01:03] Check references with different questions
- [01:45] Don’t just focus on their resume
- [03:00] Ask unusual or uncommon questions
- [04:08] Bring them into another environment
- [05:11] Take your time; push for diversity
Is your organization experiencing a lot of turnover? It can be overwhelming to figure out what to do when it’s happening, let alone prevent it from becoming an uncontrollable pattern.
In this episode, Summer Rogers, Senior Solution Consultant from the embedded analytics team at Visier, joins the show to share what you can do proactively and what you can do reactively to combat this issue.
Additional Resources:
- Order your copy of our book People Operations: Zenefits.com/pops-book
- Submit your People Ops questions: https://www.zenefits.com/workest/ask-a-question/
On this episode, you’ll hear:
- [01:12] Thoughtfully design culture and avoid toxic managers
- [02:23] Invest in development opportunities for your employees
- [03:20] Act on what you learn in stay interviews
- [04:00] Reactive measures to keep your people; counter offers
- [05:15] Consider boomerang workers
People analytics aren’t a trend. They’re becoming a necessity as companies grow and thrive in the market.
Why do you need them? Ian Cook, VP of People Analytics at Visier, shares insights around the importance of tracking people data and some basics you can start with.
Additional Resources:
- Order your copy of our book People Operations: Zenefits.com/pops-book
- Submit your People Ops questions: https://www.zenefits.com/workest/ask-a-question/
On this episode, you’ll hear:
- [00:39] Ian’s small business story
- [03:40] What people analytics looks like today
- [04:35] What intelligence you need to run your business
- [05:22] Understanding the impact of headcount
- [08:30] Understanding employee starts
- [09:45] How the movement of people affects costs
- [11:11] More mature analytics to track
In today's increasingly complex world, acting on gut feelings is not always the best way to make company decisions, especially when it involves your people.
Andrea Derler, Principal of Research and Value at Visier, shares what workforce trends leaders should be aware of and the analytics they should track alongside them.
Additional Resources:
- Stop the Exit
- Leader's Data Mindset: Deloitte/Visier Research
- Order your copy of our book People Operations: Zenefits.com/pops-book
- Submit your People Ops questions: https://www.zenefits.com/workest/ask-a-question/
On this episode, you’ll hear:
- [00:52] Analytics around attracting and retaining talent
- [04:27] Analytics around diversity, equity, and inclusion
- [08:22] Analytics around leader’s data mindset
- [11:28] Why people analytics matter
Any change starts with your people. When decisions need to be made, people’s opinions will differ, and it’s HR’s job to make decisions that take everyone's view into account.
In this episode, David Watson, Product Marketing Manager at Zenefits, talks about how the rational and emotional aspects of decision-making can play into people operations.
Additional Resources:
- Order your copy of our book People Operations: Zenefits.com/pops-book
- Submit your People Ops questions: https://www.zenefits.com/workest/ask-a-question/
On this episode, you’ll hear:
- [00:28] What does “emorational” mean?
- [01:19] Taking everyone’s view into account
- [02:00] Balancing business and people
As an HR leader, the process of expanding your workforce outside of your current country can be unfamiliar territory. There’s so much to consider, and it can be overwhelming not knowing what types of hurdles you might need to go through.
In this episode, David Watson, Product Marketing Manager at Zenefits, talks through some key questions to ask before starting the process.
Additional Resources:
- Order your copy of our book People Operations: Zenefits.com/pops-book
- Submit your People Ops questions: https://www.zenefits.com/workest/ask-a-question/
On this episode, you’ll hear:
- [00:28] Why companies expand global workforces
- [00:58] The role of HR during expansion
- [01:12] Questions you should ask
70 million Americans have some form of a criminal record in their past. This means there are 70 million Americans who aren’t give a fair chance and are overlooked as viable job candidates.
Believe it or not, fair chance hiring is a key part of DEI strategies, and it’s something companies don’t really think about.
In this episode, Jordan Martinez, Marketing Manager at Checkr, interviews Ken Oliver, Executive Director of Checkr.org, Checkr’s corporate social responsibility program in philanthropic initiative.
Listen in as he shares insight into what fair chance hiring is, the benefits it can generate, and how organizations can incorporate it into their DEI strategy.
Additional Resources:
- Download the eBook, The Diversity Group You’re Overlooking: How to be a Fair Chance Employer: https://checkr.com/resources/ebook/decrease-recidivism-with-fair-chance-hiring?utm_source=zenefits&utm_medium=email-soical&utm_campaign=podcast&utm_content=downloadcontent
- Order your copy of our book People Operations: Zenefits.com/pops-book
- Submit your People Ops questions: https://www.zenefits.com/workest/ask-a-question/
On this episode, you’ll hear:
- [01:02] Ken’s background in social work and DEI
- [02:41] Being a product-first corporate social responsibility endeavor
- [03:58] What is fair chance hiring and how it relates to DEI
- [06:14] Overcoming your biases
- [08:03] Where to start incorporating fair chance hiring practices
People are an organization's greatest asset. Ensuring your employees are motivated begins with understanding what their basic human needs are and how to support them in the workplace.
In this episode, Morgan Furchner, Associate Product Marketing Manager at TriNet Zenefits, shares the basic needs employers should be fulfilling and how to determine if you’re supporting those needs.
Additional Resources:
- Order your copy of our book People Operations: Zenefits.com/pops-book
- Submit your People Ops questions: https://www.zenefits.com/workest/ask-a-question/
On this episode, you’ll hear:
- [00:30] Reference Maslow’s hierarchy of needs
- [02:32] How to determine if you’re supporting those needs
- [05:00] The benefits of supporting the basics
To stand out in today's competitive job market, employers and hiring teams must provide candidates with the best experience possible. But what elements make a great interview process?
On this episode, Josh Jones, the Manager of Talent Acquisition at Employ Inc., shares his insight on what will enable your hiring teams to provide a great candidate experience.
Additional Resources:
- Order your copy of our book People Operations: Zenefits.com/pops-book
- Submit your People Ops questions: https://www.zenefits.com/workest/ask-a-question/
On this episode, you’ll hear:
- [00:44] Starting with people
- [02:18] Having a well-defined interview process
- [04:31] Incorporating technology
- [06:42] Standing out in recruiting
Sometimes you extend a job offer to someone, and, due to various reasons, it just isn’t going to work out. So how do you revoke the offer?
In this episode, Dan Marzullo, Founder of Drafted, gives some pointers on how to go through this process and shares insight on how to reduce the risk of it happening in the future.
Additional Resources:
- Order your copy of our book People Operations: Zenefits.com/pops-book
- Submit your People Ops questions: https://www.zenefits.com/workest/ask-a-question/
On this episode, you’ll hear:
- [01:03] What to do if you need to revoke an offer
- [02:13] How to mitigate this from happening again
- [03:08] Why you shouldn’t revoke a job offer
Many steps in the income verification process can lead to headaches for your HR team and your employees. So how can you simplify it to get people what they need without unnecessary stress?
To answer this question, Adam Kerin, VP of Product Marketing at Truework, explains how SMB leaders can automate this process for free.
Additional Resources:
- Order your copy of our book People Operations: Zenefits.com/pops-book
- Submit your People Ops questions: https://www.zenefits.com/workest/ask-a-question/
On this episode, you’ll hear:
- [00:38] What the process should look like
- [01:37] Problems that can arise
- [02:30] How to avoid frustrations using Zenefits and Truework
According to a recent AARP article, 48% of Americans age 55 and older have no retirement savings. This is a staggering number is what we call the “retirement crisis.” And it’s even more exaggerated within small businesses.
To help share the importance of offering a 401(k) plan and doing so easily is Richard Lane, Partnerships Manager at Guideline, a FinTech retirement platform. Listen in as he discusses how a Safe Harbor 401(k) can add flexibility to your company's retirement plan.
Additional Resources:
- To learn more about the terms and conditions that apply visit https://www.guideline.com/blog/safe-harbor-401k-plan/
- AARP article: https://www.aarp.org/retirement/retirement-savings/info-2019/no-retirement-money-saved.html
- Order your copy of our book People Operations: Zenefits.com/pops-book
- Submit your People Ops questions: https://www.zenefits.com/workest/ask-a-question/
On this episode, you’ll hear:
- [00:52] The 401k access gap
- [02:00] Three tests your plan has to pass
- [03:15] How you can ensure your plan remains compliant
- [05:09] Details around employer match
- [05:47] 401(k) deadlines to be aware of
In April 2021, more than 4 million US workers quit their jobs—the biggest spike on record. And the turnover is expected to continue. What can businesses do to retain employees during the Great Resignation?
On this episode of POPS! Zenefits Senior HR Advisor Lora Patterson explains the key reasons why people are leaving their jobs and strategies companies can use to keep their best employees.
Additional Resources:
- Order your copy of People Operations: https://www.zenefits.com/pops-book/
On this episode, you’ll hear:
- [00:00-00:41] What is the Great Resignation?
- [00:41-01:40] How the pandemic altered how workers view their careers and lives
- [01:40-03:31] The key reasons why employees may be considering a job change
- [03:31-05:03] Why work-life balance matters to workers more than ever before
- [05:03-05:49] Why it’s important to survey your workforce on their preferences
- [05:49-06:37] Steps you can take to keep your workforce
- [06:37-07:39] Step 1: Involve managers
- [07:40-08:09] Step 2: Develop mentoring programs and build career paths
- [08:09-10:16] Step 3: Identify at-risk workers
- [10:17-10:35] Step 4: Identify departments or teams with particularly high turnover
- [10:35-10:57] Reeling in employees who are checked out or disengaged
42% of the core skills needed to perform most jobs are expected to change by 2022. Rather than recruiting new employees for these shifting roles, is it possible to up-skill the people you have?
Reena Chawla, a product leader at EdCast, explains how to build your business by upskilling employees, and how technology can lift this burden from entrepreneurs.
Additional Resources:
- Why Spark by EdCast is the Spotify of Learning: https://www.edcast.com/corp/why-spark-by-edcast-is-the-spotify-of-learning/
- Order your copy of our book People Operations: Zenefits.com/pops-book
On this episode, you’ll hear:
- [02:20 - 06:00] How small businesses are adjusting to pandemic-induced pivots
- [07:00 - 10:45] Why core job skills are shifting rapidly
- [11:30 - 13:50] Reasons to provide upskilling as a benefit
- [14:00 - 16:30] Steps to create a scalable education strategy
As the future of work continues to evolve, employers and HR leaders are seeing a steady increase in the importance of how we treat the people who make up our organizations. But unfortunately, HR employees themselves might get forgotten.
On this episode, Lora Patterson, Senior People Ops Advisor at Zenefits, joins to share where employees working in HR should turn to when they're the ones facing an internal conflict.
Additional Resources:
- Order your copy of our book People Operations: Zenefits.com/pops-book
- Submit your People Ops questions: https://www.zenefits.com/workest/ask-a-question/
On this episode, you’ll hear:
- [00:46] Who HR should report to
- [01:36] When to approach and when to quit
- [02:45] Hiring outside help with HR
- [04:02] Involving a legal team or expert
- [05:45] When there might not be a solution to the problem
From long COVID to major injuries, life hits us hard when we least expect it. As an employer, how do you support an employee through a health crisis like this?
Ankur Patel, Director of Product Marketing at Zenefits, and Shelley Dorais, Director of Customer Success and Renewals, both recently experienced major health challenges. They learned firsthand about best practices for caring for employees when life hits them hard.
Listen in to hear their stories and their top takeaways for employers caring for employees through illness and injury.
Additional Resources:
- Order your copy of our book People Operations: Zenefits.com/pops-book
- Submit your People Ops questions: https://www.zenefits.com/workest/ask-a-question/
On this episode, you’ll hear:
- [01:00] The personal and professional challenges of long COVID
- [05:30] The importance of flexibility and empathy in battling illness
- [09:45] Un-learning unhealthy work habits
- [11:00] Supporting employees through recovery from major injuries
- [16:00] Believing the best of people
- [17:00] Respecting both privacy and authenticity
- [19:00] Top takeaways for caring for employees through a health crisis
- [23:00] Silver linings of health challenges
Why do 80% of people hate performance reviews? Before opening that can of worms, we have to first understand why companies even conduct performance reviews in the first place.
To help unpack this topic is David Watson, Product Marketing Manager at Zenefits, joins this episode to share the three most common pitfalls of the performance review process companies fall into. While different, tune in to hear how they often go hand in hand and what you can do to avoid them.
Additional Resources:
- Order your copy of our book People Operations: Zenefits.com/pops-book
- Submit your People Ops questions: https://www.zenefits.com/workest/ask-a-question/
On this episode, you’ll hear:
- [00:42] The purpose of performance reviews
- [01:37] Conduct reviews more frequently
- [02:15] Focus on the present and future, not the past
- [02:50] Shorten the performance review
- [03:33] Make it easy for everyone
Every hiring manager wants to find the absolute best candidate they can for an open position at their company, but is that the best approach?
