POPS! The People Ops Podcast

Having a conversation with an employee about why you're letting them go is never fun. Sometimes it can even be difficult or challenging. In this episode, Jill Shroyer, Founder and CEO of Expedition HR and best-selling author of the book Conquer Sticky Situations, shares helpful phrasing for when you need to let someone go. This five-step formula will give you the basics to handle any tough conversation. She also shares some tips to accommodate for the nuanced “what if” scenarios. Additional Resources: Order your copy of our book People Operations: Zenefits.com/pops-book Submit your People Ops questions: https://www.zenefits.com/workest/ask-a-question/ Check out Jill's book, Conquer Sticky Situations: https://www.amazon.com/dp/1736213407 On this episode, you'll hear: [00:45] An overview of the steps [02:22] Tips to keep in mind [04:37] Sample employee termination script

Even though employee engagement is all the rage right now, according to Gallup, only 33% of employees feel engaged at work. In this episode, David Watson, Product Marketing Manager at Zenefits, shares why engagement is so important to a company's success and how to survey your employees to gauge where they're at. Additional Resources: Order your copy of our book People Operations: Zenefits.com/pops-book Submit your People Ops questions: https://www.zenefits.com/workest/ask-a-question/ On this episode, you'll hear: [00:25] The benefits of an engaged team [01:30] Addressing the need to create happier, more engaged employees [2:40] Customizing your surveys

When you're putting a lot of resources toward recruitment efforts, it's important to understand what those costs are to determine only if they are worth the return you're getting. In this episode, Catie Grigsby, Senior Product Marketing Manager at TriNet Zenefits, shares ways you can calculate cost per hire and ultimately decide if what you're doing is worth continuing. Additional Resources: Order your copy of our book People Operations: Zenefits.com/pops-book Submit your People Ops questions: https://www.zenefits.com/workest/ask-a-question/ On this episode, you'll hear: [00:26] Costs that contribute to hiring [01:15] Personnel costs [01:45] Employee turnover rates

It's no secret. If you want to build a great company, you must start by investing in your people. Without this proactive approach, it's hard to grow. In this episode, Morgan Furchner, Associate Product Marketing Manager at TriNet Zenefits, shares how you can help train, develop, and grow leaders to push your business to the next level. Additional Resources: Order your copy of our book People Operations: Zenefits.com/pops-book Submit your People Ops questions: https://www.zenefits.com/workest/ask-a-question/ On this episode, you'll hear: [00:28] Invest in your people to grow your organization [00:50] What happens when employees don't get training [01:34] Treat the employee experience like the customer experience [02:44] The power of building relationships [03:15] Establish what's in it for them

Only a decade ago, HR teams had to be careful of leaving sensitive employee information on a copy or fax machine. Technology has changed drastically since then, making cybersecurity a much more real issue. Lourdes Rivera, Senior Director of People at Electric, shares why cybersecurity matters for HR professionals. Additional Resources: Order your copy of our book People Operations: Zenefits.com/pops-book Submit your People Ops questions: https://www.zenefits.com/workest/ask-a-question/ On this episode, you'll hear: [00:27] How technology has changed [01:32] What the pandemic did to security [03:01] IT needs are evolving quickly [04:05] Where there are challenges [04:50] Ways to protect your people and business [06:45] How Electric could help

In 2021, we saw almost 50 million people quit their jobs in what was dubbed as “The Great Resignation.” In this war for talent, how do organizations create an exceptional brand to attract and retain talent? Ankur Patel, Product Marketing Manager at TriNet Zenefits, joins the show to share his insight. Additional Resources: Order your copy of our book People Operations: Zenefits.com/pops-book Submit your People Ops questions: https://www.zenefits.com/workest/ask-a-question/ On this episode, you'll hear: [01:55] Brand building is emotional [02:30] Lead with your values [03:42] Share your story [05:08] Find your brand ambassadors [06:50] Don't underestimate tone and voice

There's been a shift among organizations to focus more on their employees, because if employees are thriving, it will in turn help customers. So who is responsible for this culture of employee growth? Ankur Patel, Product Marketing Manager at TriNet Zenefits, joins the show to share how the CEO fits into the puzzle. Additional Resources: Order your copy of our book People Operations: Zenefits.com/pops-book Submit your People Ops questions: https://www.zenefits.com/workest/ask-a-question/ On this episode, you'll hear: [00:38] People want to see the company value them [02:05] Where the CEO needs to set expectations [03:58] Think through the milestones

