HR Toolkit: Resources to Support the Full HR Lifecycle | Workable https://resources.workable.com/hr-toolkit/ Fri, 19 Jul 2024 14:34:56 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.5.5 Best employee recognition programs for a robust workplace https://resources.workable.com/tutorial/best-employee-recognition-programs Fri, 19 Jul 2024 14:34:52 +0000 https://resources.workable.com/?p=95260 Extraordinary efforts get extraordinary results. Modern workplaces don’t let employee efforts go unnoticed. Several organizations have leveraged some of the best employee recognition programs to acknowledge people who go above and beyond their work commitments to bring the company’s vision to life.   In a commencement speech at Harvard, Oprah Winfrey stated, “The most important lesson […]

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Extraordinary efforts get extraordinary results. Modern workplaces don’t let employee efforts go unnoticed. Several organizations have leveraged some of the best employee recognition programs to acknowledge people who go above and beyond their work commitments to bring the company’s vision to life.  

In a commencement speech at Harvard, Oprah Winfrey stated, “The most important lesson I learned in 25 years talking every single day to people, was that there’s a common denominator in our human experience. It is what we want to be validated. We want to be understood.”

The word you’re looking for is appreciation. If Oprah said it, we have to take it seriously!

Creating a culture of recognition builds a thriving workplace. It is a way to acknowledge and motivate employees for their work contribution and commitment to bring value to the table. It is considered to be a cornerstone of effective employee management. 

Many organizations have the best employee recognition programs, which aim to reward and recognize the efforts of dedicated individuals. Think about it. If you had some employees who bring meaningful contributions to their projects, wouldn’t you want to cherish them? 

Periodic recognition drives better employee engagement, reduces attrition rates and creates a high-performance culture. In fact, positive feedback has a 12.5% increase in productivity among employees compared to neutral or negative feedback. 

Impact of rewards & recognition on employees

According to Statista, 45% of employees chose impactful work as one of the most important attributes of an organization. In another workplace survey by Gallup, there is a 56% attrition rate in organizations that prioritize employee rewards and recognition. Let’s be honest now, there are significant numbers that we cannot overlook. 

Building desired organizational culture

At the core, recognition should be authentic, personalized, and candid. Good workplaces have some of the best employee recognition platforms to appreciate honest and hardworking human resources. It helps streamline the recognition process and set clear directives. 

On the other hand, rewards are tangible and are distributed to the best-performing employees for their exceptional performance. These are ceremonial occasions conducted at a specific time of the year to acknowledge the star performers. Also, it sets company standards in terms of goal orientation and benchmark performance. This is the opportunity to send a clear message about the desired behavior from the workforce. 

So, the best employee rewards programs are created with clear eligibility criteria, transparent nomination, and proper guidelines. 

How useful is employee recognition software?

We all seek validation in our formative years. This behavioral pattern continues throughout our life. The desire to get positive affirmations gets stronger in every stage of life. 

Hiring managers and companies have figured out the importance of building a motivated and loyal workforce. This aids in employee retention, increased engagement, and elevated performance. It explains why organizations are investing in employee recognition software. It is best to encourage people for the work they have put in and allow them to flex their discretionary muscles, which can only be done by building a robust muscle. 

Best employee recognition programs for a high-performing workplace

  • Employee of the month

It is one of the best employee rewards and recognition programs to acknowledge the best-performing individual in different teams. “Employee of the Month” recognition is a great way to highlight the extraordinary work of the star performer. It is a structured recognition that gives a boost and positive reinforcement to the workforce. Many organizations have a formal ceremony once a month to distribute tokens of appreciation, certificates, and awards.

  • Performance-based incentives

This employee appreciation program is to incentivize the best employees who have achieved performance-based goals. It can include a bonus, a variable component in the salary, or an additional payout. 

  • Innovation awards

Innovation awards are highly encouraged in modern-day workplaces. It is part of the best employee recognition program and concedes the innovative ideas of talented employees. The nomination is based on how impactful the idea is for the overall welfare of the organization. It gives a pedestal to budding minds exploring new processes for better organizational outcomes.

  • Milestone/service recognition

The best human resource management practices include rewards for loyal and committed work personnel. Those employees who have achieved certain milestones in their careers or have served a certain number of years are rewarded. The best employee recognition platform has this award to express appreciation towards the long-associated employees. 

  • Social recognition platforms

Social media is integral to every individual’s life, right? It has also become a part of every organization’s online presence. Utilizing platforms like LinkedIn to recognize employee efforts is a great way to validate their performance. Additionally, it helps build a fostering community. 

The best employee recognition software provides the right solution and policy to acknowledge the hardworking people of the organization. It helps management, hiring managers, and line managers to identify the right people making the extra effort from their office desks. Based on the research of Great Place to Work, there is a 69% increase in efforts by employees when their work is recognized. 

Check out our free Employee recognition programs policy template

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Certified lifeguard job description https://resources.workable.com/certified-lifeguard-job-description Thu, 18 Jul 2024 12:40:00 +0000 https://resources.workable.com/?p=95259 A Certified lifeguard ensures the safety of swimmers by monitoring activities, preventing accidents, and providing emergency care when necessary. The primary duties and responsibilities of a Lifeguard include maintaining a safe environment and responding to emergencies at pools, beaches, and other facilities. What is a Certified Lifeguard?  According to the Centers for Disease Control and […]

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A Certified lifeguard ensures the safety of swimmers by monitoring activities, preventing accidents, and providing emergency care when necessary. The primary duties and responsibilities of a Lifeguard include maintaining a safe environment and responding to emergencies at pools, beaches, and other facilities.

What is a Certified Lifeguard? 

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Certified Lifeguards are critical in preventing drowning. Facilities with professional lifeguards have significantly lower drowning rates. 

A Certified Lifeguard is a trained and certified professional responsible for overseeing the safety of individuals in aquatic environments such as pools, beaches, and water parks. Their certification typically involves completing a rigorous training program that includes swimming proficiency, rescue techniques, first aid, and CPR. The certification ensures that the candidate possesses the necessary skills and knowledge to respond effectively in emergencies. 

Thus, the job description of a Certified Lifeguard should not only highlight the required skills but also mention a valid certification as a mandatory qualification. 

What does a certified lifeguard do?

Remember watching Baywatch in the ‘90s? The world-famous sitcom highlighted lifeguards as heroes of the water, ready to spring into action and save the day! While they may not always encounter dramatic rescues like those on TV, the role of a Lifeguard is no less vital in ensuring the safety and well-being of all swimmers. A study published in the Journal of Safety Research found that lifeguards in public swimming areas reduce the risk of drowning by up to 80%. 

Certified Lifeguards are tasked with preventing and responding to emergencies. Their primary role is to ensure the safety of swimmers. This involves constant vigilance, enforcing safety rules, and undertaking rescue operations when necessary. Lifeguards must be adept at recognizing potential hazards and intervening before accidents occur

Certified lifeguard responsibilities include:

The job responsibilities of a Lifeguard require them to be attentive, responsible, and hard-working. Important duties and responsibilities of a certified Lifeguard are: – 

  • Supervising swimmers to ensure their safety
  • Enforcing facility rules and regulations
  • Providing emergency care and first aid as needed
  • Performing water rescues and administering CPR
  • Monitoring weather conditions to ensure swimmer safety
  • Conducting regular safety inspections of equipment and facilities

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Zoologist Job Description https://resources.workable.com/zoologist-job-description Thu, 18 Jul 2024 12:26:00 +0000 https://resources.workable.com/?p=95258 Zoologists play a significant role in conservation efforts, serving as key professionals dedicated to safeguarding animal welfare and preserving habitats and ecosystems. Learn more about the job description of a zoologist to help you find the best candidate for your organization! Zoologists monitor, mitigate, and manage global biodiversity challenges. Be it ecosystem restoration or species […]

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Zoologists play a significant role in conservation efforts, serving as key professionals dedicated to safeguarding animal welfare and preserving habitats and ecosystems. Learn more about the job description of a zoologist to help you find the best candidate for your organization!

Zoologists monitor, mitigate, and manage global biodiversity challenges. Be it ecosystem restoration or species protection, their role in animal welfare is crucial. Use this Zoologist job description template to advertise open roles for your company. Be sure to modify requirements and duties based on the unique needs of the role you’re hiring for.

What is a Zoologist?

A Zoologist studies animal species, examining how they interact with their environments. They are responsible for planning animal care needs, including feeding schedules and habitat conditions. Zoologists oversee teams of professionals who administer daily care to animals. They also conduct research projects to gain deeper insights into species, contributing to the scientific understanding of animal behavior and ecology. Their work is a mix of animal management with scientific inquiry, playing a crucial role in wildlife conservation and biological research.

What does a Zoologist do?

Zoologists commonly work at aquariums, wildlife rehabilitation centers, zoos and similar institutions; they operate within office or laboratory settings. Zoologists are at the forefront of understanding and protecting the animal’s surroundings. A Zoologist career description includes monitoring animal health and investigating disease outbreaks to studying the effects of climate change on wildlife. Also, check out the job description of a Marine Biologist, who often collaborates with Zoologists.

Zoologist responsibilities include: 

  • Writing scientific reports and making recommendations
  • Investigating animal behaviors, habits, and characteristics
  • Planning and executing research projects focused on animal studies
  • Publishing research reports to communicate and interpret findings
  • Promoting wildlife conservation in white papers and publications
  • Identifying, monitoring, and mitigating invasive species and other threats

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Chief Information Security Officer job description https://resources.workable.com/chief-information-security-officer-job-description Thu, 18 Jul 2024 12:17:00 +0000 https://resources.workable.com/?p=95257 A Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) is a professional responsible for developing, implementing, and enforcing security policies in an organization. Find out how to hire a CISO to protect your organization’s data and systems from cyber threats.   What is the Chief Information Security Officer (CISO)?  A Chief Information Security Officer is a senior-level executive who […]

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A Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) is a professional responsible for developing, implementing, and enforcing security policies in an organization.

Find out how to hire a CISO to protect your organization’s data and systems from cyber threats.  

What is the Chief Information Security Officer (CISO)? 

A Chief Information Security Officer is a senior-level executive who supervises an organization’s information security strategy and implementation. Being a CISO means working closely with the chief technology officer, chief information officer, and other executives and IT experts, to ensure the company’s data is secure and protected from cyber threats, including hacking, data breaches, and malware. 

A 2022 Survey by Heidrick & Struggles highlights the leadership responsibilities of a CISO as s/he reports directly to the full board of an organization in the U.S. The CISO also plays a crucial role in ensuring compliance with relevant laws, regulations, and industry standards related to data privacy and security. 

What does the Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) do?

A Chief Information Security Officer‘s role in an organization is critical for overseeing the security procedures and policies. As the leader of cybersecurity, they shoulder a wide range of job responsibilities, including developing and implementing an information security strategy, overseeing security measures to prevent cyberattacks, and managing incident response if a breach occurs. 

Besides protecting critical data, a CISO job description also involves working with other employees to educate them on safe IT practices. The CISO is up to date with the latest trends and technologies in cybersecurity, including the latest software.

Chief Information Security Officer responsibilities include: 

  • Developing and implementing an information security strategy
  • Identifying and assessing security risks
  • Implementing security measures to mitigate risks
  • Ensuring compliance with regulations and industry standards
  • Leading a team of security professionals
  • Raising security awareness throughout the organization

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Biomedical Engineer job description https://resources.workable.com/biomedical-engineer-job-description Thu, 18 Jul 2024 12:07:00 +0000 https://resources.workable.com/?p=95256 A Biomedical Engineer develops technologies by uniting biology, engineering, and medicine. As they are at the forefront of advancing healthcare and diagnostics, their career path is bound to flourish with noteworthy inputs made to global patient care.  The fusion of technology with biology and medicine is reshaping the 21st century industry. Biomedical technologies not only […]

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A Biomedical Engineer develops technologies by uniting biology, engineering, and medicine. As they are at the forefront of advancing healthcare and diagnostics, their career path is bound to flourish with noteworthy inputs made to global patient care. 

The fusion of technology with biology and medicine is reshaping the 21st century industry. Biomedical technologies not only improve public health and support economic conditions but also offer esteemed experiential learning opportunities. With growing funding and investments in biomedical engineering, the biomaterials market is set to reach $64.2 billion by 2029. This will lead to a boom in job opportunities as well. 

If your organization has a head start on Biomedical Engineering programs, it is the best time to hire a Biomedical Engineer with key job responsibilities. Craft a compelling Biomedical Engineer job description using this as a sample – your pathway to attracting top-notch candidates perfectly suited for the role.

What is a Biomedical Engineer?

Biomedical Engineering (BME) is all about the advancements that upgrade human health and health care at all levels. Biomedical Engineers utilize engineering principles and problem-solving techniques in medicine and biology, evident across the healthcare industry, from diagnosis and analysis to treatment and recovery.

Moreover, Biomedical Engineers have gained recognition due to the widespread use of implantable medical devices, such as pacemakers and artificial hips, as well as cutting-edge technologies like stem cell engineering and the 3-D printing of biological organs.

What does a Biomedical Engineer do?

A Biomedical Engineer is responsible for integrating their expertise in biology and engineering to tackle the challenges in the healthcare industry. They specialize in areas like software development, device creation, process improvement, and more.

What ties these specializations together? Each one in the Biomedical Engineer job profile plays a vital role in improving patient care and treatment outcomes. They not only bridge the gap between medicine and engineering but also drive innovation and continual improvement in the field.

Working in diverse settings such as hospitals, manufacturing facilities, and research labs where their contributions make a tangible difference in people’s lives is one of the job requirements of a Biomedical Engineer. 

Biomedical Engineer responsibilities include:

The specific job duties and responsibilities of a Biomedical Engineer may vary depending on a few factors, including their level of experience, area of expertise, and the organizations they previously worked for. There are, however, core tasks that all these engineers (regardless of experience) must have. The following are the fundamental duties of a Biomedical Engineer.

  • Offer technical support, training, and guidance to healthcare professionals on using biomedical equipment and systems.
  • Proven experience in biomedical engineering
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities
  • Collaborate with healthcare professionals, scientists, and cross-functional teams
  • Maintain and test clinical tools/equipment

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Correctional Officer job description https://resources.workable.com/correctional-officer-job-description Thu, 18 Jul 2024 12:01:00 +0000 https://resources.workable.com/?p=95255 A Correctional Officer oversees the safety and security of correctional facilities by supervising inmates, enforcing rules, conducting inspections, and responding to emergencies. The core duties of a Correctional Officer require them to be diligent, commanding and possess excellent observational skills.  What is a Correctional Officer? A Correctional Officer is a law enforcement professional responsible for […]

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A Correctional Officer oversees the safety and security of correctional facilities by supervising inmates, enforcing rules, conducting inspections, and responding to emergencies.

The core duties of a Correctional Officer require them to be diligent, commanding and possess excellent observational skills. 

What is a Correctional Officer?

A Correctional Officer is a law enforcement professional responsible for overseeing individuals who have been arrested and are awaiting trial or who have been sentenced, to serve time in a correctional facility. The officers ensure the secure and orderly operation of jails, prisons, and detention centers, maintaining safety and security within these environments. 

Based on the job responsibilities of the National Institute of Justice, Correctional Officers (COs) are front-line bureaucrats who supervise inmate activities, provide them with social services, and maintain order in the prison. 

If you are hiring, the job description for a Correctional Officer should not only include the official roles and job responsibilities of a Correctional Officer but also mention ideal personality traits such as discipline, drive, assertiveness, and commitment to do public good. 

What does a Correctional Officer do?

Correctional Officers play a crucial role in the criminal justice system by ensuring the safety, security, and well-being of inmates and staff within correctional facilities. The primary duties included in the job description of a Correctional Officer are to implement rules, monitor inmate activities, prevent disturbances, and write routine reports. Additional responsibilities of a Correctional Officer include assisting in rehabilitation efforts and providing support to help inmates reintegrate into society.

Correctional Officer responsibilities include:

The duties and responsibilities of a Correctional Officer are diverse and demanding. Key Correctional Officer job responsibilities include:

  • Supervision of inmate activities, including work assignments, recreation, meals, and visitation
  • Maintainance and order in the facility to prevent disturbances, escapes, and unauthorized activities.
  • Inmate adherence to the rules and regulations
  • Regular inspections of inmate cells, common areas, and other facility areas 
  • Report accurate records of inmates’ behavior, disciplinary issues, and incidents 

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How to post jobs on Jobserve https://resources.workable.com/tutorial/how-to-post-jobs-on-jobserve Mon, 18 Jul 2016 14:20:42 +0000 https://resources.workable.com/?p=5519 Launched in 1994, Jobserve might be the oldest online recruitment service. Starting out as a ‘jobs-by-email’ subscription, it was swiftly followed by a more formal web presence. Now covering all the major industry sectors, Jobserve boasts 8 million global pageviews a month, and over 1.2 million emails delivered daily. Wherever you are in the world—as […]

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Launched in 1994, Jobserve might be the oldest online recruitment service. Starting out as a ‘jobs-by-email’ subscription, it was swiftly followed by a more formal web presence. Now covering all the major industry sectors, Jobserve boasts 8 million global pageviews a month, and over 1.2 million emails delivered daily. Wherever you are in the world—as a job seeker or employer—Jobserve has a site for you.

Jobserve guarantee a range of services to help employers find the right talent for an open position, including:

  • Job distribution through their network of relevant partner sites (a mix of job boards, affiliates and aggregators)
  • Emailing jobs to subscribers matching your target audience
  • Providing a CV database containing thousands of active job seekers
  • Promoting your brand within the Jobserve website via banners, features, and Smart Ads
  • Using ‘smart match technology’ to notify candidates ideally suited to your role

Jobserve will also verify every job you post, optimizing it for maximum reach. Find out more about the services Jobserve provide in their product portfolio.

Job posting options on Jobserve

Depending on the number of hires you need to make, and the frequency with with which you need to hire, Jobserve have a range of options to suit:

  • Post an individual job:
    Buy either a 7 or 30 day posting
  • Purchase job credits:
    Buy a batch of credits to get a bulk discount, and use them whenever you’re next hiring
  • Purchase reusable job slots:
    Each job slot can be changed up to 8 times a month. Payment is monthly and the slots expire at the end of each month. Get bulk discounts the more job slots you buy.

Post your jobs for free

Workable’s world-class recruiting software helps you post jobs for free with one click to top job boards. Get started today with a 15-day free trial!

Post a job

How to post a job to Jobserve

It’s easy to post a job to Jobserve, whether you have an existing account or you’re a new user. As you’ll need to provide payment details, setting up an account is required, but this only takes a few moments. To post a job:

  • Select ‘Sign In/Register’ from the top right of Jobserve’s homepage, then ‘Advertisers’ from the dropdown menu.

post an ad on jobserve

  • Select ‘My Jobs’ from the top of the following page, and then ‘Post a Job’ from the dropdown menu.
  • Next you’ll come to the page that forms the content of your job post. It’s easy to add your details step-by-step, from the job description to location, industry and salary. If you need help writing the job post, try the Workable Job Description Library. It contains templates for a broad range of industries, ready to copy and paste.
  • Next you’ll see the ‘Application Information’ section. This is where you can enter your contact details and the email address candidates should use to apply. If you’re using an online application form you’ll also see the option to enter the web address.add an online application to jobserve
  • When you’re ready, select ‘Next’ at the bottom of the page.

check your jobserve post

  • Now you’ll see the job post as it would appear on Jobserve. You can review the details you’ve entered and click ‘edit’ to adjust anything that needs it.
  • You’ll then have the opportunity to review the plan you’re about to purchase; every option is presented here. You can select ‘Previous’ from the bottom left of the page to change your posting options, or if everything’s ok, select ‘Purchase’ from the bottom right of the page.
  • Finally, enter your billing information and select ‘Pay now’ to post your job to Jobserve.

Managing applications from Jobserve

When you post a job on Jobserve, applications will arrive via your given email address. Even if you provide an address created purely to gather applications, you’ll still need to keep on top of that email inbox over the following weeks.

Many companies use an applicant tracking system to help manage the flow of candidates. Instead of individual Jobserve applications arriving by email, an applicant tracking system will automatically gather applications into a searchable candidate database. A profile is created for every candidate which can be shared with your co-workers or hiring team. The system will also keep track of feedback and evaluations, streamlining your communications and ultimately, your recruiting process.

More resources for posting jobs:

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Recruiting on LinkedIn: a step-by-step guide https://resources.workable.com/tutorial/recruiting-linkedin Thu, 06 Jul 2017 15:13:52 +0000 https://resources.workable.com/?p=17064 With more than half a billion members, LinkedIn is a formidable recruiting tool that lets you post jobs, build your company brand and source passive candidates. Here’s a primer on how to recruit on LinkedIn, starting with posting jobs: How to post jobs on LinkedIn There are two ways to post jobs on LinkedIn: through […]

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With more than half a billion members, LinkedIn is a formidable recruiting tool that lets you post jobs, build your company brand and source passive candidates.

Here’s a primer on how to recruit on LinkedIn, starting with posting jobs:

How to post jobs on LinkedIn

There are two ways to post jobs on LinkedIn: through paid job postings that reach passive and active candidates, or for free through your company page, personal profile or LinkedIn groups.

Post your jobs for free

Workable’s world-class recruiting software helps you post jobs for free with one click to top job boards. Get started today with a 15-day free trial!

Post a job

How to post paid job ads

Paid job postings reach the LinkedIn members who have the skills your job requires. When you pay to advertise your job, LinkedIn:

  • Shares your job across its network of 500+ million professionals, making it visible to anyone on LinkedIn.
  • Emails and displays the ad to potential candidates whose skills and location match the job posting (using the “Jobs you may be interested in” feature.)
  • Posts your job description to your LinkedIn company page.
  • Curates a list of 50 members you can view who suit your role.
  • Gives you 5 free InMail messages to contact members outside your network.

Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to post a job to LinkedIn:

1. Create a LinkedIn profile

If you already have a LinkedIn account, skip ahead to Step 2. If not, create a LinkedIn profile. This is easy to do. Go to the LinkedIn home page and follow the prompts to set up a new account. LinkedIn will ask you to enter your professional and personal details and add a photo.

Create a LinkedIn Profile

2. Create a LinkedIn company page

You’re ready to create your company page on LinkedIn. Click the “Work” drop-down menu on the top right of your page, next to your avatar. The drop down will include an option: “+Create company page.” Click this to start. You will need to select a unique URL for your company page and a company description (250 – 2000 characters including spaces.)

Set Up a LinkedIn Company Page

Think of your company page as a virtual storefront for prospective candidates (and customers). This will be where your job postings live – and where candidates will form their first impressions of your company. So sell your story. Describe your products, mission and values, along with anything that distinguishes you from other employers (like perks and benefits.) Avoid using jargon – you will attract more qualified candidates without it.

Once you’re done with this step, you’re ready to start the LinkedIn job posting process.

3. Click on the ‘Jobs’ icon

Click the jobs icon (which looks like a briefcase) at the top of your homepage, and then click ‘Post a job’ on the right.

LinkedIn Jobs Icon

You will be redirected to another page to re-enter your LinkedIn account information through the LinkedIn Recruiter login page. Enter your LinkedIn account information.

Sign In to LinkedIn Recruiter

Then you will be prompted to enter your job listing’s company, job title and location. LinkedIn will tell you how many of its members (potential passive candidates) have the same job title you’re recruiting for. In this example, 730,014 LinkedIn members have the job title “Editor.”

LinkedIn Reach Quality Candidates

4. Describe your job

Enter job details
LinkedIn will prompt you to write a job description. It will also populate your company description from your company page.

LinkedIn Write Job Description

Select skills you need
LinkedIn will populate skills from the job description you have entered. You will also be asked to select the required skills for your role. Entering a relevant list of skills gets your job in front of the right candidates for the position. LinkedIn recommends entering at least 10 skills to help attract a targeted group of candidates.

LinkedIn Skill Targeting

Choose how you want candidates to apply
LinkedIn gives you two options: let candidates apply with their LinkedIn profiles and get notified by email when they do, or direct them to an external site to apply.

LinkedIn Apply

You can also use an Applicant Tracking System to gather your applications from LinkedIn and other job boards all in one place.