Lora Patterson, Senior People Ops Advisor at TriNet Zenefits, says the answer is actually no. If you want to find the best new hires for your company, you should strongly consider imperfect candidates.
What does that mean? And why on earth would anyone do that? Listen to this episode to find out.
Additional Resources:
- Order your copy of our book People Operations: Zenefits.com/pops-book
- Submit your People Ops questions: https://www.zenefits.com/workest/ask-a-question/
On this episode, you’ll hear:
- [00:54] The perfect candidate doesn’t exist
- [01:34] Men vs. women, diversify your pool
- [03:34] Develop and coach their employees
- [04:42] Start small
Summer has arrived! And you know what that means? Vacations of all types and sizes. That being said, 46% of workers feel nervous about taking PTO because of either too much work or they are afraid of the career repercussions.
Jean Spencer, Director of Integrated Marketing at TriNet-Zenefits, joins the show to share what organizations can do to help their employees take some time off to rest and recharge this summer season.
Additional Resources:
- The State of PTO Report: https://www.zenefits.com/learn/state-of-pto-guide/
- Order your copy of our book People Operations: Zenefits.com/pops-book
- Submit your People Ops questions: https://www.zenefits.com/workest/ask-a-question/
On this episode, you’ll hear:
- [01:58] Benefits of taking PTO
- [02:52] Physical and mental benefits of taking time off
- [04:12] What employers should offer as a PTO policy to employees
- [06:40] The benefits of either unlimited or limited PTO
- [10:43] How Trinet-Zenefits can help you manage time off
Should small business leaders plan to acknowledge and celebrate the holiday, even if they haven’t in the past?
On this episode of POPS!, Zenefits Chief Operating Officer Issac Vaughn joins Danny Speros for a conversation about what Juneteenth is, how it’s celebrated, and the importance of acknowledging it—even if it makes you feel uncomfortable. You’ll hear how talking about Juneteenth plays into broader DEI efforts and why everyone benefits when small businesses foster inclusive workplaces.
Additional Resources:
- Celebrating the Juneteenth Holiday: Ways Your Business Can Support Juneteenth: https://www.zenefits.com/workest/celebrating-the-juneteenth-holiday-ways-your-business-can-support-juneteenth/
- Racial Equity and Justice at Work: How to Keep the Conversation Going Beyond Juneteenth: https://www.zenefits.com/workest/racial-equity-and-justice-at-work-how-to-keep-the-conversation-going-beyond-juneteenth/
On this episode, you’ll hear:
- [01:07-02:42] Meet Issac Vaughn, Zenefits’ Chief Operating Officer
- [03:00-03:54] What Juneteenth is
- [04:02-06:05] How people celebrate Juneteenth today
- [06:06-08:03] The importance of supporting Black-owned businesses in celebration of Juneteenth
- [08:08-10:49] Why acknowledging Juneteenth is good for business
- [10:49-12:36] Why inclusion is the glue that holds diversity efforts together
- [13:07-15:10] The key to acknowledging Juneteenth for the first time: authenticity
- [15:11-17:29] How HR leaders can get employees involved in Juneteenth
- [17:30-19:42] The impact of DEI efforts and how it can drive engagement
Juneteenth is the oldest known holiday celebrating the end of slavery in the United States. With it being right around the corner, are you ensuring your employees are making the most of the holiday?
Nadene Evans, Senior Manager of Organic Growth Marketing at Zenefits joins the show to share ways businesses can help celebrate and support the Juneteenth holiday, as well as help your DEI efforts.
Additional Resources:
- Order your copy of our book People Operations: Zenefits.com/pops-book
- Submit your People Ops questions: https://www.zenefits.com/workest/ask-a-question/
On this episode, you’ll hear:
- [00:42] Background on Juneteenth
- [03:35] Ways to incorporate the holiday in your organization
- [04:54] States that celebrate Juneteenth
While poor performance plays a part, cultural mismatch is often the culprit of high turnover. Dan Marzullo, Founder of Drafted, shares how to optimize your talent strategy for cultural match. From leveling up your job posts to supporting current employees, there are a lot of simple ways to find and keep the people who fit your organization best.
Additional Resources:
- Order your copy of our book People Operations: Zenefits.com/pops-book
- Submit your People Ops questions: https://www.zenefits.com/workest/ask-a-question/
On this episode, you’ll hear:
- [00:30] Optimizing job posts for cultural fit
- [02:00] Preparing effective interview questions
- [03:00] Supporting current employees
It’s summertime! And you know what that means? Internships. This means organizations are going to have to do some rethinking to ensure they are set up for success. As the workforce shifts to the virtual world, we have to consider whether interns should as well. There’s a lot to take into consideration, and to help do that is Dan Marzullo, CEO and Founder of Drafted.
In this episode, he lays out the pros and cons of remote internships to help you make the best decision for your organization just in time for your summer programs.
Additional Resources:
- Order your copy of our book People Operations: Zenefits.com/pops-book
- Submit your People Ops questions: https://www.zenefits.com/workest/ask-a-question/
The annual rate of inflation in the United States hit 6.8% in November 2021, the highest in more than three decades. Should you raise your employees’ salaries to keep up?
David Watson, Product Marketing Manager at Zenefits, shares what you need to know about inflation and advice on how to handle pay accordingly.
Additional Resources:
- Order your copy of our book People Operations: Zenefits.com/pops-book
- Submit your People Ops questions: https://www.zenefits.com/workest/ask-a-question/
On this episode, you’ll hear:
- [00:30] The state of inflation in the U.S.
- [01:00] How companies are handling compensation
- [01:30] Metrics to monitor
Everyone knows it's illegal to discriminate against a candidate because of their demographics, but that doesn't mean biases don't still exist. David Watson, Product Marketing Manager at Zenefits, joins the show to share questions you should ask yourself to avoid age discrimination in your hiring and select the best new teammates for your organization.
Additional Resources:
- Order your copy of our book People Operations: Zenefits.com/pops-book
- Submit your People Ops questions: https://www.zenefits.com/workest/ask-a-question/
On this episode, you’ll hear:
- [01:00] Potential unconscious age biases
- [02:00] Benefits of age diversity on a team
- [03:00] Questions to ask yourself about candidates
Staffing is the tightest it’s been in years, forcing many to you may be focused on keeping their heads above water, not preparing for the future.
However, with a little planning, you can set yourself up for future success in the future while also meeting your current needs.
Corey Berkey, SVP of People and Talent at Jazz HR, joins the show to share his advice for building your talent pipeline in a candidate’s market, bolstering your employer brand, and leveraging technology in your recruiting process.
Additional Resources:
- Order your copy of our book People Operations: Zenefits.com/pops-book
- Submit your People Ops questions: https://www.zenefits.com/workest/ask-a-question/
On this episode, you’ll hear:
- [00:30] Understanding what a talent pipeline should look like
- [02:00] The importance of your employer brand
- [03:30] Managing the candidate experience
- [04:45] Leveraging technology to build a talent pipeline
- [06:30] Creating in-person connections with candidates
The AARP recently found that 48% of Americans age 55 and older have zero retirement funds at all. To combat this massive gap, some states will require employers to provide retirement plans for their employees.
If your state requires you to offer a retirement plan this year for the first time, where do you start?
Nicole Wilson, Director of Retirement Consulting at Guideline, shares what you need to know to choose the best plan for your small business and how to get started.
Additional Resources:
- Order your copy of our book People Operations: Zenefits.com/pops-book
- Submit your People Ops questions: https://www.zenefits.com/workest/ask-a-question/
On this episode, you’ll hear:
- [00:30] What the 401K access gap is
- [01:30] Which states have retirement plan deadlines in 2022
- [02:45] Administration considerations
- [03:30] Cost considerations
- [04:30] Plan design considerations
- [05:00] What to look for in a 401K plan
We don’t have to tell you anxiety is on the rise, but levels may be even higher than you’d expect. The Anxiety & Depression Association of America found 75% of employees say their stress interferes with their personal and professional lives. As a leader, it’s your job to take care of your people through an emotionally and mentally challenging season.
Ankur Patel, Director of Product Marketing at Zenefits, joins the show to share his insights on leading with empathy, including:
- Potential stressors for your team
- How to recognize anxiety at work
- Ways to create safe spaces for conversation
- Tips for encouraging good mental health practices
Tune in to learn how to help your team fight the anxiety crisis head-on, one step at a time.
On this episode, you’ll hear:
- [01:00] What’s causing additional anxiety today
- [05:00] The importance of leading with empathy
- [06:00] How to spot anxiety in the workplace
- [07:00] Developing safe spaces for conversation
- [09:00] Encouraging mental health practices
After you listen:
- Related stats about how stress affects work and personal life: https://www.google.com/url?q=https://adaa.org/workplace-stress-anxiety-disorders-survey&sa=D&source=docs&ust=1650392584526543&usg=AOvVaw1FypmzFGX7xrGZ5ytYhkpj
- Order your copy of our book People Operations: Zenefits.com/pops-book
- Submit your People Ops questions: https://www.zenefits.com/workest/ask-a-question/
Despite the progress many organizations have made, at many companies equal pay is still not a given.
David Watson, Product Marketing Manager at Zenefits, shares some questions we need to ask ourselves about pay to not only protect ourselves but ensure our people are compensated fairly.
Additional Resources:
- Order your copy of our book People Operations: Zenefits.com/pops-book
- Submit your People Ops questions: https://www.zenefits.com/workest/ask-a-question/
On this episode, you’ll hear:
- [00:30] The consequences of violating equal pay
- [01:15] Tips for evaluating your company’s pay practices
- [01:45] How to provide opportunities for everyone in your organization
Exit interviews may have a place in People Ops, but there’s another type of interview that can be much more beneficial to your team.
Ankur Patel, Director of Product Marketing at Zenefits, explains what a “stay” interview is, how to conduct one, and why it will benefit your organization.
Additional Resources:
- Order your copy of our book People Operations: Zenefits.com/pops-book
- Submit your People Ops questions: https://www.zenefits.com/workest/ask-a-question/
On this episode, you’ll hear:
- [00:30] The role of exit interviews
- [01:00] How to conduct a “stay” interview
- [01:45] The benefits of “stay” interviews
You’ve probably seen social chatter about four-day work weeks, a tactic companies are adopting to attract and retain top talent. But is this new schedule here to stay, or just a trend? Ankur Patel, Director of Product Marketing at Zenefits, joins the show to share his perspective and get you thinking about the way your company structures the work week.
Additional Resources:
- Order your copy of our book People Operations: Zenefits.com/pops-book
- Submit your People Ops questions: https://www.zenefits.com/workest/ask-a-question/
On this episode, you’ll hear:
- [00:45] Statistics on flexible work arrangements
- [01:30] The effect of the pandemic on four-day work weeks
- [02:00] Questions to ask yourself
If you haven’t already, you’ll soon be faced with more boomerang employees than ever before. Many employees who left during the Great Resignation are looking to return. How should you handle this? Dan Marzullo, CEO and Founder of Drafted, shares a few questions to ask yourself to help you decide whether to rehire a former employee. Additional Resources:
- Order your copy of our book People Operations: Zenefits.com/pops-book
- Submit your People Ops questions: https://www.zenefits.com/workest/ask-a-question/
On this episode, you’ll hear:
- [00:30] What boomerang employees are
- [01:45] Questions to ask boomerang employees
- [02:45] How boomerang employees may benefit you
- [03:45] Reasons you may not want to rehire a former employee
As an HR or People Operations leader, keeping up with best practices can be overwhelming. Lucky for you, we’ve created a resource that will take just a few minutes of your time and get you on the fast track to managing your workforce with best-in-class strategies.
Jean Spencer, Director of Marketing Programs at Zenefits, shares about the People Operations Assessment, a short quiz that sets you up for success with employee engagement, productivity, and retention.
Additional Resources:
- Take the People Operations Assessment: https://www.zenefits.com/learn/pops-quiz/
- Order your copy of our book People Operations: Zenefits.com/pops-book
- Submit your People Ops questions: https://www.zenefits.com/workest/ask-a-question/
On this episode, you’ll hear:
- [00:30] How People Operations differs from traditional HR
- [01:15] What the People Operations Assessment is
- [04:00] Why you should take the Assessment
In the face of a challenge, Natasha Miller knows it’s not enough to be resilient. You have to be relentless.
But don’t let that intense word scare you. Natasha explains how relentlessness leads to stronger people, thriving organizations, and deeper fulfillment.
In this episode, she shares her hard-earned insights on building yourself, your business, and your people, and leaves you with tips to put into practice.