Part of having great employees is having a great recruiting and hiring process, which is why it's so important for companies to monitor how successful the process is to ensure continued success for the company. Lora Patterson, a People Operations Advisor at TriNet Zenefits, joins the show to share ways you can measure this success from both the candidate and manager perspective. Additional Resources: Order your copy of our book People Operations: Zenefits.com/pops-book Submit your People Ops questions: https://www.zenefits.com/workest/ask-a-question/ On this episode, you'll hear: [00:45] Remember to serve people who are part of the process [01:18] Survey questions to ask hiring managers [04:21] Following up on how candidates are performing [05:29] Survey questions for your candidates

With a wide range of disabilities that exist, it can be hard to keep track of all the accommodation options you can offer employees needing assistance. In this episode, Lucy Henry, People Operations Advisor at TriNet Zenefits, shares examples of what accommodations can be made under the ADA and resources to help you find solutions that fit the needs of your employees. Additional Resources: Order your copy of our book People Operations: Zenefits.com/pops-book Submit your People Ops questions: https://www.zenefits.com/workest/ask-a-question/ On this episode, you'll hear: [01:05] Examples of ADA accommodations [02:15] Resources for employers to find accommodation solutions

If you're a company with over 15 employees, it is a federal requirement that you comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). ****In this episode, Lucy Henry, People Operations Advisor at TriNet Zenefits, helps describe the ADA and the steps involved in complying with the interactive process. Additional Resources: Order your copy of our book People Operations: Zenefits.com/pops-book Submit your People Ops questions: https://www.zenefits.com/workest/ask-a-question/ On this episode, you'll hear: [00:35] What is ADA? [01:49] How businesses must comply [03:00] The ADA interactive process, step by step [06:05] What's considered undue hardship on the employer?

HR organizational design is the administration and execution of an organization's strategic plan. Ultimately, it's about creating the best fit between the strategic choice of the organization and the organization setting. So how do you do it successfully? Catie Grigsby, Senior Product Marketing Manager at TriNet Zenefits, shares her insight into how to do organizational design right. Additional Resources: Order your copy of our book People Operations: Zenefits.com/pops-book Submit your People Ops questions: https://www.zenefits.com/workest/ask-a-question/ On this episode, you'll hear: [00:24] The definition of organizational design [00:51] Five principles of organizational design [01:15] Common mistakes companies make

The hiring process can be overwhelming, and it can often feel like a guessing game trying to find that perfect candidate for your company and the role you're trying to fill. Lora Patterson, a People Operations Advisor at TriNet Zenefits, joins the show to go over the steps your company can take to find those great employees. Additional Resources: Order your copy of our book People Operations: Zenefits.com/pops-book Submit your People Ops questions: https://www.zenefits.com/workest/ask-a-question/ On this episode, you'll hear: [00:32] Understand how their career goals fit with the job [01:03] Check references with different questions [01:45] Don't just focus on their resume [03:00] Ask unusual or uncommon questions [04:08] Bring them into another environment [05:11] Take your time; push for diversity

Is your organization experiencing a lot of turnover? It can be overwhelming to figure out what to do when it's happening, let alone prevent it from becoming an uncontrollable pattern. In this episode, Summer Rogers, Senior Solution Consultant from the embedded analytics team at Visier, joins the show to share what you can do proactively and what you can do reactively to combat this issue. Additional Resources: Order your copy of our book People Operations: Zenefits.com/pops-book Submit your People Ops questions: https://www.zenefits.com/workest/ask-a-question/ On this episode, you'll hear: [01:12] Thoughtfully design culture and avoid toxic managers [02:23] Invest in development opportunities for your employees [03:20] Act on what you learn in stay interviews [04:00] Reactive measures to keep your people; counter offers [05:15] Consider boomerang workers

People analytics aren't a trend. They're becoming a necessity as companies grow and thrive in the market. Why do you need them? Ian Cook, VP of People Analytics at Visier, shares insights around the importance of tracking people data and some basics you can start with. Additional Resources: Order your copy of our book People Operations: Zenefits.com/pops-book Submit your People Ops questions: https://www.zenefits.com/workest/ask-a-question/ On this episode, you'll hear: [00:39] Ian's small business story [03:40] What people analytics looks like today [04:35] What intelligence you need to run your business [05:22] Understanding the impact of headcount [08:30] Understanding employee starts [09:45] How the movement of people affects costs [11:11] More mature analytics to track

