While We Were Working: Human Resources Advice and Workplace Tech Insights for The HR Practitioner Community

Hosted by Jumpstart HR

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118

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May 2025

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About the show

This weekly podcast for HR Pros and People Leaders focuses on topics like employee engagement, workplace culture, HR Technology and HR law for the agile, modern workplace. Learn more at: http://whilewewereworking.com. Host Joey Price, members of the Jumpstart HR team and guests bring their own personal perspective and years of experience to cover trending topics you might’ve missed while you were working. Visit www.jumpstart-hr.com for more episodes and to learn more about our HR Outsourcing support services. Visit www.aspect43.com for more industry leading HR Technology research and for HR Tech Vendor analyst opportunities.

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April 5, 2023Episode 7130 min

How to Handle an Easily Offended Employee in the Workplace

We've been hearing a lot of big tech companies implementing massive layoffs to downsize their teams in preparation for tougher times. These layoffs are brutal and partly a result of many companies hiring too quickly during the pandemic. In the While We Were Working section, we focus on an article that outlines Meta's plan to fire middle-level management to reduce costs and hire new staff to start in the office. One intriguing comment he made was related to engineers who initially joined the company in person and then transitioned to remote work outperforming those who started remotely. What does this mean? Join us in this episode as Sommer and I decode this message from Meta and what it means for smaller businesses. In the consultant's corner, we tackle a question from one of our listeners who wanted to know how to handle a situation where an employee is easily offended at work and always finds something to be sensitive about. The answer lies in open and honest conversations. Open and honest conversations are essential for helping employees develop trust, respect, and understanding for one another. When employees can communicate openly and freely with each other, they're more likely to openly discuss and address any conflict, disagreements, and issues that may arise. They are also more likely to give the most respectful interpretation of any message. This way, employees can come to a resolution quickly and efficiently rather than having a workplace culture where everyone is walking on eggshells. Key Takeaways - Meta's plan to hire middle-level management (05:33) - Viable alternatives to layoffs (08:25) - How to do layoffs effectively (09:36) - How to handle a sensitive employee (15:54)? - Most respectful interpretation approach (16:45) - The challenges with written communication (23:16) Additional Resources Check out our YouTube channel: https://youtube.com/@jumpstarthr Do you need HR consulting for YOUR small business? We got you covered! 👉 Learn more at: https://jumpstart-hr.com/ Do you have a question that you want us to tackle on the show? 📧 Email us at: hello@jumpstart-hr.com -- 📰 Article in question: https://www.hcamag.com/us/specialization/leadership/fire-middle-management-reduce-costs-get-new-staff-to-start-in-the-office/439772 -- Unlock Your Potential: Personalized DISC Assessment and Coaching: community.jumpstart-hr.com/disc -------- Hosts: Joey Price & Sommer Ketron This show is powered by Jumpstart: HR, LLC www.Jumpstart-HR.com

June 29, 2022Episode 129 min

3 Reasons Why Gen Z Workers Struggle with Burnout The Most

By 2023 Gen Z is expected to make up around 30% of the workforce. However, not unlike the Millennial Generation, Gen Z workers are already reporting high levels of burnout. A recent survey revealed that 46% of Gen Z staff felt that they were constantly stressed out and anxious. So, what is causing Millennial and Gen Z workers to struggle with burnout? Jumpstart HR Consultant Maria Thorpe joins Sommer to discuss the three main contributors to burnout symptoms in the younger generations and a few workplace wellness tips for small business HR. Maria and Sommer also share their views on team accountability. Tune in to learn why so many small business owners fail to hold their team accountable, why it’s detrimental to your business, and the benefits of implementing it properly. Key Takeaways Intro (00:00) Why Gen Zs are the mot burnt-out generation (00:53) The main reasons younger generations struggle with stress at work (05:16) The importance of promoting a healthy work-life balance (10:06) Why keeping your team accountable can be so challenging (14:56) Building accountability as part of your workplace culture (19:36) The two categories of accountability issues (23:44) Additional Resources 📰 Article in question: https://www.hr-brew.com/stories/2022/06/17/gen-z-is-growing-up-and-burning-out -- Do you need HR consulting for YOUR small business? We got you covered! 👉 Learn more at: https://jumpstart-hr.com/ Do you have a question that you want us to tackle on the show? 📧 Email us at: hello@jumpstart-hr.com Java With Joey (Monthly Small Business CEO Mastermind) - https://community.jumpstart-hr.com/offers/mwka2AyB/checkout 👉 Join our Empowered People Leaders Community [FREE Access] - https://community.jumpstart-hr.com/offers/MwchLoyL/checkout 👉 Join our Student and Early Stage HR Pro community - https://community.jumpstart-hr.com/offers/pWTbD2Ue/checkout Hosts: Maria Thorpe and Sommer Ketron This show is powered by Jumpstart:HR, LLC www.Jumpstart-HR.com

