California's new law restricting companies from classifying workers as independent contractors goes into effect on Jan. 1, and many small businesses are reorganizing staffing in response. The law is being challenged in court, and experts think the list of professions excluded by the law will grow. The Associated Press (12/27)
Recruiting & Retention
Isolation, stalled career are concerns of remote staff While many employees are clamoring for flexible and remote-work options, there are disadvantages to working remotely. Two primary concerns are loneliness of workers and a lack of career progression, as remote workers miss out on opportunities for collaboration and evaluation. Forbes (12/26)
More states expected to increase minimum wage in 2020 Twenty-one states increased the state minimum wage in 2019, and more are expected to follow in 2020. The federal minimum wage has remained unchanged since 2009, when it was bumped up to $7.25 per hour. CNBC (12/26)
Employee engagement is important, and career advice often encourages people to bring their whole self to work, but Tomas Chamorro-Premuzic says this is a bad idea. If too much of your identity is work-related, it could hurt your ability to manage disappointment. Fast Company online (12/23)
Workplace Chatter
A look back at late-night water cooler moments This decade started with the dissolution of Conan O'Brien's "Tonight Show" tenure and included several other hosting changes across late night. Late night continues to embrace digital platforms and an always-on approach, but the money remains in live TV viewership. The Daily Beast (12/21),The Hollywood Reporter (12/23)
Have knowledge of what you're talking about. Read and be curious. Always listen.
Andre Leon Talley, fashion journalist, magazine editor