In today's increasingly complex world, acting on gut feelings is not always the best way to make company decisions, especially when it involves your people. Andrea Derler, Principal of Research and Value at Visier, shares what workforce trends leaders should be aware of and the analytics they should track alongside them. Additional Resources: Stop the Exit Leader's Data Mindset: Deloitte/Visier Research Order your copy of our book People Operations: Zenefits.com/pops-book Submit your People Ops questions: https://www.zenefits.com/workest/ask-a-question/ On this episode, you'll hear: [00:52] Analytics around attracting and retaining talent [04:27] Analytics around diversity, equity, and inclusion [08:22] Analytics around leader's data mindset [11:28] Why people analytics matter

Any change starts with your people. When decisions need to be made, people's opinions will differ, and it's HR's job to make decisions that take everyone's view into account. In this episode, David Watson, Product Marketing Manager at Zenefits, talks about how the rational and emotional aspects of decision-making can play into people operations. Additional Resources: Order your copy of our book People Operations: Zenefits.com/pops-book Submit your People Ops questions: https://www.zenefits.com/workest/ask-a-question/ On this episode, you'll hear: [00:28] What does “emorational” mean? [01:19] Taking everyone's view into account [02:00] Balancing business and people

As an HR leader, the process of expanding your workforce outside of your current country can be unfamiliar territory. There's so much to consider, and it can be overwhelming not knowing what types of hurdles you might need to go through. In this episode, David Watson, Product Marketing Manager at Zenefits, talks through some key questions to ask before starting the process. Additional Resources: Order your copy of our book People Operations: Zenefits.com/pops-book Submit your People Ops questions: https://www.zenefits.com/workest/ask-a-question/ On this episode, you'll hear: [00:28] Why companies expand global workforces [00:58] The role of HR during expansion [01:12] Questions you should ask

70 million Americans have some form of a criminal record in their past. This means there are 70 million Americans who aren't give a fair chance and are overlooked as viable job candidates. Believe it or not, fair chance hiring is a key part of DEI strategies, and it's something companies don't really think about. In this episode, Jordan Martinez, Marketing Manager at Checkr, interviews Ken Oliver, Executive Director of Checkr.org, Checkr's corporate social responsibility program in philanthropic initiative. Listen in as he shares insight into what fair chance hiring is, the benefits it can generate, and how organizations can incorporate it into their DEI strategy. Additional Resources: Download the eBook, The Diversity Group You're Overlooking: How to be a Fair Chance Employer: https://checkr.com/resources/ebook/decrease-recidivism-with-fair-chance-hiring?utm_source=zenefits&utm_medium=email-soical&utm_campaign=podcast&utm_content=downloadcontent Order your copy of our book People Operations: Zenefits.com/pops-book Submit your People Ops questions: https://www.zenefits.com/workest/ask-a-question/ On this episode, you'll hear: [01:02] Ken's background in social work and DEI [02:41] Being a product-first corporate social responsibility endeavor [03:58] What is fair chance hiring and how it relates to DEI [06:14] Overcoming your biases [08:03] Where to start incorporating fair chance hiring practices

People are an organization's greatest asset. Ensuring your employees are motivated begins with understanding what their basic human needs are and how to support them in the workplace. In this episode, Morgan Furchner, Associate Product Marketing Manager at TriNet Zenefits, shares the basic needs employers should be fulfilling and how to determine if you're supporting those needs. Additional Resources: Order your copy of our book People Operations: Zenefits.com/pops-book Submit your People Ops questions: https://www.zenefits.com/workest/ask-a-question/ On this episode, you'll hear: [00:30] Reference Maslow's hierarchy of needs [02:32] How to determine if you're supporting those needs [05:00] The benefits of supporting the basics

To stand out in today's competitive job market, employers and hiring teams must provide candidates with the best experience possible. But what elements make a great interview process? On this episode, Josh Jones, the Manager of Talent Acquisition at Employ Inc., shares his insight on what will enable your hiring teams to provide a great candidate experience. Additional Resources: Order your copy of our book People Operations: Zenefits.com/pops-book Submit your People Ops questions: https://www.zenefits.com/workest/ask-a-question/ On this episode, you'll hear: [00:44] Starting with people [02:18] Having a well-defined interview process [04:31] Incorporating technology [06:42] Standing out in recruiting

Sometimes you extend a job offer to someone, and, due to various reasons, it just isn't going to work out. So how do you revoke the offer? In this episode, Dan Marzullo, Founder of Drafted, gives some pointers on how to go through this process and shares insight on how to reduce the risk of it happening in the future. Additional Resources: Order your copy of our book People Operations: Zenefits.com/pops-book Submit your People Ops questions: https://www.zenefits.com/workest/ask-a-question/ On this episode, you'll hear: [01:03] What to do if you need to revoke an offer [02:13] How to mitigate this from happening again [03:08] Why you shouldn't revoke a job offer