On this episode, you’ll hear:
- [04:30 - 08:15] What it means to be relentless
- [08:15 - 11:30] Reframing putting your people first
- [11:30 - 16:45] How Natasha coaches her early-career employees
- [16:45 - 21:45] Practical ways to improve your business with positive relentlessness
After you listen:
- Order your copy of our book People Operations: Zenefits.com/pops-book
- Order Relentless: https://therelentlessbook.com/
- Follow the podcast
- Submit your People Ops questions: https://www.zenefits.com/workest/ask-a-question/
When is the best time to update the employee handbook? In this episode of POPS!, Lora Patterson, Senior People Ops Advisor at Zenefits, shares why now is the best time to update your employee handbook, and policies to consider adding as the pandemic stretches into 2021.
Do you have a question for our experts? Click here: https://www.zenefits.com/workest/ask-a-question/
Additional Resources:
Handbook Builder: https://www.zenefits.com/workest/employee-handbook-builder/
People are a company’s greatest asset, expense, and competitive advantage. So why is the function that oversees a workforce traditionally seen as, at worst, a “necessary evil?”
In this episode of POPS!, Zenefits Chief Marketing Officer Kevin Marasco explains why successful companies are shifting from “HR administration” to “people operations” and the four key factors that have influenced this shift in the new world of work.
Do you have a question for our experts? Click here: https://www.zenefits.com/workest/ask-a-question/
Are your values hanging on the wall, or radiating from your people? More importantly, does it matter? Business coach, author, and entrepreneur Kimberele Seale reveals how leading with your values produces measurable results. She explains how to develop your values, incorporate them into your business, and measure their impact.
On this episode, you’ll hear:
- [03:30 - 12:00] How to develop values with authentic respect
- [12:00 - 21:00] Why values attract talent, even in crisis
- [21:00 - 26:00] Ways to incorporate values into your business
- [26:00 - 29:00] How to measure return on values
After you listen:
- Order your copy of our book People Operations: Zenefits.com/pops-book
- Follow the podcast
Submit your People Ops questions: https://www.zenefits.com/workest/ask-a-question/
When should HR play a role as mediator? In a culturally and ideologically diverse workforce, conflict is inevitable, and it’s not only important to address it, but to address it in the right manner
Lora Patterson, Senior People Ops Advisor at Zenefits, discusses when HR should mediate conflict and shares steps HR managers can take to resolve issues effectively.
Additional Resources:
- Order your copy of our book People Operations: Zenefits.com/pops-book
- Submit your People Ops questions: https://www.zenefits.com/workest/ask-a-question/
On this episode, you’ll hear:
- [00:30 - 01:15] When employees can handle conflict themselves
- [01:15 - 03:00] When HR should help mediate conflict
- [03:00 - 04:00] Why it’s important to address workplace conflict
- [04:00 - 08:30] Best practices to use in mediation
Are interns right for remote work? As the workforce shifts to the virtual world, we have to consider whether interns should, too.
Dan Marzullo, CEO and Founder of Drafted, lays out the pros and cons of remote internships to help you make the best decision for your organization.
Additional Resources:
- Order your copy of our book People Operations: Zenefits.com/pops-book
- Submit your People Ops questions: https://www.zenefits.com/workest/ask-a-question/
On this episode, you’ll hear:
- [00:00 - 02:30] The pros of hiring remote interns
- [02:30 - 03:30] The cons of hiring remote interns
- [03:30 - 04:00] Why you should consider remote internships
We’ve all felt the pain of losing employees this year, whether they’re folks from your own business or servers at a local restaurant. On this special Author’s Cut episode of POPS!, host Didi D’Errico dives into the financial costs of losing staff with Kevin Marasco, Zenefits’s Chief Marketing Officer and co-author of People Operations. He reveals why the real cost of losing star players and even unmotivated employees is significant, and how to get ahead of it.
Additional Resources:
- Employee Motivation Guidebook: https://www.zenefits.com/learn/employee-motivation/?utm_source=clubzen&utm_medium=organic-social&utm_campaign=06-28-2021-employee-motivation
- Order your copy of our book People Operations: Zenefits.com/pops-book
- Be one of the first 10 people to send Didi a note at podcast@zenefits.com to win a copy of the book
On this episode, you’ll hear:
- [01:20 - 03:30] How losing unmotivated employees takes a toll on your business
- [03:30 - 07:00] Motivating your people with play, potential, and purpose
- [07:15 - 10:45] Calculating the true cost of losing employees
- [10:45 - 14:00] Getting ahead of employee loss
If your organization is returning to in-office work, you may be wondering: Are we responsible if an employee contracts COVID at our workplace?
Marie Kulbeth, COO and General Counsel at SixFifty, joins the show to explain the nuances of liability, help you minimize risk, and share how you can proactively protect your workforce.
Additional Resources:
- Review OSHA’s COVID-19 recommendations
- Get help creating COVID-19 safety plans and policies from SixFifty
- Order your copy of our book People Operations: Zenefits.com/pops-book
- Submit your People Ops questions: https://www.zenefits.com/workest/ask-a-question/
On this episode, you’ll hear:
- [01:00] Required COVID-19 precautions
- [02:00] Additional ways to mitigate risk for your employees
- [06:20] Tips for communicating your policies well
Unlimited PTO is a popular time-off policy, especially in the tech field. It can be a great benefit for your employees, but Lora Patterson, Senior People Ops Advisor at Zenefits, recommends you consider its implications to ensure the policy works well for your company.
Lora reveals the potential pitfalls of unlimited PTO and gives 5 recommendations to help make a policy like this work for your company.
Additional Resources:
- Order your copy of our book People Operations: Zenefits.com/pops-book
- Submit your People Ops questions: https://www.zenefits.com/workest/ask-a-question/
On this episode, you’ll hear:
- [00:00] Common reasons for implementing unlimited PTO
- [01:10] Considerations for your policy name
- [01:40] How to set helpful expectations
- [03:20] Why manager approval can keep PTO manageable
- [04:21] The benefits of a PTO calendar
- [04:52] FMLA and PTO interactions to plan for
If you’re feeling burnt out at work, don’t jump ship just yet.
Author, speaker, and “failed HR lady” Laurie Ruettimann warns quitting may not be the solution to your work woes.
Laurie joins the show to share her journey from miserable employee to vibrant leader and reveals how you can embrace a lifestyle of learning. Listen to hear her simple recommendations for discovering joy at work.
On this episode, you’ll hear:
- [03:45 - 06:00] How to debunk the “arrival fallacy”
- [06:30 - 08:30] Why your personal life matters to your work life
- [09:00 - 12:45] How to embrace a lifestyle of learning
- [13:00 - 15:30] Laurie’s 30-day learning challenge
- [16:00 - 19:00] What to consider when re-assessing your career
After you listen:
- Order your copy of our book People Operations: Zenefits.com/pops-book
- Follow the podcast
- Submit your People Ops questions: https://www.zenefits.com/workest/ask-a-question/
Once upon a time, people stayed at the same job for most of their career. Now, typical employee tenure has shortened to 4.1 years.
What’s changed? And can short-term loyalty be a good thing?
Danny Speros, VP of People Operations at Zenefits, dives into these shifts and explains how shorter tenure can help both employees and employers along their journeys.
Additional Resources:
- Order your copy of our book People Operations: Zenefits.com/pops-book
- Submit your People Ops questions: https://www.zenefits.com/workest/ask-a-question/
On this episode, you’ll hear:
- [00:00] Why employee tenure has shortened
- [01:00] Qualities to look for in new hires instead of long tenure
- [02:00] Danny’s perspective on hiring and turnover
A record number of people resigned from their jobs in 2021 and over half of the workforce is considering changing jobs in the next year. With over 10 million open jobs, it’s safe to say most of your employees are being recruited by someone else. Danny Speros, VP of People Operations at Zenefits, explains this competitive talent market means you need to re-recruit your staff. But you don’t need an elaborate process. Re-recruiting is a chance to check in with your people, understand how they feel about their current role, and learn where they want to grow.
In this episode, Danny reveals how thoughtful questions and simple changes can help people feel better about their job and career trajectory.
Additional Resources:
- Order your copy of our book People Operations: Zenefits.com/pops-book
- Submit your People Ops questions: https://www.zenefits.com/workest/ask-a-question/
On this episode, you’ll hear:
- [00:00] Why you need to re-recruit your employees
- [01:30] A simple approach to re-recruiting
- [02:30] Conversation starters to check in with your people
Small- to medium-business owners know great people are key to success.
Ankur Patel, Director of Product Marketing at Zenefits, joins the show to share how to build up the people who keep your organization running.
We discuss 4 HR trends you need to pay attention to in 2022:
- Greater flexibility and work-life balance
- Wellbeing benefits
- Increased diversity and inclusion
- Greater digital adoption
Ankur leaves us with practical action steps to implement today so you can care for the people behind your business.
On this episode, you’ll hear:
- [02:30 - 07:30] What’s driving changes in HR
- [07:30 - 13:30] Trend #1: Greater flexibility and work-life balance
- [13:30 - 22:00] Trend #2: Wellbeing benefits
- [22:00 - 26:30] Trend #3: Increased diversity and inclusion
- [26:30 - 29:00] Trend #4: Greater digital adoption
- [29:00 - 35:00] Action steps you can take today
After you listen:
- Order your copy of our book People Operations: Zenefits.com/pops-book
- Follow the podcast
- Submit your People Ops questions: https://www.zenefits.com/workest/ask-a-question/
Whenever we begin a new year, it's important to review your employee handbook to see if there are any changes you need to make. After a year like 2021, it’s absolutely critical to ensure your policies are up to date.
Lora Patterson, Senior People Ops Advisor at Zenefits, shares where she recommends you focus your attention to ensure your handbook stays current and remains a helpful resource for your employees.
Additional Resources:
- Order your copy of our book People Operations: Zenefits.com/pops-book
On this episode, you’ll hear:
- [00:30 - 01:00] Why you may need to add a remote work policy
- [01:00 - 02:15] Considerations for new COVID-19 policies
- [02:15 - 02:30] Thoughts on updating your company holidays
- [02:15 - 03:00] State updates to look out for
Hiring remote employees could be your greatest advantage, but it could also be your greatest challenge.
If you want to have remote employees, you need to stay on top of regulations and logistics to set yourself and your employees up for success.
Lora Patterson, Senior People Ops Advisor at Zenefits, guides us through the process and helps us get ahead of potential remote hiring headaches.
Additional Resources:
- Order your copy of our book People Operations: Zenefits.com/pops-book
On this episode, you’ll hear:
- [01:00 - 02:00] When to update work locations
- [02:00 - 04:00] PTO and FMLA policy variations to look out for
- [04:00 - 05:45] How to handle termination, breaks, required documents, and office equipment
- [05:45 - 07:45] Tips for keeping remote employees connected to your company
When it comes to your business strategy, building an inclusive culture is not only the right thing to do, it’s the smart thing to do. Research by McKinsey revealed companies that adopt a systematic approach to inclusion are more successful than those that don’t. Yet, McKinsey also found just 29% of organizations had a positive response to the topic of inclusion.
Marchelle Wright, Chief People Officer at Group Black, joins host Didi D’Errico to explain why building an inclusive culture is critical to success and shares simple steps you can take as a small business to prioritize inclusion.
Additional Resources:
- Diversity and inclusion are paramount to welcoming your employees: https://www.zenefits.com/learn/diversity-and-inclusion-ebook/
- Order your copy of our book People Operations: Zenefits.com/pops-book
On this episode, you’ll hear:
- [00:45 - 02:00] What it means to create an inclusive culture
- [02:00 - 04:00] Insights from recent McKinsey research
- [04:00 - 07:00] Opportunities for small companies to weave D&I into their DNA
- [07:00 - 08:30] Why you need to gather pulse feedback
An annual business plan is a crucial roadmap for where you want to go and how you want to get there. But how do you factor people operations into your 2022 business plan?
On this special Author’s Cut episode of POPS!, host Didi D’Errico sits down with Zenefits Chief Marketing Officer Kevin Marasco to discuss. You’ll hear key considerations for people ops in 2022, and questions to ask yourself to ensure your people programs are keeping pace with the rapid changes in the new world of work.
Additional Resources:
- Becoming a people-centered business: A workbook for human resource professionals looking to adopt a People Operations methodology: https://www.zenefits.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/POPS-WORKBOOK-COMPENSATION.pdf
- Order your copy of our book People Operations: Zenefits.com/pops-book
On this episode, you’ll hear:
- [00:29-01:16] The most important thing you can do for your business in 2022
- [02:17-04:09] The motivation behind writing the book People Operations
- [04:10-06:51] Why people are integral to the business planning process
- [06:55-09:02] The shift toward HR having a “seat at the table”
- [09:02-10:48] People considerations for 2022
- [10:49-12:51] Key questions to ask regarding people strategy for 2022
- [13:47-15:03] The one-word business leaders need to keep in mind moving forward
- [15:03-17:45] Tools and resources from the new People Operations companion workbook
- [17:45-19:30] How People Operations is helping Zenefits leaders run the company
- [19:30-21:03] Why now is a good time to re-evaluate perks, benefits, and people programs
2021 was filled with unprecedented disruptions, especially for HR professionals. From the Great Resignation to navigating hybrid work, it has been heavy. In this special episode, we flip the script to leave the year with something decidedly lighter.