April 19, 2023Episode 7229 min

The Rise of AI in HR: What You Need to Know to Stay Ahead of the Game

As technology continues to advance, it's becoming more and more evident that the future of HR lies in the integration of artificial intelligence (AI). AI has already made significant strides in various fields, and HR is no exception. From hiring to employee retention and everything in between, AI is revolutionizing how we do business. However, the use of AI in HR raises several concerns, such as privacy, ethics, and the potential for bias. It's essential to create policies that address these concerns while reaping the benefits of AI. In the While We Were Working Section, Sommer and I explore the implications of AI on HR policies and provide tips on how to prepare for its integration. In the Consultants Corner, we answer a question we received regarding the importance of an employee handbook and whether you should use a wizard to create it. Creating an employee handbook is an essential part of managing a business. A handbook lays out the expectations and guidelines for employees and can help ensure everyone is on the same page. While it may be tempting to use pre-made templates or wizard tools, the potential risks and pitfalls are too great to ignore. With a customized handbook that reflects your business's unique culture and values, you can ensure that your employees have the tools they need to succeed while protecting your business from potential legal issues. Tune in as we explore these topics in this episode! Key Takeaways When AI meets HR (03:24) Data privacy issues around AI (04:29) Developing an AI policy in the workplace (09:01) Utilizing AI in hiring (10:57) Integrating AI into other tools (11:58) Do you really need an employee handbook (14:20) The pitfalls of creating an employee handbook using a wizard (16:04) Customizing your employee handbook (20:37) Additional Resources Check out our YouTube channel: https://youtube.com/@jumpstarthr Do you need HR consulting for YOUR small business? We got you covered! 👉 Learn more at: https://jumpstart-hr.com/ ---- Do you have a question that you want us to tackle on the show? 📧 Email us at: hello@jumpstart-hr.com -- 📰 Article in question: https://www.inc.com/suzanne-lucas/when-ai-meets-hr-prepare-your-policies-now.html -- Unlock Your Potential: Personalized DISC Assessment and Coaching: community.jumpstart-hr.com/disc -------- Hosts: Joey Price & Sommer Ketron This show is powered by Jumpstart: HR, LLC www.Jumpstart-HR.com

March 15, 2023Episode 6836 min

The Role of Artificial Intelligence in The Workforce

Artificial intelligence (AI) has been transforming various industries, including healthcare, finance, and manufacturing, and the workforce is no exception. Not only does it disrupt the HR function, but it is becoming more common in traditionally human-driven processes. To discuss this topic, Sommer and I are joined by a special guest, Alexandra Levit. She is a workforce futurist, which means somebody who looks at business and society and tries to make a determination about what has the greatest potential to cause disruption in the workforce. One of the areas AI will transform the workforce is Talent Intelligence. AI Technology expands the opportunity for people to have more meaningful careers than we ever thought possible to a point where we can ascertain the roles that people can do based on what they've done in the past. She has released a book, Deep Talent: How to Transform Your Organization and Empower Your Employees Through AI, a must-read for anyone looking to understand how AI platforms will impact the workforce in the coming years. The book provides strategies and approaches that any business leader can adopt to reinvigorate their workforce. In the Consultant corner, we tackle the topic of reasonable accommodations for employees with disabilities in the workspace. Reasonable accommodations for employees are essential to ensure that employees with disabilities are not discriminated against and are productive. Employers should engage in an interactive process with employees to determine what accommodations are necessary and reasonable. By providing reasonable accommodations, employers can create an inclusive work environment, benefit from higher productivity from employees, and comply with the law. One reservation that small businesses have with providing reasonable accommodations is the fear of incurring additional expenses, but it's not the case. Tune in as we go through some simple accommodations that don't cost anything for people with ADHD that you can implement. Key Takeaways - Alexandra Levit's origin story (03:23) - The role of AI in the workplace (07:04) - The talent intelligence technology in practice (11:39) - AI's role in diversity, inclusion, and belonging (16:16) - Technology's role in exposing people to greater opportunities (20:21) - Reasonable accommodations to individuals with disabilities (24:59) - Remote work as an accommodation for people with ADHD (29:16) Additional Resources Check out our YouTube channel: https://youtube.com/@jumpstarthr Do you need HR consulting for YOUR small business? We got you covered! 👉 Learn more at: https://jumpstart-hr.com/ Do you have a question that you want us to tackle on the show? 📧 Email us at: hello@jumpstart-hr.com -- 📰 Article in question: https://www.linkedin.com/feed/update/urn:li:activity:7037426704797077504/?utm_source=share&utm_medium=member_desktop -- Connect with Alexandra Levit Buy Deep Talent Book: https://amzn.to/3YuwhAD Website: https://alexandralevit.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alexandra.levit/?hl=en LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexandralevit/ -------- Hosts: Joey Price & Sommer Ketron This show is powered by Jumpstart: HR, LLC www.Jumpstart-HR.com