Many steps in the income verification process can lead to headaches for your HR team and your employees. So how can you simplify it to get people what they need without unnecessary stress? To answer this question, Adam Kerin, VP of Product Marketing at Truework, explains how SMB leaders can automate this process for free. Additional Resources: Order your copy of our book People Operations: Zenefits.com/pops-book Submit your People Ops questions: https://www.zenefits.com/workest/ask-a-question/ On this episode, you'll hear: [00:38] What the process should look like [01:37] Problems that can arise [02:30] How to avoid frustrations using Zenefits and Truework

According to a recent AARP article, 48% of Americans age 55 and older have no retirement savings. This is a staggering number is what we call the “retirement crisis.” And it's even more exaggerated within small businesses. To help share the importance of offering a 401(k) plan and doing so easily is Richard Lane, Partnerships Manager at Guideline, a FinTech retirement platform. Listen in as he discusses how a Safe Harbor 401(k) can add flexibility to your company's retirement plan. Additional Resources: To learn more about the terms and conditions that apply visit https://www.guideline.com/blog/safe-harbor-401k-plan/ AARP article: https://www.aarp.org/retirement/retirement-savings/info-2019/no-retirement-money-saved.html Order your copy of our book People Operations: Zenefits.com/pops-book Submit your People Ops questions: https://www.zenefits.com/workest/ask-a-question/ On this episode, you'll hear: [00:52] The 401k access gap [02:00] Three tests your plan has to pass [03:15] How you can ensure your plan remains compliant [05:09] Details around employer match [05:47] 401(k) deadlines to be aware of

In April 2021, more than 4 million US workers quit their jobs—the biggest spike on record. And the turnover is expected to continue. What can businesses do to retain employees during the Great Resignation? On this episode of POPS! Zenefits Senior HR Advisor Lora Patterson explains the key reasons why people are leaving their jobs and strategies companies can use to keep their best employees. Additional Resources: Order your copy of People Operations: https://www.zenefits.com/pops-book/ On this episode, you'll hear:  [00:00-00:41] What is the Great Resignation?  [00:41-01:40] How the pandemic altered how workers view their careers and lives [01:40-03:31] The key reasons why employees may be considering a job change [03:31-05:03] Why work-life balance matters to workers more than ever before [05:03-05:49] Why it's important to survey your workforce on their preferences [05:49-06:37] Steps you can take to keep your workforce [06:37-07:39] Step 1: Involve managers [07:40-08:09] Step 2: Develop mentoring programs and build career paths [08:09-10:16] Step 3: Identify at-risk workers [10:17-10:35] Step 4: Identify departments or teams with particularly high turnover [10:35-10:57] Reeling in employees who are checked out or disengaged

42% of the core skills needed to perform most jobs are expected to change by 2022. Rather than recruiting new employees for these shifting roles, is it possible to up-skill the people you have? Reena Chawla, a product leader at EdCast, explains how to build your business by upskilling employees, and how technology can lift this burden from entrepreneurs. Additional Resources: Why Spark by EdCast is the Spotify of Learning: https://www.edcast.com/corp/why-spark-by-edcast-is-the-spotify-of-learning/  Order your copy of our book People Operations: Zenefits.com/pops-book On this episode, you'll hear:  [02:20 - 06:00] How small businesses are adjusting to pandemic-induced pivots [07:00 - 10:45] Why core job skills are shifting rapidly [11:30 - 13:50] Reasons to provide upskilling as a benefit [14:00 - 16:30] Steps to create a scalable education strategy

As the future of work continues to evolve, employers and HR leaders are seeing a steady increase in the importance of how we treat the people who make up our organizations. But unfortunately, HR employees themselves might get forgotten. On this episode, Lora Patterson, Senior People Ops Advisor at Zenefits, joins to share where employees working in HR should turn to when they're the ones facing an internal conflict. Additional Resources: Order your copy of our book People Operations: Zenefits.com/pops-book Submit your People Ops questions: https://www.zenefits.com/workest/ask-a-question/ On this episode, you'll hear: [00:46] Who HR should report to [01:36] When to approach and when to quit [02:45] Hiring outside help with HR [04:02] Involving a legal team or expert [05:45] When there might not be a solution to the problem

