US dockworkers go on strike demanding better contracts. (Bloomberg/Getty Images)
Strikes by US dockworkers add to a growing trend of labor actions nationwide. The International Longshoremen's Association called the strike Tuesday due to dissatisfaction with wage offers and automation protections, marking the first strike at East Coast and Gulf Coast ports since 1977. The past two years have seen a significant rise in work stoppages, with unions like SAG-AFTRA and the Teamsters achieving notable contract improvements, reflecting escalating labor militancy in response to pandemic-era sacrifices and inflation. Full Story: The Associated Press (10/1)
Recruiting & Retention
RTO mandate may cost Amazon Amazon faces potential workforce upheaval as nearly 73% of employees consider quitting after a mandate for a full office return by January, a Blind survey finds. The situation could lead to a substantial departure of high-level managers and skilled employees, particularly those benefiting from remote work. Full Story: Human Resources Director (9/30)
Degree apprenticeships create new options Degree apprenticeships, launched as part of the UK's 2015 apprenticeship reform, are proving effective in addressing workforce development by combining practical work experience with academic study. Despite initial concerns about retention, 73% of businesses now retain apprentices after they complete their courses. Flexible learning options and dedicated apprenticeship champions are crucial in supporting employees through their courses. Full Story: Training magazine (9/25)
Benefits & Compensation
Companies offer new array of benefits As companies aim to support and retain employees, they're introducing new benefits such as elder care and pet care, with growing popularity for mental health services, nutrition programs, and IVF treatment. Experts believe these benefits foster a compassionate corporate culture and help attract new talent. Full Story: Black Enterprise (9/30)
The HR Leader
HR leader focuses on learning during slow periods United Wholesale Mortgage avoids layoffs during low-production periods and instead focuses on educating employees and developing leaders, says Laura Lawson, executive vice president and chief people officer. "And if there's a cycle in the mortgage business, we shift our population to more of an emphasis on developing and learning technology," says Lawson, a former "Ellen DeGeneres Show" associate producer who spends some of her time visiting other companies to get new ideas. Full Story: StrategicCHRO360 (9/27)
SmartBreak: Question of the Day
The "Thrilla in Manila" on Oct. 1, 1975, in which Muhammad Ali bested Joe Frazier in 14 rounds was the third fight between the boxing greats. Where did their first match take place?
Organizations that skimp on investing in their product set themselves up for a fast fall to the bottom, as we see in today’s Leadership & Development story about the White Sox. I’ve seen that on the people side many times over the course of my career. A former employer did a spectacular job of this. Salaries did not meet industry standards. Morale was an afterthought. Professional development was “a good idea but we don’t have budget for it. Maybe next year.” The company lost great people. I talk to many of them today. They left for greener pastures and flourished. Those who stayed withered. I talk to some of them also. Their salaries have hardly moved in 10 years. They do the bare minimum to keep their jobs. They’re unconcerned about their company’s low market share and growth. They’re content to just be employed. Companies can’t grow with work teams like this. They can’t certainly can’t innovate or lead their industries. Quality talent is an investment you can’t shirk. Have you worked for an organization that invested well in its teams? Or one that cut corners--and you saw the house of cards crumble? Drop me a line and let me know. Do you love this brief? Share it with others. Want different stories? Something about it bug you? Tell me. In the words of Frasier Crane, “I’m listening.”
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