While We Were Working: Your Weekly Small Business HR and People Leadership Podcast

Walking the Tightrope: The Pros and Cons of Employers Taking a Stance on Social and Political Issues

When it comes to employers taking positions on social and political issues, it's a topic that sparks a lot of discussion.
Some people believe that employers should take a stand because it helps attract and retain employees who share similar values, creating a sense of belonging and boosting morale.
Plus, it can also shape public perception and enhance a company's reputation, especially when it aligns with its target audience.
On the other hand, there are those who argue that companies should stay neutral and focus solely on their business interests, avoiding potential backlash or conflicts with employees and customers who hold different views.
It's a balancing act, weighing the benefits of expressing a stance on important issues against the risks and potential consequences.
In the While We Were Working Segment of the show Sommer and I argue that it's ultimately up to each employer to carefully consider their circumstances and values before deciding whether or not to take a position.
In the Consultants Corner, we tackle a topic that we have previously talked about and one that will continue coming up. That is concerns around AI technology in the workplace.
Recently, an attorney sought assistance from an AI language model, ChatGPT, to generate a legal briefing. However, things took a turn for the worse when the AI-generated response included references to nonexistent case law.
This blunder ultimately made the attorney a subject of ridicule in the legal community.
One of the primary concerns with employing AI in professional settings is the lack of accuracy and reliability. Although AI models like GPT are designed to generate coherent and contextually appropriate text, they are not foolproof.
Relying solely on AI-generated content without fact-checking or verification can lead to inaccurate information or nonexistent references that can undermine the credibility of work produced with AI assistance.
In addition to inaccuracies, we have major concerns around biases built into the tools, data privacy concerns, and much more.
Tune in as we delve deep into these issues and how best to approach AI in the workplace.
Key Takeaways
- Should employers take a stand on political and social issues? (02:35)
- What about issues relevant to their businesses (06:12)
- What do you stand for? (07:38)
- How hardline stands affects recruitment efforts (13:20)
- Why are you choosing not to take a stance? (15:44)
- Concerns around AI in the workplace (20:22)
- Trust but always verify when using AI (23:07)
- Training employees on the limitations of AI (25:31)
- AI policy in the workplace (29:02)
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 
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[Free] Whole Self Thursday: https://community.jumpstart-hr.com/whole-self-thursdays
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[Paid] HR Essentials Six-Week Course: https://community.jumpstart-hr.com/essentials
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Hosts: Joey Price & Taryn Grey
 
This show is powered by Jumpstart: HR, LLC 
www.Jumpstart-HR.com
 

Rethinking Hustle Culture: Prioritizing Sustainability over Burnout

Productivity culture, sometimes referred to as hustle culture, has become ubiquitous, particularly on social media platforms. Hustle culture, characterized by a relentless focus on work and constant busyness, has become deeply ingrained in our society. 
We are constantly bombarded with tips and tricks on how to work smarter, faster, and more efficiently.
By obsessing over productivity, we inadvertently program ourselves to burn out quicker. We become so fixated on optimizing our work output that we neglect self-care, rest, and nourishment. This often leads to burnout, deteriorating health, and strained relationships.
In an effort to redefine the narrative surrounding productivity and success, we are proud to introduce Whole Self Thursday, an initiative by @jumpstarthr. Whole Self Thursday is designed for people who understand that sustainable success requires a holistic approach.
In this episode, I am joined by Taryn Grey, an HR consultant here at Jumpstart: HR, LLC, to talk all about this new initiative. 
It emphasizes the importance of being excellent while also being healthy and balanced. By joining this movement, you will gain valuable insights, practical tips, and a supportive community that encourages self-care, personal growth, and work-life integration.
Tune in to learn more about Whole Self Thursday and how to join the movement.
Key Takeaways
- Meet Taryn Grey (00:48)
- Whole Self Thursdays (04:17)
- Creating a healthier work-life balance (05:53)
- Being great at work does not translate to living a better life (07:34)
- The pitfalls of hustle culture (09:45)
- The Whole Self Thursday events (12:16)
- The Whole Self Thursday Community (13:51)
 
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 & Taryn Grey 
This show is powered by Jumpstart: HR, LLC 
www.Jumpstart-HR.com