Our friend Rob Stefanovic, Head of Marketing Acceleration here at Zenefits, joins us to offer his humorous reflections on the year. We hope it brings you a smile and a little optimism as we look forward to 2022.
Additional Resources:
- Order your copy of our book People Operations: Zenefits.com/pops-book
On this episode, you’ll hear:
- Rob’s commentary on yet another unprecedented year
- Humorous reflections that will leave you laughing
- A glimmer of hope for 2022
42% of the core skills needed to perform most jobs are expected to change by 2022. Rather than recruiting new employees for these shifting roles, is it possible to up-skill the people you have?
Reena Chawla, a product leader at EdCast, explains how to build your business by upskilling employees, and how technology can lift this burden from entrepreneurs.
Additional Resources:
- Why Spark by EdCast is the Spotify of Learning: https://www.edcast.com/corp/why-spark-by-edcast-is-the-spotify-of-learning/
- Order your copy of our book People Operations: Zenefits.com/pops-book
On this episode, you’ll hear:
- [02:20 - 06:00] How small businesses are adjusting to pandemic-induced pivots
- [07:00 - 10:45] Why core job skills are shifting rapidly
- [11:30 - 13:50] Reasons to provide upskilling as a benefit
- [14:00 - 16:30] Steps to create a scalable education strategy
Seven in 10 employees believe that it's their employer's responsibility to make sure they're set up for financial success. If small businesses can help their people make the most of their paychecks, will they stick around longer?
On this episode of POPS!, Betterment General Manager Kristen Carlisle joins the show to talk about the financial benefits small businesses should consider offering employees. You’ll hear how to help employees save for retirement and ensure they feel taken care of financially so they’ll be more likely to stay.
Additional Resources:
- A Business Owner’s Guide to Employee Financial Wellness: https://www.betterment.com/uploads/2020/09/Financial-Wellness-Guide.pdf
- Order your copy of our book People Operations: Zenefits.com/pops-book
On this episode, you’ll hear:
- [01:24-02:22] Meet Kristen Carlisle, General Manager at Betterment
- [02:49-03:56] Why offering better personal financial planning is good for small businesses
- [04:19-05:58] How small business owners and employees can prepare for emergencies
- [07:21-10:18] The importance of holistic and personalized financial advice
- [11:05-13:13] How small businesses are helping employees with retirement and financial planning
- [13:14-15:37] How the Great Resignation is affecting financial benefits for employees
- [15:39-18:58] What employers need to know about the retirement crisis in America
- [18:59-22:20] How employers can help employees financially outside of retirement benefits
- [22:21-24:11] The 50-30-20 rule
- [26:01-27:57] How Betterment helps people save for retirement
- [28:02-31:36] Where to start in terms of offering financial benefits
- [31:40-33:21] How to start conversations about financial benefits with employees
- [33:37-34:29] How the retirements and benefits space is changing for the better
What do you do if a new employee wants to take time off immediately?
Nadene Evans, Senior Manager of Organic Growth at Zenefits, describes ways to handle this exact situation. You’ll hear how to think about flexibility and communication and why it builds loyalty.
Additional Resources:
- Order your copy of our book People Operations: Zenefits.com/pops-book
On this episode, you’ll hear:
- [00:36-01:00] The situation: A new employee immediately wants time off
- [01:00-02:22] Options to consider
- [02:22-02:49] How to handle coworkers’ concerns over a new employee taking vacation
Leaving your mark on the world requires creativity. Rylan Kean and Christina Hayes Director of Business Development, and Christina Hayes, General Manager, of Milan Enterprises, transformed an old printing press creating a lasting legacy in their community.
Milan Enterprises, a real estate investment and property management business, centers everything they do around what they call WIGs: wildly important goals. On this episode of PIVOT, Rylan and Christina teach us what having a common purpose can accomplish.
On this episode, you’ll hear:
- [03:00 - 06:42] How Milan connects their people to work that matters
- [07:26 - 10:35] Why a high NPS score is one of Milan’s wildly important goals
- [11:00 - 13:03] Setting and following through on goals
- [14:13 - 18:20] Recruiting in a personal way
- [19:40 - 23:25] Helping people learn their way into their role
- [23:43 - 26:03] Using your time, talents, and treasures purposefully
After you listen:
- Order your copy of our book People Operations: Zenefits.com/pops-book
- Follow the podcast
- Submit your People Ops questions:
The Great Resignation has been heavy on HR’s mind as of late—and isn’t showing signs of slowing down. Is it time we resign ourselves to it?
Nadene Evans, Senior Manager of Organic Growth at Zenefits says no. On a new Q&A episode of POPS!, Nadene shares how to give employees the support they need and the flexibility they crave. You’ll hear different ways to provide flexibility outside of work arrangements, and how to show employees you care so that they’ll stick around.
Additional Resources:
- Order your copy of our book People Operations: Zenefits.com/pops-book
On this episode, you’ll hear:
- [00:11-01:06] What’s happening with The Great Resignation
- [01:06-02:29] How to ensure your people stick around
- [02:29-05:05] The main thing employees want today
- [05:06-05:23] How to ask employees what they want
- [05:23-06:27] How to advocate for your employees to leadership
The pandemic wreaked havoc on small, seasonal tourism businesses that rely on cruise ships to bring in business. In 2019, Alaska's growing tourism industry brought in 1.3 million people. In 2020? Just 64 (yes, you read that right).
For Brent Bitterman, founder and COO of Alaska Luxury Tours, things looked dire as COVID forced much of the world into lock-down. But when an opportunity to pivot arose, some hard work and business agility paid off in a big way. On this episode of PIVOT, Brent joins the show to talk about how he doubled down on customer and employee experience to come back from the perfect storm stronger than ever.
On this episode, you’ll hear:
- [02:17-03:56] The unique challenges the pandemic created for seasonal tourism businesses
- [04:08-06:05] The risks and rewards of relying on transient, seasonal workers
- [06:23-13:16] How Brent pivoted his business when cruise ships stopped coming to Alaska
- [13:26-15:21] How Brent re-engaged his staff post-pivot
- [15:22-17:50] Tips for investing in your people while rebounding a business
After you listen:
- Alaska Luxury Tours: Innovating for Changing Conditions: https://www.zenefits.com/customer/alaska-luxury-tours/
- Order your copy of our book People Operations
- Follow the podcast
- Submit your People Ops questions:
The Biden Administration and OSHA have released more information regarding their vaccine mandate.
In this POPS! episode, VP of People Operations Danny Speros breaks down what employers should be thinking about as this mandate nears implementation.
Additional Resources:
- Order your copy of our book People Operations: Zenefits.com/pops-book
- OSHA Resources: OSHA.gov
There are two certainties at the end of every year: the holidays and taxes. On this episode of POPS!, we’ll help you get ahead of the latter with year-end tax tips from Zenefits Director of Product Marketing Christian Flaten. You’ll hear the special circumstances to keep in mind with COVID-19, and how to make sure employee data is up-to-date to ensure accuracy—especially with employee relocations.
Additional Resources:
- Order your copy of our book People Operations: Zenefits.com/pops-book
- 2021 Tax Filing Checklist: Getting Your Business Ready: https://www.zenefits.com/workest/2021-tax-filing-checklist-getting-your-business-ready/
On this episode, you’ll hear:
- [00:34-02:22] The basics: COVID-19, W2 data, payroll, company data, and special circumstances
- [02:25-02:41] How to verify employee social security
- [03:00-03:53] Employee relocation and the employer’s responsibility with temporary or permanent moves
- [03:55-04:52] Other special considerations
Measurably engaging both new and seasoned employees is something that is still heavy on many leaders’ minds. Candice Saffer, Senior HR Director at virtual events company Social27, recently had the added challenge of hiring, onboarding, and engaging 150 new employees—at the same time. In this episode of PIVOT, you’ll hear how Candice standardized people ops processes to listen and learn from team members around the world.
On this episode, you’ll hear:
- [02:27-04:41] How the pandemic caused a reframe in thinking about people ops
- [04:42-09:11] The benefits of a holistic approach to hiring and onboarding
- [09:26-10:14] The challenges of hiring fast and in bulk
- [10:14-13:43] How HR can encourage healthy work schedules in “high season”
- [14:01-17:01] How Social27 does performance reviews and gathers employee feedback
- [17:54-19:09] How Candice’s team puts together packages for overseas employees
- [19:10-21:34] The “secret sauce” to connecting across time zones
- [21:43-22:55] Why up-to-date employee handbooks are more crucial than ever before
- [22:56-24:15] Processes and programs to have in place before hiring more employees
- [24:16-25:40] What to automate to optimize recruiting efforts
- [25:40-26:57] How to build an empathetic organization
After you listen:
- New Way to Approach Performance Reviews: https://www.zenefits.com/learn/new-way-to-approach-performance-reviews/
- Order your copy of our book People Operations: Zenefits.com/pops-book
- Follow the podcast
- Submit your People Ops questions: https://www.zenefits.com/workest/ask-a-question/
HR has a lot on its plate. On top of hiring, retention, terminations, and employee relationships, HR is also responsible for compliance with city, state, and federal laws. How can HR departments stay up-to-date with ever-changing laws and regulations?
On this episode of POPS!, Zenefits Senior People Ops Advisor Lora Patterson shares tips and resources for compliance with labor laws. You’ll hear more about laws HR should have on its radar—including the new federal vaccine mandate—and what could happen if you don’t follow them.
Additional Resources:
- Order your copy of our book People Operations: Zenefits.com/pops-book
- Follow the podcast
On this episode, you’ll hear:
- [00:26-01:07] What is HR’s role in implementing state and federal laws?
- [01:07-05:50] The consequences of failing to comply with federal laws that apply to most employers
- [05:51-08:16] Resources to ensure compliance with state and federal laws
- [08:16-09:18] What to know about the new federal vaccine mandate
Did you know that Zenefits’ go-to guide on all things people ops debuted as the #1 HR book on Amazon this summer? People Operations, the debut guide for all things HR and small business, is now available across three different formats—for the first time! On this episode of PREVIEW, Didi shares where to get your copy and how to access the growing body of resources referenced in the book.
Additional Resources:
- Order your copy of our book People Operations: Zenefits.com/pops-book
- Follow the podcast
Of the 12 million people who left their jobs between April and August this year, nearly a third resigned due to burnout. Employee mental well-being has been top-of-mind since the start of the pandemic, but employers are still struggling with how to get people the help they need. On this episode of PIVOT, co-founder and CEO of Boon Health Alex Simmons joins the show to discuss the resources for mental well-being available to employers today. You’ll hear why resilience is key to overcoming stigma attached to mental wellness and how to blend professional development with mental well-being in your organization.
On this episode, you’ll hear:
- [00:44-02:47] Why burnout is still a pressing problem in the workforce
- [03:02-04:14] Why resilience is key to overcoming stigma attached to mental wellness
- [04:22-06:23] The actual usage rate of Employee Assistance Programs (EAP)
- [06:23-09:18] The convergence of professional development and mental well-being
- [09:27-11:25] Where to start in introducing professional development and wellness programs
- [11:25-13:20] The opportunities facing small businesses in light of The Great Resignation
After you listen:
- Order your copy of our book People Operations: Zenefits.com/pops-book
- Follow the podcast
- Submit your People Ops questions: https://www.zenefits.com/workest/ask-a-question/
Why does shopping for benefits have to be so difficult? On this episode of POPS!, Zenefits Director of Product Marketing Christian Flaten shows you where to start the process and breaks down an easier way to manage benefits for your employees.
Additional Resources:
- Order your copy of our book People Operations: Zenefits.com/pops-book
- Follow the podcast
On this episode, you’ll hear:
- [00:55] - Knowing where to start is hard
- [01:40] - Find a broker
- [02:01] - Identify technology that works for you
- [02:19] - How can Zenefits help?
How are you handling parental leave? In the past, employers often relied on state or federal benefits when offering parental leave to employees. Now, many industries are going above and beyond. On this episode of POPS!, Zenefits Senior HR Advisor Lora Patterson breaks down the ways you can utilize state and federal benefits, and how you might consider using them to bolster your own benefits for your employees.
Additional Resources:
- Order your copy of our book People Operations: Zenefits.com/pops-book
- Follow the podcast
On this episode, you’ll hear:
- [01:22] The state and federal leave benefits available to new parents
- [03:12] What to consider if you have employees in different states
- [04:20] Who should be eligible?
- [05:42] How are you going to sustain operations while employees are on leave?
- [08:10] Can employees use PTO while on parental leave?
- [09:41] How should employees request leave?