5. Set your budget

LinkedIn uses a pay-per-click model for job ads. This means that you will be charged based on how many applicants click on your listing.

LinkedIn Job Advertisement

LinkedIn recommends how much your daily budget should be. This is an estimate. Actual costs could fluctuate.

6. Proceed to checkout

You’re ready to check out your job. Enter your payment information. Note: with LinkedIn’s pay-per-click model, you will be billed every month, but you can close your job whenever your want.

LinkedIn Secure Checkout

Here are some actions to take after you post a paid job on LinkedIn:

How to share a job on LinkedIn

Here are some ways to share your jobs on the platform to maximize visibility:

Use your company page to post jobs

This works well if your LinkedIn company page has a dedicated following of people who could be potential candidates. Post an update to your page, with a link to your job. Anytime you post a new update on your page, it will appear in the newsfeeds of the people who have liked your company page. Candidates can like, respond to or refer people they know to your job posting – further increasing its reach.

Recruiting on LinkedIn 7

Post jobs in LinkedIn groups

LinkedIn groups are places where professionals within the same industry gather to share content, develop business contacts and post and view targeted jobs. Many groups have specific ‘Jobs’ sections, where you can advertise your jobs. For example, here’s a job listing within the Big Data & Analytics group:

Advertise Job in LinkedIn Groups

Note: Group administrators may review your request to join a group or ask you for more information before granting you access.

Share a job on your LinkedIn profile

Share a listing on your own profile by simply posting an update with news about the job ad. Your professional connections will be able to see and share your update. Here’s an example:

Share LinkedIn job on profile

Post jobs to LinkedIn and other premium job boards seamlessly with a free trial to Workable, an all-in-one recruiting software.

LinkedIn ATS Integrations help your team work efficiently through every stage of the hiring process. Connect Workable to LinkedIn Recruiter to access information when and where you need it, without having to switch between platforms. Start here.

How to recruit passive candidates on LinkedIn

Build your employer brand on the platform

Good recruiting isn’t just about posting jobs. It’s also important to build your brand to connect with passive candidates. Building a strong company brand opens the door to better hires, shorter time to fills and better retention rates.

Here’s how to use LinkedIn to build your brand:

Write compelling company and job descriptions on your company page

Know your audience. Keep your job descriptions clear, don’t ask for too much and sell your job and company. Make sure your descriptions address what LinkedIn identifies as the top three things candidates want to know about your company:

LinkedIn Employer Branding

Spotlight employees in status updates

Highlighting new hires and employees on your company page humanizes your company. It will also show some of the best potential candidates that you care about how you treat your employees, and that you’re proud of their accomplishments.

Facebook Company Branding

Personalize your InMails

The way you write InMails says a lot about your company. Be courteous, spell your recipients’ names correctly and personalize your messages. Template emails can save time, but it’s best to personalize your messages to speak directly to the passive candidate you’re attempting to recruit. Read up on their work, mention one of their accomplishment – double check their name – and keep your message brief – no more than 100 words.

Share content relevant to you

Product updates, accomplishments, business news, events – if you have written about them on your website, promote them on your LinkedIn company page or your own profile. Your followers will appreciate these updates. Also, consider publishing your own articles on LinkedIn with LinkedIn’s publishing platform. The benefit of publishing on LinkedIn is threefold: You will share your knowledge and expertise, cultivate a following and develop and strengthen your own professional identity.

Related: Innovative recruiting tools and techniques for modern HR teams

Consider a LinkedIn Recruiter subscription

LinkedIn Recruiter and LinkedIn Recruiter Lite are subscription services that offer more InMails, and greater access to candidates – beyond what you get from posting paid jobs.

Here’s a brief overview of the differences between the two:

LinkedIn Recruiter Lite gives you greater visibility and access to candidates beyond the profiles and InMails you receive with a paid job post. LinkedIn Recruiter Lite lets you:

  • View profiles in your extended network (up to 3rd degree connections.)
  • Contact members with 30 InMail messages per month
  • Place candidates into ‘Projects,’ and set reminders to follow up with them
  • View a full list of everyone who has viewed your profile in the last 90 days

LinkedIn Recruiter is more robust that Recruiter Lite. LinkedIn Recruiter lets you:

  • View anyone on LinkedIn regardless of their degree of connection to you
  • Collaborate with multiple users within the same account
  • Send 150 InMails for each seat on the account and send mass InMails (up to 25) at once
  • Save more searches and search for more specific details (e.g. candidate’s field of study, years at current company and years in their current position)

Find and qualify candidates anywhere online, and reach out with a truly personalized email with People Search. People Search is available as a Chrome extension. Try it free.

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How to recruit on Reddit https://resources.workable.com/tutorial/recruit-talent-reddit Wed, 12 Apr 2017 13:23:14 +0000 https://resources.workable.com/?p=9961 There’s a popular saying in the recruiting world: You’ve got to go where your candidates are. For recruiters, that means going beyond mainstream job boards to source in nontraditional channels. And one of those channels is Reddit. To get a better perspective on how to recruit on Reddit, we turned to Conor Duffy, VP of […]

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There’s a popular saying in the recruiting world: You’ve got to go where your candidates are. For recruiters, that means going beyond mainstream job boards to source in nontraditional channels. And one of those channels is Reddit.

To get a better perspective on how to recruit on Reddit, we turned to Conor Duffy, VP of Business Development/Recruitment at Strike IT US. Duffy and his team hire for engineering and tech roles. His firm placed 111 hires from Reddit last year. (Full disclosure, my husband was one of them.)

Here’s a guide on how to recruit on Reddit:

Know the Reddit landscape

Get to know the popular news aggregator and online forum, which boasts hundreds of millions of unique visitors every month. The site is divided into thousands of mini-communities called “subreddits” where people congregate in forums dedicated to specific topics. These people may be potential candidates for your open roles, but you need to prove yourself before trying to woo them.

Recruiting on social media? Workable is the industry leader with recruitment features to find and hire the best candidates. Sign up for our 15-day free trial.

Here’s a brief glossary of terms to familiarize yourself with on Reddit (For more on how to use Reddit, turn to Reddit’s own FAQ):

  • Upvote/Downvote: A tool that allows a Reddit user to like or dislike a post, ultimately determining the post’s position on the site. They are up and down arrows on the left of a post, like so:

How to recruit on Reddit 1
Screenshot via Reddit

  • Karma: A number on your profile that represents how much “good” you’ve done for the Reddit community. This includes submitting links and comments. Here’s an example of a Reddit karma score:

How to recruit on Reddit: Karma
Screenshot via Reddit

  • OP: Short for “Original Poster.” Used in comment threads to reference the individual who created the original post.
  • AMA: Short for “Ask Me Anything.” A Q&A subreddit with an individual who entertains questions about a topic specific to them. Sometimes, the subject of an AMA is a prominent person (e.g. celebrities, politicians, renowned industry professionals.)

How to recruit on Reddit: AMA
Screenshot via Reddit

  • Cakeday: The day you signed up on Reddit (your Reddit birthday.) In recruitment, it may be used to gauge your authenticity in the Reddit community.

It’s important to note that some subreddits have their own sets of rules. Abide by these guidelines when connecting with these communities.

How to recruit on Reddit: Subreddit Rules
Here’s an example of the r/jobs subreddit rules. Screenshot via Reddit.

Here are some subreddits that may be useful to recruiters:

Build trust with your Reddit communities

Redditors detest spam and can spot fakers. Duffy takes this to heart. He instructs his recruiters to sign up for Reddit accounts to learn how to be active on the site. He advises them to subscribe to at least two subreddits:

  • One on a topic they’re passionate about, unrelated to recruiting;
  • Another subreddit about jobs to learn about recruiting (e.g. r/BostonJobs.)

The goal is to get them involved in the Reddit recruiting community in an authentic way.

“One of the issues and problems that can arise [in recruiting on Reddit] is faking it,” Duffy said. “Don’t go into a development community and pass yourself off as a developer. That’s the fastest way to alienate good, potential talent.”

His team establishes Reddit recruiting cred with potential hires by being involved in a jobs subreddit. They build Reddit karma: his recruiters will answer questions about how to search for jobs and provide users with resume and interview advice, free of charge.

“Set up the fact that you’re real, that you’re good at what you do and you can be trusted enough to at least have a phone call.”

Mind your Reddit job post language

The way you post a job on Reddit matters. Duffy says he sees many Reddit job postings list the job description verbatim. That approach may not pitch the open role in the best way. A long laundry list of qualifications can be visually displeasing and may repel skilled candidates who feel like they don’t fulfill every single requirement:

How to recruit on Reddit: Technical Recruiting
Screenshot via Reddit

When posting a job on Reddit, be honest and be detailed. If you’re wooing developer candidates at a startup, sell the culture. Language like “Maybe you’re stuck in a large company” ; “join a small but rapidly growing business” and “get a chance to see your code in action” will entice and engage potential developer candidates.

Job posts that are stripped of identifying information (e.g. by intentionally leaving out location and salary information) will raise suspicion about you and your post, and may discourage qualified candidates from applying.

Here’s an example of a job post from Duffy looking to recruit a developer:

How to recruit on Reddit: Recruiting a developer
Screenshot via Reddit

Be available

Successful social recruiting with Reddit is an investment in the community. The “spray and pray” method won’t get you far, but caring about your potential candidates will. Make yourself easily accessible once you post a job. And interact with candidates before directing them to fill out a lengthy job application.

Duffy believes in being a consultant not just for his clients, but for his candidates. This approach goes a long way with Reddit recruiting in particular and recruiting in general. Valuing your clients and your candidates equally will lead to better retention rates, happier employees and a stronger recruiting reputation.

Source and attract more candidates

Workable helps you build and promote your brand where your next candidates are. You’re always top of mind, whether they’re actively looking or not.

Start sourcing

Using Workable to post on Reddit

Managing job postings across multiple platforms can be daunting for recruiters and HR professionals. Workable simplifies this process with a direct integration to Reddit, powered by VONQ’s HAPI.

Through our integration, you can seamlessly post jobs from within Workable directly to Reddit. Candidates who apply through Reddit will automatically flow into your Workable hiring pipeline, streamlining your recruitment workflow.

Reddit offers a unique platform for engaging with a diverse and engaged audience. Whether you’re posting in specific subreddits or targeting broader communities, Workable ensures your job postings on Reddit are effective and efficient.

Now equipped with this integration, you can post your jobs on Reddit using Workable and manage candidates effortlessly. To learn more about how Workable can enhance your hiring process, click here.

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How to post jobs on Juju.com https://resources.workable.com/tutorial/post-juju-jobs Tue, 06 Jul 2021 21:09:58 +0000 https://resources.workable.com/?p=80596 Here’s what we’ll cover: What is Juju.com? How much does it cost to post a job on Juju.com? Juju.com job posting reviews How to post your job on Juju.com Frequently asked questions about Juju.com What is Juju.com? Juju.com is a job aggregator that collects job postings from many other job sites and presents them to […]

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Here’s what we’ll cover:

What is Juju.com?

Juju.com is a job aggregator that collects job postings from many other job sites and presents them to site visitors as an easy, searchable database. Unlike some other job posting aggregators, the main source of Juju’s web traffic comes by referral rather than direct search. Juju receives traffic from thousands of job candidates each month.

How much does it cost to post a job on Juju.com?

You don’t have to pay to post your job on Juju. Juju jobs are job listings which are automatically pulled from other job boards like Monster and Indeed. As long as you list your job on another common job board, free or paid, your job posting should appear in searches on Juju.com

That being said, if you want to be certain that your job will show up to candidates searching on Juju, you have the option of paying to advertise your job to job seekers.

Juju.com job posting reviews

Because Juju is a less popular job board, there aren’t too many reviews. Instead, here are some pros and cons of using the site.

On a positive note, Juju receives a good amount of web traffic. It allows users to search through jobs from many different job boards at once, rather than just one. That improves the chances of the right candidate coming across your job.

As for downsides, Juju is still far less popular than large job boards and even some other job post aggregators. Its web interface is dated, and just like any job post aggregator, a certain portion of the jobs listed there may be stale or expired.

Post your jobs for free

Workable’s world-class recruiting software helps you post jobs for free with one click to top job boards. Get started today with a 15-day free trial!

Post a job

How to post your job on Juju.com

As was previously mentioned, it isn’t possible to post your job directly on Juju. If you want your job listing to display there, you have two options.

List your job on another job board

While it’s not completely foolproof, listing your job on another job board is the best way to get your job listed on Juju for free.

Pay to advertise your job on Juju

The more reliable way to get your jobs to appear on relevant searches is to advertise your job on Juju. Sponsored posts on Juju send candidates directly to your company’s career site, and they offer advertisements on a pay-per-click basis, making this a highly scalable option for companies of any size.

Frequently asked questions about Juju.com

Can I post my job on Juju.com?

You can’t post your job directly on Juju.com. The best way to get your job posting to appear on Juju is to post it across the web simultaneously with using Workable.

Is Juju.com a scam?

No, Juju.com is not a scam.

How can I find a job on Juju.com?

Juju.com’s homepage hosts a simple search, where candidates can search by title and location, or filter by more advanced criteria. If you find a job that interests you, click on the relevant search result, and you’ll be directed to the website that hosts that listing, where you can apply.

Why should I promote my job on Juju.com?

As one of the oldest job boards on the internet, Juju has credibility with search engines, and around 800K site visits to date. It remains one of the smaller players in the job aggregator space, but the site does receive regular traffic and click-throughs on job postings and links.

By posting your job to Juju.com using Workable, you access a market of potential candidates that may not be looking elsewhere. With the simplicity of posting your job synchronously across many platforms using Workable, there’s no reason not to put it out there and see how it goes.

Want to know more about posting jobs? Take a deep dive with our Ultimate Guide to Job Posting.

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How to post jobs on LinkedIn https://resources.workable.com/tutorial/how-to-post-jobs-linkedin Thu, 04 Feb 2016 09:44:33 +0000 https://blog.workable.com/?p=1277 Since its launch in 2003, LinkedIn has become one of the world’s most popular networks for professionals, with 660 million members. It’s easy to connect with other professionals by creating and maintaining a professional profile. But LinkedIn is much more than that. Hosting the profiles of millions of potential candidates, it’s an obvious first choice […]

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Since its launch in 2003, LinkedIn has become one of the world’s most popular networks for professionals, with 660 million members. It’s easy to connect with other professionals by creating and maintaining a professional profile. But LinkedIn is much more than that. Hosting the profiles of millions of potential candidates, it’s an obvious first choice for employers looking to post a job and attract new talent.

We’ll take a look at how to post a job on LinkedIn using different methods and explain how to increase your chances of finding the right candidate by posting to multiple job boards with one submission.

How to post a job on LinkedIn

First, create a LinkedIn page

To get the best value for money from posting a job on LinkedIn, you’ll need a LinkedIn page for your company. These pages offer public information about your business within the LinkedIn platform. They’re free, easy to keep updated with news and events, and a great first step in strengthening your employer brand.

If you’re an existing LinkedIn user, setting up a company page is simple. If you’re new to LinkedIn, then you’ll need to wait until your profile is a few days old to create a page and be able to post a job.

Make sure that your profile strength is ‘Intermediate’ or ‘All star’, and you have a minimum of five connections to other LinkedIn members. You’ll also need to check that your own profile lists you as a company employee, and that you have a confirmed company email address connected to your LinkedIn account.

Once you have a company page on LinkedIn, you’ll see it has a newsfeed for sharing updates and events and a careers panel, to highlight paid job postings.

Now, how do you advertise on LinkedIn?

On LinkedIn, you can create job postings to advertise open roles. Candidates can discover these postings via the LinkedIn network or see them as recommended as “Jobs You May Be Interested In”.

You can post jobs on LinkedIn by using job slots and PPC (pay-per-click).

Job slots

A company can purchase a number of LinkedIn Job Slots to use for posting jobs. When you use a job slot to post a job, that job is live for 30 days – once it expires, you can repost it in an available job slot. Or, you can take the job down to make the job slot available for your other open roles.

For example, one job slot can be used to post 20 or more jobs, and you have the flexibility to modify, renew or close each job posting at any time.

PPC

With this function, you can post a job and set an average daily budget that will be spent based on the number of views your job posting receives. If you don’t want to spend more than a certain amount, you can set up a maximum budget and your job posting will get paused once that budget is spent.

Here’s how billing for PPC postings works.

Post your jobs for free

Workable’s world-class recruiting software helps you post jobs for free with one click to top job boards. Get started today with a 15-day free trial!

Post a job

How do I share a job on LinkedIn?

Use your company newsfeed

Sometimes, you’ll find that your best candidates are already your biggest fans. Similar to the Facebook Jobs tab, you can use your company newsfeed to share your open jobs from your careers page.

Every time you post a new update it will appear in the newsfeeds of anyone who has ‘liked’ the page. This could be past and present employees or those with a special interest in your business and the work that you do. Posting details of a job on the LinkedIn newsfeed opens the path to communication with your most engaged followers and their networks.

News updates can also be ‘liked’ by anyone who views them. Readers can add a comment and tag names of other LinkedIn users who could be the perfect match for the job. Any such activity around this job post will also show up on the newsfeeds of connected LinkedIn members, further increasing your exposure.

Other ways to share posts on LinkedIn

LinkedIn relies on the power of networks— so don’t forget the value of your own. In addition to posting on your company page you can also:

  • Share jobs to LinkedIn Groups: Share your job in groups you follow to attract people with the right mix of skills and interests, or ask your network to share the job to their network.
  • Share a job on your LinkedIn profile: Your own posts will be seen by your own professional connections further spreading the word for your company’s open roles.

Job Wrapping

LinkedIn also has a service called “Job Wrapping” for those who have LinkedIn Recruiter. Via Job Wrapping, LinkedIn pulls your open roles from your recruitment software or careers page and automatically posts them into available job slots you have purchased. This way, it helps you save time and make good use of your job slots.

Limited Listings on LinkedIn

Limited Listings are job postings gathered by LinkedIn from job boards and job aggregators across the web. They are visible to candidates actively conducting a job search or viewing a company’s LinkedIn page.

Unlike paid jobs, Limited Listings are not actively promoted to LinkedIn members in search results or through targeted recommendations; a job posting utilizing a Job Slot achieves an average of nine times more views than a Limited Listing. Limited Listings are not guaranteed listings.

Workable provides a feed of Limited Listing jobs to LinkedIn.

Post on multiple job boards

To make the best hire, you’ll need to post jobs on multiple job boards—LinkedIn included. But logging in and out of every board is a time-consuming task, as is tracking the source of each candidate to see which job boards are providing the best value for money.

Effective recruitment software (an applicant tracking system or ‘ATS’) will automate these tasks, providing a way to post to multiple job boards with one submission. Once the job is posted in multiple locations, the software will gather all the applicants into a single recruiting pipeline. You’ll be able to browse candidate profiles alone or with a team, adding comments and notes as you go.

Instead of multiple spreadsheets and countless emails, recruiting software creates a personal, centralized hiring database automatically. The time saved can then be put to better use ensuring an excellent candidate experience and choosing the best person for the job.

LinkedIn ATS Integrations help your team work efficiently through every stage of the hiring process. Connect Workable to LinkedIn Recruiter to access information when and where you need it, without having to switch between platforms. Start here.

More resources for posting jobs:

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How to recruit on Glassdoor https://resources.workable.com/tutorial/recruit-on-glassdoor Thu, 09 Jun 2016 16:51:16 +0000 https://resources.workable.com/?p=5272 When you’re hiring, growing your reputation as a great employer is one of the most effective ways to attract better candidates. Whether or not you’re actively maintaining it, you already have an employer brand. To find out what that is, most specifically what makes you attractive to candidates and what makes you different from your […]

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When you’re hiring, growing your reputation as a great employer is one of the most effective ways to attract better candidates. Whether or not you’re actively maintaining it, you already have an employer brand. To find out what that is, most specifically what makes you attractive to candidates and what makes you different from your competitors, you need to talk to your employees.

Building an employment brand also involves scoping out your competitors: finding out how their brands are performing and where they’re investing their recruitment efforts. In the end, you’ll take all this feedback, develop a brand that resonates with the people you want to attract, and roll it out through your recruitment materials, like your career page, your job descriptions and everything else you use to attract prospective hires. Do it right and you’ll see more awareness and positive sentiment about your company and more applicants for your jobs.

Glassdoor, the fastest growing career community online, started as a place for employees to share feedback about employers. Glassdoor has since surpassed employers as the most trustworthy place to get information about what it’s really like to work for a certain company. Now, it boasts 24m members and 300,000 companies in 190 countries. It’s a smart place for employers to build their brands, gather competitive intelligence and source more candidates.

Source and attract more candidates

Workable helps you build and promote your brand where your next candidates are. You’re always top of mind, whether they’re actively looking or not.

Start sourcing

Building your employment brand on Glassdoor

The most driven candidates (your “purple squirrels”, likely) are motivated by more than just a paycheck. They’ll do their homework to get a glimpse of your workplace culture, work-life balance and career development opportunities. More than half of all candidates look at word-of-mouth reviews before making the decision to apply for a job. And, half of all jobseekers use Glassdoor to research reviews, salary information, benefits and interview questions.

To attract these candidates when you recruit on Glassdoor, you’ll need a few things:

  • An employee value proposition (EVP). In other words, what employees get out of working at your company. Start collecting feedback from your team. What makes people want to work at your company? What motivates them to do well? How would they describe your company to a friend?
  • An employer profile. They’re free and easy to set up. Use your EVP to figure out which content will resonate most with your candidates. Add status updates, benefits and images.
  • Reviews. Request reviews from your employees, and when they come in, respond promptly. Be sure to address specific comments and amplify positive sentiments.

RelatedInnovative recruiting tools and techniques for modern HR teams

Benchmarking against competitors

How are your competitors’ talent brands performing and how does your company measure up? What does their hiring process look like? What does your talent pool look like? Before you recruit on Glassdoor, use their data to gather “competitive intelligence.” Here are some tips for getting started.

Try a talent brand audit. Even if you haven’t amassed a stockpile of data about your own company, you can learn a lot about the respective reputations of other employers. Helpful metrics include CEO approval ratings, employees’ perspectives on the business outlook and whether or not employees would recommend this company to a friend.

Glassdoor - employment brand audit
* all images via Glassdoor

Compare your hiring process. Where are your competitors investing their recruiting efforts? Campus recruiting? Staffing agency? Referrals? How long does the process take? Who is involved in job interviews? This information can be accessed for free, by clicking on the “Interviews” tab on Glassdoor’s employer profiles.

Glassdoor - comparing hiring processes

Glassdoor - Interviews
* all images via Glassdoor

Dig into demographics. As you recruit on Glassdoor, you can take a look at the demographics of the people visiting your page, and compare them to the visitors of your competitors for free. Use this data to identify your target audience and adjust your recruitment strategy accordingly.

Glassdoor demographics
* all images via Glassdoor

Promoting your jobs

With this legwork done you should now have a lively and up-to-date employer profile. You have glowing employee reviews, an equally sunny reputation word cloud and are ready to recruit on Glassdoor. Sounds like a good time to advertise. Here are Glassdoor’s paid advertising options.

Job advertising. Use these to promote your jobs on Glassdoor’s Job Search page, both web and mobile versions. Your jobs will also be promoted in weekly job alert emails and on partner sites such as CNN Money and Fortune.

Display ads. Catch the candidates you’re looking for while they’re checking out your competitors. These ads will promote your company on your competitors’ employer profiles.

Enhanced company profile. Get more ownership of your talent brand by adding jobs, photos, videos and social feeds (Twitter and Facebook) to your employer profile. Your enhanced profile also comes with a “Why Work For Us” section, where you can highlight specific teams, projects and HR initiatives such as a diversity and inclusion program.

Related: How to post a job on Glassdoor

Job ads on Glassdoor, based on their data, deliver higher quality applicants at a lower cost-per-hire than traditional job boards. Glassdoor also integrates with your hiring software of choice, making it easier to track where candidates come from and streamline communication throughout the hiring process.

Using Workable to post on Glassdoor

Indeed and Glassdoor are part of the same parent company. As a result when you post a job to Indeed via Workable, we automatically send the job to Glassdoor too. This works for both free and premium post options. Just hit “Publish”!