From long COVID to major injuries, life hits us hard when we least expect it. As an employer, how do you support an employee through a health crisis like this? Ankur Patel, Director of Product Marketing at Zenefits, and Shelley Dorais, Director of Customer Success and Renewals, both recently experienced major health challenges. They learned firsthand about best practices for caring for employees when life hits them hard. Listen in to hear their stories and their top takeaways for employers caring for employees through illness and injury. Additional Resources: Order your copy of our book People Operations: Zenefits.com/pops-book Submit your People Ops questions: https://www.zenefits.com/workest/ask-a-question/ On this episode, you'll hear: [01:00] The personal and professional challenges of long COVID [05:30] The importance of flexibility and empathy in battling illness [09:45] Un-learning unhealthy work habits [11:00] Supporting employees through recovery from major injuries [16:00] Believing the best of people [17:00] Respecting both privacy and authenticity [19:00] Top takeaways for caring for employees through a health crisis [23:00] Silver linings of health challenges

Why do 80% of people hate performance reviews? Before opening that can of worms, we have to first understand why companies even conduct performance reviews in the first place. To help unpack this topic is David Watson, Product Marketing Manager at Zenefits, joins this episode to share the three most common pitfalls of the performance review process companies fall into. While different, tune in to hear how they often go hand in hand and what you can do to avoid them. Additional Resources: Order your copy of our book People Operations: Zenefits.com/pops-book Submit your People Ops questions: https://www.zenefits.com/workest/ask-a-question/ On this episode, you'll hear: [00:42] The purpose of performance reviews [01:37] Conduct reviews more frequently [02:15] Focus on the present and future, not the past [02:50] Shorten the performance review [03:33] Make it easy for everyone

Every hiring manager wants to find the absolute best candidate they can for an open position at their company, but is that the best approach? Lora Patterson, Senior People Ops Advisor at TriNet Zenefits, says the answer is actually no. If you want to find the best new hires for your company, you should strongly consider imperfect candidates. What does that mean? And why on earth would anyone do that? Listen to this episode to find out. Additional Resources:   Order your copy of our book People Operations: Zenefits.com/pops-book  Submit your People Ops questions: https://www.zenefits.com/workest/ask-a-question/ On this episode, you'll hear: [00:54] The perfect candidate doesn't exist [01:34] Men vs. women, diversify your pool [03:34] Develop and coach their employees [04:42] Start small

Summer has arrived! And you know what that means? Vacations of all types and sizes. That being said, 46% of workers feel nervous about taking PTO because of either too much work or they are afraid of the career repercussions. Jean Spencer, Director of Integrated Marketing at TriNet-Zenefits, joins the show to share what organizations can do to help their employees take some time off to rest and recharge this summer season. Additional Resources: The State of PTO Report: https://www.zenefits.com/learn/state-of-pto-guide/ Order your copy of our book People Operations: Zenefits.com/pops-book Submit your People Ops questions: https://www.zenefits.com/workest/ask-a-question/ On this episode, you'll hear: [01:58] Benefits of taking PTO [02:52] Physical and mental benefits of taking time off [04:12] What employers should offer as a PTO policy to employees [06:40] The benefits of either unlimited or limited PTO [10:43] How Trinet-Zenefits can help you manage time off

Should small business leaders plan to acknowledge and celebrate the holiday, even if they haven't in the past? On this episode of POPS!, Zenefits Chief Operating Officer Issac Vaughn joins Danny Speros for a conversation about what Juneteenth is, how it's celebrated, and the importance of acknowledging it—even if it makes you feel uncomfortable. You'll hear how talking about Juneteenth plays into broader DEI efforts and why everyone benefits when small businesses foster inclusive workplaces. Additional Resources:  Celebrating the Juneteenth Holiday: Ways Your Business Can Support Juneteenth: https://www.zenefits.com/workest/celebrating-the-juneteenth-holiday-ways-your-business-can-support-juneteenth/ Racial Equity and Justice at Work: How to Keep the Conversation Going Beyond Juneteenth: https://www.zenefits.com/workest/racial-equity-and-justice-at-work-how-to-keep-the-conversation-going-beyond-juneteenth/ On this episode, you'll hear:  [01:07-02:42] Meet Issac Vaughn, Zenefits' Chief Operating Officer [03:00-03:54] What Juneteenth is [04:02-06:05] How people celebrate Juneteenth today [06:06-08:03] The importance of supporting Black-owned businesses in celebration of Juneteenth [08:08-10:49] Why acknowledging Juneteenth is good for business [10:49-12:36] Why inclusion is the glue that holds diversity efforts together [13:07-15:10] The key to acknowledging Juneteenth for the first time: authenticity [15:11-17:29] How HR leaders can get employees involved in Juneteenth [17:30-19:42] The impact of DEI efforts and how it can drive engagement