Are Happy Employees the Key to Productivity? New Survey Sheds Light

It's a fact of life that we spend a significant chunk of our time at work, so it's no wonder that the level of happiness we find in our jobs plays a vital role in our overall well-being. Well, according to a recent survey by The Conference Board, it seems like there's more to this happiness factor than meets the eye.
The study revealed that employee job satisfaction has reached an all-time high, and that's some fantastic news! Who doesn't want to be happy at work, right?
One key finding that caught our attention was the correlation between job satisfaction and overall productivity. It turns out that happy employees tend to be more engaged, motivated, and productive in their roles. Makes sense, doesn't it?
When you're content and fulfilled at work, you're more likely to bring your A-game and make a real impact. Talk about a win-win situation!
In the ‘While We Were Working’ segment, Sommer and I discuss the findings of this survey, including what employees were least satisfied with.
In the ‘Consultant's Corner’, we tackle a popular topic, but one many employers don't quite know how to handle effectively. We are talking about time off policies.
Time off policies should aim to strike a balance between employee well-being and organizational productivity, but many employers tend to feel that employees are abusing this provision.
One of the first steps in fostering responsible time off usage is effective communication and managing expectations. Companies should clearly articulate their time off policies, including sick leave and personal time allowances, to all employees. Ensure that these policies are easily accessible and well-explained, leaving no room for ambiguity.
But that's not all.
Tune in to this episode for more tips on time off policies and how to set the right expectations around them. 
Key Takeaways
US employees are more satisfied than ever (03:16)
Highly satisfied employees are high-performing employees (05:29)
What employees are least satisfied with (07:59)
Time off policies (12:39)
The push for Return-To-Office (15:28)
Managing expectations around time off (17:46)
The effect of time off policies on performance (21:57)
You shouldn't trust your gut or Google (22:54)
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://edition.cnn.com/2023/05/11/success/employee-job-satisfaction-survey-conference-board/index.html
Job Satisfaction Survey Findings: https://www.conference-board.org/research/job-satisfaction/US-worker-satisfaction-continues-to-increase
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[Free] Whole Self Thursday: https://community.jumpstart-hr.com/whole-self-thursdays[Paid] HR Essentials Six-Week Course: https://community.jumpstart-hr.com/essentials
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Hosts: Joey Price & Sommer Ketron
 
This show is powered by Jumpstart: HR, LLC 
www.Jumpstart-HR.com
 

A Closer Look at a High-Stakes Sex Discrimination Lawsuit

The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) recently fined R&L Carriers, a nationwide trucking company headquartered in Wilmington, Ohio, $1.25 million to settle a sex discrimination lawsuit brought against it by a class of female employees.
The female employees claimed that the company discriminated against them in their hiring process by reserving the loader positions for men. The EEOC investigated and found that this was indeed the practice resulting to the massive settlement.
As we reimagine the workplace of the future, we've got to think about how our hiring practices prevent some people from pursuing certain roles, especially when it's a protected class like gender.
Many businesses aren't even aware they're breaking the law until the authorities come for them.
In the While We Were Working Section, Sommer and I discuss this case and what businesses need to know regarding hiring practices in a more inclusive society.
In the Consultants Corner, we tackle a question about employee compensation.
When structuring employee benefits, businesses can make significant mistakes related to things like tax and misclassification of workers as independent contractors.
While these arrangements might seem to reduce the burden on employers, when done wrong, they can lead to legal and financial consequences.
In this episode, Sommer and I unpack some things that can help you stay out of the EEOC's bad graces and some common mistakes to avoid when structuring employee compensation and benefits. 
Key Takeaways
- Discrimination in the hiring process (03:41)
- What is your DEIB strategy (06:44)
- Using data to correct unlawful hiring practices (10:36)
- Don't put your reputation as an employer on the line (13:20) 
- Make sure your hiring practices are inclusive (14:25)
- Common mistakes with employee benefits (16:51)
- Domestic partners and pretax benefits (20:56)
- Misclassification of independent contractors (24:05)
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.eeoc.gov/newsroom/rl-carriers-pay-125-million-settle-eeoc-sex-discrimination-suit
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Check out our Recruitment services  www.jumpstart-hr.com
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Hosts: Joey Price & Sommer Ketron 
This show is powered by Jumpstart: HR, LLC 
www.Jumpstart-HR.com