As the nature of work continues to change, so too should the hiring process. The old way of hiring—for the role and the specific set of skills needed to do the job—just isn’t cutting it anymore. On this episode of PIVOT, you’ll hear how MotoRefi Director of Talent Acquisition Adrian Russo is approaching the candidate experience. Since the start of the pandemic, MotoRefi has grown from 65 to over 300 people and continues to hire about 30 people each month. Adrian joins the show to discuss how to create a sublime candidate experience, hire based on business needs, and form partnerships to bolster recruiting efforts.
On this episode, you’ll hear:
- [01:05-02:25] How to match the right candidate to the right role
- [02:43-04:15] The changing requirements for smart talent acquisition
- [04:19-05:42] Why the traditional, dogmatic approach to hiring isn’t enough anymore
- [05:42-06:18] What is employee net promoter score (eNPS)?
- [07:29-08:58] How to write job descriptions and interview based on business needs
- [08:58-10:35] The soft skills needed in hybrid and remote workforces
- [10:36-12:28] How to form partnerships for recruiting opportunities
-
[12:28-14:50] How to develop employee “launch plans” for onboarding success After you listen:
- Order your copy of our book People Operations: Zenefits.com/pops-book
- Follow the podcastSubmit your People Ops questions: https://www.zenefits.com/workest/ask-a-question/
Work—and the workforce—is changing faster than ever before. Are your company’s benefits programs keeping up? On this episode of POPS!, Workest.com contributor Riia O’Donnell breaks down the types of benefits people want—and don’t want—from their employers. You’ll hear how to determine what stays and what goes, and tips on asking employees for their feedback about benefits.
Additional Resources:
- Order your copy of our book People Operations: Zenefits.com/pops-book
- Follow the podcast
On this episode, you’ll hear:
- [00:32-02:13] The benefits the workforce wants from employers today
- [02:14-04:31] The kinds of benefits that are no longer “cutting it” with the workforce
- [04:32-05:47] The key challenge for HR professionals when it comes to benefits
- [05:47-06:30] Why healthcare benefits are more affordable than small businesses think
- [06:31-07:15] Why time off is good for the individual and the company
- [07:15-08:07] How to ask employees what they want
When it comes to employee terminations, there is always a risk of things going sideways. In this episode of POPS!, Zenefits HR advisor Lora Patterson explains how to reduce risk with clear company policies, regular performance discussions, and manager enablement.
Additional Resources:
- Order your copy of our book People Operations: Zenefits.com/pops-book
- Follow the podcast
On this episode, you’ll hear:
- [00:46-01:39] Mitigating risk with “at-will” company policies
- [01:39-02:37] What to know about disciplinary policies
- [02:37-05:03] How to manage employee’s performance
- [05:05-05:53] The importance of training managers
- [05:54-07:13] When to involve your legal team
How fast should you introduce automation into your HR processes? For Tom Houghton, Vice President at Bearded Builders, the answer was sixty days. That’s right, sixty days. When Tom started at Bearded Builders, HR was contained in a single neglected file cabinet with a few papers inside. While there was a clear opportunity and a need to update their practices, Tom knew starting small wasn’t an option.
In this episode of PIVOT, Tom shares his approach to this impressive transformation and breaks down the business reasons behind the scenes.
With the COVID-19 Delta variant still running rampant, many employers want to know whether or not employees are vaccinated. But what can and can’t you ask about an employee’s vaccination status?
In this episode of POPS!, Zenefits HR advisor Lora Patterson shares the answer and the risks you need to know before asking.
Additional Resources:
- Order your copy of our book People Operations: Zenefits.com/pops-book
- Follow the podcast
On this episode, you’ll hear:
- [00:34-01:03] Can you ask employees if they’ve been vaccinated for COVID-19?
- [01:03-01:54] Questions to avoid, according to the law
- [01:54-02:34] What to keep in mind when asking for vaccine documentation
- [02:34-03:20] Risks to be aware of when asking about vaccination
- [03:20-05:17] How to maintain confidentiality around vaccination status
The people ops approach is a win-win-win: a win for your business, your people, and your people team. On this episode of PREVIEW, Zenefits Chief Marketing Officer Kevin Marasco explains why, and shares the benefits you can expect when moving from traditional HR to people operations.
Additional Resources:
- Order your copy of our book People Operations: Zenefits.com/pops-book
- Follow the podcast
On this episode, you’ll hear:
- [00:28-01:00] Why people ops is good for employees, leaders, and business
- [01:00-01:28] What the research says about moving from HR to people ops
A new class of entrepreneurs is taking the business world by storm. They’re called “New Builders,” and we need them now more than ever before. Seth Levine and Elizabeth MacBride, authors of the book The New Builders: Face to Face With the True Future of Business, have a few ideas on how to support and celebrate them.
In this episode of PIVOT, Seth and Elizabeth join the show to discuss how to level the playing field for new entrepreneurs and why the future of small business is so crucial to the US economy.
On this episode, you’ll hear:
- [01:29-02:26] What motivates Seth and Elizabeth about small business
- [03:00-05:06] The “new builders” starting businesses today and why we need them
- [05:16-07:23] The obstacles entrepreneurs must overcome to start a small business today
- [07:23 -09:01] How Seth and Elizabeth helped reshape Congress’ PPP legislation
- [09:02-10:14] Why the venture model is ineffective for broad economic development
- [10:14-11:28] Unicorns vs. camels
- [11:28-14:48] The lack of media attention for new builders, and why you can’t always trust the numbers
- [14:49-17:23] The extraordinary story of Sweet Grace Heavenly Cakes
- [17:23-19:22] How small business engages employees differently and why it works
- [19:44-23:16] The difference entrepreneurial grit, passion, and resilience makes
- [23:16-25:27] Why Seth and Elizabeth are optimistic about the future of small businesses
After you listen:
- Check out Seth and Elizabeth’s book: The New Builders: Face to Face With the True Future of Business
- Order your copy of our book People Operations: Zenefits.com/pops-book
- Follow the podcast
- Submit your People Ops questions: https://www.zenefits.com/workest/ask-a-question/
Employee recognition is one of the most critical factors of employee engagement, but over half of employees say their manager doesn’t provide enough praise for a job well done.
In this episode of POPS!, Zenefits VP of People Ops Danny Speros explains why recognition is vital to employee engagement, and how to recognize good work in a way that reinforces positive behavior across the organization.
Additional Resources:
- Beyond employee engagement: A guide to enhancing productivity and performance
On this episode, you’ll hear:
- [00:37-01:36] Why recognition is crucial to employee engagement
- [01:36-02:25] How to build recognition into your culture
- [02:25-04:13] The importance of personal, sincere positive feedback and praise
With the average compliance citation exceeding $30,000, you pay a heavy penalty for not doing HR paperwork and administrative tasks correctly.
What’s the key to avoiding the “HR tax”? In this episode of PREVIEW, Zenefits Chief Marketing Officer Kevin Marasco explains why automating certain HR tasks is faster and cheaper than completing them manually.
Additional Resources:
- Order your copy of our book People Operations: Zenefits.com/pops-book
- Follow the podcast
- Submit your People Ops questions: https://www.zenefits.com/workest/ask-a-question/
On this episode, you’ll hear:
- [00:30-01:00] The state of the small business “HR tax”
- [01:00-01:39] How automation can save time and money
- [01:39-02:05] HR’s opportunity to be a “force multiplier”
When a burst pipe sent everyone at Brad’s Deals home in February 2020, the company got a headstart on its remote work transition. Jessica Adams, VP of HR and Recruiting at Brad’s Deals, quickly discovered that flexibility and employee connections were the secret ingredients to a thriving remote culture.
In this episode of PIVOT, Jessica shares advice on building a flexible and burnout-proof culture, and why putting employees in the driver’s seat of company initiatives and programs makes all the difference.
On this episode, you’ll hear:
- [01:28-04:53] How Jessica’s company got a headstart on remote work
- [04:54-05:37] Tips for “burnout-proofing” in a remote culture
- [05:37-06:37] How an emergency preparedness plan came in handy in February 2020
- [06:37-08:23] The power of employee-led wellness, DEI, and mentoring programs
- [08:23-09:57] Why flexibility is crucial in times of uncertainty
- [09:58-11:31] Where a business should start in building a flexible culture
- [11:34-12:18] What Jessica is most excited about in the small business world
After you listen:
- Brad’s Deals: Celebrating unique bargains and unique people: https://www.zenefits.com/customer/brads-deals/
-
Pre-order your copy of our book People Operations: Zenefits.com/pops-book
-
Follow the podcast
- Submit your People Ops questions: https://www.zenefits.com/workest/ask-a-question/
On June 7th, 2021, 8.4 billion unique usernames and password combinations were leaked—the largest password leak in history. And since 65% of people use the same password for multiple accounts, a type of cyberattack known as ‘credential stuffing’ is on the rise. But what is credential stuffing, exactly, and how do you prevent it from happening?
On this episode of POPS!, Zenefits Director of Product Marketing Christian Flaten provides context on the most common cause of data breaches and shares how to protect yourself and your data from cybercriminals.
Additional Resources:
- Pre-order your copy of our book People Operations: Zenefits.com/pops-book
- Follow the podcast
- Submit your People Ops questions: https://www.zenefits.com/workest/ask-a-question/
On this episode, you’ll hear:
- [00:46-01:30] What 'credential stuffing’ means
- [01:30-02:13] Why credential stuffing matters today in light of the RockYou2021 leak
- [02:13-03:34] How to protect yourself and your people from cyberattacks
“Fake it ‘til you make it” is a phrase you probably heard—and used—at work. But it’s actually bad advice according to Sabrina Horn, award-winning CEO, communications expert, and author.
On this episode of PIVOT, hear why. Sabrina shares extreme examples from her new book of what can go wrong when “faking it,” and how to “make it” in business with integrity and authenticity.
On this episode, you’ll hear:
- [00:47-02:57] Why “fake it ‘til you make it” is bad advice
- [03:38-05:15] How pushing a bomb off a roof during WWII applies to small businesses today
- [05:41-07:10] The origins of “fake it til you make it”
- [07:10-08:26] Why integrity matters in business
- [08:26-09:23] Extreme examples of what can go wrong when “faking it”
- [09:24-11:36] The “Fake-ometer”
- [11:36-14:36] Four things business leaders should do to “make it” post-pandemic
- [14:37-17:05] How Sabrina made it through The Great Recession without faking it
- [17:05-18:36] Why business leaders should consider integrity as a core value
After you listen:
- Make It, Don't Fake It: Leading with Authenticity for Real Business Success by Sabrina Horn
-
Pre-order your copy of our book People Operations: Zenefits.com/pops-book
-
Follow the podcast
- Submit your People Ops questions: https://www.zenefits.com/workest/ask-a-question/
Professional development is key to employee engagement. But fewer than half of employees get the opportunities they want for professional development at work.
In Part 3 of our series on building better employee engagement, Zenefits VP of People Ops Danny Speros explains how to bake professional development into company culture, starting with managers.
Additional Resources:
- Beyond employee engagement: A guide to enhancing productivity and performance: https://www.zenefits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/beyond-employee-engagement.pdf
On this episode, you’ll hear:
- [00:38-01:29] Minding the professional development gap
- [01:29-03:01] Normalizing non-linear career paths
- [03:02-04:11] Why managers should meet with employees to talk about their career goals
- [04:12-04:42] How professional development contributes to employee engagement
- [04:42-05:10] Why professional development is a two-way street
Inclusivity and belonging at work matters more than ever. A survey of college students and recent grads revealed that two in three would only work for a company with an inclusive culture and provides a sense of belonging to employees from all backgrounds.
In Part 2 of our series on building better engagement, Zenefits VP of People Ops Danny Speros shares steps for creating cultures of inclusivity where people from all walks of life can find connection and belonging.
Additional Resources:
- Beyond employee engagement: A guide to enhancing productivity and performance: https://www.zenefits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/beyond-employee-engagement.pdf
On this episode, you’ll hear:
- [00:39-01:08] Why belonging and inclusivity are key to employee engagement
- [01:08-01:50] The first step to breaking down barriers to inclusivity
- [01:51-02:43] How accountability impacts inclusivity
- [02:44-03:36] The importance of creating space for everyone’s voice to be heard
- [03:36-05:06] How to take action to build a culture of inclusivity and connection
Big news! People Operations, our new book, made the Wall Street Journal’s list of Top 5 Bestselling New Business Books two weeks in a row. It points to a big appetite for resources to help small businesses understand and deal with the changing workforce and workplace—and yes, it’s still evolving.
In this PREVIEW episode, host Didi D’Errico shares startling new stats on the Great Resignation and how the People Operations book can help you create a strategy to recruit and retain talent.
Additional Resources:
- Order your copy of People Operations: https://www.zenefits.com/pops-book/
On this episode, you’ll hear:
- [00:22-01:10] Our exciting news!