Juneteenth is the oldest known holiday celebrating the end of slavery in the United States. With it being right around the corner, are you ensuring your employees are making the most of the holiday? Nadene Evans, Senior Manager of Organic Growth Marketing at Zenefits joins the show to share ways businesses can help celebrate and support the Juneteenth holiday, as well as help your DEI efforts. Additional Resources: Order your copy of our book People Operations: Zenefits.com/pops-book Submit your People Ops questions: https://www.zenefits.com/workest/ask-a-question/ On this episode, you'll hear: [00:42] Background on Juneteenth [03:35] Ways to incorporate the holiday in your organization [04:54] States that celebrate Juneteenth

While poor performance plays a part, cultural mismatch is often the culprit of high turnover. Dan Marzullo, Founder of Drafted, shares how to optimize your talent strategy for cultural match. From leveling up your job posts to supporting current employees, there are a lot of simple ways to find and keep the people who fit your organization best. Additional Resources: Order your copy of our book People Operations: Zenefits.com/pops-book Submit your People Ops questions: https://www.zenefits.com/workest/ask-a-question/ On this episode, you'll hear: [00:30] Optimizing job posts for cultural fit [02:00] Preparing effective interview questions [03:00] Supporting current employees

It's summertime! And you know what that means? Internships. This means organizations are going to have to do some rethinking to ensure they are set up for success. As the workforce shifts to the virtual world, we have to consider whether interns should as well. There's a lot to take into consideration, and to help do that is Dan Marzullo, CEO and Founder of Drafted. In this episode, he lays out the pros and cons of remote internships to help you make the best decision for your organization just in time for your summer programs. Additional Resources: Order your copy of our book People Operations: Zenefits.com/pops-book Submit your People Ops questions: https://www.zenefits.com/workest/ask-a-question/

The annual rate of inflation in the United States hit 6.8% in November 2021, the highest in more than three decades. Should you raise your employees' salaries to keep up? David Watson, Product Marketing Manager at Zenefits, shares what you need to know about inflation and advice on how to handle pay accordingly. Additional Resources: Order your copy of our book People Operations: Zenefits.com/pops-book Submit your People Ops questions: https://www.zenefits.com/workest/ask-a-question/ On this episode, you'll hear: [00:30] The state of inflation in the U.S. [01:00] How companies are handling compensation [01:30] Metrics to monitor

Everyone knows it's illegal to discriminate against a candidate because of their demographics, but that doesn't mean biases don't still exist. David Watson, Product Marketing Manager at Zenefits, joins the show to share questions you should ask yourself to avoid age discrimination in your hiring and select the best new teammates for your organization. Additional Resources: Order your copy of our book People Operations: Zenefits.com/pops-book Submit your People Ops questions: https://www.zenefits.com/workest/ask-a-question/ On this episode, you'll hear: [01:00] Potential unconscious age biases [02:00] Benefits of age diversity on a team [03:00] Questions to ask yourself about candidates

Staffing is the tightest it's been in years, forcing many to you may be focused on keeping their heads above water, not preparing for the future. However, with a little planning, you can set yourself up for future success in the future while also meeting your current needs. Corey Berkey, SVP of People and Talent at Jazz HR, joins the show to share his advice for building your talent pipeline in a candidate's market, bolstering your employer brand, and leveraging technology in your recruiting process. Additional Resources: Order your copy of our book People Operations: Zenefits.com/pops-book Submit your People Ops questions: https://www.zenefits.com/workest/ask-a-question/ On this episode, you'll hear: [00:30] Understanding what a talent pipeline should look like [02:00] The importance of your employer brand [03:30] Managing the candidate experience [04:45] Leveraging technology to build a talent pipeline [06:30] Creating in-person connections with candidates

The AARP recently found that 48% of Americans age 55 and older have zero retirement funds at all. To combat this massive gap, some states will require employers to provide retirement plans for their employees. If your state requires you to offer a retirement plan this year for the first time, where do you start? Nicole Wilson, Director of Retirement Consulting at Guideline, shares what you need to know to choose the best plan for your small business and how to get started. Additional Resources: Order your copy of our book People Operations: Zenefits.com/pops-book Submit your People Ops questions: https://www.zenefits.com/workest/ask-a-question/ On this episode, you'll hear: [00:30] What the 401K access gap is [01:30] Which states have retirement plan deadlines in 2022 [02:45] Administration considerations [03:30] Cost considerations [04:30] Plan design considerations [05:00] What to look for in a 401K plan