Glassdoor offers both free and paid postings.

To learn more about how Workable can streamline your hiring process, click here.

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How to post job ads on Seek https://resources.workable.com/tutorial/how-to-post-jobs-on-seek Mon, 18 Jul 2016 14:24:24 +0000 https://resources.workable.com/?p=5564 Seek.com.au is a leading job board catering to the Australian and New Zealand job markets. With over 4 million unique job seekers per month generating a huge database of potential candidates, Seek is the ideal place to post a job ad, but also to begin your proactive search for talent. To give job seekers a better […]

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Seek.com.au is a leading job board catering to the Australian and New Zealand job markets. With over 4 million unique job seekers per month generating a huge database of potential candidates, Seek is the ideal place to post a job ad, but also to begin your proactive search for talent.

To give job seekers a better sense of the culture and unique selling points of every employer, Seek provide a review board for companies. This is a place for candidates to read testimonials from employees past and present and get a sense of whether they’re the right fit for the company. All this makes for better researched applications, and hopefully, candidates who are fully engaged with your mission and culture.

Candidates can also create their own profiles to be included in the Seek talent database. Registration and creation of a profile means that jobseekers will receive email alerts when the right kind of jobs are posted. As a registered employer, you’ll receive access to the database to search for candidates that could be a great fit.

Post your jobs for free

Workable’s world-class recruiting software helps you post jobs for free with one click to top job boards. Get started today with a 15-day free trial!

Post a job

Advertise a job on Seek

Like many modern job boards, Seek provide a range of different ways to spread the word that you’re hiring. A Classic job ad’ will be advertised on the job site for 30 days, and sent via email to potential candidates in the Seek talent database who match your criteria. To attract today’s job seekers all ads are optimized for desktop, mobile and tablet. You’ll also receive access to the Seek talent database to begin a proactive search.

A ‘Standout ad’ gives you the option to make your ad stand out visually. With a bold, eye catching border, these ads also feature your own company logo and give you the option to add three additional bullet points to really sell the job.

The most expensive job posting option on Seek is the ‘Premium ad’. This includes the visual enhancements on the Standout ad, but also features a color background to make it stand out even further. In addition, this Seek job post receives priority listing at the top of job searches for seven days.

If you’re hiring for a number of different jobs, then you’ll save money when you purchase Seek job ads in bulk. With discounts available from 3-30 positions, ads are valid from 6 months of the purchase date. Should you be hiring for even more than 30 positions, Seek offer additional discounts for custom plans.

For companies looking to build up their employer brand, Seek’s job board also offer a banner advertising options.

How to post a job on Seek

With Seek, you can set up an account and post a job in one simple process:

  • Select ‘Register for FREE’ to the left of Seek’s employers homepage.

seek-register-for-free

  • Enter your account details and select ‘Send activation email’.
  • Check your email for the Seek confirmation message, and click the confirmation link. This will direct you back to the website. Click ‘Create a job’ to get started.

seek-create-a-job

  • Review each plan and choose the one that’s best for your company’s hiring needs.

seek-choose-plan

  • Enter your job details and select ‘Continue’.

post-job-seek-job-details

  • Add selling points, salary information and a logo. Next, enter the job summary, and the job details. This job description library has an extensive list of descriptions and requirements to copy and paste.

seek-post-job-description

  • Next, review your job post, make any edits as necessary, or if you’re good to go, select ‘Continue’.

seek-job-post-review

  • Enter your business address and select ‘Continue to payment options’.
  • Finally, enter in your billing information and select ‘Pay by credit card’. Congratulations! You’ve now posted your job to Seek.

Managing your Seek applications

Like many large job boards, Seek offers a simple tool to track and manage applications as they arrive. You’ll be able to evaluate candidates and move them through a basic recruiting pipeline. Seek also offers the option to bulk reject candidates by email when they’re found to be unsuitable for the position.

If you’re increasing your chance of reaching more candidates by posting to multiple job boards, then a single method of tracking candidates will become problematic. You’ll need to log in and out of different job boards, track some applications via email and others with external systems.

To solve this problem, many companies centralize their hiring with an applicant tracking system.

Essentially, an applicant tracking system (ATS) is recruiting software, independent of any job board. You’ll be able to connect it to multiple job boards, making it easier to post jobs everywhere with one submission, and gather the candidates in a customizable recruiting pipeline. When you need feedback from your hiring team, you can share candidate profiles and their comments can be added directly to the candidate timeline.

RelatedWhat’s the best day to advertise job openings?

Using Workable to post on Seek

For recruiters or HR professionals managing job postings across multiple platforms, handling each individually can be overwhelming. Workable offers a seamless integration with Seek to simplify this process.

As a partner platform, Workable allows you to post your job on up to 200 major job boards simultaneously, including Seek, with ease. Seek’s platform offers both Free & Paid postings, giving you flexibility in how you attract candidates.

Workable’s integration with Seek enhances your recruitment efforts by optimizing visibility and accessibility for your job postings. Seek’s platform is designed to attract quality candidates, leveraging data-driven technology to match your job listings with the most suitable candidates.

Now equipped with this information, you can confidently post your job on Seek using Workable and start attracting top talent. To learn more about how Workable can streamline your hiring process, click here.

More resources for posting jobs:

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How to post jobs on Craigslist: A step-by-step guide for employers https://resources.workable.com/tutorial/how-to-post-jobs-on-craigslist Mon, 18 Jul 2016 14:21:26 +0000 https://resources.workable.com/?p=5525 Craigslist is a classified ads website, operating in over 70 countries. Starting life as an events email list in 1995, the site now has over 20 billion page views, and 80 million new advertisements each month. While it covers everything from properties to rent and gigs to attend, Craigslist is also a great place for […]

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Craigslist is a classified ads website, operating in over 70 countries. Starting life as an events email list in 1995, the site now has over 20 billion page views, and 80 million new advertisements each month. While it covers everything from properties to rent and gigs to attend, Craigslist is also a great place for employers to attract candidates and post jobs for free. This tutorial will give step-by-step guidance on how to post jobs on Craigslist.

Posting a job to Craigslist is free for most employers; selected areas charge a fee between $7-75. With a paid posting account you also get the benefit of:

  • Tools for managing your post
  • Multi-user access for a single account
  • Pre-purchased Craigslist job postings
  • Invoicing and online payment

Get in touch with Craigslist to find out if you’ll need to pay to post a job ad in your area.

Post your jobs for free

Workable’s world-class recruiting software helps you post jobs for free with one click to top job boards. Get started today with a 15-day free trial!

Post a job

How to post free or paid job listings on Craigslist:

Setting up an account with Craigslist

If you’re posting a free job on Craigslist, you can jump right in; there’s no need to set up an account. If you’d like the option to save your drafts, edit, delete or re-advertise a free job post, then an account will be useful. Setting up your free account is easy, simply enter your email address and a password, and verify your email address.

Read why savvy recruiters use free job posting sites.

To apply for a paid posting account with Craigslist, you’ll need a basic free account first. Complete the online application form and once your account has been approved, a member of the Craigslist accounting staff will take payment for paid postings within 1-7 business days. You can pay for posts with a credit card, by post or with a check.

How to post a job on Craigslist for free:

1. Choose the right location

Craigslist is a global network. Before you begin, make sure your location is correct; you’ll find it at the top right of the page. To change it, choose a new location from the directory of Craigslist sites.

Once your location is correct, select ‘post to classifieds’ in the top left corner of the home page.

how to post jobs on Craigslist | choose the location

2. Select the job’s category

On the following screen, pick ‘job offered’. Then choose the job’s category from the list e.g. ‘accounting/finance’.

3. Start building your job ad

Next, enter the job title, specific location and job description. Need some help with the descriptions? Try the job description library for a comprehensive list of job description templates.

how to post jobs on Craigslist | building your job ad

RelatedHow to write the best job description ever

4. Add contact details for applicants

Next—assuming you’re not using recruiting software to track applicants (see below)—enter your email address. You’ll see the option to show your real address, or to use the Craigslist mail relay. Mail relay will protect your email address from spam by creating an intermediate email address based on random numbers and letters. Any candidate responses are then delivered to that address and forwarded on to your own email account. It’s recommended to protect your email address on heavily trafficked sites such as this, and so mail relay is an easy, safe option.

5. Complete your ad with useful information

Tick any relevant details regarding telecommuting or contract type and select ‘continue’ at the bottom of the screen. Add any images you need to your Craigslist job posting and select ‘done with images’ or move straight on to review and publish your job listing on Craigslist.

Note: your ad may take approximately half an hour to appear on Craigslist.

Managing applications from Craigslist

When you post a job for free on Craigslist, you’ll usually receive applications via email, potentially using the Craigslist mail relay to protect your account from spam. This means that you’ll need to keep on top of your inbox over the following weeks. Your email will be used to manage day to day communications along with reviewing and replying to candidates, forwarding applications to members of your team and keeping tracking of feedback… And that’s before you’ve started to schedule calls or interviews.

An Applicant Tracking System like Workable will help. Workable is recruiting software, used by teams to help streamline their recruiting; instead of individual applications arriving from Craigslist by email, Workable automatically gathers applications into a searchable candidate database. Every candidate can be screened via a candidate profile and other members of your team can add comments.

Recruiting software will help to centralize your hiring activity. In brief, it’s used to:

RelatedWhat’s the best day to post jobs?

More resources for posting jobs:

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How to post a job on Snagajob https://resources.workable.com/tutorial/post-a-job-on-snagajob Mon, 18 Jul 2016 14:19:44 +0000 https://resources.workable.com/?p=5428 Snagajob is an international job board covering industries including hospitality, retail, healthcare and more. Advertising vacancies for customers like Burger King, Michaels and Dunkin Donuts, Snagajob connects workers with hourly jobs. With over 60 million registered job seekers the average candidate age is between 16-30, and jobseekers here have an average of 3 years experience. […]

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Snagajob is an international job board covering industries including hospitality, retail, healthcare and more. Advertising vacancies for customers like Burger King, Michaels and Dunkin Donuts, Snagajob connects workers with hourly jobs. With over 60 million registered job seekers the average candidate age is between 16-30, and jobseekers here have an average of 3 years experience.

Snagajob makes it easy for companies to source and attract candidates. It uses personality tests to identify each candidate’s own strengths and weaknesses, and multiple ways for applicants to search by job type and location. Catering to the millennial market, the Snagajob site and application process is entirely mobile friendly.

When you post a job on Snagajob

The word gets out immediately:

  • active job seekers in your zip code will receive an alert
  • the job will appear in relevant search results on Snagajob.com and the Snagajob mobile app
  • the job will be emailed to local job seekers in the Daily Job Alert email
  • you’ll receive a short url to share on social media

Snagajob also gives you the option to perform a more proactive candidate search. Based on the job title, Snagajob will match you with local job seekers qualified for your position. You can view the profiles and approach potential candidates to invite them to apply.

Post your jobs for free

Workable’s world-class recruiting software helps you post jobs for free with one click to top job boards. Get started today with a 15-day free trial!

Post a job

How much does it cost to post a job on Snagajob?

Snagajob offer three plans from $89-$249 a month:

Starter: the starter plan offers a job posting on Snagajob for one month. The job will also be sent directly to potential candidates in a targeted email blast. Also included are the option for candidates to ‘1-click apply’ (pulling in their Snagajob profile details into their application) and tools to sort and filter the applications you receive.

Starter Plus: the plus plan offers all the benefits of the starter plan, but includes visual personality assessment tools—which Snagajob claim to be more reliable than the Myers Briggs test.

Growing plan: the premium plan, this offers three active job postings for one month. You’ll also be featured in the targeted email blast, get the visual personality assessments and some basic applicant tracking tools to help manage the applications as they arrive.

How to post a job on Snagajob

Posting on Snagajob is simple:

  • Select ‘Post a job’ from the top right of Snagajob’s homepage.

image01

  • Review the available plans and choose the one that best matches your needs.

image06

  • Enter your personal details to open your account.

image03

  • The page that follows forms the bulk of the job post. Include the job title, salary and location and a description of the job itself. As you enter the information on this page, you’ll see the live preview update in the right hand column. For help with writing job descriptions, try the Job Description Library, a collection of job description templates ready to copy and paste.
  • When the job description and details are complete, enter your billing information and select ‘Checkout’ at the bottom of the page to post your job to Snagajob.

image04

RelatedWhat’s the best day to advertise job openings?

Managing applications from Snagajob

As part of the job posting package, Snagajob provides basic tools to help manage candidate applications. You’ll be able to sort, filter and review candidates to create a list of prospects for interview. This is available via the desktop or mobile application.

In order to maximise your reach for every job, you might consider advertising your job in multiple locations. To do this, you’ll need to keep on top of applications arriving in multiple different places; from your own email inbox to the tools provided by additional job boards.

It’s at times like this that an Applicant Tracking System (ATS) can help. This is recruiting software, used by teams to help streamline and centralize their recruiting; instead of individual applications arriving from in multiple places, recruiting software automatically gathers applications into a searchable candidate database. Every candidate can be screened via a candidate profile and other members of your team can collaborate in the process, adding comments and feedback.

In short, recruiting software is used to:

More resources for posting jobs:

The post How to post a job on Snagajob appeared first on Recruiting Resources: How to Recruit and Hire Better.

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How to post a job on Indeed https://resources.workable.com/tutorial/post-job-indeed Tue, 14 Feb 2017 14:57:53 +0000 https://resources.workable.com/?p=8503 Indeed is a household name for job seekers and employers alike. This mega-aggregator job search engine is enlisted as one of the top 10 of its kind. And it attracts around 250 million unique visitors per month while counting at least 150 million resumes on its platform. So, posting your jobs on Indeed is a […]

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Indeed is a household name for job seekers and employers alike. This mega-aggregator job search engine is enlisted as one of the top 10 of its kind. And it attracts around 250 million unique visitors per month while counting at least 150 million resumes on its platform. So, posting your jobs on Indeed is a worthwhile investment that will help you attract more candidates.

How does Indeed work?

You can have your job ad appear on Indeed in four ways:

Post a job on Indeed: free vs. paid

Sponsored job ads are prominently displayed in Indeed’s search results. They have better visibility, as they don’t get buried under newer ads. According to Indeed, sponsored job postings get 3.5X more views than free postings.

What does an Indeed job posting cost?

Indeed uses a pay-per-click model. With this model, you only pay for your ad when someone clicks on your job. Indeed cost per click charges vary. The higher the cost per click, the more visible your job ad will be.

So, if you set your average daily budget to $40 at a maximum $1 cost per click, you can get at least 40 clicks per day. When you reach your budget maximum, Indeed stops displaying your ad.

Post your jobs for free

Workable’s world-class recruiting software helps you post jobs for free with one click to top job boards. Get started today with a 15-day free trial!

Post a job

Post a job on Indeed directly from your account

If you already have an Indeed account, just log in and click the “post a job” button in the top left corner. To post a job on Indeed for the first time, go to Indeed’s page for employers, and click the “post a job” button. You’ll be directed to a page where you can create your free Indeed account:

Post a job on Indeed: create an account
Screenshot via Indeed

Start filling out your job ad’s details in the provided fields. Spend some extra time on job descriptions, since they play a big part in Indeed’s quality control process. Good job descriptions include a comprehensive list of job duties and requirements, as well as benefits and perks.

When your job ad is ready, you can choose between posting with budget, or click the “Post without budget” button. Posting your job for free doesn’t preclude you from sponsoring it later. Indeed gives you an estimate of how many applications to expect by using their free or paid options:

Post a job on Indeed: pricing
Screenshot via Indeed

Simple Indeed pricing vs. advanced pricing

Here’s a breakdown on the differences between simple and advanced pricing for Indeed’s sponsored job ads:

Post a job on Indeed: simple vs. advanced pricing

You can set an expiration date for your job ad. Indeed doesn’t charge any fees for posting or taking down a job ad, and you can stop sponsoring or adjust your budget any time.

Indeed automatically generates a company page for you if your jobs appear on Indeed. When you create an employer account, claim your company page by clicking “Claim Your Page” on Indeed’s company pages site:

Post a job on Indeed: company page
Screenshot via Indeed

Post a job on Indeed indirectly

You can have your job ad appear on Indeed indirectly, without using your own Indeed account:

Indeed job posting aggregation

Indeed scans the web for high-quality job listings and includes them in its search results for free. When posting jobs on your careers page, ensure you provide each job posting with:

  • A clear job title
  • A job description
  • A location
  • A unique URL that Indeed can link to

You can also contact Indeed to ask them to index your careers site and submit an XML feed, which is a piece of code that provides Indeed’s search engine with information about your job site.

Sponsor Indeed jobs through your ATS

Your ATS likely integrates with Indeed, along with other job boards. Using an ATS simplifies the job application process and helps attract more quality candidates. Posting a job through an ATS saves time too, and helps you track your sponsored ads more effectively.

Post a job on Indeed: using an ATS
Screenshot via Indeed

Indeed’s quality standards

Indeed places a high value on candidate experience and aims to host job listings that are informative, respectful and reflect real job openings. If a job ad doesn’t meet Indeed’s standards, it may be removed.

Before confirming an ad, check that it follows Indeed’s job posting guidelines. Here are a few important ones:

Job titles

  • Add job titles that reflect each position’s title as it would appear on a business card. Avoid jargon and words like “ninja” or “rockstar.”
  • Keep the job title clean and relevant. Don’t include symbols or other information in the title, like salary or job type.

Job descriptions

  • Provide as much information as possible. Add all principal requirements, duties and benefits, as well as a description of your company. As a general rule, keep your job description around 700 words.
  • Don’t use inappropriate language. Avoid “he/she,” or words that indicate candidates’ age, gender identity or nationality. For example, instead of “native English speaker” use “English proficiency.” Also, don’t use profanity.

Candidate experience

  • Simplify your application process. Avoid asking candidates to fill out lengthy forms or navigate through different sites to apply to your job.
  • Ensure candidate information confidentiality. Make sure your application and record-keeping processes are secure.

Generally, Indeed doesn’t allow postings that advertise:

  • Career fairs
  • Franchise or training opportunities
  • Multi-level marketing positions

Indeed has other requirements too. For example, employers can’t re-post the same job ad within a short time, or post the same position in multiple locations without Indeed’s Multi-Location Tool. Also, Indeed will only display each job ad once, from the source closest to the employer. So, if you post your job both through your careers page and through recruiting agencies, Indeed will scrap the duplicates (unless they’re sponsored).

Indeed’s popularity and commitment to high quality job postings can help both candidates and employers find the best matches for their skills and needs. If you encounter any kind of quality issues, contact the support team at Indeed or your ATS to help you.

Using Workable to post on Indeed

For recruiters or HR team members tasked with posting jobs on multiple job boards, handling each one individually can be overwhelming. Workable is a platinum partner of Indeed, simplifies this task through seamless integration.

This integration boosts your applications by up to 4 times thanks to the candidate-friendly Indeed Apply experience. It also reduces costs by 20% per apply for sponsored jobs and makes your postings stand out in search results.

Workable’s Sponsored Jobs integration further optimizes your advertisements on Indeed, increasing the likelihood of hire by 4.5 times. Utilizing 17+ years of hiring data and job seeker insights, Sponsored Jobs display your listings to candidates who are most likely to apply, helping you attract quality applicants. Sponsoring a job on Indeed expands your pool of high-intent and diverse candidates.

Now that you have all the necessary information, you’re ready to post your job on Indeed and start hiring! If you want to discover more about how Workable can simplify your hiring process, click here.

More resources for posting jobs:

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How to post a job on Monster https://resources.workable.com/tutorial/post-a-job-monster Wed, 14 Jun 2017 15:42:56 +0000 https://resources.workable.com/?p=15938 Monster is part of the job board elite. Formed in 1994, it is a powerful recruiting tool that offers job ad products to help employers reach the audiences they want. Monster offers 30 and 60 day posting options for most of its jobs. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to post a job on Monster’s […]

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Monster is part of the job board elite. Formed in 1994, it is a powerful recruiting tool that offers job ad products to help employers reach the audiences they want. Monster offers 30 and 60 day posting options for most of its jobs. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to post a job on Monster’s home page for employers:

How to post a job on Monster
All screenshots via Monster

1. Create an account

Before you buy a job, Monster will ask you to sign into your account. If you’re new to the site, you can do this by filling out a short form that asks for information about you, your industry and your company.

How to post a job on Monster: Create an Account

2. Choose how many job ads you want and their duration

Decide whether you will be posting one job or multiple jobs, and whether you will post for 30 or 60 days. You can make these choices by visiting Monster’s employers’ home page, which, once logged in, will look like this:

How to post a job on Monster: Choose Jobs

Click on the “Jobs” tab from your home page and select “Post a Job.”

How to post a job on Monster: Jobs TabYou will then land on a page that prompts you to fill out details for posting a Standard Job Ad.

How to post a job to Monster: standard job ad

Choose the number of Monster ads you would like to purchase. Click “buy now” to purchase a single ad or buy multiple listings. Monster will offer you job enhancements (at an extra cost) to get your ad more visibility. Here’s a look at some of these add-ons:

How to post a job to Monster: purchase job ad

Standard Job Ads are just one type of job ad product Monster offers. To reach even more niche audiences, Monster offers other job ad types. Choose which job ad product works best for your needs.

Monster job ad types:

RelatedWhat’s the best day to advertise job openings?

3. Proceed to checkout

Once you’re satisfied with your jobs, their duration and any enhancements, go ahead and check-out your cart.

How to post a job to Monster: job posting inventory

How much does posting a job on Monster cost?

Prices for job ads on Monster vary, depending on several factors. Here are some:

  • Duration: Will your job ad be live for 30 or 60 days?
  • Purchase size: Will you buy just one ad, or several?
  • Enhancements: Will you enhance your ad with Job Bolding (which increases your job ad’s visibility by making it appear bold in search results), or Diversity & Veteran Reach?

Here’s a chart that breaks down the Monster job pricing of single and bulk job ads for 30 and 60 days:

Job Ad Type Pricing for 30 Days Pricing for 60 Days
Premium Job Ad Start at $379 for a single job, or $299 each for 10 jobs. Start at $429 for a single job, or $329 each for 10 jobs.
Standard Job Ad Start at $375 for a single job, or $130 each if you buy between 100 to 249 jobs.  *This job ad price varies by location. Start at $399 for a single job, or $135 each if you buy between 100 to 249 jobs.  *This job ad price varies by location.
Skilled and Hourly Job Ad Start at $119 for 14 days, or $530 each if you buy between 5 to 9 Skilled and Hourly Job Slot Ads. Use Skilled and Hourly Job Slot Ads to repost jobs after 30 days. Buy one slot for $720, or 5 to 9 at $530 each.
Veteran Job Ad Start at $90 for one job, or $64 each if you buy between 25 to 49 jobs. Start at $95 for one job, or $68 each if you buy between 25 to 49 jobs.
Diversity & Veteran Job Ad Start at $519 for one job, or $177 each if you buy between 100 to 249 job ads. Start at $547 for one job, or $187 each if you buy between 100 to 249 job ads.
Newspaper Job Ad One-time post. Varies from $79 to $150 depending on the newspaper. One-time post. Varies from $79 to $150 depending on the newspaper.

Post your jobs for free

Workable’s world-class recruiting software helps you post jobs for free with one click to top job boards. Get started today with a 15-day free trial!

Post a job

Using Workable to post on Monster

For recruiters or HR team members who need to post jobs on multiple job boards, doing it individually for each one can be overwhelming. Workable provides a seamless integration with Monster to simplify this process.

Workable allows you to post your job on up to 200 major job boards at once, without any hassle. As responses to your job listing come in, Workable helps you sort and prioritize candidates, saving you valuable time for more important tasks.

Now that you have all the necessary information, you’re ready to post your job on Monster and start hiring! If you want to learn more about how Workable can streamline your hiring process, click here.