Innovative Strategies for Thriving in a Recession

In a recession, small businesses must adapt and implement new strategies to stay afloat. Economic observers are predicting a potential recession driven by high inflation and supply chain issues.
While no one knows how prolonged or how severe the recession will be, we know that any economic downturn significantly impacts small businesses.
In the While We Were Working Segment of the show, Sommer and I discuss an article published by Entrepreneur.com, where several experts shared their insights on the new strategies that small businesses can use to survive a recession.
Key among their recommendations was prioritizing customer satisfaction and meeting your customers where they are at. This is the time to listen to the customer and try as much as possible to accommodate them and provide a frictionless experience.
While customer experience is important, employee experience matters too. If you don't have great employees to get you through this tough time, then you'll have a really difficult time surviving a recession.
In the Consultants Corner, we answer a question from one of our listeners who wanted to know when is the right time to hire a new employee.
Knowing the right time to hire your next employee is a critical decision for any business owner. On one hand, hiring new employees can help your business grow and take on more work. On the other hand, hiring too soon can put a strain on your finances and operations.
Tune in to this episode for our expert views on these two topics!
Key Takeaways
How businesses can thrive during a recession (01:47)
Meet your customers where they’re at (05:13)
Prioritizing customer satisfaction (12:15)
Providing a frictionless experience (13:08)
Employee experience matters too (14:18)
Diversify the opportunity (17:04)
When is the right time to hire someone? 20:24)
Making financial sense of new hires (22:46)
Creating a successful internship program (30:59)
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.entrepreneur.com/growing-a-business/new-strategies-to-help-small-businesses-survive-a-recession/450048
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Unlock the power of internships and take your business to the next level! Join us for an exclusive event on creating a successful internship program. Register now: https://community.jumpstart-hr.com/whole-self-thursdays
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Hosts: Joey Price & Sommer Ketron
 
This show is powered by Jumpstart: HR, LLC 
www.Jumpstart-HR.com

The Hidden Dangers of Skipping Background Checks When Hiring for Your Small Business

Picture this: you're a small business owner looking to hire a new employee. You have a good feeling about a candidate, their resume looks impressive, and they seem like they would fit in with your team.
But before making any final decisions, have you considered conducting a background check?
Background checks are an essential step in the hiring process for many reasons.
First and foremost, they help ensure the safety and security of your workplace. You can also check for any criminal records or other red flags that may indicate a potential risk to your business.
Background checks can also help you make better hiring decisions overall. By verifying a candidate's qualifications and employment history, you can ensure they have the skills and experience they claim to have.
Now, I know what you might be thinking. "Background checks sound like a lot of work and expense." And sure, they can be. But the cost of not conducting a background check can be even higher. Imagine hiring someone who turns out to have a history of violent workplace misconduct.
So, what should you look for when conducting a background check? In the While We Were Working segment, Sommer and I go through the reasons for background checks and things you should be looking for.
In the Consultant's Corner, we deal with a smelly situation.
We all have experienced a scenario where somebody has a terrible body odor. In the workplace, this can be disruptive and offensive to other people due to the close proximity of workstations.
If you find yourself in a situation where a team member has a bad body odor, It's important to approach the situation with sensitivity and tact. It might be a medical condition or another issue the person is dealing with.
Tune in to learn the best approach to handle this nose-pinching situation without aggravating it.
Key Takeaways
- Importance of background checks (01:04)
- Reasons to run background checks (05:06)
- Insuring against a detrimental hire (09:14)
- Legal consequences of negligent hiring (10:07)
- Giving people a second chance (13:52)
- Terrible body odor in the office (16:53)
- How to approach the smelly situation (18:28)
- Body odor conversation tips (20:32)
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
 -- 
Verify First: https://partners.verifiedfirst.com/aspx/referralpage?refer=OgzlxC3x02ogiSx7hU1pu4hlfn5z3HBbqZZMN2o7Bcc1
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Hosts: Joey Price & Sommer Ketron
 