October 4, 2023Episode 8931 min

What Role Does HR Play When Disaster Strikes A Business? + Can A Restaurant Remove A Tip Pool?

Where do you go to discover the latest HR news and trends impacting your business? Subscribe To Our Weekly HR Leadership Podcast: Apple | Spotify | Podbean | YouTube | Audible | GoodPods If you don't have a disaster plan for your business, you never know when you'll need one. Let our team help: https://jumpstart-hr.com/prepaid-hr-consulting-package/ Want to create total compensation reports for your team but don't know where to start? Our team is ready to assist. Purchase a block of hours and let us tackle your to-do list today!: If your business struggles with creating ideal compensation plans, speak with an expert HR consultant and get back on track: https://jumpstart-hr.com/prepaid-hr-consulting-package/ On this episode, Joey and Sommer discuss HR's role in disaster response as well as insight into handling the aftermath of a compensation strategy that makes employees disgruntled. This show is powered by Jumpstart:HR, LLC | HR Outsourcing, Recruitment, and Payroll Services for Small Businesses and Startups https://www.jumpstart-hr.com #humanresources #hrpodcast #workplacesafety #tips #salary #workforceplanning

September 9, 2023Episode 8830 min

Employees are Quitting over Return to Office Mandates + How Can We Make Employees Return To Office?

Where do you go to discover the latest HR news and trends impacting your business? Subscribe To Our Weekly HR Leadership Podcast: Apple | Spotify | Podbean | YouTube | Audible | GoodPods Are you still uncertain about how to create an effective Return to Office plan? Hire our team to tackle this for you today: https://jumpstart-hr.com/prepaid-hr-consulting-package/ OR chat with an expert on our team: https://jumpstart-hr.com/30-minute-expert-hr-consult/ On this episode, Joey and Sommer discuss a recent HR Dive article that ties turnover to return to office mandates and our tips on how to make employees want to return to the office. This show is powered by Jumpstart:HR, LLC | HR Outsourcing, Recruitment, and Payroll Services for Small Businesses and Startups" Book your free consultation: https://www.jumpstart-hr.com #humanresources #hrpodcast #employeeengagement #returntooffice #remotework #workforceplanning

August 14, 2023Episode 8629 min

Should Employers Help Repay Employee Student Loans? + New Hire Orientation and Onboarding Tips

Are you so busy working on a to-do list that you've got very little time to grow as a people manager? Subscribe To Our Weekly HR Leadership Podcast: Apple | Spotify | Podbean | YouTube | Audible | GoodPods Need to update your employer tuition reimbursement policy but don't know where to start? Hire our team to tackle this for you today: https://jumpstart-hr.com/product/sing... Want to speak with an executive-level HR pro before onboarding your next new hire? This 30-minute investment will help you keep your new hire excited about joining your team. Book time with us here: https://jumpstart-hr.com/product/30-m... On this episode, Joey and Sommer discuss a recent @SHRMofficial article that highlights the impact student loan repayment will have on employees this fall and how to create an employee onboarding experience worth remembering (in a good way!). This show is powered by Jumpstart:HR, LLC https://www.jumpstart-hr.com #humanresources #hrpodcast #businessstrategy #studentloans #recruitment

August 13, 2023Episode 8530 min

What Every Company Needs To Know About The New 2023 Form I-9 + Managing Labor Costs In A Downturn

Are you so busy working on a to-do list that you've got very little time to grow as a people manager? Subscribe To Our Weekly HR Leadership Podcast: Apple | Spotify | Podbean | YouTube | Audible | GoodPods Need to update your Form I-9's but don't have time? Hire our team to tackle this for you today: https://jumpstart-hr.com/product/prep... Want to speak with an executive-level HR pro before navigating financial challenges? It's a tricky subject to manage, and we can help. Book time with our team here: https://jumpstart-hr.com/product/30-m... On this episode, Joey and Sommer tell you what every company needs to know about the new 2023 Form I-9 and how to navigate increased labor costs when your business is facing financial pressures. This show is powered by Jumpstart:HR, LLC https://www.jumpstart-hr.com #humanresources #hrpodcast #businessstrategy #newhire #uscis