More resources for posting jobs:

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How to post a job on Nexxt (formerly Beyond) https://resources.workable.com/tutorial/how-to-post-a-job-on-nexxt Wed, 27 Sep 2017 17:30:03 +0000 https://resources.workable.com/?p=24961 Beyond was one of the earliest job boards on the recruiting market. After recently rebranding itself as Nexxt, this job board has gone from offering simple job posting functions to providing a full recruitment marketing solution. In this post, we guide you on how to purchase recruiting plans, manage your account and post a job […]

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Beyond was one of the earliest job boards on the recruiting market. After recently rebranding itself as Nexxt, this job board has gone from offering simple job posting functions to providing a full recruitment marketing solution.

In this post, we guide you on how to purchase recruiting plans, manage your account and post a job on Nexxt (formerly Beyond.) Here are the contents of our guide so you can click on sections you are most interested in:

What Nexxt offers

Nexxt is a premium job board and recruitment platform that boasts a huge network of niche job posting sites. Employers can advertise jobs on career sites like SalesHeads and HealthcareJobsite, diversity sites like DiversityWorkers and local job boards like PhillyJobs. Plus, Nexxt helps you reach global candidates through international partner sites (e.g. IrishJobs.ie and Jobs.bg.)

Nexxt’s searchable candidate database has more than 40 million candidate portfolios. This database supports Boolean search so you can find candidates who meet your requirements more easily.

And, Nexxt offers recruitment marketing solutions to help you reach candidates who are a good match for each of your jobs. These features include promoting your jobs and brand through candidate retargeting and text & email campaigns.

Post your jobs for free

Workable’s world-class recruiting software helps you post jobs for free with one click to top job boards. Get started today with a 15-day free trial!

Post a job

Nexxt’s pricing overview

Nexxt’s pricing is mainly based on how many jobs you plan to post. This table shows the current prices and features of Nexxt’s job posting plans:

Single job posting Subscription Plans FlexxPlan
Post only one job, one time.Purchase a single job posting by paying a one-time fee of $299. Post as many jobs as you want by using job slots in the following plans:

  • Talent Pro: One job slot at $199/month.
  • Recruiter: Five job slots at $299/month.
  • Recruiter Premium: 10 job slots at $499/month.

Nexxt’s Recruiter and Recruiter Premium plans also provide access to Nexxt’s candidate database.

Advertise all your jobs for one flat price.A three-month-trial is available for companies that want to post more than 11 jobs.

Explore Nexxt’s Subscription Plans

Nexxt’s subscription plans each offer a certain number of job slots per month. For example, if you have five job slots available, you can post any number of jobs as long as you always have five or fewer jobs posted at the same time. On this Subscription Plans page, you can see the pricing of each plan.

Nexxt subscription plans

There will also be a breakdown of what each plan includes underneath the pricing boxes. Identify the most appropriate plan and click “Buy Now.” If you’re not sure which plan is best for you, choose one that most closely matches your needs. You won’t need to provide your billing information just yet, so you can create your account and pick a plan later.

In the next screen, add your work email and a password and click “Continue.”

Nexxt hiring subscription plan

Nexxt will ask you for some basic information about you and your company:

Nexxt signup form

After you complete this form, you will be asked to confirm your subscription plan (monthly or annual) and provide billing information. In our screenshot, you can see a summary of what Nexxt’s Recruiter plan offers including:

  • Five job slots per month to post your jobs.
  • Ability to search and view up to 150 candidates in Nexxt’s database, the “Talent Network.”
  • Promoting your jobs via SmartMatch alerts, which show your job ads to candidates who have searched or applied to similar jobs.

Nexxt subscription order

If you are sure that this plan meets your needs, fill out all required fields and click on “Complete Purchase” at the bottom of that page. When you purchase your plan, you will be able to post your first job as we describe in our “Create new job posting” section.

If you need some more time to select a plan, you can skip this step for now and navigate your account.

Get a free quote for Nexxt’s FlexxPlan

If you would like to know more about the FlexxPlan, go to Nexxt’s 3-month trial page. This trial is available for companies that plan to post more than 11 jobs. Fill out this contact form, so Nexxt’s representatives can contact you with pricing information and help you set up your trial:

If you have other questions about Nexxt’s services, go to this page to fill out Nexxt’s contact form. Answer Nexxt’s question about your recruiting needs by selecting your option from the dropdown menu. Click “Get Started” and complete the contact form that appears.

Nexxt describe your hiring goals

Nexxt’s recruitment experts will get in touch with you within one business day.

Navigate your account

If you already have an account by following our previous steps, log in. Your home page gives you a recap of your posted jobs and applicants. You can also explore various tabs at the top of this page.

You can click on:

  • “Manage Account.” Go to this option if you want to purchase, upgrade or downgrade your pricing plans.
  • Your username. Hover over the arrow next to your name at the top right of this page. You can do various tasks like update your contact or company information, change your login credentials or add team members to your company’s account.
  • “Resources.” This tab directs you to Nexxt’s customer training center, FAQs and other content.
  • “Candidate Search.” Go to this tab to access Nexxt’s candidate database which includes millions of active and passive candidate profiles. You need to purchase a subscription plan before you can use this service.
  • “Jobs.” Click this tab to post and manage your jobs. Before you post a job, Nexxt requires you to choose your subscription plan.

Post a job on Nexxt

Sign in to your Nexxt account and hover over the “Jobs” tab at the top. You will see a menu with various options:

post a job on Nexxt

Select:

  • “Create New Posting” to post your job.
  • “My job postings” to view, edit and deactivate your active jobs.
  • “Team job postings” to view and edit job postings your team has posted.
  • “My Applicants” to see who has applied to each of your job postings.
  • “Reporting” to view analytics on your job postings.

Click on “Create New Posting” and you will be directed to Nexxt’s job posting page:

create new job posting with Nexxt

Add job descriptions, locations and requirements (e.g. minimum education level.) Keep in mind that your job ad goes through automated quality control. To ensure your job ad will be approved, you should:

  • Have not included any contact information in your job description.
  • Have entered a valid U.S. city, state and zip code or valid international location in all appropriate fields.

At the bottom of this page, choose whether you want to direct applicants to your careers page or let them apply directly via Nexxt:

Nexxt applicant contact method

You can also set up Job Match Alerts, which notify you via email when candidates who may fit this role join Nexxt’s network.

After you have completed all fields, click on “Create Job.” Review your job ad to see how it will appear to candidates.

Nexxt review your job post

Click “Confirm New Job Post.” If you haven’t already purchased a subscription plan, you will see this screen:

Nexxt payment options

Select a subscription plan or a single job posting to post your job for 30 days. Click submit and confirm your purchase on the next page, where you can also choose an annual plan instead of monthly:

Nexxt subscription options

Provide your billing information and you are ready to post your job ad. If you want to maximize your job ad’s exposure and discover great candidates, ask Nexxt’s recruitment media experts at (866) 694-5627 to help you build your own advertising and targeting campaigns.

Posting to Nexxt using Workable

For recruiters or HR team members who need to post jobs on multiple job boards, the task of doing it individually for each one can be daunting. Workable offers a seamless integration with Nexxt, making this process much easier.

With Workable, you can post your job on up to 200 major job boards simultaneously without any hassle. As responses to your job listing come in, Workable helps you sort and prioritize candidates, saving you valuable time for more important tasks.

Now that you have all the necessary information, you’re ready to post your job on Nexxt and start hiring! If you want to learn more about how Workable can simplify your hiring process click here.

More resources for posting jobs:

The post How to post a job on Nexxt (formerly Beyond) appeared first on Recruiting Resources: How to Recruit and Hire Better.

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Best time tracking software solutions for HR efficiency  https://resources.workable.com/tutorial/best-time-tracking-software-solutions Tue, 09 Jul 2024 11:28:00 +0000 https://resources.workable.com/?p=95194 14% of organizations have increased their spending on time tracking since 2020. The need for time tracking arose during the COVID-19 pandemic. The world stopped but the employees’ virtual time did not! Time tracking tools have been a game changer; helping HRs track, analyze, and manage employees’ work hours accurately and conveniently.   But, what is […]

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14% of organizations have increased their spending on time tracking since 2020. The need for time tracking arose during the COVID-19 pandemic. The world stopped but the employees’ virtual time did not! Time tracking tools have been a game changer; helping HRs track, analyze, and manage employees’ work hours accurately and conveniently.  

But, what is the time tracking software? It is a digital solution designed to streamline the capturing and recording of employees’ work hours. With the time tracking software, employees can effortlessly clock in and out of work via desktop, mobile apps, or even advanced biometric technologies like facial recognition.

In fact, time tracking software offers more than just recording start and end times. The robust tools come with features that significantly enhance HR efficiency. Before exploring these features, let’s review some of the best time tracking software available in the market.

Related: The three do’s and don’ts of remote time tracking

Find out the best time tracking software 

According to Market Research Future, the time tracking software market is set to grow at a CAGR of 16.5% between 2024-2032. Every organization is part of the bandwagon. What’s holding you back? If you’re not sure which solution to go for, here is our list of the best timekeeping and billing software you can consider for your organization: – 

Workable

Workable is a comprehensive hiring and employee management software designed to simplify and streamline HR processes for companies of all sizes. Complementing its existing suite of impressive features, it is now set to launch the best time tracking software for small businesses, medium-sized firms, and multinational companies. 

ProWorkflow

A time tracking software known for its user-friendly interface and features like timesheets, project tracking, and reporting. It also allows employees to track their time across multiple devices. It is one of the accessible time tracking solutions for firms with limited budgets.

Wrike

Guaranteeing seamless time tracking, Wrike is popular for its customizable dashboards and advanced reporting tools. It is preferred by organizations due to its intuitive interface and third-party app integration, which makes the life of the workforce pretty easy. 

Mavenlink

It is a unified platform with resource planning, time tracking, and project management. Mavenlink is a favorite among HRs due to its optimization of operational efficiency. 

Zoho Projects

One of the trendy time tracking software, Zoho Projects tracks billable and non-billable hours, monitors employee performance, and assists in resource management. Its seamless ecosystem with Zoho applications makes it the perfect time tracking tool for medium and large businesses. 

Basecamp

Small businesses who’d like to play the field of time tracking should give Basecamp a go. It has a simple interface that ensures inter-team collaborations, time tracking of employees through third-party integration, and enhanced project visibility. 

ClickTime

The best utilization of time is possible with ClickTime, time tracking software with detailed timesheets, project allocations and resource planning. 

Time Doctor

Remote time management is the need of the hour. Time Doctor gets it and provides in-depth reports on time usage and productivity with tools like screenshot recording, activity levels, and time logging. 

With so many options available, you can choose the best employee time tracking software for your organization based on your business needs.  

How does effective time tracking enhance HR processes?

Google, Apple, Microsoft, and all the big players use time tracking tools. Here’s how employing the best time tracking program in your organization can help enhance HR processes and improve your efficiency: 

  1. Improved payroll accuracy 

Unlike manual timesheets, which are more prone to errors and inaccuracies, automated time tracking software can eliminate human error, ensuring accurate records of worked hours. This precision reduces discrepancies in payroll processing, leading to timely and accurate paychecks.

  1. Better project management and resource allocation

With time tracking software, you can analyze the time logs of any specific project to gain valuable insight into project dynamics, learn potential roadblocks within the projects, and access resource allocation. This empowers you to proactively intervene and address any delay, ensuring the employees meet the deadlines.

Additionally, timesheets can show potential resource imbalances within the department. By understanding teams that have extra resources and those that are understaffed, you can ensure all departments have the necessary manpower.

  1. Reduced administrative burden 

By reducing inaccuracies in payrolls, streamlining workflows, and automating data entry, the time tracking software reduces administrative burden. This frees up your valuable time, allowing you to focus on more productive tasks such as talent management, developing workforce plans, and more.

  1. Data-driven decision-making 

Besides keeping track of employees’ work hours, candidate tracking software provides information on employee work patterns, overall team productivity, and departmental performance. As an HR, you can use this data to make more informed decisions about resource allocation, staffing needs, and workflow optimization.

For instance, you observe that a team spends more time than regular working hours. This could be due to understaffing or workload imbalance. Based on this information, you can understand the areas requiring support and help them accordingly.

  1. Enhanced employee accountability and transparency

Knowing work hours are being tracked can motivate employees to become more accountable and mindful of how they spend their time. What’s more? The data on how employees allocate their time can help managers understand areas where an employee might need support or offer guidance on effective time management. 

Having a platform where everyone’s time allocation is visible, enables a deeper understanding of each other’s workloads. This transparency can help create a more cohesive work environment. It’s a win-win for everyone! 

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Forensic Pathologist job description https://resources.workable.com/forensic-pathologist-job-description Sat, 07 May 2022 13:52:55 +0000 https://resources.workable.com/?p=85064 A Forensic Pathologist is a medical professional who performs autopsies, examines specimens, and investigates sudden or unnatural deaths in collaboration with law enforcement. They determine the cause of death and provide expert testimony. Use this Forensic Pathologist job description to advertise your vacancies and find qualified candidates. Feel free to modify responsibilities and requirements based […]

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A Forensic Pathologist is a medical professional who performs autopsies, examines specimens, and investigates sudden or unnatural deaths in collaboration with law enforcement. They determine the cause of death and provide expert testimony.

Use this Forensic Pathologist job description to advertise your vacancies and find qualified candidates. Feel free to modify responsibilities and requirements based on your needs.

What is a Forensic Pathologist?

A Forensic Pathologist is a medical professional specializing in conducting autopsies and examining biological samples to determine the cause of death and investigate suspicious or unnatural deaths. They work closely with law enforcement agencies and provide expert analysis and testimony in legal proceedings.

What does a Forensic Pathologist do?

A Forensic Pathologist performs autopsies, examines tissues and bodily fluids, and investigates the circumstances surrounding a person’s death. They use their expertise to determine the cause, manner, and mechanisms of death, and provide crucial information to law enforcement agencies and medical professionals. Additionally, they may be involved in collecting evidence, preparing reports, and giving expert testimony in legal proceedings.

Forensic Pathologist responsibilities include:

  • Performing autopsies to determine cause of death
  • Undertaking examinations of specimens, tissues, organs, fluids, and blood to determine abnormalities
  • Investigating sudden and/or unnatural deaths, in conjunction with law enforcement when needed

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Film Director job description https://resources.workable.com/film-director-job-description/ Thu, 28 Apr 2022 12:06:35 +0000 https://resources.workable.com/?p=84969 A Film Director is a creative professional who guides and manages the artistic elements of a film production. They collaborate with actors, interpret scripts, and oversee the visual storytelling to bring the narrative to life. Use this Film Director job description to advertise your vacancies and find qualified candidates. Feel free to modify responsibilities and […]

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A Film Director is a creative professional who guides and manages the artistic elements of a film production. They collaborate with actors, interpret scripts, and oversee the visual storytelling to bring the narrative to life.

Use this Film Director job description to advertise your vacancies and find qualified candidates. Feel free to modify responsibilities and requirements based on your needs.

What is a Film Director?

A Film Director is a creative professional who oversees the artistic aspects of a film production. They are responsible for guiding and managing the actors and film crew, interpreting scripts, and ensuring the visual storytelling aligns with the desired narrative style.

What does a Film Director do?

A Film Director plays a pivotal role in the filmmaking process. They collaborate with actors, read and develop scripts, and motivate the cast and crew to deliver their best performances. They also make critical decisions regarding set locations, budget management, and artistic execution. Ultimately, their goal is to bring the script to life through visual storytelling and create a cohesive and engaging final film.

Film Director responsibilities include:

  • Ensuring that actors and the film crew interpret a script based on the film’s narrative style
  • Motivating actors to produce their best dramatic performance
  • Reading scripts and working on its continued development

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Employee vacation request form template https://resources.workable.com/employee-vacation-request-form-template Mon, 21 Aug 2023 12:35:46 +0000 https://resources.workable.com/?p=89959 An employee vacation request form is a standardized document used by employees to formally request time off from work for vacation or other personal reasons. A smooth workflow while accommodating employees’ personal needs is crucial. One of the ways companies maintain this balance is by using structured processes for routine requests, such as time off. […]

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An employee vacation request form is a standardized document used by employees to formally request time off from work for vacation or other personal reasons.

A smooth workflow while accommodating employees’ personal needs is crucial. One of the ways companies maintain this balance is by using structured processes for routine requests, such as time off.

The employee vacation request form serves as a bridge between the employee’s personal needs and the company’s operational requirements, ensuring transparency and efficiency.

What is an employee vacation request form?

The vacation request policy is a set of guidelines and procedures that companies establish to manage and approve employees’ time-off requests. This policy ensures that there’s a systematic approach to handling vacation requests, minimizing disruptions and ensuring fairness.

The policy typically outlines the process of submitting a request, the notice period required, the criteria for approval, and how the company handles overlapping requests.

It also provides clarity on how vacation days are accrued, whether they can be carried over, and the implications of not using them. By having a clear policy, companies can ensure that business operations continue to run smoothly while employees get their well-deserved breaks.

An employee vacation request form should include:

Employee details: This includes the employee’s name, department, designation, and employee ID.

Vacation details: Specific start and end dates of the vacation, along with the total number of days requested.

Reason for vacation: A brief description of the reason for the vacation request, be it personal, medical, or leisure.

Backup or point of contact: Details of a colleague or team member who can handle the employee’s responsibilities in their absence.

Step-by-step instructions

In general, creating an employee vacation request form is an easy task for the HR department.

Here are some guidelines that will help you craft your own:

Choose a format: Decide whether you want a digital form (like a Google Form) or a paper-based form. Digital forms are easier to track and manage, but some companies prefer traditional methods.

Header: Start with a clear header like “Employee Vacation Request Form” to make the purpose of the form evident.
Employee details section: Create fields for the employee’s name, department, designation, and employee ID.

Vacation details section: Include fields for the start and end dates of the vacation, total days requested, and a calendar widget if it’s a digital form.

Reason for vacation: Provide a text box where employees can briefly describe the reason for their vacation.

Backup details: Create fields for the backup employee’s name and contact details.

Approval section: Leave a space for managerial signatures or digital approval mechanisms. This might include spaces for the immediate supervisor and HR manager.

Notes or comments section: Provide a space for any additional notes or comments from either the employee or the approving authority.

Footer: Include a declaration that the employee has adhered to company policies in making the request and understands any implications of their absence.

Review and test: Before rolling it out, test the form with a few employees to ensure it’s user-friendly and captures all necessary information.

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Analytics Manager job description https://resources.workable.com/analytics-manager-job-description Wed, 12 Apr 2017 15:47:17 +0000 https://resources.workable.com/?p=10802 This Analytics Manager job description template is optimized for posting to online job boards or careers pages and easy to customize for your company. Analytics Manager responsibilities include: Developing strategies for effective data analysis and reporting Selecting, configuring and implementing analytics solutions Leading and developing a team of data analysts

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This Analytics Manager job description template is optimized for posting to online job boards or careers pages and easy to customize for your company.

Analytics Manager responsibilities include:

  • Developing strategies for effective data analysis and reporting
  • Selecting, configuring and implementing analytics solutions
  • Leading and developing a team of data analysts

analytics manager job description

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Accounts Payable Specialist job description https://resources.workable.com/accounts-payable-specialist-job-description Thu, 28 Apr 2022 13:28:25 +0000 https://resources.workable.com/?p=84976 An Accounts Payable Specialist is a professional who manages the expenses of an organization by analyzing invoices and resolving accounting discrepancies. Use this Accounts Payable Specialist job description to advertise your vacancies and find qualified candidates. Feel free to modify responsibilities and requirements based on your needs. Accounts Payable Specialist responsibilities include: Comparing system reports […]

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An Accounts Payable Specialist is a professional who manages the expenses of an organization by analyzing invoices and resolving accounting discrepancies.

Use this Accounts Payable Specialist job description to advertise your vacancies and find qualified candidates. Feel free to modify responsibilities and requirements based on your needs.

Accounts Payable Specialist responsibilities include:

  • Comparing system reports to balances and verifying entries
  • Collaborating with internal departments to gather, analyze and interpret financial data
  • Receiving, processing, verifying and reconciling invoices

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What is employee onboarding and how to get it right https://resources.workable.com/tutorial/what-is-onboarding Thu, 08 Sep 2022 10:00:00 +0000 https://resources.workable.com/?p=32327 Your new hire is starting soon — that’s exciting! Your team puts a lot of effort into hiring the best candidate, so you need to ensure that they’ll stay in your company and thrive for a long time. The first step to achieve this is an effective onboarding process to help employees acclimate to their […]

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Your new hire is starting soon — that’s exciting! Your team puts a lot of effort into hiring the best candidate, so you need to ensure that they’ll stay in your company and thrive for a long time. The first step to achieve this is an effective onboarding process to help employees acclimate to their new workplace and get productive quickly.

What is employee onboarding?

Onboarding new hires is the process companies go through to welcome and integrate employees into the workplace. This very definition suggests that the employee onboarding process extends far beyond the first day of a new hire – it continues until they’ve fully adjusted to their role and team.

And this is the main difference between onboarding and orientation. The employee onboarding definition refers to any action that helps new hires understand how things work in their new work environment, get acquainted with the company culture, and feel welcomed and valued in their team.

Employee orientation, on the other hand, is the first step of onboarding. It’s when new hires learn the basics of their environment: for example, they might familiarize themselves with the office building and company policies, understand their new job duties and get introduced to their colleagues.

Streamline your offer to onboarding

Ensure a great new hire experience with our recruiting solution and its seamless integrations with onboarding tools and HRIS providers.

Improve your onboarding

Why is onboarding important?

Think back to your first day in any job – chances are you were excited but nervous. If you don’t receive enough attention and instruction, that may not bode well for your mood or your motivation to get up to speed in your new capacity.

This may be one of the reasons that more than 25% of new hires quit their jobs after their first three months. And this is a huge loss for a company that must repeat a costly hiring process to find a replacement so soon – not counting the resources spent to train or compensate that new employee during their time with your company.

So onboarding new employees effectively can improve your company’s employee retention.

Another benefit of a good onboarding policy is that new hires reach full productivity faster. If they don’t receive adequate help from HR or their manager, and they’re just trying to make sense of everything on their own, your company loses potential revenue this employee would otherwise bring. If new hires go through a well-developed onboarding process, they’ll be quicker to settle in their role and start producing value for their team.

And an effective process is even more imperative when you’re onboarding remote employees (who have extra difficulties in connecting with their colleagues due to distance) or interns and graduates (who are new to your company and also to the world of employment).

Why it’s crucial to welcome new hires

Employee onboarding shouldn’t stop at company policy, benefit enrollment, job training, and tech logins — the way your company makes employees feel is a significant part of company culture, which is an essential ingredient of attracting and retaining top talent in today’s job market. It also goes a long way in building lasting employee engagement.

There should be two main components involved with a successful onboarding strategy: making sure new hires are prepared with all of the necessary information to work within your organization and creating a positive, comfortable environment where everyone feels supported and included. A fully optimized onboarding experience should welcome a new hire in a way that leaves them feeling prepared to perform their role and excited to be part of your team.

Additional resources for welcoming a new hire:

Onboarding process steps

When designing the onboarding process, there are many things you can do to help new hires, like sending them a welcome package with company swag, arranging a team lunch or dinner with colleagues, or preparing a presentation. Whatever you include in your own process, there are several onboarding best practices that you could follow:

1. Communicate with new hires regularly

If your new hire’s start date is more than two weeks away, make sure to keep communicating with them and show that you’re looking forward to having them on board. You can prepare a welcome package with company swag or send them your employee handbook in advance. You could also ask the new hire’s prospective manager to send an email welcoming their new team member.

2. Plan the new hire’s first week

When the new employee first arrives for work, they will be uncertain about what their day will be like. It’s up to you to show them that you’re fully prepared to welcome them properly. So, prepare a plan for their first few days on the job and check all the important boxes (like setting up their workstation or informing the front desk employees about the new hire’s arrival).

3. Welcome them with open arms

Be enthusiastic, friendly, and positive from day one. Give the new hire a company walkthrough and introduce them to their co-workers at nearby desks first. Schedule a team lunch for them to get acquainted with others on their team and make sure their manager meets with them regularly throughout this crucial first week. It’d be useful to provide the new employee with a checklist or schedule with all the onboarding activities you have planned.

4. Keep it up

The onboarding process doesn’t end after the first week is over. You need to ensure your new hire has enough basic yet meaningful work to do almost from the beginning to help build confidence. Their manager should have a plan to assign that work and also support their smooth integration into the team. Check in with both the new hire and their manager after two weeks and at the end of the new hire’s first month and give them any support they might need.