- [01:11-02:14] The Great Resignation: Why people are (still) leaving jobs in record numbers
- [02:14-03:27] How to recruit and retain talent heading into 2022
- [03:27-03:50] POPS! Quiz
Automation has gotten a bad rap as something that will take over human jobs. But in a modern organization, automation isn’t meant to replace people, it’s meant to enhance their work experience.
In fact, according to automation expert and Zentist co-founder Paulina Song, automation can actually help employees feel challenged and engaged. In this episode of PIVOT, Paulina explains why automating tasks can help employees do more of the work they love. You’ll hear her journey as a consultant for dental practices, her approach to automating people ops, and the most common automation mistakes she sees in small businesses.
On this episode, you’ll hear:
- [00:33-03:07] Meet Paulina Song, automation expert and Zentist co-founder
- [03:20-04:30] How automation helps employees feel challenged and engaged
- [04:50-06:40] When it’s time for a small business to operationalize its people work
- [06:42-07:56] How to think about new hires as long-term business investments
- [09:01-11:26] Small business obstacles to automation
- [11:49-15:43] How the pandemic changed the dental industry
- [16:59-19:54] Empowering employees to be “mini engineers” using technology
- [20:34-22:57] How to talk to your people about using technology to work smarter
- [23:32-26:28] Enhancing the employee experience through expectation- and goal-setting
- [26:28-29:35] Where small businesses should start with automating people ops
- [29:43-31:19] Why Paulina is optimistic about small business: refreshed perspective
After you listen:
- Pre-order your copy of our book People Operations: Zenefits.com/pops-book
- Follow the podcast
- Submit your People Ops questions: https://www.zenefits.com/workest/ask-a-question/
In April 2021, more than 4 million US workers quit their jobs—the biggest spike on record. And the turnover is expected to continue. What can businesses do to retain employees during the Great Resignation?
On this episode of POPS! Zenefits Senior HR Advisor Lora Patterson explains the key reasons why people are leaving their jobs and strategies companies can use to keep their best employees.
Additional Resources:
- Order your copy of People Operations: https://www.zenefits.com/pops-book/
On this episode, you’ll hear:
- [00:00-00:41] What is the Great Resignation?
- [00:41-01:40] How the pandemic altered how workers view their careers and lives
- [01:40-03:31] The key reasons why employees may be considering a job change
- [03:31-05:03] Why work-life balance matters to workers more than ever before
- [05:03-05:49] Why it’s important to survey your workforce on their preferences
- [05:49-06:37] Steps you can take to keep your workforce
- [06:37-07:39] Step 1: Involve managers
- [07:40-08:09] Step 2: Develop mentoring programs and build career paths
- [08:09-10:16] Step 3: Identify at-risk workers
- [10:17-10:35] Step 4: Identify departments or teams with particularly high turnover
- [10:35-10:57] Reeling in employees who are checked out or disengaged
With just 4 in 10 employees reporting being “actively engaged” and turnover rates at a 20-year high, employee engagement is top-of-mind for businesses of all sizes right now. We’re tackling the big topic of building better engagement across a 4-part series—starting today.
In Part 1, Zenefits VP of People Ops Danny Speros discusses how to align people and their work to company outcomes, and why this can have an outsized impact on individual engagement.
Additional Resources:
- Beyond employee engagement: A guide to enhancing productivity and performance: https://www.zenefits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/beyond-employee-engagement.pdf
On this episode, you’ll hear:
- [00:56-01:37] The state of employee engagement today
- [01:37-03:07] The factors that impact employee engagement, and those that don’t
- [03:07-05:29] Steps to help people align their day-to-day work to company success
Moving from traditional compliance-based and paperwork-heavy HR to automated, integrated, and culture-focused people operations doesn’t happen overnight. In fact, a small business typically goes through five stages before achieving people ops mastery. But how do you figure out where you are on the journey and, more importantly, move from one stage to the next?
On this episode of PIVOT, Zenefits CMO Kevin Marasco dives into how small businesses can use the People Operations Maturity Model to do just that. You’ll hear sound bites from each stage of the model and how to use the tool to master people ops, one milestone at a time.
On this episode, you’ll hear:
- [01:01-02:29] Meet Kevin Marasco, Zenefits CMO
- [02:53-03:46] What inspired Kevin to co-author People Operations
- [04:11-06:02] What is the People Operations Maturity Model?
- [06:45-14:26] The 5 Stages of the People Ops Maturity Model
- [14:51-16:40] How to use the People Ops Maturity Model as a small business
- [16:41-18:37] The value of having a people ops roadmap
- [18:52-20:28] The first step in moving from traditional HR to people ops
- [20:40-21:41] What Kevin is most optimistic about for small businesses in 2021
After you listen:
- Measuring People Operations: A guide to workforce analytics and maturity: https://www.zenefits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/measuring-pops-ebook-v2.pdf
- People Operations Maturity Model: https://www.zenefits.com/learn/people-operations-maturity-model/
- Pre-order your copy of our book People Operations: Zenefits.com/pops-book
- Follow the podcast
- Submit your People Ops questions: https://www.zenefits.com/workest/ask-a-question/
The way work gets done has changed—and the way you think about it has to change, too. But you don’t have to do it alone. POPS! is back for another season of can’t-miss stories, examples and tips about pivotal people moments in three episode formats.
Our 5-minute POPS episodes share expert insights to your thorniest and most pressing workforce questions. The longer-format PIVOT interview style episodes will give you access to some of the greatest minds in business. And, new this season, we’ll bring you PREVIEW—our shortest-form episode format. We’ll share principles from the People Operations book while also keeping you updated on the latest trending news that impacts people in small businesses.
Tune in as we continue to pursue our promise: to make it easier for small businesses and their people to succeed in the new world of work.
After you listen:
- Pre-order your copy of our book People Operations: Zenefits.com/pops-book
- Follow the podcast
- Submit your People Ops questions: https://www.zenefits.com/workest/ask-a-question/
How can you tell if your HR team members are A-plus all-stars or just mediocre?
On this episode of POPS!, Zenefits' Senior Manager of Integrated Campaigns, Jean Spencer, breaks down how to assess the people management policies (or lack thereof) in your company and how to improve them. You’ll hear how to evaluate your own HR practices and find out if you are a master of people operations.
Additional Resources:
- People Ops Assessment: https://www.zenefits.com/learn/pops-quiz/
On this episode, you’ll hear:
- [00:39-01:37] How Zenefits developed the maturity model assessment
- [01:37-02:44] What does the model tell us about people ops?
- [02:44-03:10] How can I take the assessment?
- [03:23-04:35] What should you do with your results?
With most states offering COVID-19 vaccines to all adults, what should small businesses take into account as they reopen offices?
On this episode of POPS!, Zenefits content marketers Jean Lee and Andrea Curry discuss surprising findings from a survey of 1,000 full- and part-time employees about their post-vaccination work preferences. You’ll hear how to gather input from your own employees as you plan a return to the office, and tips on how to do so safely.
Additional Resources:
- 64% of Unvaccinated Employees Don’t Intend on Getting a Shot, Plus Other Return to Work Insights from SMBs: https://www.zenefits.com/workest/64-of-unvaccinated-employees-dont-intend-on-getting-a-shot-plus-other-return-to-work-insights-from-smbs/
On this episode, you’ll hear:
- [00:43-01:06] How Zenefits gathered data on COVID-19 vaccines in the workplace
- [01:10-01:55] Surprising employee preferences on returning to work in an office
- [01:56-03:05] How to take stock of what employees want
- [03:06-03:31] What the survey says about hybrid work
- [03:32-04:33] How to bring employees back to the office safely
- [04:33-05:34] Survey findings about employee vaccination rates and comfort levels
Juneteenth is Saturday, June 19th. Should small business leaders plan to acknowledge and celebrate the holiday, even if they haven’t in the past?
On this episode of POPS!, Zenefits Chief Operating Officer Issac Vaughn joins VP of People Ops Danny Speros for a conversation about what Juneteenth is, how it’s celebrated, and the importance of acknowledging it—even if it makes you feel uncomfortable. You’ll hear how talking about Juneteenth plays into broader DEI efforts and why everyone benefits when small businesses foster inclusive workplaces.
Additional Resources:
- Celebrating the Juneteenth Holiday: Ways Your Business Can Support Juneteenth: https://www.zenefits.com/workest/celebrating-the-juneteenth-holiday-ways-your-business-can-support-juneteenth/
- Racial Equity and Justice at Work: How to Keep the Conversation Going Beyond Juneteenth: https://www.zenefits.com/workest/racial-equity-and-justice-at-work-how-to-keep-the-conversation-going-beyond-juneteenth/
- Pre-order your copy of our book People Operations: Zenefits.com/pops-book
On this episode, you’ll hear:
- [01:07-02:42] Meet Issac Vaughn, Zenefits’ Chief Operating Officer
- [03:00-03:54] What Juneteenth is
- [04:02-06:05] How people celebrate Juneteenth today
- [06:06-08:03] The importance of supporting Black-owned businesses in celebration of Juneteenth
- [08:08-10:49] Why acknowledging Juneteenth is good for business
- [10:49-12:36] Why inclusion is the glue that holds diversity efforts together
- [13:07-15:10] The key to acknowledging Juneteenth for the first time: authenticity
- [15:11-17:29] How HR leaders can get employees involved in Juneteenth
- [17:30-19:42] The impact of DEI efforts and how it can drive engagement
The pandemic put a spotlight on where traditional HR falls short—especially for small businesses.
How can a small business level the playing field and gain an advantage in the post-pandemic world of work? Zenefits CEO Jay Fulcher says that it all boils down to people. And if people are truly at the center of a company’s focus and strategy, the shift from traditional HR to strategic People Operations can’t come soon enough.
On this episode of PIVOT, Jay explains why the HR paradigm shift inspired him and his co-authors to write a book, and why movement away from compliance-based HR has massive implications for small businesses.
On this episode, you’ll hear:
[01:16-02:17] Why Zenefits CEO Jay Fulcher loves working with small businesses
[02:51-04:51] How the pandemic put a spotlight on where traditional HR falls short
[05:11-08:21] What companies need to thrive in the new world of work
[08:27-10:20] The importance and value of measurement beyond time-to-hire and turnover
[10:20-12:40] How to think about the HR function as a small business owner
[12:43-15:19] Jay’s Pivotal People Moment: Adapting to remote work overnight
[15:35-17:34] How to take steps away from old school HR toward strategic People Ops
[17:41-18:57] Why we’ll see a resurgence of small businesses over the next year
After you listen:
-
Pre-order your copy of our book People Operations: Zenefits.com/pops-book
-
Follow the podcast
- Submit your People Ops questions: https://www.zenefits.com/workest/ask-a-question/
Giving feedback can be nerve-wracking in and of itself, never mind when the person on the receiving end has more seniority than you. But according to Danny Speros, VP of People Ops at Zenefits, that shouldn’t keep you from speaking up.
On this episode of POPS!, Danny shares tips for giving feedback with confidence. You’ll hear how to approach a feedback conversation as a coach would, and why having a common goal makes all the difference.
Additional Resources:
- HR Headaches Series: Giving Feedback to Managers With More Seniority Than You: https://www.zenefits.com/workest/hr-headaches-giving-feedback-to-managers-with-more-seniority-than-you/
On this episode, you’ll hear:
[00:34-02:03] Why you shouldn’t be afraid to give feedback to someone who outranks you
[02:04-03:58] How to leverage the coaching method when giving feedback
[03:58-04:42] How to approach feedback from the place of a common goal
Eight in ten small business leaders believe the who, how, and where of work has changed forever. The future of work is here—is your business prepared?
On this episode of PREVIEW, Zenefits Chief Marketing Officer Kevin Marasco talks about a key challenge facing small businesses as they adapt to the new world of work: getting to know their own employees.
On this episode, you’ll hear:
[00:30-00:58 ] How Zenefits gathers data on what makes for a resilient organization
[00:59-01:36] Why getting to know employees is a challenge leaders need to overcome
[01:51-02:14] POPS! Quiz: How is your organization adapting to accommodate the future of the way we work?
Additional Resources:
Pre-order your copy of our book People Operations: Zenefits.com/pops-book
20 years ago, the end-goal of engaging employees was getting them to stay with the organization for the rest of their career. But times have changed, and the expectations of the workforce have changed as well. Today, employees crave opportunities and resources for growth from their employers. But according to Erica Betz, former head of HR at software company Squirrels, it’s not enough to say, “go develop yourself” and send them on their way.
On this episode of PIVOT, Erica shares why it’s time for people ops to step up its game when it comes to developing people—professionally AND personally. You’ll hear tips for starting goal-setting conversations and how to use those conversations to engage employees and positively impact business performance.