This show is powered by Jumpstart: HR, LLC 
www.Jumpstart-HR.com
 

The Top 5 Mistakes Employers Make on Form I-9 and How to Avoid Them

Form I-9 is a crucial document that employers must fill out for each employee to verify their identity and eligibility to work in the United States.
It is important to get the documentation right and not refuse eligible documents from team members, as it could lead to legal and financial consequences for the employer.
In the While We Were Working Segment, Sommer and I discuss a recent news article that reported a Hooters Franchise recently settled with the DOJ after it refused a worker's I-9 documentation.
By law, employers must ensure that all employees, including U.S. citizens and non-citizens, are authorized to work in the United States. Form I-9 is used to verify an employee's identity and eligibility to work in the country. Employers are required to complete and retain this form for each employee.
Employers should not refuse eligible documents from team members as it could be seen as discrimination and result in legal repercussions. However, employers must ensure that the documents presented by the employee are genuine and belong to them.
Employers must also complete Form I-9 within the required timeframe and ensure that it is accurate and up-to-date. Failure to comply with these requirements could result in fines and penalties for the employer.
In the Consultants Corner, we explore the top reasons why employees quit their jobs.
It is important for employers to understand these reasons if they are to improve employee retention and workplace culture.
Conducting satisfaction surveys and exit interviews can help employers understand why employees are leaving and identify areas for improvement.
Satisfaction surveys can be used to gather employee feedback about their experiences working for the company, while exit interviews can be used to gather feedback from employees who are leaving.
Tune in to this episode and get some helpful tips on being a better leader for your team!
Key Takeaways
- Which documents should an employer ask for (03:47)
- Common mistakes with I-9s (07:22)
- Double-check before declining any documentation (11:07)
- Timeframe for completing I-9 (12:49)
- Check out for expired documents (15:01)
- The top reasons why employees quit (19:11)
- Value of satisfaction surveys and exit interviews (32:48)
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.hrdive.com/news/doj-hooters-settle-immigration-I9-document/647555/
-- 
Check out our dedicated recruitment and staffing services: https://jumpstart-hr.com/
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Hosts: Joey Price & Sommer Ketron 
This show is powered by Jumpstart: HR, LLC 
www.Jumpstart-HR.com
 

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/
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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
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Hosts: Joey Price & Sommer Ketron
 
This show is powered by Jumpstart: HR, LLC 
www.Jumpstart-HR.com

Dealing with Ethical Conundrums in the Workplace

There are often times when something happens in the business that's not technically a policy violation but poses an ethical conundrum. As an HR pro or a small business owner, you need to determine the best course of action to take. These are things that are not black or white but fall in the gray area but nonetheless demand a decision be made because there are some consequences.
It's important to have a plan to help you navigate these situations way before they happen.
Sommer and I go through the framework for making these ethical and moral decisions in the While We Were Working section of the episode.
In the consultant's corner segment, we dive deep into a tricky situation becoming more prevalent with remote working.
It's all about employees who are working multiple jobs leading to distractions and loss of productivity. You might have your suspicions as an employer, but how do you handle this situation?
Tune in to learn more!
Key Takeaways
How often are business owners faced with ethical dilemmas (04:06)
Navigating difficult ethical situations (06:42)
Most ethical missteps leaders make (08:57)
The ethical decision-making guidance tool (10:29)
Your gut is the ultimate decision maker (11:57)
Do you suspect someone is working another full-time job (16:41)
Define your no-other employment/moonlighting policies (19:50)
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
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📰 Article in question: 
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Verified First: https://partners.verifiedfirst.com/aspx/referralpage?refer=OgzlxC3x02ogiSx7hU1pu4hlfn5z3HBbqZZMN2o7Bcc1
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Navigating Difficult Decisions: A Guide To Small Business Layoffs: https://community.jumpstart-hr.com/navigating-difficult-decisions
 
Hosts: Joey Price & Sommer Ketron
This show is powered by Jumpstart: HR, LLC 
www.Jumpstart-HR.com
 

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
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Unlock Your Potential: Personalized DISC Assessment and Coaching: community.jumpstart-hr.com/disc
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 Hosts: Joey Price & Sommer Ketron
 This show is powered by Jumpstart: HR, LLC 
www.Jumpstart-HR.com