A well-thought-out employee onboarding program – taking into account these four steps – could make all the difference in successful employee retention and engagement. It’s imperative both to employee retention and engagement that new hires know that your company values them right from the start.

Additional resources for creating an onboarding process:

Why an onboarding checklist is important

There are a lot of moving pieces to a comprehensive employee onboarding strategy and starting a new job is already a situation that can inspire feelings of anxiety, uncertainty, or information overload. Remember the first day of school? It’s like that, but with even more at stake.

An onboarding checklist provides a loosely-structured schedule that prioritizes the most important aspects of welcoming a new hire while also helping them gain confidence about their new role and environment. Onboarding is your best chance to make a strong first impression as an efficient, organized, and thoughtful place to work and a new hire checklist is the ideal tool to help you do it.

Improve the initial employee experience by providing them with a copy of the list so that they know what to expect.

Additional resources for creating an onboarding checklist:

Remote onboarding

The rise of remote work has added new obstacles for HR professionals to consider. It’s even easier to feel lost, overwhelmed, or confused if you can’t check in with a friendly face nearby. How do you make a new hire feel welcome and supported from a distance?

It’s extremely important to streamline the formal onboarding workflow and communicate the process and all information involved as clearly as possible for remote workers. Help them get comfortable with company communication tools as quickly as possible, set up some video calls or virtual meetings with relevant managers and team members, and consider assigning them an “onboarding buddy” to reach out to with any questions.

Onboarding software is an ideal tool for organizing the process and a friendly colleague can help personalize and support the experience.

Additional resources for remote onboarding:

Employee onboarding tools and software

Hiring a new employee involves a significant investment of time, money, and resources. From interviewing to onboarding, it’s important to be thorough and organized each step of the way — not only for logistical reasons, but also because making a positive impression is a key component of acquiring highly-qualified talent in a competitive job market.

Using employee onboarding tools and software can help streamline communication, facilitate training, ensure compliance, and manage necessary paperwork, among other things. It can also make the entire process easier for human resources professionalwhat is s by incorporating automation and notifications into the workflow to ensure all tasks are completed in a timely manner.

Creating and implementing a consistent and comprehensive onboarding strategy improves the efficiency and productivity of your organization as you empower new hires to step into their new position with comfort and confidence.

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How to recruit on YouTube https://resources.workable.com/tutorial/recruit-on-youtube Tue, 25 Jul 2017 14:58:44 +0000 https://resources.workable.com/?p=19453 YouTube has more than one billion users who watch roughly one billion hours of video every day. For recruiters who want to expand their sourcing techniques, YouTube is a channel worth exploring. Here’s a guide to recruiting on YouTube: How to get started with YouTube recruitment First, create an account. Here’s how: Sign into YouTube.com. You’ll be […]

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YouTube has more than one billion users who watch roughly one billion hours of video every day. For recruiters who want to expand their sourcing techniques, YouTube is a channel worth exploring.

Here’s a guide to recruiting on YouTube:

How to get started with YouTube recruitment

First, create an account. Here’s how:

  1. Sign into YouTube.com. You’ll be asked to provide your Google account or create a new one.
  2. Verify your account by submitting your phone number.

With your account, you can watch and like YouTube videos and subscribe to members’ channels. To upload your own videos and make playlists, you need to create a YouTube channel.

Here’s how to create a YouTube channel for your business:

  1. Go to your Channel Switcher and click “Create a new channel”

    YouTube recruitment | Create a new channel
    Screenshot via YouTube
  2. You’ll be prompted to create a Brand Account. Brand Accounts, unlike personal accounts, can have multiple managers. Fill out the name of your channel (e.g. CompanyName or CompanyName_ Careers) and verify your account. You’ll be asked to provide a phone number.
  3. You can then add or change your channel managers.

You are now ready to start creating content to attract potential candidates on YouTube.

Source and attract more candidates

Workable helps you build and promote your brand where your next candidates are. You’re always top of mind, whether they’re actively looking or not.

Start sourcing

How to build your employer brand on YouTube

Showcase your work life

Capture a day in the life of employees to help candidates picture themselves on your team. Offer an inside look: produce a video office tour, show viewers what kind of technology your teams use and mention the perks you offer.

Dropbox illustrates its company culture and employee benefits through this puppet-themed video:

Use employee testimonials

Give employees a voice in your YouTube videos. Candidates want to hear from them first hand about what working at your company is like.

Starbucks asked employees who work in various positions to share what they like about their jobs:

Be imaginative

Your employer brand is your company’s reputation. Use YouTube to create recruitment videos to show off your company’s personality.

Shopify does this well. It aims to entertain viewers in this video about unusual hiring criteria:

How to improve candidate experience with YouTube

Describe your recruiting process

YouTube videos can help you explain your recruiting process step-by-step. Let candidates know what to expect when they apply for open roles at your company.

Deloitte created a video that describes its application process. It also offers candidates resume and interview tips:

Promote one or more job openings

Complement job descriptions with videos that explain what each role entails. You can add YouTube links or embed videos in your job ads.

Here’s how P&G employees describe the role of the Assistant Brand Manager:

Explain your company values

Improve candidate experience and reduce time-to-fill by being transparent about what you value in employees. Emphasize the qualities that make your company and its employees unique.

Pinterest uses this video to explain its mission and describe its diverse groups of employees:

How to find potential hires using YouTube

Source candidates on YouTube

In addition to uploading your own recruitment videos, you can use YouTube to source candidates for creative roles. Designers, photographers and videographers use YouTube to upload portfolios and video tutorials. These work samples can help you screen passive candidates.

Your filtering options may be limited (e.g. you can’t search by location with YouTube’s search function), but most professionals include their contact details and links to social media pages in their YouTube accounts.

Also, look for relevant YouTube channels to watch potential candidates’ full video libraries. Here are the first results that show up when searching for Logo Designer channels:

YouTube recruitment | candidate sourcing logo designers
Screenshot via YouTube

Invite applicants to submit videos

When you’re hiring for creative or sales roles, prompt candidates to submit video applications using YouTube. By doing so, you’ll be able to:

  • Test their presentation skills.
  • Learn more about their qualifications and background.
  • Understand why they’d like to work with your company.

Busabout, a travel company, invited candidates who wanted to work as Video Producers to pitch their skills through a short video. Here’s an application they received:

Attract your audience

Create videos that speak to specific candidate groups. For example, a video that describes how your engineering team works or what you’re looking for in salespeople will resonate with potential applicants. Upload each video to your careers page and relevant online communities (e.g. Facebook groups for engineers.) Also, a YouTube live streaming session will help you promote your recruitment events in real time.

Slack aims to attract future interns with this video:

YouTube recruitment do’s and don’ts

Here are a few suggestions to build an effective recruiting strategy on YouTube:

✗ Don’t force content

Your videos and your employee testimonials should be as genuine as possible. Candidates want to get a realistic view of your company and can sense a staged performance.

✗ Don’t create long videos

To hold your audience’s attention, keep your videos short and sweet. One to four minutes is plenty of time to get your message across effectively.

✔ Do include links to your websites

At the end of your video, provide links to your careers page where potential candidates can apply for your open roles. Also, include links to your social media pages in the video’s description.

✔ Do ask for professional help

If video-editing is not your expertise, consult professionals who can create engaging videos for your company. Alternatively, use YouTube Video Editor or editing software like VSDC and Lightworks to achieve better results.

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How to recruit on Pinterest https://resources.workable.com/tutorial/recruit-on-pinterest Mon, 21 Aug 2017 21:09:56 +0000 https://resources.workable.com/?p=20699 Pinterest is more than a virtual repository for recipes, crafts and wedding ideas. It’s a social platform that can help companies build strong employer brands and attract potential candidates. Here’s how to start recruiting on Pinterest: What is Pinterest? Pinterest is a digital pinboarding tool that lets you bookmark content that interests you. For some […]

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Pinterest is more than a virtual repository for recipes, crafts and wedding ideas. It’s a social platform that can help companies build strong employer brands and attract potential candidates.

Here’s how to start recruiting on Pinterest:

What is Pinterest?

Pinterest is a digital pinboarding tool that lets you bookmark content that interests you. For some businesses, Pinterest also serves as a digital storefront to display products, increase website traffic and boost customer engagement.

Here’s an overview of some basic Pinterest terminology to help you get started:

Pins

Pins are your virtual bookmarks. They include images or videos, with descriptions and links to the original source online. You can save pins you like from your favorite websites or other Pinterest accounts. You can also pin your own pictures or videos by uploading them from your your computer or phone.

Here are some pins related to “hiring employees”:

recruiting on Pinterest | pins
All screenshots and embeds via Pinterest

Boards

Boards are where you save your pins. Create boards by topic. You can keep your boards secret – visible only to you, or you can share them with the public, or people you choose. You can invite people to group boards to share ideas and pins.

Here are boards related to “hiring” that anyone can follow:

recruiting on Pinterest | boards

Promoted pins

Promoted pins are pins that you can pay to promote to desired audiences. The amount you pay depends on your targeting and bid options. Keep in mind that promoted pins are currently available only to businesses in the US, Canada, the UK, Ireland, Australia and New Zealand.

Here’s an example of pin promoted by MOO:

recruiting on Pinterest | promoted pin

Repins

Repins numbers (small grey numbers that appear under the left-hand side of pins) represent how many times other Pinterest members saved your pins to one of their boards. Measure your repin stats, along with more metrics in your company’s Pinterest Profile Analytics page.

Pinners

Pinners are Pinterest members. Use “People you reach” analytics to understand your audience’s demographics and interests.

Source and attract more candidates

Workable helps you build and promote your brand where your next candidates are. You’re always top of mind, whether they’re actively looking or not.

Start sourcing

Why recruit on Pinterest?

Pinterest is a multimedia platform that hosts images, videos and infographics. And this type of content catches people’s attention. With few words, Pinterest helps you describe your company culture and attract candidates who want to work with you.

Types of candidates on Pinterest

Pinterest’s 175 million monthly users are a diverse audience. Consider recruiting on Pinterest if you’re hiring:

  • Women: Most Pinterest users are women, making it a good place to source more female candidates.
  • Millennials: Like most social networks, Pinterest is popular with millennials. Half of U.S. millennials use Pinterest, according to the site.
  • Parents: If you offer parental leave or child-care facilities, Pinterest is a good place to promote them. According to Pinterest, seven out of 10 U.S. mothers and 1 in 3 U.S. fathers use the platform.
  • Creatives: Pinterest is uniquely visual, so it’s a great place to look for portfolios of photographers, architects, designers and travel and fashion professionals.

How to set up your Pinterest account

Setting up a business profile on Pinterest is easy and free. Here’s a step-by-step overview:

  1. Visit Pinterest for Business and click “Join as a business.”recruiting on Pinterest | Join as a business
  2. Fill out your company’s details, including your company name, email and business type.recruiting on Pinterest | create a business account
  3. Click “Create account” after you read the Business Terms of Service, and you’re all set.
  4. Edit your profile when you’re logged in:recruiting on Pinterest | edit your profile
  • Upload a picture: Use your company’s logo to make your business easily recognizable.
  • Choose a username: Make sure it’s “www.pinterest.com/company_name” to make it easy for candidates and customers to find you. Otherwise, the default username might be something like “www.pinterest.com/company_name1234.”
  • Add your ‘about you’ details: Add a description of your company using a maximum of 160 characters.
  • Add your location: Identify your office location(s).
  • Add a link to your website: Enter and confirm the URL of your corporate website, where people can learn more about your company.

Note that if you’re already using Pinterest with your personal account, you will need to log out before creating a Business profile. Or, you can convert your personal account to a business profile to maintain your pins, boards and followers.

How to recruit on Pinterest

Introduce your teams

Candidates want to learn about your position through potential colleagues. Share pictures of employees at work or ask employees to describe their job in short videos. You can also create one board for each department to give more specifics about how different teams work.

  • Sodexo, a French food services and facilities management company, has designated boards for various departments.

recruiting on Pinterest | Sodexo example

  • Cosmetics company L’Oréal presents its offices in different locations.

recruiting on Pinterest | L'Oreal example

Promote your perks and benefits

Create boards that showcase benefits you offer or ask your employees to describe their jobs in their own words.

Post your job openings

Advertise your job openings on Pinterest and provide links to your careers page. Use images and videos to describe what skills you’re looking for in candidates.

  • Carousel Consultancy, a London-based recruiting firm, created a board for its Social Media Community Manager & Blogger position. In this board, candidates get an overview of the role and learn how to apply.

Boost your employer brand

Beyond displaying your products and services, Pinterest can help you show potential candidates what working at your company looks like. Use Pinterest to share company events and moments of your daily work life.

Describe your company values

Use visual aids, like videos, images and infographics on Pinterest to illustrate your company values. This will help you attract candidates who are a culture fit.

  • EY, a global consulting and accounting firm, has created a board about its inclusive workplace and initiatives that promote diversity.

Share career advice

On your Pinterest business account, share content that’s relevant to your candidates, like career tips. Here are some examples:

  • Asana, a software company that creates a team productivity tool, shares career-related articles that are likely to appeal to potential candidates and also help new hires onboard.

When building your Pinterest recruiting strategy, keep in mind that Pinterest’s strengths lie in its content-sharing features. Focus on creating a business page that reflects your company culture. A mix of appealing, genuine and useful pictures and videos will help attract candidates you want to hire.

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How to recruit on Facebook https://resources.workable.com/tutorial/recruit-on-facebook Thu, 04 Aug 2016 13:27:40 +0000 https://resources.workable.com/?p=6080 Facebook has come a long way since Mark Zuckerberg’s first attempt to create a private network channel for his classmates. With nearly three billion daily users, it’s likely that your next hire is sharing a photo or chatting with their Facebook friends right now. You can use Facebook as one of the ways to recruit […]

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Facebook has come a long way since Mark Zuckerberg’s first attempt to create a private network channel for his classmates. With nearly three billion daily users, it’s likely that your next hire is sharing a photo or chatting with their Facebook friends right now. You can use Facebook as one of the ways to recruit employees.

Why recruit on Facebook?

  • Social media isn’t just for young people anymore. In fact, Facebook has the most evenly distributed gender and age demographics of any social network. Facebook isn’t just a place to attract millennials. Its popularity among older users is growing; 56% of people over 65 are active users.
  • Facebook users don’t only outnumber other social media users, they’re also more active. Every 60 seconds, Facebook users update 293,000 statuses and upload 136,000 photos. Facebook also has an increasing number of users, with five new profiles created every second. It’s too big to ignore.
  • Facebook can save you time and effort during your hiring process. The new Jobs tab feature (available in the US and Canada, for now) allows you to create your job post within Facebook by simply using the status updater tool on your company page. Facebook users who are interested in your open roles can click the “Apply now” button and send their personal information directly to you via Messenger.

How to recruit on Facebook: Facebook jobs tab

  • For users of recruiting platforms like Workable, this option has been available (worldwide) for some time. A simple integration between Workable and your Facebook company page powers the jobs tab automatically. This means that every time you create a new job in Workable, the jobs tab is updated. There’s no need to log out of one system into another, all your recruiting can be managed from one central source.

Source and attract more candidates

Workable helps you build and promote your brand where your next candidates are. You’re always top of mind, whether they’re actively looking or not.

Start sourcing

  • Studies have shown that people trust brands more when they’re active on Facebook and other social media platforms. Having a strong web presence on the most popular social media site gives you a competitive advantage and improves your employer brand.
  • Think of Facebook as a recruitment tool for diverse hires. Since it’s so popular, you have the opportunity to reach candidates from all over the world, from various professional backgrounds and different educational levels. Anyone could be part of your diverse pipeline, so long as they’re talented.
  • It’s okay if you’re not familiar with social media or even if you’re a bit skeptical about how effective it can be. There are various metrics to help you monitor your Facebook page’s performance, which makes recruiting through Facebook more measurable and effective. You can easily access your page’s data and see the most important stats: organic traffic, number of likes and unlikes and engagement rate percentage (people who read a post, liked, clicked, shared or commented on it).

Facebook page insights overview

How to recruit employees on Facebook

1. Be direct

Add Facebook job postings directly on your company’s Facebook page and then route candidates to your Careers page to provide further information and an application form.

Facebook has a lot of customization options for your company profile. For example, Unilever’s Facebook careers page has two separate tabs, for ‘Early careers’ and ‘Professional careers’, making it easier for their 1.2 million followers to find the most relevant job openings.

Unilever Facebook careers page

Related: 17 effective candidate sourcing tools

2. Use indirect methods

In addition to posting current openings, you can use Facebook to promote your company’s image and improve your employer brand.

I like to promote information that helps potential applicants learn more about our culture and mission as an organization. I use sponsored ads and boosts to help generate this “buzz” in targeted markets where we are lacking or plan to recruit in the future. – Gail Atlas, Social Talent Acquisition Strategist at Novo Nordisk

Your employees are also your best advocates. Let them express themselves through Facebook and share their biggest achievements. You can post videos to give a sneak peek of a day at work in your office, or have an employee share their experience working with you. Next time you organize an after-work Friday meet up, consider posting some pictures to showcase your teamwork spirit. Applicants will be genuinely interested in working for you if they get an idea of what it’s going to be like.

Taco Bell is a good example. They are using Facebook to recruit employees with posts to shine a spotlight on their company culture and celebrate their employees’ achievements.

3. Socialize

Recruiting using Facebook includes networking with candidates and building relationships with potential future hires. After you create your profile, you should have at least one page manager who responds to people’s questions and engages with them on a regular basis.

Marriott has stepped up their candidate engagement game by running ‘Career Chats.’ Four to five Marriott employees answer candidates’ questions in real time and offer helpful advice on applying for jobs.

careers chat Facebook recruiting

Dell also initiates frequent interactive sessions for Facebook recruitment with its followers and provides job search tips:

It’s also a good idea (and free) to join relevant Facebook groups to engage with your ideal applicants. Specific Facebook groups for recruiters, like Recruiters online and The Facebook Corporate Recruiters Network, are places where you can get recruiting tips and share best practices.

RelatedInnovative recruiting tools and techniques for modern HR teams

4. Source candidates

Along with posting your current openings, you can use using Facebook for recruiting passive candidates. With Facebook Graph Search you can identify candidates using specific criteria (e.g. by location, profession or the university they attended). Sample queries include:

  • [Job title] who live near [Location]
  • [Job title] who speak [Language]
  • People who work at [Competitor]

Facebook Graph Search_fixex

Once you find interesting candidates, you can send them a message on Facebook (if you’re connected to them) or reach them through their LinkedIn account. The best way, though, is to discover any mutual connections you may have, and ask them to make a warm introduction.

For more advice on social sourcing, download our complete sourcing guide for free.

5. Increase employee referral activity

Referrals work great when recruiting through Facebook. First, it’s easy for employees to share job ads and attract candidates. And second, you’ll probably hire the best matches for your culture, if your applicants know who their potential coworkers are and have an idea of what working at your company looks like. You’ve probably heard the ‘six-degrees of separation’ theory; everyone on the planet is separated by only six other people. Well, as far as Facebook is concerned, each user is connected to any other user in the world by an average of three and a half other people. So, go ahead, make the most of Facebook in your recruiting efforts. After all, your ideal candidate is only 3.5 people away.

More resources for social recruiting:

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New employee forms https://resources.workable.com/new-employee-forms Fri, 06 Oct 2023 15:32:56 +0000 https://resources.workable.com/?p=91203 As an HR professional, you understand the importance of having the necessary paperwork in place when onboarding new employees. This is not just a template that you can easily download. We will provide you with a complete set of templates for all the crucial new employee forms, along with valuable tips to streamline your onboarding […]

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As an HR professional, you understand the importance of having the necessary paperwork in place when onboarding new employees.

This is not just a template that you can easily download. We will provide you with a complete set of templates for all the crucial new employee forms, along with valuable tips to streamline your onboarding process. Let’s dive in!

What are new employee forms?

New employee forms are a collection of documents that are filled out by new hires during the onboarding process. These forms serve multiple purposes, including:

1. Compliance

New employee forms ensure that your organization complies with federal and state regulations regarding employment eligibility, taxation, and reporting.

2. Information Gathering

These forms collect essential information about the new employee, such as personal details, emergency contacts, and demographic data.

3. Policy acknowledgment

New employee forms include acknowledgments for company policies, employee handbooks, and benefits information.

4. Documentation

Forms like the Form I-9 and W-4 verify the employee’s eligibility to work in the United States and determine the correct amount of federal income tax withholding.

By having new employees complete these forms, you can establish a solid foundation for their employment journey and ensure a smooth onboarding process.

New Employee forms

Now let’s explore the various new employee forms that are essential for a seamless onboarding process. Each form serves a specific purpose and contributes to the overall compliance and efficiency of your HR operations. Feel free to use the provided links to download the templates and adapt them to your organization’s requirements.

Employment Eligibility Verification (Form I-9)

The Form I-9, also known as the Employment Eligibility Verification, is a crucial document for verifying a new employee’s identity and eligibility to work in the United States. This form is required by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) and must be completed by the employee within three days of their employment start date. As an HR professional, it is your responsibility to ensure that the employee provides the necessary identification documents and that the form is properly completed. You can download the Form I-9 template here.

Federal Withholding Form (W-4)

The W-4 form is used to determine the correct amount of federal income tax to withhold from an employee’s paycheck. It is crucial for HR professionals to provide new employees with this form and ensure that it is completed accurately. The information provided on the W-4 form helps employers calculate the correct withholding amount and ensures compliance with federal tax regulations. You can download the W-4 template here.

State Tax Withholding Forms

In addition to federal taxes, some states require employees to complete state tax withholding forms. These forms help determine the correct amount of state income tax to withhold from an employee’s paycheck. To ensure compliance, it is essential to familiarize yourself with the specific requirements of your state and provide the relevant state tax withholding forms to your new employees. You can find state-specific tax withholding forms on the IRS website.

Statement of Prior Federal Service (SF-144)

The SF-144 form, also known as the Statement of Prior Federal Service, is required for employees with prior federal service. It helps determine retirement benefits and other entitlements based on their previous federal employment. HR professionals should provide this form to new employees who have previously worked for the federal government. You can download the SF-144 template here.

Employee Address Form

The Employee Address Form is specific to Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) new employees. It collects essential contact information to ensure effective communication and accurate record-keeping. HR professionals working in the BLS should provide this form to new hires for address verification and contact details. You can download the Employee Address Form template here.

Fast Start Direct Deposit (FMS-2231)

The Fast Start Direct Deposit form is used to set up direct deposit for an employee’s salary. Direct deposit offers convenience for both employees and employers, eliminating the need for physical checks and ensuring timely payments. HR professionals should provide this form to new hires to facilitate the direct deposit process. You can download the Fast Start Direct Deposit template here.

Emergency Information (DL1-65)

The Emergency Information form collects important contact details for an employee’s emergency contacts. It is crucial for HR professionals to have this information on file in case of any emergencies or unforeseen circumstances. HR professionals should provide this form to new employees to ensure the safety and well-being of everyone in the organization. You can download the Emergency Information template here.

Self-Identification of Disability (SF-256)

The SF-256 form, also known as the Self-Identification of Disability form, allows employees to voluntarily disclose their disability status. This information helps organizations track and monitor diversity and inclusion efforts. HR professionals should provide this form to new employees to ensure equal opportunities and accommodations. You can download the Self-Identification of Disability template here.

Ethnicity and Race Identification (SF-181)

The SF-181 form, also known as the Ethnicity and Race Identification form, collects data on an employee’s ethnicity and race. This information is used for statistical purposes to ensure equal employment opportunities and diversity in the workplace. HR professionals should provide this form to new employees to promote inclusivity and track diversity initiatives. You can download the Ethnicity and Race Identification template here.

Appointment of Affidavits (SF-61)

The SF-61 form, also known as the Appointment of Affidavits, is used to appoint individuals authorized to administer oaths or affirmations. HR professionals should provide this form to new employees who may be required to administer oaths or affirmations as part of their job duties. You can download the Appointment of Affidavits template here.

