Initial unemployment claims totaled 684,000 last week on a seasonally adjusted basis, less than economists had expected and a drop from the tally of 781,000 the prior week. Last week's claim total was the lowest since the beginning of pandemic-led disruption. Full Story: CNBC (3/25)
[Article] Rebooting the digital workplace With nearly 50% of the employed labor force now working remote, it could prove difficult to get back to prepandemic levels of in-office work. Companies can overcome the digital workplace deficits by embracing its positives, like increased data, to optimize employee performance and personalize experiences. Read more
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Recruiting & Retention
School principal takes second job to help families North Charleston High School Principal Henry Darby says he started a second job at Walmart so he'd have enough money to help students' families in need. The move started a chain reaction of donations from around the world -- as well as enhanced wraparound services at the school, including a financial-literacy class, help with resume writing, adult education and earning GED diplomas, Darby says in this interview. Full Story: K-12 Dive (3/23)
Opinion: Workplaces should be flexible, promote well-being The first year of the "great work-from-home experiment" has shown that employers need to be flexible in defining workspaces, attuned to inclusivity concerns, and understanding of remote work's effect on employee well-being, Teresa Hopke writes. Hopke cites an American Psychological Association report that says virtual work can increase creativity, productivity and morale when done properly. Full Story: BenefitsPRO (free registration) (3/25)
The HR Leader
Negotiate your way to success in 7 steps Perfect the art of "positive persuasion" at work by, among other things, focusing on common interests and advantages, letting others have control in some areas and being willing to help out, writes Art Petty. "Your work in the organization to help others before you need help will pave the way to gaining support when you need it," Petty writes. Full Story: SmartBrief/Leadership (3/25)
Workplace Chatter
Intuitive eating helps people find freedom in eating Intuitive eating is not about weight management, but it means freedom from diets and removing any shame, stress or anxiety from eating. Registered dietitian Valery Kallen said many clients begin to trust their body and feel more at peace with their body about six months after doing the work on intuitive eating. Full Story: New York Post (3/25)
About the Editor
Kanoe Namahoe
Hats off to Henry Darby, the North Carolina school principal who has taken on a second job at Walmart to help provide financial support to families in his community. A creative, roll-up-your-sleeves solution to a tough problem. Leaders like this demonstrate how the hard work gets done. Thank you so much to those of you who have reached out about this brief. I'm listening and paying attention. Keep the notes coming and let me know how we can serve you better.
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