On this episode, you’ll hear:
- [02:52-05:39] What engaging and developing employees looks like in this day and age
- [05:57-07:50] How to implement practices that develop employees as whole people
- [07:51-09:57] The biggest mistake companies make when it comes to developing employees
- [09:57-13:53] How technology can be a safe space for employees to speak up
- [13:55-16:57 ] How to use goal-setting and check-in conversations to solve problems
- [18:05-21:16] Measuring the success of development conversations
- [21:51-24:35] 4 ways to kickstart a culture of personal and professional development
- [24:46-25:49] Why Erica is inspired to create better work environments for employees
After you listen:
- Best Place to Work, Squirrels LLC, Nurtures Tech Culture in Ohio: https://www.zenefits.com/customer/squirrels-llc/
-
Pre-order your copy of our book People Operations: Zenefits.com/pops-book
-
Follow the podcast
- Submit your People Ops questions: https://www.zenefits.com/workest/ask-a-question/
With more and more Gen Zers entering the workforce every day, today’s workforce is very generationally diverse. But can we close the gap?
On this episode of POPS!, Zenefits VP of People Ops Danny Speros breaks down what different generations value at work, what every generation has in common, and how to unify a team despite generational differences.
Additional Resources:
- HR Guide to Gen Zers vs Millennials in the Workplace: https://learn.zenefits.com/rs/180-GFH-982/images/GenZ-Millennials-Research-Zenefits.pdf
On this episode, you’ll hear:
- [01:08-01:28] The defining factors that shape generations
- [01:28-02:36] What defines people based on their life and career stage
- [02:46-03:27] What all people of all generations have in common at work
- [03:29-04:42] How to embrace and celebrate generational differences
With the rise of remote work and hybrid workplaces, work isn’t the only thing that’s changing right now. The entire HR function is being disrupted, too.
On this episode of PREVIEW, Zenefits Chief Marketing Officer Kevin Marasco highlights exactly how HR is changing, from the demand for virtual benefits to HR job titles.
On this episode, you’ll hear:
- [00:00-01:00] Why the HR function is in a state of disruption
- [01:01-01:43] How HR titles are changing
- [01:59-2:20] POPS quiz: How is your organization shifting from HR to people ops?
Additional Resources
- Preorder your copy of our book People Operations: Zenefits.com/pops-book
Now that traveling is safer, how will you handle many employees who want to take their built-up PTO simultaneously? According to Tracy Cote, to prevent employee burnout or an empty office this summer, people managers need to begin strategizing for the wave of PTO requests now.
On this episode of PIVOT, the People Ops Advisor to Zenefits Tracy Cote discusses strategies for managing vacation time as an organization while still empowering your employees to unplug and unwind.
On this episode, you’ll hear:
[00:00-04:31] - How to manage a vacation season with built-up PTO
[04:32-07:29] - When and how to encourage people to take a vacation
[07:30-11:17] - Vacation management planning strategies
[11:18-13:55] - How to check-in on your employees’ mental health
After you listen:
- For One Glorious Summer, Americans Will Vacation Like the French: https://www.theatlantic.com/health/archive/2021/04/pandemic-summer-vacation-time-off/618554/
- Pre-order your copy of our book People Operations: Zenefits.com/pops-book
- Follow the podcast
- Submit your People Ops questions: https://www.zenefits.com/workest/ask-a-question/
In this episode we’re focusing on the Pareto principle, have you heard of it? It’s all about giving you more time to do the work that moves your business forward. It’s not new, but it’s leverage to replace traditional HR Busy work to help power better Peoplework? That is new. Here’s a preview.
Additional Resources:
Preorder your copy of our book People Operations: Zenefits.com/pops-book
How do you keep employees engaged if your business can’t afford raises or promotions?
On this episode of POPS!, Zenefits VP of People Ops Danny Speros shares ideas for low-cost ways to show appreciation for employees in lieu of raises and explains how to motivate employees when a bigger paycheck isn’t an option.
Additional Resources:
- HR Headaches Series: What Can I Do If We Can’t Afford Raises and Promotions?: https://www.zenefits.com/workest/hr-headaches-what-can-i-do-if-we-cant-afford-raises-and-promotions/
On this episode, you’ll hear:
[00:17-01:17 ] What you can offer employees in lieu of raises
[01:17-02:05 ] Experiences that build camaraderie
[02:07-03:49 ] The biggest motivator at work (besides money)
How should you prepare for a conversation sharing that someone has been passed over for a promotion?
On this episode of POPS!, Zenefits HR Advisor Lora Patterson shares tips on handling a tricky conversation with an employee who isn’t ready for a promotion with intentionality, transparency, and empathy.
Additional Resources:
- HR Headaches Series: How to (Gracefully) Deny a Promotion Request: https://www.zenefits.com/workest/hr-headaches-how-to-deny-a-promotion-request/
On this episode, you’ll hear:
[00:35-01:21] Tips for setting the stage for a productive promotions conversation
[01:02-02:03] Pick a time and place to share the news with the other applicants
[02:06-03:27] Be as transparent—and empathetic—as you can
[03:28-04:08 ] Don’t make promises you can’t keep
[04:08-05:22 ] Go over alternative ways you can help them in their career
[05:23-06:18] Create a career path
[06:19-06:52] How to prevent someone from leaving when they don’t get a promotion
“Wellness” has become somewhat of a buzzword in small business circles. Pre-pandemic, the term typically referred to activities and experiences that companies offered employees. But with many businesses still navigating remote work, how can leaders help each individual employee be the very best version of themselves?
On this episode of PIVOT, life and leadership coach Nicola Ries Taggart explains what it takes to achieve well-being at work in times of chaos and crisis. You’ll hear how to approach your well-being holistically and better manage your mindset, energy, relationships, and environment in order to be more centered in ourselves and how we show up at work.
On this episode, you’ll hear:
[03:23-06:12] The challenge of achieving well-being during a pandemic
[06:27-10:40] How to build personal well-being while looking out for our teams’ wellbeing
[11:13-12:54] How to manage your mindset
[12:54-14:54] How to manage your energy
[14:54-16:37] How to manage your environment
[16:37-19:34] How to manage your relationships
[20:05-21:03] What it means to renegotiate communication agreements
[21:05-22:18] Why now is the time for courageous conversations
[22:41-26:28] How incremental changes can build better personal wellbeing
[27:35-30:06] What Nicola is most optimistic about for small businesses this year
Now that millions of American adults are receiving the COVID-19 vaccine every day, should flexible work arrangements be here to stay?
In this episode of POPS!, Zenefits HR Advisor Lora Patterson breaks down what small business owners should take into consideration when making plans for returning to the office—or not. You’ll hear findings from an employee survey about flexible work productivity and how to gather feedback around returning to work from your own employees.
Do you have a question for our experts? Submit it here: https://www.zenefits.com/workest/ask-a-question/
Additional Resources:
- The state of flexible work arrangements: https://www.zenefits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/Flexible_Work_Report_2020_Coronaviruspdf.pdf
On this episode, you’ll hear:
[00:34-01:50] How to know when it’s safe to bring employees back to the office
[01:52-02:35] How to determine what will work best for your company
[02:35-05:29] What the data says about how employees feel about flexible work
[05:40-08:53] Questions to include in an employee survey about work arrangements
The pandemic shook up company cultures in 2020 as people adjusted to the “new normal” at work. So where does workplace culture stand a year later?
In this episode of POPS!, Emtrain Talent and Culture Strategist Laraine McKinnon shares findings that small business owners should pay attention to, gleaned from 23 million employee data points.
Do you have a question for our experts? Submit it here: https://www.zenefits.com/workest/ask-a-question/
Additional Resources:
- Emtrain Report: 2021 State of Workplace Respect: https://emtrain.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/2021-Workplace-Culture-Report_Respect.pdf
On this episode, you’ll hear:
[00:33-01:00] What data reveals about the areas of culture that business owners should be paying attention to
[01:03-02:17] Key finding #1: Employees are less likely to say “no” to an inappropriate request
[02:18-03:15] Key finding #2: Employees are more committed to being “upstanders”
[03:17-04:54] Key finding #3: Social aptitude is on the rise
Can a small business have global influence? According to Ryan Patel, global business executive and sought-after expert on scaling businesses of all sizes, the answer is yes. Even if a business has no aspirations of entering the global market, Patel says if you can impact individual employees, you can make an impact globally.
On this episode of PIVOT, host Didi D’Errico sits down with Patel to talk why small businesses are uniquely equipped to build people—personally and professionally. You’ll hear Patel’s thoughts on why inclusivity breeds innovation, the global trends that will impact small businesses in the future, and what keeps Ryan coming back to the world of startups and small businesses.
On this episode, you’ll hear:
[00:21-00:42] Ryan’s quote featured on the NASDAQ billboard in Times Square
[01:24-02:31] How Ryan learned how to scale businesses
[02:40-03:36] What keeps Ryan coming back to the world of startups and small businesses
[04:03-06:04] Why Silicon Valley needs to change its approach to people operations
[06:19-07:20] Why inclusivity is crucial to innovation
[07:23-09:48] How to “build people” as a small business
[10:16-13:11] How the next generation will choose products and employers
[13:40-15:27] Why making an impact on an individual level has global implications
[15:52-18:32 ] The global trends that will impact small businesses in the near future
[19:31- 22:02] A pivotal people moment: building stronger voices
[22:12-23:39] Why nimbleness and adaptability matter now more than ever
[23:50-28:06] Ryan’s thoughts on the massive opportunities facing small businesses
After you listen:
- The Big Impact of Building People in Small Business (and How to Start With Your SMB): https://www.zenefits.com/workest/the-big-impact-of-building-people-in-small-business-an
- Follow the podcast
- Submit your People Ops questions: https://www.zenefits.com/workest/ask-a-question/
Do topics like vaccinations, Black Lives Matter, and fair pay have a place at work? Should conversations about sensitive topics be avoided altogether, or encouraged as part of a healthy workplace culture?
In this episode of POPS!, Zenefits Chief People Officer Tracy Cote explains why it’s important to create safe spaces for employees to respectfully engage in these conversations, and what leaders can learn from them.
Do you have a question for our experts? Submit it here: https://www.zenefits.com/workest/ask-a-question/
On this episode, you’ll hear:
[00:40-01:08] Why most companies tend to avoid sensitive topics
[01:08-01:28] How to allow different voices to be heard and accommodate diverse opinions
[01:28-02:10 ] How Zenefits supports employees who want to use their voices
[02:11-03:42 ] Why healthy discussions about socio-politcal issues can create more engaged and healthy workplaces
A new presidential administration usually means new laws. When it comes to business processes like taxes, business compliance, standards, and labor laws, what changes can small businesses expect from the Biden Administration?
In this episode of POPS!, Zenefits Sr. Manager of Integrated Campaigns Jean Spencer breaks down four pieces of legislation small business leaders should be paying attention to, including the $1.9 trillion stimulus bill, healthcare, gender identity & sexual orientation, and employee & contractor classifications.
Do you have a question for our experts? Submit it here: https://www.zenefits.com/workest/ask-a-question/
Additional Resources:
- $50 Billion for Small Business as Biden Signs a Sweeping $1.9 Trillion Stimulus: https://www.inc.com/diana-ransom/stimulus-biden-small-business-ppp-eidl.html
On this episode, you’ll hear:
[01:32 - 02:37] What small businesses need to know about the $1.9 trillion stimulus bill
[02:48 - 03:32] What could change (and stay the same) with President Biden’s proposed health care expansion
[03:59 - 04:54] An overview of a new anti-discrimination executive order for employers
[04:55 - 06:25 ] Information on a new bill regarding employee classifications and gig workers
No matter where employees are in their careers, they all want the same thing when it comes to money: peace of mind. With 74% of Americans living paycheck-to-paycheck, there’s a need for financial wellness education that employers are stepping in to meet. But since the best financial advice is the kind that’s personalized to each individual’s specific situation, where should a small business start?
In this episode of PIVOT, host of the PBS show MoneyTrack and CEO of Wealthramp Pam Krueger shares the tools small businesses can use to help employees build financial wellness. You’ll hear how to meet employees where they are in their careers without becoming a financial advisor yourself, and tips for helping employees take control of their personal finances based on Pam’s wealth of experience as a financial advisor and educator.
--------------------------------------------------->>>> [07:24-10:21] Why a financial wellness offering is so important in a small business
[14:19-15:04 What matters most in helping employees feel financially secure
[16:43[-18:39] The key to finding tools that are low-cost and high-impact
[18:44-22:16] Three categories of employees from a personal finance perspective
[23:14-27:07 ] Pam’s recommended financial wellness tool for early-career employees: You Need a Budget (YNAB)
[28:12-33:54] Pam’s recommended tool for mid-career employees: Betterment and Blooom
[34:02-37:56] Pam’s recommended tool for late-career employees: Wealthramp.com
[40:37-44:17] Why it’s important to gather feedback from employees on financial wellness tools
[44:32-45:56 ] Pam’s advice on the best place to start when offering financial wellness resources for the first time
After you listen:
- Subscribe to the podcast
- Submit your People Ops questions
The pandemic has changed the way businesses operate in countless ways, but how much of these changes will persist post-pandemic?