Previous Investigations Check (PIC) (DL1-7007)

The DL1-7007 form, also known as the Previous Investigations Check (PIC), is used to verify whether a new employee has previously undergone any background investigations. HR professionals should provide this form to new hires to gather information about their previous investigations, ensuring transparency and compliance. You can download the Previous Investigations Check (PIC) template here.

Declaration for Federal Employment (OF-306)

The OF-306 form, also known as the Declaration for Federal Employment, collects information about an employee’s suitability for federal employment. HR professionals should provide this form to new employees to gather information related to their background, conduct, and fitness for federal employment. You can download the Declaration for Federal Employment template here.

Remember, these forms are crucial for compliance, information gathering, and policy acknowledgment.

By using our policy templates and following our tips, you can save time and effort while ensuring a smooth onboarding experience for your new hires. 

Disclaimer: This policy template is meant to provide general guidelines and should be used as a reference. It may not take into account all relevant local, state or federal laws and is not a legal document. Neither the author nor Workable will assume any legal liability that may arise from the use of this policy.

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AI tool usage policy https://resources.workable.com/ai-tool-usage-policy Tue, 04 Apr 2023 14:11:02 +0000 https://resources.workable.com/?p=87924 This AI tool usage policy template can help you draft an AI tool usage policy to ensure responsible and secure use of artificial intelligence (AI) tools in your organization. Modify it based on your needs.

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This AI tool usage policy template can help you draft an AI tool usage policy to ensure responsible and secure use of artificial intelligence (AI) tools in your organization. Modify it based on your needs.

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Idea theft and how it impacts employee morale https://resources.workable.com/tutorial/idea-theft-how-it-impacts-employee-morale Tue, 02 Jul 2024 12:41:13 +0000 https://resources.workable.com/?p=95132 Idea theft isn’t just a minor annoyance; it can affect and damage employee morale and your brand.  What is idea theft in the workplace? A team can come up with ideas–and, in fact, a team working together can often come up with better ideas than a single person working alone.  The classic example is the […]

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Idea theft isn’t just a minor annoyance; it can affect and damage employee morale and your brand. 

What is idea theft in the workplace?

A team can come up with ideas–and, in fact, a team working together can often come up with better ideas than a single person working alone. 

The classic example is the manager who presents the team’s work as their own. Is that idea theft? People know that the manager didn’t do all the work, right?

Perhaps they do know that when a manager says “I,” they mean “my team,” but if that’s what they mean, then they should say that. A simple change of “the team created this” can bring a world of difference to team morale.

Managers must remember that their job is to manage. You actually look like a better manager when you can explain how your employees did the work under your leadership. That’s the goal. 

Idea theft also comes from people just taking ideas without credit. Sometimes, you’ll see it in meetings. 

Idea theft is common

According to an OfficeTeam survey, 44 percent of employees had their ideas stolen. But that means some of you are also stealing ideas. You may not even realize that you are stealing ideas. Or you may think that yes, Jane had this idea, but I’ve added to it and it’s now mine.

Add to this the proliferation of large language models like ChatGPT where you put in a question and it pulls other people’s ideas for you to use. You may not have directly stolen it from another human, but the AI did it for you.

But why steal? There are plenty of reasons people do, and some of them are solvable. Some are not.

Some people steal ideas because they are self-centered jerks who will stomp anyone who gets in their way. But not all people who steal ideas are that way. Consider the person who brings something up, gets credit for it, and fails to say “well, it wasn’t my idea.” There is a real fear that sharing other’s ideas will make the person seem less valuable.

You also have managers who were trained by managers who stole ideas and think this is just the way to go about it.

And you have people who hear something or read something, but don’t register it and genuinely think they thought it up themselves. Frankly, we all are in that category as we have a ton of input in what we do each day. (Did I read some of these ideas elsewhere? Probably. They aren’t terribly unique or exciting!)

Ignoring or participating in workplace idea theft will be demoralizing. Why would an employee work hard to create something new and have someone else claim credit? Why speak up in a meeting if you know that the person next to you will claim credit for your ideas? 

Ultimately, it has a chilling effect on your employees and their creativity. Remember, managers who support employees get engaged employees. Engaged employees are more productive. More productive employees is a benefit to the manager. Stealing their ideas may make you look cool for a minute but is ultimately destructive.

How to handle workplace idea theft

The most important thing is for managers to set an example. If a manager consistently gives credit where credit is due, others will pick up on it. Managers must provide credit – even when the employee is not in the room. It’s a powerful thing for a manager to say, “Hey, my employee Jane had this great idea and here’s how we’re implementing it…” It allows senior leaders to learn about employees and encourages a culture of collaboration.

If someone steals your ideas you have two options: Stay quiet or speak up.

Most people would probably like to think that they would stand up for themselves and say something witty and pointed that would stop the idea thief in their tracks, but that is not what happens. The first time it happens you may be too shocked to say anything, but if it happens once, it’s likely to happen again and you can prepare. Practice some of these phrases, 

“Yes, that’s a great idea. I presented it last week and…”

“If you’ll remember, I suggested that to you twenty minutes ago…”

“Yes, the project did turn out great. I did X, Juan did Y, Stephanie did Z, and you managed the process.”

Practicing phrases can help you speak up even when it’s hard.

If you’re not the type to speak up in public, you can meet with the thief after and say, “Hey, I worked very hard on that, and you neglected to give me credit. Can you please note that I initiated that project in the follow up e-mail?”

Being outspoken will likely stop the problem, but an inveterate thief will continue, at which point you can either decide to live with it or decide to get out. You’re not a bad person if you quit a job because of this level of disrespect. 

Ultimately, idea theft will affect your business and your brand. The people who come up with the ideas won’t stay if they don’t get credit! So, eventually, you’re left with just the people whose only skill is stealing other’s ideas. It’s a disaster waiting to happen.

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What is hybrid recruiting? https://resources.workable.com/hr-terms/what-is-hybrid-recruiting Wed, 26 Jun 2024 14:23:22 +0000 https://resources.workable.com/?p=95088 In an era where flexibility and adaptability are not just valued but expected, hybrid recruiting has emerged as a pivotal strategy in talent acquisition. In fact, 54% of recruiters plan to combine remote and on-site onboarding, recognizing the need to adapt their processes to hybrid models As workplaces evolve and employee preferences shift towards more […]

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In an era where flexibility and adaptability are not just valued but expected, hybrid recruiting has emerged as a pivotal strategy in talent acquisition. In fact, 54% of recruiters plan to combine remote and on-site onboarding, recognizing the need to adapt their processes to hybrid models

As workplaces evolve and employee preferences shift towards more flexible working arrangements, understanding and implementing hybrid recruiting can significantly benefit both employers and candidates. 

Whether you’re a startup looking to scale or an established corporation seeking top talent across borders, hybrid recruiting offers a pathway to engaging with and securing high-caliber candidates in today’s competitive job market.

What is hybrid recruiting?

Hybrid recruiting is a method that integrates the personal touch of traditional, in-person interactions with the efficiency and accessibility of digital processes. 

This approach is not just about conducting some interviews online and others in person; it’s about creating a recruitment strategy that maximizes the strengths of both modalities to enhance the hiring process. 

Actually, 70% of companies use online recruitment platforms to advertise job vacancies, highlighting the importance of digital tools in the hiring process​.

Key components of hybrid recruiting

The efficacy of hybrid recruiting lies in its use of advanced technological tools alongside human-centric methods. Essential tools include AI-driven applicant tracking systems that can parse large volumes of resumes efficiently, virtual reality setups for remote office tours, and sophisticated video conferencing tools for interviews. 

The human elements involve in-depth, in-person interviews, on-site visits, and hands-on assessments that provide a clearer picture of the candidate’s potential fit within the company culture.

Steps in the hybrid recruiting process

Job posting and promotion: Utilize both online platforms and traditional methods to ensure a wide reach. This might include digital job boards, social media, and employee referral programs.

Screening and initial contact: Leverage AI to filter applications based on predefined criteria, followed by human HR managers reaching out to promising candidates for preliminary assessments or brief virtual chats.

Interview process: Conduct initial interviews using video conferencing tools, which can save time and resources for both recruiters and candidates. Follow up with selected candidates through in-person interviews to foster a deeper connection and assess their fit within the team and company culture.

Decision making and offering: Combine insights gathered from both virtual and physical interactions to make informed decisions. Extend job offers digitally and discuss details virtually, providing flexibility and speeding up the negotiation phase.

Onboarding: Employ a mixed approach to onboarding by providing digital resources for learning and development, and scheduling in-person sessions to integrate new hires into the company culture and team dynamics effectively.

Advantages of hybrid recruiting

Hybrid recruiting offers several compelling advantages that can address the challenges of the modern workplace and meet the evolving expectations of job seekers:

Wider talent pool

By not restricting the recruitment process to local candidates or those who can afford to travel for interviews, companies can attract talent from virtually anywhere. This is particularly advantageous for roles that are difficult to fill locally or that require highly specialized skills.

Enhanced candidate experience

Candidates appreciate the flexibility that comes with hybrid recruiting. They can engage in initial parts of the hiring process from the comfort of their homes and travel only when they are seriously being considered, which can increase their interest and engagement in the opportunity.

Cost efficiency

Reducing the number of in-person interviews and leveraging digital tools can significantly cut down on travel, accommodation, and operational costs associated with traditional recruiting methods.

Balanced assessment

By combining online and offline elements, recruiters can get a more holistic view of a candidate’s skills, personality, and potential cultural fit. 

This dual approach allows for a more comprehensive evaluation than relying solely on virtual or in-person methods alone.

Implementing hybrid recruiting in your organization

Preparation and planning

Infrastructure setup: Ensure that the necessary technology infrastructure, such as reliable video conferencing tools and an applicant tracking system, is in place.

Team Training: Provide training for HR personnel on managing hybrid recruiting processes, including using technology effectively and maintaining communication consistency.

Execution

Process design: Develop a clear, structured recruiting process that delineates when to use virtual tools and when to engage candidates in person.

Candidate Communication: Maintain clear and continuous communication with candidates about the process, what they can expect, and how they should prepare for each stage.

Evaluation and feedback

Monitoring outcomes: Regularly assess the effectiveness of the hybrid recruiting process through candidate feedback, hiring manager reviews, and recruitment metrics.

Continuous Improvement: Use feedback to refine the process, addressing any technological snags and enhancing the candidate experience.

The adaptability of the hybrid model ensures that companies remain agile and responsive to the evolving expectations of the workforce, making it a strategic choice for future-focused organizations.

HR professionals are encouraged to consider hybrid recruiting as a versatile and effective approach to talent acquisition. This way, they can attract, engage, and retain the best talent while also building a resilient and adaptive hiring strategy.

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What is people analytics – HR practices for the future https://resources.workable.com/hr-terms/what-is-people-analytics Thu, 20 Jun 2024 13:15:45 +0000 https://resources.workable.com/?p=95079 What is the concept of people analytics, its distinction from traditional HR practices, and its importance in modern HR management?  Let’s delve into one of the most interesting HR terms. What is People Analytics? People analytics, also known as HR analytics, workforce analytics, or talent analytics, refers to the practice of collecting and analyzing data […]

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What is the concept of people analytics, its distinction from traditional HR practices, and its importance in modern HR management

Let’s delve into one of the most interesting HR terms.

What is People Analytics?

People analytics, also known as HR analytics, workforce analytics, or talent analytics, refers to the practice of collecting and analyzing data related to employees to improve organizational outcomes. 

It involves using statistical methods and software tools to analyze various aspects of the workforce, such as employee performance, engagement, turnover, and more. 

The goal is to turn data into actionable insights that can enhance decision-making processes and drive business success.

Historically, HR decisions were often based on intuition and anecdotal evidence. However, the advent of people analytics marks a shift towards data-driven decision-making. 

This approach allows organizations to identify patterns, predict trends, and make evidence-based decisions that can significantly impact their operations.

The difference between HR and People Analytics

Traditional HR functions typically focus on managing employee relations, compliance, recruitment, and other administrative tasks. 

While these functions are crucial, they often rely on subjective judgment and lack the analytical rigor needed to uncover deeper insights.

In contrast, people analytics leverages data to provide a more objective and comprehensive view of the workforce. 

It involves collecting data from various sources, such as employee surveys, performance reviews, attendance records, and even social media activity. 

This data is then analyzed to uncover trends, correlations, and patterns that can inform HR strategies.

For instance, while traditional HR might identify high turnover rates as a problem, people analytics can delve deeper to identify specific factors contributing to turnover, such as job satisfaction, leadership effectiveness, or compensation discrepancies. 

By addressing these underlying issues, organizations can implement targeted interventions that are more likely to yield positive outcomes.

Importance of People Analytics for HR

People analytics is a crucial tool for modern HR management. Here are some reasons why it is important:

Enhancing talent acquisition and retention

According to research by McKinsey & Company, companies that effectively use people analytics reduce attrition rates by up to 50%. This is achieved through better understanding of employee needs, improved engagement strategies, and predictive analytics to identify at-risk employees.

By analyzing data from the recruitment process, HR can identify the most effective sourcing channels, predict candidate success, and streamline the hiring process. 

Additionally, retention analytics can help identify employees at risk of leaving and develop strategies to retain top talent.

Improving employee engagement and productivity

These analytics can provide insights into what drives employee engagement and productivity. By understanding these factors, organizations can implement initiatives that foster a positive work environment and enhance employee performance.

Research by Gallup shows that organizations leveraging people analytics to understand employee engagement and satisfaction experience 59% lower turnover, 41% less absenteeism, and 21% higher profitability.

Driving organizational success 

Data-driven HR practices enable organizations to align their workforce strategies with business goals. This alignment ensures that HR initiatives support overall organizational success, leading to improved performance and competitive advantage.

Maximizing cost savings

Predictive analytics in recruitment can reduce hiring costs by identifying the best candidates more efficiently and reducing the need for repeated hiring.

Getting started with People Analytics

Implementing people analytics can seem daunting, but with a structured approach, HR professionals can successfully integrate it into their operations. 

Here are some steps to get started:

1. Identify key questions and problems

Begin by identifying the key questions you want to answer and the problems you want to solve with people analytics. This will help focus your efforts and ensure that your analytics initiatives are aligned with organizational priorities.

2. Plan data collection and analysis projects 

Develop a plan for collecting and analyzing data. This includes identifying data sources, selecting appropriate metrics, and determining the analytical methods to be used. Ensure that you have the necessary tools and expertise to conduct the analysis.

3. Report and utilize results 

Once the data has been analyzed, report the findings in a clear and actionable manner. Use the insights gained to inform HR strategies and make data-driven decisions.

Best practices and strategies

To maximize the benefits of people analytics, HR professionals should adopt best practices and strategies that enhance the effectiveness of their initiatives. 

Here are some key considerations:

Integrating people analytics into strategic decision-making: Ensure that analytics is not a standalone activity but integrated into the broader strategic decision-making process. This involves collaborating with other departments and aligning analytics initiatives with organizational goals.

Ensuring data quality and comprehensive analysis: High-quality data is crucial for accurate analysis. Invest in robust data collection methods and regularly audit data quality. Additionally, use comprehensive analytical techniques to uncover deeper insights.

Building a people-centered and long-term oriented approach: HR analytics should focus on long-term outcomes and be people-centered. This means considering the impact of decisions on employee well-being and aligning analytics initiatives with long-term organizational goals.

Future trends in People Analytics

The field of HR analytics is continuously evolving, with new technologies and methodologies emerging. Here are some future trends to watch:

Emerging technologies and methodologies: Innovations in technology, such as artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning, are enhancing the capabilities of people analytics. These technologies can provide more accurate predictions and deeper insights.

Predictive analytics and AI in HR: Predictive analytics uses historical data to forecast future outcomes. In HR, this can mean predicting employee turnover, identifying high-potential employees, and more. AI can further enhance these capabilities by automating data analysis and providing real-time insights.

Future challenges and opportunities: As HR analytics continues to evolve, HR professionals will face new challenges, such as data privacy concerns and the need for upskilling. However, these challenges also present opportunities to further integrate people analytics into HR practices and drive organizational success.

Implementing people analytics requires careful planning and a strategic approach, but the benefits it offers make it a worthwhile investment for any organization.

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Six core onboarding checklists you need for your HR toolkit https://resources.workable.com/tutorial/six-core-onboarding-checklists Wed, 19 Jun 2024 15:14:46 +0000 https://resources.workable.com/?p=95070 According to a study by the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM), companies with standard onboarding processes see a 50% increase in productivity among new employees.  This immediate boost in productivity can be attributed to clear guidance, structured training, and the provision of necessary resources from the outset.  Additionally, research by BambooHR indicates that employees […]

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According to a study by the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM), companies with standard onboarding processes see a 50% increase in productivity among new employees. 

This immediate boost in productivity can be attributed to clear guidance, structured training, and the provision of necessary resources from the outset. 

Additionally, research by BambooHR indicates that employees who feel they had an effective onboarding experience are 18 times more likely to feel committed to their organization. 

This heightened sense of commitment is crucial for fostering long-term loyalty and reducing turnover rates.

How can you make the onboarding process smoother and more efficient? Explore our six core onboarding checklists and experience the positive impact in your company.

1. New employee checklist

The New Employee Checklist is designed to ensure that all essential tasks are completed before the new hire’s first day. 

This checklist covers everything from sending the offer letter to preparing the workspace, ensuring a smooth transition into the company. 

By following this checklist, you can create a welcoming environment and provide new employees with the resources they need to start their new role confidently.

Here’s what you need to do:

Practical Stuff

Who will do it?

Date to be completed

Offer letter and/or welcome email with starting day info

HR

Within 24 hours of verbal offer acceptance

Paylocity, Onboarding message sent

HR

Collect all their personal info and print out I-9 for orientation

Paylocity, payroll info and identification

HR

Before start date

Seat/space to be allocated

Department manager

On acceptance of role

Desk, Chair or work bench

Department manager

Ready before start date

Office supplies

Manager

Ready before start date

Internal Telephone – which extension will be allocated

IT Dept

Completed before start date

Telephone list updated

IT Dept

Completed before start date

IT equipment – Computer, mouse, keyboard, screen, cables, etc.

Dept Manager notifies IT Manager of employee’s needs via helpdesk ticket

Ready to go for day one

Software needs

Dept Manager notifies IT Manager of employee’s needs via helpdesk ticket

Ready to go for day one

Printer connection

Dept Manager notifies IT Manager of employee’s needs via helpdesk ticket

Ready to go for day one

Email account set up

Dept Manager notifies IT Manager of employee’s needs via helpdesk ticket

Ready to go for day one

Server – user rights access

Dept Manager notifies IT Manager of employee’s needs via helpdesk ticket

Ready to go for day one

2. New hire checklist: before the first day

While the above provides a comprehensive checklist for new hires, the following one delves deeper into what you should do before the first day of work.

Preparing for a new hire’s arrival involves several critical steps to ensure they feel welcomed and ready to start their new role. 

This proactive approach helps to streamline the onboarding process and ensures all administrative tasks are handled efficiently before the new employee’s first day.

Task

Details

Prepare and send employment contract

Includes job information, work schedule, length of employment, compensation and benefits, employee responsibilities, termination conditions

Send offer letter

Job title, department, direct report, work schedule, start date, compensation, benefits, length of employment, response date

Complete legal employment forms

W-4 form, I-9 form, State Tax Withholding form, Direct Deposit form, E-Verify system

Prepare and obtain signatures on internal forms

Non-compete agreements, non-disclosure agreements, employee invention forms, employee handbook acknowledgement forms, drug/alcohol test consent agreements, job analysis forms, employee equipment inventory lists, confidentiality and security agreements

Prepare employee benefits documents

Life and health insurance, mobile plan, company car, stock options, retirement plan, disability insurance, paid time off/vacation policies, sick leave, employee wellness perks, tuition reimbursement

Obtain employees’ personal data

Emergency contacts, brief medical history, food allergies or preferences

3. New hire first day checklist

The first day of a new hire sets the tone for their future with the company. The New Hire First Day Checklist focuses on making the first day as smooth and welcoming as possible.

This checklist includes greeting the new hire, giving an office tour, helping with initial HR paperwork, and providing an overview of company policies. By carefully planning the first day, you help new employees feel comfortable and ready to begin their journey with your organization.

HR team tasks

Task

Details

Prepare new hire’s workstation

Include employee handbook, onboarding kit, welcome letter, first-day agenda, nameplate, business cards, office equipment

Enthusiastically greet new hire

Could be done by HR member, office manager, or new hire’s manager

Office tour

Show different departments and common areas

Fill out HR paperwork

Provide and explain forms

Present company policies

Explain employment agreement terms and benefits

End-of-day check-in

Ask about their first day, clarify policies, check if they have everything needed, answer questions

Hiring manager tasks

Task

Details

Introduce new hire

To team members and company via email or messaging software

Ensure computer station setup

Check accounts, software installations, and provide manuals

Role-specific training

Main responsibilities, team structure, job-specific tools, team objectives

Schedule meetings

With team leaders and colleagues

Assign first tasks

Offer guidance, provide resources, clarify questions

Assign work buddy

Help new hire adjust

Group lunch

To get to know colleagues

Overview of first week/month

Provide details and set aside time for questions

4. New hire paperwork checklist

Completing all necessary paperwork is a crucial part of the onboarding process. The New Hire Paperwork Checklist ensures that all required documents, both legal and internal, are prepared and signed. This includes employment contracts, tax forms, and benefit documents.

Properly managing paperwork helps in maintaining compliance and sets clear expectations between the employer and the new hire.

Task

Details

Prepare and send employment contract

Includes job information, work schedule, length of employment, compensation and benefits, employee responsibilities, termination conditions

Complete legal employment forms

W-4 form (or W-9 for contractors), I-9 form, State Tax Withholding form, Direct Deposit form, E-Verify system

Obtain signatures on internal forms

Non-compete agreements, non-disclosure agreements, employee invention forms, employee handbook acknowledgement forms, drug/alcohol test consent agreements, job analysis forms, employee equipment inventory lists, confidentiality and security agreements

Prepare employee benefits documents

Life and health insurance, mobile plan, company car, stock options, retirement plan, disability insurance, paid time off/vacation policies, sick leave, employee wellness perks, tuition reimbursement

Obtain personal data for emergencies

Emergency contacts, brief medical history, food allergies or preferences

5. New employee orientation program checklist

Orientation is a key component of the onboarding process, helping new hires acclimate to their new work environment and understand company policies.

The New Employee Orientation Program Checklist guides you through the tasks needed to support new employees during their first few days.

This includes administrative support, an overview of company policies, office tours, and introductions to team members. A comprehensive orientation program helps new hires integrate smoothly and quickly into their new roles.

Task

Details

Fill out HR paperwork

I-9 form, W-4 form, employee acknowledgement and consent form, background check form, direct deposit form

Explain procedures

Entering/leaving the building, placing orders, requesting time off

Arrange for staff photos

For badge, business card, or online avatar

Provide employee uniform

If applicable

Explain employment agreement terms

Non-disclosure agreement, non-compete agreement, confidentiality agreement, employee invention agreement

Provide resources on perks and benefits

Health and life insurance, mobile plan reimbursement, company car policy, stock options guide, training program guide, performance bonus guide, employee wellness program

Overview of company policies

Vacation/paid time off, work from home, sick leave, safety guidelines, absenteeism, data security

Explain a typical day at the office

Regular work times, breaks, lunch options

Provide employee handbook

Answer any questions

Office tour

Show departments and common areas

Point out key contacts

Direct manager, HR team, IT team, office manager

Introduce to teams

Schedule meetings with colleagues and team leaders

Show meeting rooms

Explain booking process

Indicate emergency exits

 

Schedule teamwide meetup

Group lunch or after-hours drinks

Assign work buddy or mentor

Assist with onboarding tasks and questions

6. IT onboarding checklist

A seamless IT setup is essential for new hires to start their roles without technical hitches. The IT Onboarding Checklist details the steps required to prepare all necessary technology and accounts before the new hire’s arrival.

It also includes instructions for the first day and ongoing support to ensure new employees have everything they need from a technical perspective.

Efficient IT onboarding helps new hires be productive from day one and reduces the likelihood of technical issues disrupting their workflow.