June 14, 2023Episode 7927 min

Next-Level Recruitment Best Practices and the Benefits of Partnering with a Recruitment Agency

Recruiting top talent has always been a critical challenge for organizations across industries. Hiring the right individuals who possess the necessary skills, experience, and cultural fit can significantly impact a company's success and growth. In today's competitive job market, businesses are turning to recruitment agencies to streamline their hiring processes and improve their chances of finding the best candidates. In this episode, I am joined by Cody Cochran – JumpStart's Resident Recruiting Manager, to explore the importance of working with a recruitment agency and highlight the best practices organizations should adopt to optimize their recruitment efforts. One of the primary reasons why partnering with a recruitment agency is crucial is the access to specialized expertise. Recruitment agencies employ professionals with extensive knowledge and experience in various industries and job functions. These experts understand the current trends, market demands, and candidate expectations, enabling them to identify and attract the most qualified individuals. By leveraging this expertise, organizations can enhance their recruitment strategies and stay ahead of their competitors. But perhaps the most important reason why you should work with an agency is the massive time and cost savings that come by when a candidate is the right fit. Tune in to learn more about recruiting best practices and why working with an agency is essential for success. Key Takeaways - Meet Cody Cochran – JumpStart's Resident Recruiting Manager (01:05) - Why is effective recruitment so important for business? (02:20) - What are some of the components of a really great recruiting process? (7:11) - The first step is finding the right person for the job (13:02) - What's the difference between a recruitment agency and an outsourcing company? (14:12) - What is a Recruiting Partner? (16:57) - The cost of getting it right is less than getting it wrong (19:30) - The turnover costs of a bad hire (21:52) - Cody's parting thoughts on the current state of recruiting (24:24) Additional Resources Check out our YouTube channel: https://youtube.com/@jumpstarthr Do you need HR consulting for YOUR small business? We got you covered! 👉 Learn more at: https://jumpstart-hr.com/ Do you have a question that you want us to tackle on the show? 📧 Email us at: hello@jumpstart-hr.com -- [Free] Whole Self Thursday: https://community.jumpstart-hr.com/whole-self-thursdays ---- [Paid] HR Essentials Six-Week Course: https://community.jumpstart-hr.com/essentials ---- Hosts: Joey Price & Cody Cochran This show is powered by Jumpstart: HR, LLC www.Jumpstart-HR.com

October 26, 2022Episode 4845 min

Top HR Trends Small Businesses Should Look Out For In 2023

As the role of HR evolves, HR teams must acquire new skills and an agile approach to work to meet the expectations companies and employees are placing on them. From inflation to 'quiet quitting,' the challenges the future holds for HR teams demand preparation and strategic thinking. So, what HR trends should small businesses pay attention to in 2023? Fortunately for you, that's precisely what Joey and Sommer discuss in this week's episode of 'While We Were Working'! You'll learn how training and development techniques are expected to change, workplace flexibility, and inflation's influence on retention. Sommer and Joey also discuss the pros and cons of drug testing in the workplace, particularly regarding marijuana. Is it beneficial for small businesses to conduct regular drug tests, or do they cause more harm than good? Tune in to find out! Key Takeaways Top HR trends small businesses should look out for in 2023 (00:00) High, low, buffalo (03:17) WWWW: What is workplace flexibility, and what does it mean? (07:09) The importance of workplace flexibility in attracting top talent (11:43) How the metaverse will change business (22:19) What employers can do to improve retention (24:47) Consultant's Corner: Should companies do drug testing? (33:03) How do accommodations factor into leading people at work? (36:46) Additional Resources 📰 Article in question: https://www.forbes.com/sites/forbeshumanresourcescouncil/2022/10/05/five-areas-impacting-the-future-of-hr/ -- Do you need HR consulting for YOUR small business? We got you covered! 👉 Learn more at: https://jumpstart-hr.com/ Do you have a question that you want us to tackle on the show? 📧 Email us at: hello@jumpstart-hr.com Java With Joey (Monthly Small Business CEO Mastermind) - https://community.jumpstart-hr.com/offers/mwka2AyB/checkout 👉 Join our Empowered People Leaders Community [FREE Access] - https://community.jumpstart-hr.com/offers/MwchLoyL/checkout 👉 Join our Student and Early Stage HR Pro community - https://community.jumpstart-hr.com/offers/pWTbD2Ue/checkout Hosts: Joey Price & Sommer Ketron This show is powered by Jumpstart:HR, LLC www.Jumpstart-HR.com