In this episode of POPS!, Zenefits Sr. Manager of Integrated Campaigns Jean Spencer breaks down the top three ways the pandemic has permanently changed work and how HR leaders should respond to each.
Do you have a question for our experts? Submit it here: https://www.zenefits.com/workest/ask-a-question/
Additional Resources:
- Business Leaders on HR, Remote Work, Impact of COVID-19: https://www.zenefits.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/export-10022-1.pdf
On this episode, you’ll hear:
- [00:34-02:07] The top three ways the pandemic has permanently changed work
- [02:50-03:18] Why small businesses should embrace flexibility post-pandemic
- [03:18-03:45] Keeping business running smoothly with technology
- [03:47-04:43] Why the time to update the employee handbook is now
Do you have a plan when creating compensation packages for your team members? If you’re basing your decisions on a case-by-case basis, you’re not alone, but you may not be doing what’s best for your people or your business.
In this episode of POPS!, Zenefits Sr. Director of People Danny Speros breaks down the different factors to keep in mind when crafting your compensation strategy.
Do you have a question for our experts? Submit it here: https://www.zenefits.com/workest/ask-a-question/
On this episode, you'll hear:
- [01:03-01:33] How discrimination can creep in with the absence of a compensation strategy.
- [01:34-02:16] Start with a goal in mind to start planning
- [02:17-02:39] Once you have your goal, it’s important to have a strategy
- [02:40-04:21] Use market data is critical to making decisions around compensation
Additional resources:
- Creating the Perfect Compensation Package:
- https://www.zenefits.com/workest/creating-perfect-compensation-plan/
- Compensation Benchmarking: https://www.zenefits.com/workest/your-guide-to-compensation-benchmarking/
- Compensation: Best Practices Guide: https://www.zenefits.com/learn/compensation-best-practices/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=organic&utm_campaign=03-15-21-compensation-best-practices
Fair pay is a complex topic. Along with the long-standing issue of pay inequity for women and people of color, small businesses are grappling with how people should be compensated based on geography, experience, and market rate. So what practices should small businesses be putting in place to ensure every employee is compensated fairly?
On this episode of the People Ops Podcast, you’ll hear from Tracy Cote, Chief People Officer at Zenefits. With 20 years of experience in HR and people leadership roles under her belt, Tracy has built a lot of compensation programs and witnessed a lot of missed opportunities throughout her career. She joins to share how to create a compensation structure that’s fair and consistent, as well as objective standards for evaluating performance for merit raises.
On this episode, you’ll hear:
- [06:30-07:18] – The most common misstep businesses make when it comes to determining salaries
- [07:59-09:37] – Compensation practices that contribute to pay inequality for women and people of color and how to overcome them
- [10:02-10:45] – How to get objective and correct information for market compensation rates
- [12:44-14:46] – Creating a compensation structure that’s fair and consistent
- [ 17:00-18:24 ] – How to think about compensation when employees are living in geographies with differing costs of living
- [19:20-21:00] – Creating a tiered system that dictates what people pay for benefits based on their income
After you listen:
- Compensation Best Practices Guide: https://www.zenefits.com/learn/compensation-best-practices/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=organic&utm_campaign=03-15-21-compensation-best-practices
- Subscribe to the podcast
- Submit your People Ops questions
Sexual harassment is incredibly destructive. Unfortunately, it doesn’t disappear just because teams are working remotely. How do you recognize and prevent it, even when it’s not happening in an office?
In this episode of POPS!, Zenefits Sr. Director of People Danny Speros breaks down the different types of harassment and offers best practices on addressing and mitigating it in the remote environment.
Do you have a question for our experts? Submit it here: https://www.zenefits.com/workest/ask-a-question/
Additional resources:
- Women’s Funding Network : https://www.womensfundingnetwork.org/
- Vogue Article on Abuse: https://www.vogue.com/article/signal-for-help-womens-funding-network-abuse-coronavirus
On this episode you'll hear:
- [00:41-01:34] What quid-pro-quo and a hostile work environment involves
- [01:16-03:30] Signs to look for harassment in a remote setting
- [03:36-4:25 ] How to signal for help virtually if you’re experiencing harassment
Effective remote engagement is not a one-and-done situation. Yet, it’s easy to fall into the out-of-sight-out-of-mind trap and assume your people are doing fine. As the work environment continues to be in a state of flux, how do you keep your remote staff engaged?
In this POPS! episode, Zenefits Director of Product Marketing Ankur Patel discusses three simple steps you can take to create positive ongoing engagement with your people.
Do you have a question for our experts? Submit it here: https://www.zenefits.com/workest/ask-a-question/
On this episode you’ll hear:
- [01:18-01:52] How to give your employees a voice
- [01:53-03:14] Make sure you understand your employees' needs
- [03:15-04:45] How to make sure you take action
What do effective manager coaching and manager promotion look like in a remote environment?
For Amy Dalebout, VP of People and Culture at MotoRefi, effective management is a skill that can be developed, but not by accident.
Amy joined MotoRefi the first day the entire organization transitioned to working from home. Despite the shift, the team has tripled since Spring 2020, and Amy has implemented intentional practices to set their management team up for success in a remote-first environment.
From Amy’s perspective, at the end of the day, it’s all about supporting people and not allowing them to be stagnant, keeping them learning and growing their skills. On the People Ops Podcast, Amy joins Didi to talk about her experience building a team remotely, and sharing the three core competencies of effective management.
On this episode, you’ll hear:
- [03:23-07:15] – What does manager coaching look like
- [07:16-08:40] – How do you hire manager-ready talent
- [15:13-18:37] – What is the purpose of a “manager pod”
- [21:27-25:49] – The Three C’s of effective management
- [25:49-27:37] – What does it mean to ask powerful questions
- [28:17-31:08] – Employee mailbag with Rob
While remote work in some form isn’t going anywhere, some companies are considering returning to an in-person work environment. For those organizations, can they require employees to get the COVID vaccine before returning to the office?
In this POPS! episode, Zenefits HR advisor Lora Patterson discusses the different scenarios employers need to be aware of, along with additional resources they can use to navigate the decision.
Do you have a question for our experts? Submit it here: https://www.zenefits.com/workest/ask-a-question/
Additional resources:
- “What You Should Know About COVID-19 and the ADA, the Rehabilitation Act, and Other EEO Laws”
Recruiting, hiring, and onboarding look different in the remote work environment. As companies begin hiring again, many are realizing that the old ways are no longer effective, and it’s not enough to convert old methods to virtual mediums.
What do you need to do and think about when looking to locate, hire, and train new talent in a distributed workforce?
In this episode of POPS!, Zenefits Sr. Director of People Danny Speros breaks down the process in detail and offers insights to help you make the right decisions for your organization.
Do you have a question for our experts? Submit it here: https://www.zenefits.com/workest/ask-a-question/
On this episode, you’ll hear:
- [01:15-03:00] Looking for candidates
- [03:02-04:22] Conducting interviews
- [04:22-06:05] Making an offer
- [06:09-07:00] Onboarding your new-hire
- [07:03-08:12] Remote compliance validation
- [08:15-09:58] Orientation, training, and connection
- [10:01-14:30] Sustainable remote management
When it comes to diversity and inclusion, how do you move from best intentions to best practices? In this PIVOT episode, Janine Yancey, founder of Emtrain, shares how small businesses can move past ideas and take action all in the effort to help build healthier workplace cultures.
On this episode, you’ll hear:
- [02:58-07:39] How to challenge the conventional ways of thinking
- [11:55-16:12] Moving the needle from intentions to practices
- [17:29-20:32] What are the best ways to get started?
- [20:33-23:30] Takeaways and insights for small businesses with Tracy Cote
With many companies embracing remote work long-term, more people are relocating to different states. What’s the best way to prepare for changes to minimum wage as a result?
In this POPS! episode, Zenefits HR advisor Lora Patterson describes best practices for when employees move across state lines, and why it’s crucial to understand what changes to minimum wage mean for both hourly and salaried employees.
Do you have a question for our experts? Submit it here: https://www.zenefits.com/workest/ask-a-question/
Additional resources:
- Minimum Wage Updates for 2021
Performance reviews are imperative to keeping employees engaged and productive. But what’s the best way to evaluate performance and provide a review remotely?
In this episode of POPS!, Zenefits Sr. Director of People Danny Speros describes why “performance alignment” is a better way to frame reviews, and how to have conversations around feedback that will help people achieve their goals.
Do you have a question for our experts? Submit it here: https://www.zenefits.com/workest/ask-a-question/
Additional resources:
- Tips for Conducting Virtual Performance Reviews | Workest
On this episode, you’ll hear:
- [01:11-02:14] Rephrasing the term “performance review”
- [02:15-03:48 ] Make sure you measure things that matter
- [04:29-06:25] Why constant feedback is more valuable than retrospective feedback
- [06:26-10:04] Ways to make reviews more conversational
It’s no secret that motivation is the precursor to high performance, so why do organizations still struggle to motivate their employees?
According to Neel Doshi, Co-founder of Vega Factor and co-author of the New York Times bestseller Primed to Perform, it's because many have yet to unlock TOMO, or “total motivation” in their people.
On this episode, Neel joins the People Ops Podcast to talk about six fundamental motivators of human behavior, how to optimize the right ones to create TOMO, and why motivation is critical to adaptability in a post-pandemic future.
On this episode, you’ll hear:
- [01:29-04:01] What inspired Neel to master the science that governs motivation and performance
- [04:19-08:54] How remote work is impacting motivation and leadership
- [10:45-13:30] The three direct motivators organizations should maximize
- [13:31-15:12] The three indirect motivators that organizations should minimize
- [17:01-19:09] Why people who are driven by indirect motivators are less adaptable, and why that’s a problem
- [23:33-26:07] How small business and startup leaders can create motivating environments
- [35:35-37:49] Why it’s crucial to get motivation right to thrive in a future of hyper-competition and change
When is the best time to update the employee handbook?
In this episode of POPS!, Zenefits HR advisor Lora Patterson shares why now is the best time to update your employee handbook, and policies to consider adding as the pandemic stretches into 2021.
Do you have a question for our experts? Click here: https://www.zenefits.com/workest/ask-a-question/
Additional Resources:
- Handbook Builder: https://www.zenefits.com/workest/employee-handbook-builder/
Many states are legalizing recreational marijuana, how do you respond?
In this POPS! episode, Zenefits Sr. Director of People Danny Speros answers this question— examining key themes for acceptance and use, how it impacts remote environments vs. on-site, incidents and policy vs. guidelines.
Do you have a question for our experts? Click here: https://www.zenefits.com/workest/ask-a-question/
Additional Resources:
- Should Your Company Have a Marijuana in the Workplace Policy?
“Treating your team well” means different things to different companies, but what does it look like if you’re the leader of a certified B Corp? In this episode, you’ll hear from Stanford Graduate School of Business alum and Fireclay Tile CEO Eric Edelson, who infuses his personal mission to do better every day into how Fireclay treats its employees. He joins The People Ops Podcast to talk about his HR “wake-up call,” how the B Corp philosophy influences Fireclay’s employee benefits, and his approach to everyday “people maintenance.”
On this episode, you’ll hear:
- [03:16-07:02]What Eric thought HR was when he started as CEO, and what changed his mind
- [07:33-10:07] What being a B Corp means and lessons learned about supporting employees from the process
- [11:06-14:02] The 3 guiding principles that grounded Eric’s team during the worst of the pandemic
- [14:05-18:01] How Fireclay approaches supporting its team from both quantitative and qualitative perspectives
- [18:21-21:10] Eric’s advice for allocating resources to enable and empower employees
People are a company’s greatest asset, expense, and competitive advantage. So why is the function that oversees a workforce traditionally seen as, at worst, a “necessary evil?”
In this episode of POPS!, Zenefits Chief Marketing Officer Kevin Marasco explains why successful companies are shifting from “HR administration” to “people operations” and the four key factors that have influenced this shift in the new world of work.
Do you have a question for our experts? Click here: https://www.zenefits.com/workest/ask-a-question/
If an employee already maxed out their COVID paid sick time in 2020 and needs to take leave again in 2021, how should HR respond?
In this episode of POPS!, Lora Patterson, HR advisor at Zenefits, shares recommendations for navigating this situation by examining existing benefits and potentially creating a new leave of absence policy.
Do you have a question for our experts? Click here: https://www.zenefits.com/workest/ask-a-question/
How does an ultra marathon runner, dad to two toddlers and a dude with a side hustle in sports tech think about the future of work?
Kevin Marasco, CMO at Zenefits, thinks if a robot wants your job then let them have it. For the last 20 years, Kevin has spent his career at the convergence of technology and HR.
He joins The People Ops Podcast! sharing why HR has a branding problem and why it’s a function ripe for disruption.
POPS! The People Ops Podcast is an original show sharing pivotal people moments that are happening in small businesses across the country highlighting just how to embrace work in the 21st century.