Before the first day

Task

Details

Coordinate with HR and hiring manager

Collect new hire information (names, contact details, job titles, departments, starting dates, software needs)

Order equipment

Laptop or desktop, monitor, mouse, keyboard, cables, USB sticks, phone

Determine software, tools, access rights

Company email, internal messaging, productivity tools, analytics, spreadsheets

Get approval for new accounts

From senior management

Invite new hires to corporate accounts

Send setup guidelines

Contact new hires/hiring managers

Learn preferred tech equipment (if applicable)

On the first day

Task

Details

Prepare workstation

Computer, phone, printer

Schedule 1:1 meetings

Set up company accounts (email, messaging app, password security tools)

Provide manuals

For hardware and software

Explain corporate office equipment use

Projectors, video conference tools, printers, fax machines

Ensure data privacy agreements are signed

 

Describe visitors policy

 

Train on securing workstations

Store physical/digital files, share sensitive data, lock computer and desk

Explain how to reach IT

Location, email, phone, username for messaging apps, formal procedure for assistance

First week or month

Task

Details

Check in with new hires

Ensure software installation

Schedule necessary trainings

Security policies, best practices for office equipment, productivity tips for tools

Answer specific questions

Address issues or questions after using tools

Sign up for routine security training

 

Implementing comprehensive onboarding checklists is a vital step toward fostering a productive and committed workforce. By systematically addressing each aspect of the onboarding process—from pre-arrival preparations to first-day introductions, ongoing support, and technical setup—organizations can ensure that new hires feel welcomed, informed, and equipped to succeed in their roles.

As evidenced by research, investing in effective onboarding is not merely a procedural necessity but a strategic imperative that drives organizational success and growth.

By following these checklists, companies can create a positive and lasting impact on their new employees, setting the stage for a mutually rewarding professional journey.

The post Six core onboarding checklists you need for your HR toolkit appeared first on Recruiting Resources: How to Recruit and Hire Better.

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Your guide to creating effective employee development plans https://resources.workable.com/tutorial/employee-development-plans Wed, 19 Jun 2024 14:35:35 +0000 https://resources.workable.com/?p=95063 And unfortunately, that’s not a new phenomenon. According to data from Pew Research Center, “no opportunities for advancement” was one of the top reasons workers quit jobs in 2021 too, tied only with low pay.  The majority of employees (67% of them in a survey conducted by MIT Sloan) are eager to advance their careers. […]

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And unfortunately, that’s not a new phenomenon. According to data from Pew Research Center, “no opportunities for advancement” was one of the top reasons workers quit jobs in 2021 too, tied only with low pay. 

The majority of employees (67% of them in a survey conducted by MIT Sloan) are eager to advance their careers. Yet, research from Gartner shows that only 46% feel supported in honing their skills and forging their path up the ladder at their current organization.

Here’s where employee development plans hold a lot of power. These seemingly humble documents get you and your workers on the same page about professional goals and progress, while providing much-needed visibility into how employees can advance their careers within the company. 

What is an employee development plan?

An employee development plan is a document created collaboratively by a manager and an employee that spells out a single worker’s professional goals and a detailed action plan for achieving them. 

While the employee development plan is largely focused on the desires and ambitions of the employee, it should balance individual goals with the needs of your organization and the “expected objectives for the employee to contribute to the company,” explains Sarah Morgan, a senior recruiter. 

Put simply, a solid employee development plan won’t just fuel the growth of a single employee — it’ll fuel the growth of your entire organization.

What should you include in an employee development plan? 

Despite the fact “employee development plan” sounds rigid and formal, these documents are surprisingly flexible. You have the freedom to adapt them to the needs of your employee, team, or entire organization.

Some companies create highly detailed development plans that are several pages long, while others opt for quick bullet points that fit in a chart on a single page. 

Additionally, your plan is largely dictated by the employee’s specific circumstances. For example, are you documenting a plan to support them in:

  • Building a specific skill?
  • Moving to the next level of their existing career?
  • Switching to an entirely different function or career path?

Those unique situations might require different sections within your plan. But, speaking generally, an employee development plan will include:

  • Skills assessment: Whether the employee completes a formal skills assessment or not, the document should list their existing strengths and any skill gaps or development areas to focus on. In our recent upskilling report completed with TalentLMS, 71% of employees said they’d like to update their skills more often. This level of clarity about where they excel and where they can improve refines their focus.

  • Career goals: What are the objectives the employee wants to achieve? The plan can include both short- and long-term goals, ideally with specific milestones or metrics that indicate success. Aim to stick with five or fewer goals so the plan doesn’t become overwhelming and remember to confirm that the employee’s vision is aligned with the company’s needs.

  • Action plan: Goal-setting is nice, but without action, it’s nothing more than an idea. The action plan section of the employee development plan is where you get into the weeds about the exact steps the employee will take to work toward their goal. The more specific you can be here, the better.

  • Resources and support: The entire point of this plan is to confirm the employee not only has room to grow but also support from the organization to do so. In this section, detail the opportunities and resources your organization will provide to the employee to help them pursue their professional goals. This could be anything from mentorship to courses to special projects.

  • Timelines: It’s not a plan without a timeline. Each plan should include dates — whether they’re attached to goals or specific action steps — so that the manager and employee are aligned on when things will be accomplished.

Eager to jump in and get started? Here’s a simple employee development plan template you can use:

[Employee Name] Development Plan

Employee:

Employee’s name

Job title:

Job title

Manager:

Manager’s name

Plan creation date:

Date

Skill analysis

Strengths:

  • Skill
  • Skill
  • Skill
  • Skill

Progress notes with dates

Development areas:

  • Weakness
  • Weakness
  • Weakness
  • Weakness

Progress notes with dates

Goal setting

Professional goal #1:

Goal with performance metrics or success indicators attached.

Related resources:

Relevant opportunities and resources available to the employee

Action plan:

Step #1

Deadline or milestone

Progress notes with dates

 

Step #2

Deadline or milestone

Progress notes with dates

 

Step #3

Deadline or milestone

Progress notes with dates

 

Step #4

Deadline or milestone

Progress notes with dates

Professional goal #2:

Goal with performance metrics or success indicators attached.

Related resources:

Relevant opportunities and resources available to the employee

Action plan:

Step #1

Deadline or milestone

Progress notes with dates

 

Step #2

Deadline or milestone

Progress notes with dates

 

Step #3

Deadline or milestone

Progress notes with dates

 

Step #4

Deadline or milestone

Progress notes with dates

Who creates an employee development plan?

The employee and the manager work together to create an employee development plan. But when you boil it all down, who’s ultimately responsible?

“This is a question for the ages and may garner a few perspectives,” Sarah says. “I do believe it should be a joint effort by employee and manager to create as well as maintain. That said, managers should be aware that there are some areas where they need to take initiative with the employee.”

However, the reverse can also be true — employees might need to advocate for themselves and their goals, especially if they feel they aren’t getting the support or investment they believe they deserve.

Regardless of who’s doing the actual documenting, the most important thing is that the process is collaborative so that both the manager and the direct report feel bought-in and committed. When the plan is ready to go, it’s also smart to share a copy with the HR team so they’re in the loop.

Why are employee development plans important?

Employee development plans are way more than a formality or unnecessary recordkeeping. When they’re done well, these plans offer several benefits for employees and their companies.

Employee development plan benefits for employees

  • Career growth and advancement: A whopping 91% of employees say it’s somewhat or very important to have a job where they consistently have opportunities to learn. A documented development plan refines their vision for their future and gives them actionable steps and resources to make it a reality.

  • Increased motivation: Goals are inspiring and an employee development plan can fuel an employee’s intrinsic motivation (which comes from within) and extrinsic motivation (which comes from a desire to achieve external rewards, like a promotion or recognition).

  • Better job satisfaction: When employees know where they want to go and what they need to do to get there, they’re more invested in their jobs and benefit from higher fulfillment and satisfaction.

  • Improved clarity: According to Gartner, only 25% of employees are confident about their career path with their current organization. An employee development plan aligns employees and their managers on next steps and objectives, and provides more clarity about what an employee is working toward.

Employee development plan benefits for employers

  • Improved employee performance: An employee development plan calls attention to an employee’s strengths and their development areas. Improving on those weaknesses and addressing skill gaps enhances their performance.

  • Higher employee retention: Considering career advancement remains one of the top reasons people leave jobs, it makes sense that it has a direct impact on employee retention. When employees see a clear path to advancement within their organization, they’re less likely to look elsewhere for opportunities.

  • Easier talent attraction: Your current employees care about career growth—and prospective employees do too. 92% of job candidates consider learning and development opportunities as a factor when choosing between two job offers. Employee development plans contribute to a culture of growth and learning in your organization, which is compelling for both present and potential workers.

  • Better strategic alignment: Your ultimate goal in improving employee performance is to improve company performance, but that doesn’t happen if there’s a mismatch between individual and organizational goals. Employee development plans give managers and employees an opportunity to confirm their goals align, as well as to revisit them at regular intervals.

3 tips to make the most of employee development plans

Employee development plans themselves are a learning process—the more of them you do, the more you’ll learn about what works best for your team and organization. However, there are a few best practices that can help you right out of the gate.

1. Personalize the process

One employee might want to take the lead in ironing out their development plan while another might need some more prompting and encouragement. One person might be hungry for feedback while another is resistant to too much constructive criticism.

The development planning process will be most helpful when it’s personalized to each employee. While your plan template itself can stay largely the same, tailor your approach and related conversations to the preferences and unique qualities of your employees.

2. Set specific goals

One of the mistakes Sarah frequently sees organizations make with development plans is relying on vague or unclear goals. She recommends opting for the SMART goal framework, where goals are:

  • Specific
  • Measurable
  • Achievable
  • Relevant
  • Time-bound

Here’s a quick comparison to show how much clarity this framework adds to development goals: 

  • Before: Get better at public speaking.

  • After: Improve public speaking skills by volunteering as a speaker for at least three company events by the end of 2024. 

Plus, the SMART goal framework touches on a lot of other important aspects of an employee’s development plan, such as a timeline and success metrics. 

3. Continue to check in

“I think my biggest frustration as both an employee myself and someone in HR is that it’s not visited throughout the quarter or year,” Sarah says about most development plans. “They’re often created as a ‘box to check’ and then go back into the file to die.”

That not only wastes time but can also breed frustration in employees who will take it as evidence that you’re not truly invested in their development. You can combat this by

  • Setting frequent and regular intervals to connect with employees about their development goals and progress, such as during one-on-one meetings

  • Storing the plan somewhere it can be easily accessed by the manager and employee, so they can check progress and make changes when necessary

  • Scheduling a designated meeting to talk about updates to development goals when there’s a larger shift, such as a company strategy change or a team restructuring

When you involve employees in creating their development plans, listen thoughtfully to their goals, questions, and feedback, and commit to ongoing conversations about their progress, you’ll show them that their growth and advancement is an ongoing priority — not a one-time event.

 

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Screening resumes with ChatGPT: a step-by-step guide https://resources.workable.com/tutorial/screen-resumes-with-chatgpt Mon, 10 Jun 2024 15:41:17 +0000 https://resources.workable.com/?p=94916 Imagine yourself in the following scenario. You are the HR manager at a mid-stage tech startup. You need to grow and expand your team quickly, and you need to do it fast. You’re hiring in every department – marketing, development, project management – and the inundation of resumes comes pouring in. You have your next […]

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Imagine yourself in the following scenario.

You are the HR manager at a mid-stage tech startup. You need to grow and expand your team quickly, and you need to do it fast. You’re hiring in every department – marketing, development, project management – and the inundation of resumes comes pouring in.

You have your next roundtable meeting at 10 o’clock and you’re supposed to have the best candidates picked out. You have no idea who the candidates are, and why or even if they’re qualified. You don’t have time to sort through your learning tower of resumes to learn about them.

It’s a tough situation. What do you do? Good news: Using ChatGPT for resume screening can swiftly navigate through the flood of applications, and identify the top candidates.

Situations like this are exactly the kind of thing that ChatGPT can do very well – sorting through and processing a lot of information very quickly. AI-powered resume screening can help you dig through that mountain of information and quickly pick out the best resumes with the most qualified candidates.

Many HR leaders are already implementing AI-powered resume screening, using tools like ChatGPT, to enhance their recruitment processes. A study by Gartner showed 38% of HR leaders have already implemented or explored AI tools to make their HR processes more efficient.

Hold on though, you’ve never used ChatGPT before. You’ve heard people talk about it, you’ve seen it on the news, but you haven’t had the need to use it before now and you’re not sure that you trust it. You still rely on your grandson to teach you how to use your smartphone. You don’t know the first thing about machine learning or data science.

Good news again: you don’t need to. ChatGPT is a general all-purpose tool that anyone can use regardless of how tech-savvy they are. 

This comprehensive guide will show you how to use ChatGPT to screen resumes and evaluate candidates in record time

Note: This tutorial will make use of ChatGPT-3.5, which is a free tool that’s accessible to anyone on the internet, rather than ChatGPT-4 which comes with a paid ChatGPT Plus subscription.

How to set up ChatGPT-3.5

First things first. You need to set up an OpenAI account before you can use ChatGPT for the recruitment process. It’s a straightforward process that should take no longer than 5-10 minutes.

Step 1: Create an OpenAI account

Go to the OpenAI homepage (https://chat.openai.com/) and click “Sign Up” to create an account.

screen resumes with ChatGPT 1
screen resumes with ChatGPT 1

Sign in with your email address, or with your Google, Apple, or Microsoft account.

Step 2: Verify your account

OpenAI will ask you to verify your email for security purposes. Go through the prompts to complete the verification process.

Step 3: Start a conversation

Once you go through the verification process, you’re on your way. 

You should see a window with a chat interface at the bottom. You can now begin using ChatGPT.

The chat interface at the bottom is where you give ChatGPT instructions, called prompts. ChatGPT responds to the prompts you give it – questions, instructions, and conversational text – and gives you human-like responses as output. 

Think of it like talking to an enthusiastic intern or virtual assistant with the brain of a supercomputer. Take some time to play around with it. Ask it to tell you a joke, plan a trip itinerary, or make a recipe. 

As you get more used to it, try experimenting with having it do things you do in your day-to-day as an HR manager, like write an email invite to an interview. The more detail and context you give it, the better the output will be.

ChatGPT Prompt: I’m an HR manager at a tech startup and I’m hiring for a content manager. The role requires 5+ years of experience, familiarity with SEO best practices, and proficiency with GA4. Write me an email template following up with a candidate who made it to the first round of interviews.

The output it gives you may seem generic, but with just a little fine-tuning you can build ChatGPT in your HR processes and save you hours of work.

Step 4: Provide feedback (optional)

One of the best things about ChatGPT is how it continually improves its output based on the feedback you give it.

For example, if you need something more specific in the interview invitation email, you can tell ChatGPT to change it accordingly.

You can make it shorter.

ChatGPT Prompt: Condense to half the length.

Or give it different tones of voice.

ChatGPT Prompt: Rewrite the email to sound more friendly and engaging.

Or even have ChatGPT adopt different roles and personas to whatever you need it to be – a marketer, a CEO, a researcher, or a sales associate, etc.

ChatGPT Prompt: Write the email as the CMO at my company.

How to use ChatGPT for resume screening: a step-by-step guide

Now that you have an OpenAI account and have some practice with ChatGPT, it’s time to get to the good part: making an AI-powered resume screening process to choose the best candidates and save your bacon in time for the meeting.

In this hypothetical example, you have five resumes to choose from. You need to scan and sort through all of them in a hurry, and pick out the candidates that are the best fit for the role. 

ChatGPT can automate the candidate shortlisting faster than you could on your own. The process is simple, and can all be done on the same screen.

Step 1: Provide the job description

First, copy and paste the full job description into ChatGPT. This will give ChatGPT the criteria it needs for candidate evaluation.

This tutorial will use Workable’s content manager job description as an example. Or, you can create your own job description using the Workable job description generator.

ChatGPT Prompt: I’m hiring for a content manager, and I need your help ranking and analyzing the resumes. Here is the job description for the role I’m hiring for, please read and save it and say “Done.”, nothing else.

{{Insert job description}}

Step 2: Upload or copy resumes

Next, upload and paste the resumes you want to screen in the same conversation. 

Keep in mind that ChatGPT can only process so much information at a time. If you overload it, it’ll get confused or spit out inaccurate information. If you need to screen more than a handful of resumes, consider uploading them in batches, five at a time.

ChatGPT Prompt: Here are the resumes I want to screen. When you’ve read and saved all of them, say “Done.”, nothing else.

{{Insert resume #1}}

{{Insert resume #2}}

{{Insert resume #3}}

{{Insert resume #4}}

{{Insert resume #5, 6, 7…}}

Step 3: Ask ChatGPT to rank resumes

When all the resumes are loaded up, the next step is to use ChatGPT for candidate evaluation. Ask ChatGPT to rank the resumes in order from least to most qualified. ChatGPT will then sort, analyze, and rank the resumes against the job description you gave it earlier.

Note: You can get a more reliable response if you ask ChatGPT to explain its reasoning when using ChatGPT AI for resume screening.

ChatGPT Prompt: Rank the following resumes from most qualified (1) to least qualified (5) based on the requirements stated in the job description. For each resume, provide a brief explanation justifying the ranking.

Step 4: Get a detailed analysis (optional)

From here, you can do a deeper dive into each candidate’s profile using ChatGPT automated candidate evaluation. ChatGPT will highlight any qualifications or experiences that make them a good fit for the role.

That can give you something to go on when you have to explain to your leadership team who you think should be selected for the next stage of interviews, and why.

ChatGPT Prompt: Based on the job description, identify the relevant experience from [candidate name]’s resume that makes them qualified or unqualified for this role. Provide specific examples from their work history.

Step 5: Evaluate skills match

 If you want to, you can take things a step further and analyze their technical skills. A content manager might need a working knowledge of technical SEO, or how to use your CMS, or understand the lingo and jargon if the content is about technical subjects.

ChatGPT Prompt: Based on the skills and qualifications listed in the job description, evaluate whether [candidate name]’s technical skills listed on their resume are a good fit for this role. Provide a rating from 1-10.

Tips for AI skeptics

These AI tools are new, and people are still figuring out how they work. Human resources is a people-oriented field. It’s completely understandable if you’re not convinced how artificial intelligence for resume screening can help you recruit and source the best candidates.

If you’re hesitant or skeptical about whether candidate shortlisting with ChatGPT is the way to go, here are some tips to get you started.

  • Start small

Begin with small batches of resumes. Test them out at a small scale to see how ChatGPT-3.5 can streamline the recruitment process for you. Then try it with more resumes at a time, with different job descriptions, and with different roles. 

  • Compare results

Compare the results of ChatGPT’s AI-based resume screening recommendations with how you screen resumes manually. See for yourself how it helps you and whether or not it saves you time for more important, high-level work.

  • Emphasize time-saving

Think of any low-effort, menial tasks you might have to do as an HR manager, and have ChatGPT do them for you instead. Candidate shortlisting with AI can be a saving grace if you’re short on time and resources. 64% of HR professionals say AI tools help them filter out unqualified candidates.

Limitations of using ChatGPT-3.5 for resume screening

AI can be a wonderful asset to you if you know how to use it, but there are limits to what it can and can’t do. Making the most out of the technology involves understanding its limitations, and how to surpass or work around them. Some limitations you might face when first using artificial intelligence for resume screening are:

  • Lack of industry-specific knowledge: May lack the expertise required for certain job roles or industries
  • Potential bases: Can inherent biases from training data, leading to unfair evaluations
  • Inability to fully understand context: May struggle to comprehend the full context and implied meanings
  • Limited evaluation of soft skills: Difficulty accurately assessing soft skills like communication

HR consultant Bryan J. Driscoll advises that before using ChatGPT in your resume screening process, you should carefully align it with current employment laws related to data privacy, data protection, and equal employment.

“There’s also a substantial risk of unintentional bias,” Driscoll says. “ AI systems learn from vast datasets that often contain historical biases. If not carefully managed, these biases can be perpetuated in the screening process, leading to discriminatory outcomes against certain groups of candidates. This not only violates principles of fairness and equality but can also lead to legal repercussions for companies.”

Any output you use from ChatGPT must have human oversight. If you build ChatGPT into your HR processes, make sure that you or another human on your team is checking what it does for accuracy. ChatGPT is there to enhance your candidate screening process, not replace it.

ChatGPT Can be the best thing to happen to your resume screening process

After just a few test runs, you’ll start to see what a ChatGPT recruitment process can do to make life easier as an HR manager. Now you can go into that meeting, plop those resumes down on the table, and say confidently and with conviction that you the right guy to interview next.

Time is a luxury you seldom have as an HR manager. Using ChatGPT-3.5 to rank and evaluate your candidate resumes can make your recruitment process more efficient and free up time for what really matters – connecting with your potential candidates.

If you’re curious about what else AI can do to cut down your workload as a hiring manager, have a look at Workable’s AI-powered HR and recruitment features that can help you with job descriptions, candidate sourcing, and interview questions.

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How to file an EEO-1 report https://resources.workable.com/tutorial/file-eeo-1-report Tue, 22 Mar 2016 16:46:07 +0000 https://blog.workable.com/?p=2101 EEO reporting requirements apply to employers that have at least 100 employees and to federal contractors that employ 50 or more workers. Those employers are required to fill out and submit an EEO-1 report to the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) and the U.S., Department of Labor every year. This report includes information about job […]

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EEO reporting requirements apply to employers that have at least 100 employees and to federal contractors that employ 50 or more workers. Those employers are required to fill out and submit an EEO-1 report to the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) and the U.S., Department of Labor every year. This report includes information about job categories as well as the ethnicity, race and gender of employees and is required to track compliance for employers who fall into the above-mentioned categories.

A growing company is good news but it comes with added responsibility. When your staff grows beyond a certain number of employees, the US government starts to require more information about your company as an equal opportunity employer. One of the new things you have to do is file an EEO-1 report.

So what is the EEO-1 report or employer information report? It is a compliance survey mandated by the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) and it’s obligatory for employers who meet certain criteria. EEO-1 reporting is done through the completion of Standard Form 100. To complete this EEO-1 form you store employment data categorized by ethnicity, race, gender and job category.

Complying with EEOC guidelines can be time consuming and EEO mistakes can get you in trouble. It’s a headache but it’s worth remembering that the EEO-1 report is a means of tracking compliance for any equal opportunity employer.

If you are about to file an EEO-1 report for the first time, use these simple steps to get the job done.

Step 1: Determine whether you need to file an EEO-1 report

All employers with 15 or more employees have to comply with Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 to be considered an equal opportunity employer and avoid discrimination according to protected characteristics. However, you only have to file an actual EEO-1 report if:

  • You have 100 or more employees
  • You have less than 100 employees but you are owned, affiliated with or controlled by a company with more than 100 employees overall
  • You have 50 or more employees AND you have a federal contract/subcontract worth more than $50,000
  • You have 50 or more employees AND you act as an issuing and paying agent for US Savings Bonds OR serve as a depository of government funds

The Standard form 100 can be completed by all types of employers. Keep in mind that if you have 50 or more employees but you are exempt under regulation 41 CFR 60-1.5, you don’t have to file an EEO-1 report. You are also excluded if you’re located in Puerto Rico, the Virgin Islands or other US Protectorates.

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Step 2: Learn the basics of the EEO statement

The annual deadline for submission of an EEO-1 report is September 30. Sometimes an extension may be given officially by the EEOC or you can request a one time 30-day extension.

The EEOC states that online submission of EEO-1 data is preferable in an effort to reduce paperwork (Government paperwork elimination act of 1998). Paper reports will be accepted only upon request and approval. You can check the annual survey mailout memorandum for the website, telephone number or address from which you can get a copy of the prescribed EEO-1 data file.

Employers who operate in one location, as one establishment, are referred to as “single-establishment” employers and are obliged to file a single EEO-1 report.

Employers who operate as more than one establishment are referred to as “multi-establishment” employers. They must file the following reports:

  • One report for the company’s headquarters (Type 3)
  • One report for each establishment with 50 or more employees (Type 4)
  • One list of establishments with less than 50 employees including a data grid on their employees by race, gender and job category (Type 6) OR a separate report for each of these establishments (Type 8 as per Type 4)
  • One consolidated report (Type 2)

Be sure to check the EEOC Factsheet for more detailed information.