We don't have to tell you anxiety is on the rise, but levels may be even higher than you'd expect. The Anxiety & Depression Association of America found 75% of employees say their stress interferes with their personal and professional lives. As a leader, it's your job to take care of your people through an emotionally and mentally challenging season. Ankur Patel, Director of Product Marketing at Zenefits, joins the show to share his insights on leading with empathy, including: Potential stressors for your team How to recognize anxiety at work Ways to create safe spaces for conversation Tips for encouraging good mental health practices Tune in to learn how to help your team fight the anxiety crisis head-on, one step at a time. On this episode, you'll hear: [01:00] What's causing additional anxiety today [05:00] The importance of leading with empathy [06:00] How to spot anxiety in the workplace [07:00] Developing safe spaces for conversation [09:00] Encouraging mental health practices After you listen: Related stats about how stress affects work and personal life: https://www.google.com/url?q=https://adaa.org/workplace-stress-anxiety-disorders-survey&sa=D&source=docs&ust=1650392584526543&usg=AOvVaw1FypmzFGX7xrGZ5ytYhkpj Order your copy of our book People Operations: Zenefits.com/pops-book Submit your People Ops questions: https://www.zenefits.com/workest/ask-a-question/

Despite the progress many organizations have made, at many companies equal pay is still not a given. David Watson, Product Marketing Manager at Zenefits, shares some questions we need to ask ourselves about pay to not only protect ourselves but ensure our people are compensated fairly. Additional Resources: Order your copy of our book People Operations: Zenefits.com/pops-book Submit your People Ops questions: https://www.zenefits.com/workest/ask-a-question/ On this episode, you'll hear:  [00:30] The consequences of violating equal pay [01:15] Tips for evaluating your company's pay practices [01:45] How to provide opportunities for everyone in your organization

Exit interviews may have a place in People Ops, but there's another type of interview that can be much more beneficial to your team. Ankur Patel, Director of Product Marketing at Zenefits, explains what a “stay” interview is, how to conduct one, and why it will benefit your organization. Additional Resources: Order your copy of our book People Operations: Zenefits.com/pops-book Submit your People Ops questions: https://www.zenefits.com/workest/ask-a-question/ On this episode, you'll hear:  [00:30] The role of exit interviews [01:00] How to conduct a “stay” interview [01:45] The benefits of “stay” interviews

You've probably seen social chatter about four-day work weeks, a tactic companies are adopting to attract and retain top talent. But is this new schedule here to stay, or just a trend? Ankur Patel, Director of Product Marketing at Zenefits, joins the show to share his perspective and get you thinking about the way your company structures the work week. Additional Resources: Order your copy of our book People Operations: Zenefits.com/pops-book Submit your People Ops questions: https://www.zenefits.com/workest/ask-a-question/ On this episode, you'll hear: [00:45] Statistics on flexible work arrangements [01:30] The effect of the pandemic on four-day work weeks [02:00] Questions to ask yourself

If you haven't already, you'll soon be faced with more boomerang employees than ever before. Many employees who left during the Great Resignation are looking to return. How should you handle this? Dan Marzullo, CEO and Founder of Drafted, shares a few questions to ask yourself to help you decide whether to rehire a former employee. Additional Resources: Order your copy of our book People Operations: Zenefits.com/pops-book Submit your People Ops questions: https://www.zenefits.com/workest/ask-a-question/ On this episode, you'll hear: [00:30] What boomerang employees are [01:45] Questions to ask boomerang employees [02:45] How boomerang employees may benefit you [03:45] Reasons you may not want to rehire a former employee

As an HR or People Operations leader, keeping up with best practices can be overwhelming. Lucky for you, we've created a resource that will take just a few minutes of your time and get you on the fast track to managing your workforce with best-in-class strategies. Jean Spencer, Director of Marketing Programs at Zenefits, shares about the People Operations Assessment, a short quiz that sets you up for success with employee engagement, productivity, and retention. Additional Resources: Take the People Operations Assessment: https://www.zenefits.com/learn/pops-quiz/ Order your copy of our book People Operations: Zenefits.com/pops-book Submit your People Ops questions: https://www.zenefits.com/workest/ask-a-question/ On this episode, you'll hear: [00:30] How People Operations differs from traditional HR [01:15] What the People Operations Assessment is [04:00] Why you should take the Assessment

