Google prepares for office return by easing rules | Why "conversational currency" is vital for retention | Handling layoffs in a remote-work environment
Google informed employees in the San Francisco Bay Area that it's easing rules related to testing, vaccines, social distancing and mask-wearing as it prepares to welcome staff back to offices three days per week. The company also is restoring on-site perks and amenities, and has dropped its vaccine mandate. Full Story: CNBC (2/23)
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Recruiting & Retention
Why "conversational currency" is vital for retention Leaders can employ "conversational currency" to retain employees and improve culture by making authentic dialogue with individuals a regular practice, writes Ragan Consulting Group's Kristin Graham. "Respect can't be found on an intranet page. It can only be delivered and received in a personal way," Graham writes. Full Story: PR Daily (2/22)
How can you hire more efficiently? Candidates do not want to endure an inefficient hiring process and according to Robert Half, 23% lose interest if they don't hear back within one week. Join Lever and Checkr on 3/3 as we share tips for making the interview process more efficient & effective!
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What to consider when resuming employee travel Companies resuming business travel should determine what trips are necessary, understand other countries' restrictions, determine which employees have the least chance of contracting the illness and have a plan for when traveling employees get sick or have to quarantine, write Willis Towers Watson's Dr. Jeff Levin-Scherz, Dr. Patricia Toro and Dr. Siupo Becker. "Employees should initiate a business trip only if they are feeling well," they write. Full Story: StrategicCHRO360 (2/22)
Technology
Workforce management tools face post-pandemic update Pre-pandemic workforce management systems were aimed at tasks such as scheduling and reporting, but post-pandemic tools will need to meet the needs of hybrid workforces, flexible schedules and remote training. "Right now, people are stitching things together here and there," says IDC executive Ritu Jyoti. Full Story: Computerworld (2/22)
The HR Leader
What to ask executive finalists Candidates interviewing for senior roles in an organization should be able to clearly articulate their vision, name three leaders they've coached or mentored, and describe how they'll lead in a changing environment, writes Michael Useem, director of the Wharton Center for Leadership and Change Management. It's also worth questioning board directors, as well as managers who know the finalists, Useem writes. Full Story: Knowledge@Wharton (2/21)
About the Editor
Kanoe Namahoe
“Are we there yet?” That question echoed in my head as I read today’s lead story about Google’s return-to-office plans. The search engine giant is bringing back massages, reopening its fitness center and informal spaces, and restoring its shuttle service for commuting employees, among other amenities. It’s also dropping its vaccination mandate and relaxing its mask policies. I find this encouraging. Are we back to pre-pandemic norms? No. But we are much further along than we were a year ago or even six months ago. We’re emerging from our homes and masks and starting to live again – exchanging hugs, traveling and attending conferences. And planning return to offices. That’s progress. I like it. How can I serve you better with this brief? Let me know! And if you enjoy this brief, tell others so they can benefit also.
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