In the face of a challenge, Natasha Miller knows it's not enough to be resilient. You have to be relentless. But don't let that intense word scare you. Natasha explains how relentlessness leads to stronger people, thriving organizations, and deeper fulfillment. In this episode, she shares her hard-earned insights on building yourself, your business, and your people, and leaves you with tips to put into practice. On this episode, you'll hear: [04:30 - 08:15] What it means to be relentless [08:15 - 11:30] Reframing putting your people first [11:30 - 16:45] How Natasha coaches her early-career employees [16:45 - 21:45] Practical ways to improve your business with positive relentlessness After you listen: Order your copy of our book People Operations: Zenefits.com/pops-book Order Relentless: https://therelentlessbook.com/ Follow the podcast Submit your People Ops questions: https://www.zenefits.com/workest/ask-a-question/

When is the best time to update the employee handbook? In this episode of POPS!, Lora Patterson, Senior People Ops Advisor at Zenefits, shares why now is the best time to update your employee handbook, and policies to consider adding as the pandemic stretches into 2021. Do you have a question for our experts? Click here: https://www.zenefits.com/workest/ask-a-question/ Additional Resources:  Handbook Builder: https://www.zenefits.com/workest/employee-handbook-builder/

People are a company's greatest asset, expense, and competitive advantage. So why is the function that oversees a workforce traditionally seen as, at worst, a “necessary evil?” In this episode of POPS!, Zenefits Chief Marketing Officer Kevin Marasco explains why successful companies are shifting from “HR administration” to “people operations” and the four key factors that have influenced this shift in the new world of work. Do you have a question for our experts? Click here: https://www.zenefits.com/workest/ask-a-question/

Are your values hanging on the wall, or radiating from your people? More importantly, does it matter? Business coach, author, and entrepreneur Kimberele Seale reveals how leading with your values produces measurable results. She explains how to develop your values, incorporate them into your business, and measure their impact. On this episode, you'll hear: [03:30 - 12:00] How to develop values with authentic respect [12:00 - 21:00] Why values attract talent, even in crisis [21:00 - 26:00] Ways to incorporate values into your business [26:00 - 29:00] How to measure return on values After you listen: Order your copy of our book People Operations: Zenefits.com/pops-book Follow the podcast Submit your People Ops questions: https://www.zenefits.com/workest/ask-a-question/

When should HR play a role as mediator? In a culturally and ideologically diverse workforce, conflict is inevitable, and it's not only important to address it, but to address it in the right manner Lora Patterson, Senior People Ops Advisor at Zenefits, discusses when HR should mediate conflict and shares steps HR managers can take to resolve issues effectively. Additional Resources: Order your copy of our book People Operations: Zenefits.com/pops-book Submit your People Ops questions: https://www.zenefits.com/workest/ask-a-question/ On this episode, you'll hear: [00:30 - 01:15] When employees can handle conflict themselves [01:15 - 03:00] When HR should help mediate conflict [03:00 - 04:00] Why it's important to address workplace conflict [04:00 - 08:30] Best practices to use in mediation

Are interns right for remote work? As the workforce shifts to the virtual world, we have to consider whether interns should, too. Dan Marzullo, CEO and Founder of Drafted, lays out the pros and cons of remote internships to help you make the best decision for your organization. Additional Resources: Order your copy of our book People Operations: Zenefits.com/pops-book Submit your People Ops questions: https://www.zenefits.com/workest/ask-a-question/ On this episode, you'll hear: [00:00 - 02:30] The pros of hiring remote interns [02:30 - 03:30] The cons of hiring remote interns [03:30 - 04:00] Why you should consider remote internships

We've all felt the pain of losing employees this year, whether they're folks from your own business or servers at a local restaurant.  On this special Author's Cut episode of POPS!, host Didi D'Errico dives into the financial costs of losing staff with Kevin Marasco, Zenefits's Chief Marketing Officer and co-author of People Operations. He reveals why the real cost of losing star players and even unmotivated employees is significant, and how to get ahead of it. Additional Resources: Employee Motivation Guidebook: https://www.zenefits.com/learn/employee-motivation/?utm_source=clubzen&utm_medium=organic-social&utm_campaign=06-28-2021-employee-motivation  Order your copy of our book People Operations: Zenefits.com/pops-book Be one of the first 10 people to send Didi a note at podcast@zenefits.com to win a copy of the book On this episode, you'll hear:  [01:20 - 03:30] How losing unmotivated employees takes a toll on your business [03:30 - 07:00] Motivating your people with play, potential, and purpose [07:15 - 10:45] Calculating the true cost of losing employees [10:45 - 14:00] Getting ahead of employee loss