If you have questions pertaining to a specific situation, you may find help in the FAQ section. A checklist for the whole process can be extremely helpful.

Step 3: Register as a first-time filer

In order to file the report you need a Login ID and password. To receive these, the EEOC requires you to register for a first time submission. Completing this form serves as an application for credentials. It will also help you determine whether you are obliged to register as a first time filer.

Make sure you do this well in advance as it will take you some time to establish a procedure for recording data and completing the standard form 100.

Step 4: Collect the data for your EEO-1 report

Employment data can refer to any pay period from July to September. Generally, self-identification by employees is preferable to ensure the accuracy of data. A procedure to conduct this employee survey, allowing for ample time for everyone to respond, is essential. Make sure you provide self-identification forms to the employees and that they are collected in time. The headquarters or parent company must collect all forms from the establishments. In cases where employees refuse to identify themselves, the employer is allowed to complete the data on their behalf by records or visual observation (in the case of race).

All employees regardless of their status (e.g. part-time vs full-time) must be included in the report. The job classification is as follows:

  • Executive/Senior Level Officials and Managers
  • First/Mid Level Officials and Managers
  • Professionals
  • Technicians
  • Sales Workers
  • Administrative Support Workers
  • Craft Workers
  • Operatives
  • Laborers and Helpers
  • Service Workers

Make sure that you have a clear understanding of these EEO-1 categories to avoid misclassifying an employee.

For race categories you can consult the appendix of the official EEOC instruction booklet where there are instructions for classifying employees according to race. The categories used are:

  • Hispanic or Latino
  • White (Not Hispanic or Latino)
  • Black or African American (Not Hispanic or Latino)
  • Native Hawaiian or Other Pacific Islander (Not Hispanic or Latino)
  • Asian (Not Hispanic or Latino)
  • American Indian or Alaska Native (Not Hispanic or Latino)
  • Two or More Races (Not Hispanic or Latino)

Generally, the instruction booklet can help you gain a better understanding of the different EEO-1 reporting requirements.

Note that you need to record employment data only. The EEO-1 report doesn’t require you to submit any data regarding candidates from your hiring process. See step 7 if you are wondering about the usefulness of applicant data.

Step 5: Prepare and submit the EEO-1 report

You can find a full sample of the report here. Note that the job and race classifications appear by default in the report. Your preparation must be done according to those guidelines. After you have collected self-identification data by employees, you can begin to list them by establishment, race/ethnicity, gender and job category (every employee should appear only once in the EEO-1 report). Double-check your data. If you are a multi-establishment company, remember that the number of employees in the consolidated report must equal the sum of employees in the Type 3, 4 and 6 or 8 reports.

You can submit your completed report through the EEO-1 Online Filing System or through other methods approved by the EEOC.

The EEOC guidelines make a special mention of the “certify report” button. Do not forget to press it, otherwise your report will not be submitted.

Step 6: Track changes in EEO-1 reporting requirements

Recently, the EEOC proposed changes that expand the EEO-1 categories that employers must report. From 2017, the EEOC may require EEO-1 filers to submit compensation data (W-2 earnings and hours worked) as part of their EEO-1 report. You can find more information, as well as a comment section that is in effect until April 1, here.

Make sure you keep abreast of the EEOC decisions. Filing an incomplete or inaccurate report may have serious consequences such as fines or the termination of federal contracts for contractors and the banning of future agreements.

Step 7: Expand your data for complete EEO compliance

Overall EEO compliance should not be left to chance. Being compliant as an equal opportunity employer largely depends on the systematic recording and storage of data.  Especially if you are a federal contractor, the recording of applicant data is typically part of a mandatory internal audit and reporting system for your affirmative action plan.

For any equal opportunity employer, it can be useful to have a detailed view of the hiring process. For example, if an employer realizes that a recent job opening has attracted only male white candidates under 40 years old, this might mean there is a problem with the content of the job ad. This can mean the employer is unwittingly breaking the law. Analyzing applicant data can help you quickly correct mistakes that could otherwise land you in court. Spreadsheets may serve this purpose. However, if you want to save time and avoid mistakes you can use an Applicant Tracking Systems like Workable, where EEO reporting features are fully integrated and can be easily activated.

Further Reading

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Resetting for growth: FishingBooker’s approach https://resources.workable.com/tutorial/resetting-for-growth-fishingbookers-approach Thu, 06 Jun 2024 15:15:48 +0000 https://resources.workable.com/?p=94893 All successful companies look alike, but the challenges they face on their road to success are unique.  While the core of those challenges may be recognizable – even common – how they happen in the first place is usually not. Being stuck between a rock and a hard place is never somewhere you want to […]

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All successful companies look alike, but the challenges they face on their road to success are unique. 

While the core of those challenges may be recognizable – even common – how they happen in the first place is usually not. Being stuck between a rock and a hard place is never somewhere you want to find yourself, but contrary to popular belief, it’s a privilege to be there. 

It’s an invaluable lesson that puts us at the crossroads of what is right and what is easy. 

And that’s where FishingBooker found itself in July of 2023.

As the biggest online travel company that specializes in organizing fishing trips worldwide, our goal is to make it possible for everyone to access enjoyable fishing experiences, anywhere. 

We’ve been on that mission for over a decade with successes and failures always coming hand in hand. 

But the summer of 2023 brought about a ship-horn-sounding wake-up call that FishingBookers now known as “The Reset.”

The path that led to reset

Every business in the world felt the chaotic effect of the COVID pandemic, and FishingBooker was no exception. We grew substantially over those couple of years, and as a result, our ideas and our staff were also getting bigger. 

Success comes with incredible perks, but it’s easy to forget its challenges. 

We still talked about the importance of improving our path, processes, and decisions, but we missed the changes in the bigger picture because we followed a charted road. 

In other words, we became comfortable in our success without really questioning everything it brought.

As we entered 2023, the landscape started shifting. FishingBooker’s mission and vision became blurry to the people of FishingBooker, which had a ripple effect through every aspect of our work. 

This lack of a clear understanding of the company’s direction was the foundation for all other challenges.

Insufficient open communication between different teams led to the creation of silos, in which everyone was doing their job, but there was rarely much contact, let alone cross-team cooperation.

These changes saw the growth of our ideas and personnel start to outweigh the growth of the company as a whole, directly endangering our future. 

It was time for hard questions, candid feedback, and shifting our focus to what mattered, not what we were used to. This is where the idea of the Reset came in.

The first steps – the good, the bad, and the ugly: feedback

The core of the Reset was to go back to the drawing board to rediscover our mission and values, and to reexamine what worked and what didn’t in our business approach. 

This was no easy feat, and it started as so many great discussions do – with candid feedback and uncomfortable conversations.

FishingBooker’s leadership came together for the first Team Lead Summer Retreat in July 2023. 

In the days that followed, we shared our experiences and ideas on how to develop a growth mindset within each team, what was holding them back from doing their best work, and what steps needed to be taken to overcome the autopilot mode we were struggling with.

Getting on the same page is no small feat, but the first step was identifying the stumbling blocks – the unquestioned and ultimately unsustainable growth that the company experienced in the previous years, as well as the lack of clear mission and communication around it. 

The comfort zone we sailed in was cushioning us for too long and, if we didn’t change course, we were set for a brutal wake-up call. 

Developing a growth mindset

It all came down to needing to reframe what truly mattered – our mission and our goals. Our mission – Fishing trips made easy – remained our guide. 

And to achieve this, the priorities were to make our platform lightning-fast and ensure a seamless user experience for both our captains and customers. 

Achieving these goals required fully focusing on impactful actions and execution with the highest quality standards. 

The recipe for making this happen included:

  • Focusing on impact, not ego – replacing the “this is how we always do things” approach with initiatives that would drive the growth of the platform.
  • Breaking the team silos – understanding the power of bringing together teams with different perspectives and specialties to usher in a more holistic approach to our initiatives. 
  • Over-communication – learning from previous communication failures and applying those lessons to over-communicate the company’s direction, mission, and goals, giving a clearer picture of how every employee can impact them in a meaningful way.
  • Continual improvement of FishingBooker’s culture is essential – ensuring that employees’ needs are taken care of is the only way to ensure sustainable growth and success. In turn, growing and being profitable are the only ways to keep offering career development opportunities to FishingBookers.

And thus, the balancing act began. Everyone in the company faced fundamental questions about their team’s work and opportunities to elevate it. 

This led to big changes in how we developed processes and workflows at FishingBooker, as well as the establishment of numerous cross-team initiatives that broke the silos barriers. 

The Reset mentality was gaining momentum by the day.

Coming Together

Not to much surprise, the first months of the Reset were scary and uncertain. 

This was expected as it’s a part of every in-between period – when everything old is falling away, and new ideas have not yet taken shape. 

It was becoming clear that if we weren’t aligned, it would be hard to stay sustainable for years to come. 

We focused on continuous direct and open communication between the leadership and teams, ensuring that we had a clear and shared understanding of our vision and goals.

One of the ways we achieved this is by organizing a Winter Leadership Retreat in December 2023. During those two days, we reiterated the importance of the Reset’s lessons and how they affected our goals for 2024. 

Developing a growth mindset takes time and dedication, and the retreat was a big step in that direction. 

Developing a growth mindset takes time and dedication, and the retreat was a big step in that direction. 

Team leads had the opportunity to be in the same room, share their teams’ ideas and achievements, and voice concerns about the path ahead. 

The retreat proved the significance of over-communication among teams, while breaking the silos brought about promising initiatives that had never been tried before. 

It was in this mindset of focus and innovation we moved into 2024.

Post-reset FishingBooker – prioritizing impact, focus, and constant improvement

Change is always hard, but staying stuck between a rock and a hard place is infinitely harder. At FishingBooker, the Reset isn’t an event anymore, but a mindset. 

It’s a shift that more than ever makes us examine our projects in the “effort vs. impact” frame and one that insists on a blend of innovation and analytical, data-driven thinking. 

The post-Reset period made it clear that it was vital to develop a growth mindset on an individual level, learn about how teams in the company operate, and find ways to work together toward achieving set goals. 

Prioritizing impact, relentless focus, and constant improvement were the main takeaways from the Reset period – the biggest lesson learned in the past year. 

Prioritizing impact, relentless focus, and constant improvement were the main takeaways from the Reset period – the biggest lesson learned in the past year.

Developing a growth mindset takes time, energy, and perseverance because falling back into old habits is an easy slope to slide down. 

Introducing the Reset at FishingBooker was much more than a business decision, it affected every single person working in the company because it challenged them not to think outside of the box, but to break it altogether.

There are many external factors that we have no control over, but what we do control is our approach to our successes and failures, and how much we learn from them. 

It’s possible that, in the future, we’ll have many more mini-Resets that will equip us for whatever challenges we face next. 

But for now, we focus on impact not ego, and carve our path one decision at a time.

Andrijana Maletic

Andrijana has been in love with nature since before she could walk, and she lives to explore the great outdoors whenever she has the chance. Be it traveling to far-off lands, hiking, or mountain climbing, Andrijana loves discovering new places and writing about them. The first time she went fishing with her dad she insisted on returning all the catch into the water. Dad was not pleased. 

Her curiosity about fishing only grew from there, and that’s what brought her to the FishingBooker’s Content Team. For the past 6 years, she’s had the opportunity to learn and write about all things fishing and pair that knowledge with her passion for digital marketing.

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How to use AI for human touch in recruitment https://resources.workable.com/tutorial/ai-in-recruitment Tue, 04 Jun 2024 14:57:46 +0000 https://resources.workable.com/?p=94879 Recruitment is a necessarily human-facing field, and AI recruitment tools can’t automate all of the in-person interactions you need for a good candidate experience. So the question is, how do you balance the efficiency of AI in talent acquisition with genuine human interaction as a recruiter? It’s a delicate balance, but achieving that balance between […]

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Recruitment is a necessarily human-facing field, and AI recruitment tools can’t automate all of the in-person interactions you need for a good candidate experience.

So the question is, how do you balance the efficiency of AI in talent acquisition with genuine human interaction as a recruiter?

It’s a delicate balance, but achieving that balance between recruitment process automation with human oversight can help you find talent faster and better than ever.

This post will offer actionable insights on how to balance AI in talent acquisition with your human oversight – identify where in the recruitment process AI can be most helpful, and how to get started using it.

Benefits of AI in hiring

AI recruitment tools make life easier for you as a recruiter by automating time-consuming tasks – they take care of the work that takes the most time but produces the least results.

Integrating AI in recruitment allows you to focus on more strategic tasks, and gives you more time to connect with the candidates you shortlist, interview, and hire.

This is a key point: AI should be used to enhance the recruitment process, not replace it.

If you’re new to generative AI tools, there are a few benefits of AI in the hiring process worth considering:

  • Efficiency: AI recruitment tools can speed up your initial candidate screenings
  • Improved candidate matching: AI tools can analyze large amounts of data and format it in a way that’s easy to use and understand, so you can match candidates to roles more accurately
  • Reduced bias: Using AI in your hiring process can help mitigate unconscious biases you might not be fully aware of and focus purely on qualifications and skills-based hiring

Getting started with AI in recruitment

If you haven’t used AI tools before, integrating them into your existing hiring process can seem a little daunting.

Not to worry though. AI recruitment tools aren’t hard to learn – you just need to spend a little time with them. Here’s how you can get started:

Identify your needs

Start by assessing your current recruitment processes. Are there any repetitive administrative tasks that can be easily automated? If you could snap your fingers or wave a wand, what tasks would you train a robot to do for you if you could?

Clearly define your goals. Do you want to improve efficiency in your hiring process? Reduce your time-to-hire?

Knowing what you want to achieve will help you make the most out of these tools. Look at things like sorting resumes, scheduling interviews, and sending follow-up emails.

Choose the right tools

You can train AI recruiting tools to shortlist candidates based on a set of predefined criteria you set. That right there can free up more time for you to engage with the candidates and do your final decision-making.

Implement gradually

Start small. Begin by automating one or two tasks you identified. This way, you can test the tools out for yourself without overwhelming yourself or your team. Measure the results and make any necessary tweaks.

The key to the successful use of AI in talent acquisition is continual testing and improvement. It’s an iterative process.

Train your team

Proper AI onboarding for your recruitment team will help them make the most out of these tools. Organize training sessions to help mitigate any resistance to adoption. Open the floor to getting feedback from your team and find any parts of your AI recruitment workflows that need improvement.

Tasks AI can handle without human intervention

Using AI for automating hiring processes can save you a lot of time and administrative burden when it’s used for repetitive or data-intensive tasks. That allows you more time to build genuine relationships with your candidates.

There are a few places where you can start.

1. Initial resume screening

AI is very good for resume screening and can filter resumes for keywords and qualifications very quickly. That speeds up the initial screening process so that only the most qualified candidates move forward to the next stages.

2. Writing interview questions

Using ChatGPT and Workable AI together can help you make personalized interview questions and even evaluate the best answers. Try out the Workable interview question generator and then edit and fine-tune its output to make the questions more specific to the role.

3. Candidate sourcing

Why reinvent the wheel and start from scratch every time you hire for a new role if you don’t have to?

Integrating AI in recruitment can help you source candidates easily find past applicants, add them to your recruitment pipeline, and improve its decisions based on which candidates did or didn’t make it.

Maintaining human interaction in an AI-driven recruitment process

While AI can be a huge time-saving tool in recruitment, it can’t do your job for you. It’s there to help you and your team, not replace you.

Striking a balance between AI with human interaction is key to building strong relationships with your candidates and ensuring they have a positive experience.

Human-led follow-ups

AI in talent acquisition can handle the initial candidate sourcing and resume screening. You or someone on your team should take over from that point and handle the follow-ups.

Reach out to the shortlisted candidates personally. Having an AI chatbot do that part of the process is a bad idea. People can generally catch onto when they’re talking to an AI chatbot and it rubs them the wrong way.

Follow-up with a personalized email addressing specific points from the candidate’s resume or application. This way, your candidates feel valued and not like a faceless number in an automated system.

Assess culture fit

There are certain things that language learning models (LLMs) can’t evaluate, no matter how sophisticated they are. Soft skills like leadership, initiative, and communication are some of them.

AI can speed up the process of candidate shortlisting, but the final decision should involve the judgment of a human recruitment expert. That can only come from you or someone on your team.

During the interview process, assess the candidates’ communication skills, problem-solving abilities, and alignment with your organization’s culture.

Empathetic feedback

AI tools are designed to be friendly and helpful and to be aligned with human values, but they’re not capable of true empathy. Not yet, anyhow.

Refine the candidate evaluations you get from AI with your own personal insights and constructive criticism. Encourage an open, two-way dialogue where candidates can ask questions and be assured of getting an answer from a person.

Enhancing the candidate experience with AI

Combining both AI efficiency with human oversight can elevate your candidate experience to a new level. Here’s how to make the best out of both.

1. Timely communication

Your AI chatbots can provide instant answers to any common candidate questions. For anything more complicated, specific, or involved, you can delegate to a human recruiter.

Regular updates on the candidate’s application status should be automated if possible. Use AI tools to let your candidates know what’s going on.

2. Personalized feedback

AI can generate personalized feedback to help you prepare assessments. However, that feedback should be supplemented with your own insights and personal notes on the candidates’ performance.

3. Efficient scheduling

Candidates can use AI self-scheduling tools to choose interview times that best fit their schedules. That cuts out a lot of the unnecessary back-and-forth communication, so you can spend more time preparing for the interview itself.

Use AI to make recruiting easier, so you can focus on what’s important

AI hiring tools can handle the drudgery and repetitive tasks, so you and your recruitment team can step in and make the candidate experience more personal and empathetic.

Are you curious about how you can use AI to improve your hiring strategy? Check out Workable’s AI features and start planning on using these tools to set your organization apart.

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Four ways that ChatGPT 4o will improve your HR work https://resources.workable.com/tutorial/how-chatgpt-4o-will-improve-your-hr-work Thu, 23 May 2024 11:51:00 +0000 https://resources.workable.com/?p=94692 OpenAI doesn’t stop impressing us. Just when we think we’ve seen everything, a new breakthrough update comes along to change things again. GPT-4o democratizes advanced AI by making powerful features accessible to all users, including those using the free version. Key enhancements include improved language capabilities, faster performance, and the integration of multimodal abilities, allowing […]

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OpenAI doesn’t stop impressing us. Just when we think we’ve seen everything, a new breakthrough update comes along to change things again.

GPT-4o democratizes advanced AI by making powerful features accessible to all users, including those using the free version.

Key enhancements include improved language capabilities, faster performance, and the integration of multimodal abilities, allowing the AI to see, hear, and speak.

It also introduces custom GPTs and the Code Interpreter, enhancing practical applications in education, work, and global entrepreneurship.

AI now sees, hears and speak

It’s like your personal assistant for growth, valuable for work and education tasks. 

ChatGPT now can have spatial understanding, reviewing given information in live time and interacting with you during the whole process. It can also watch your screen and provide answers to your queries. 

Here is one of the many examples you can find on the web about its efficiency, and guess what? It’s about job interviews:

1. A powerful tool for the hiring process

The integration of GPT-4o can enhance practical aspects of recruiting and hiring processes through several advanced implementations. 

AI in HR helps streamline proactive candidate sourcing. GPT-4o can integrate with hiring platforms and scour social media profiles, professional networks, and other online platforms to identify and engage potential candidates. 

This proactive approach not only widens the talent pool but also ensures that recruiters can reach out to highly suitable candidates even before they apply. 

Furthermore, GPT-4o facilitates real-time collaboration between hiring managers and recruiters by integrating with collaborative tools like Slack, Microsoft Teams, and Trello, ensuring seamless communication and coordination throughout the hiring process.

Additionally, virtual job fairs and career events powered by GPT-4o offer interactive experiences where candidates can engage with AI representatives, attend webinars, and participate in Q&A sessions, making the recruitment process more dynamic and accessible. 

GPT-4o can also provide candidates with detailed feedback reports on their interviews and assessments, helping them understand their strengths and areas for improvement. 

These capabilities make the recruitment process more efficient, personalized, and candidate-centric.

2. Decision making made easier

Automating data analysis with GPT-4o significantly enhances the evaluation of employee performance by efficiently processing large datasets. 

This technology can identify trends and generate detailed reports, providing HR teams with accurate and comprehensive data. By pinpointing areas of strength and opportunities for improvement, GPT-4o ensures that performance management is both objective and data-driven. 

This allows HR teams to make informed decisions that can positively impact overall productivity and employee development.

In addition, the analysis of employee satisfaction surveys is greatly improved with GPT-4o, offering real-time insights into employee morale and engagement. 

By quickly detecting patterns and sentiments within survey responses, HR teams can promptly address any issues that arise. 

With GPT-4o, the decision-making process becomes more efficient and effective, ultimately benefiting the entire organization.

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3. Your assistant in meetings

Imagine being in a meeting where discussions are flowing rapidly, ideas are being exchanged, and decisions are being made. In such a scenario, ChatGPT 4o acts as your ever-attentive assistant. 

It listens keenly to the discussions, comprehends the context, and stands ready to provide relevant information at your command.

For instance, if a topic arises that requires data or statistics to support a point, ChatGPT 4o swiftly retrieves the necessary information from internal databases or the web, presenting it to you in a concise and digestible format. 

This capability saves valuable time that would otherwise be spent on manual research, allowing you to stay informed and make well-informed contributions to the conversation along with your HR team.

Moreover, as the meeting progresses, ChatGPT 4o diligently summarizes key points, decisions, and action items, ensuring that nothing gets lost in the midst of complex discussions.

4. Your translator to your discussions

In a globalized world where businesses interact with partners, clients, and colleagues from diverse cultural backgrounds, effective communication can sometimes be hindered by language barriers. 

ChatGPT 4o bridges this gap by serving as your real-time translator during discussions involving multinational participants.

Consider a scenario where you’re leading a virtual meeting with participants from various countries, each speaking different languages. 

With ChatGPT 4o language ceases to be a barrier. As participants speak, ChatGPT 4.0 simultaneously translates their words into the language of your preference, ensuring that everyone in the meeting can understand and contribute effectively.

Moreover, ChatGPT 4o doesn’t just translate words; it captures nuances and cultural sensitivities, ensuring that the essence of the message is preserved across languages. 

Imagine how this technology can help you access new talent pools and collaborate with external resources.

ChatGPT is a seamless technology that can help you work better; it’s your assistant in both personal and professional development. AI integrations in your HR toolkit can maximize the benefits of the technology you use and offer you a significant competitive advantage in your work.

The post Four ways that ChatGPT 4o will improve your HR work appeared first on Recruiting Resources: How to Recruit and Hire Better.

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Top HR Payroll software solutions for your company https://resources.workable.com/tutorial/top-hr-payroll-software-solutions-for-your-company Mon, 27 May 2024 15:12:28 +0000 https://resources.workable.com/?p=94721 Are you seeking valuable insights and guidance for businesses looking to optimize their payroll processes? Is compliance a significant concern for you? Do you aim to support your employees through the use of top HR payroll software?  By presenting a comprehensive comparison of the best solutions available, our goal is to empower decision-makers to make […]

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Are you seeking valuable insights and guidance for businesses looking to optimize their payroll processes? Is compliance a significant concern for you? Do you aim to support your employees through the use of top HR payroll software? 

By presenting a comprehensive comparison of the best solutions available, our goal is to empower decision-makers to make informed choices that will benefit their organizations in the long run.

Let’s not waste any more time.

Key features to look for in HR payroll software:

When evaluating HR payroll software, consider the following essential features:

  • Payroll processing and accuracy: The software should automate payroll calculations, ensuring timely and accurate payments while minimizing errors.
  • Employee self-service portal: A user-friendly portal allows employees to access pay stubs, update personal information, and request time off, reducing administrative burden on HR staff.
  • Tax compliance and reporting: Look for software that stays up-to-date with federal, state, and local tax regulations, automatically calculating withholdings and generating required reports.
  • Integration with other HR systems: Seamless integration with other HR tools, such as time and attendance tracking and benefits administration, enhances efficiency and data consistency.
  • Data security and privacy: Ensure the software employs robust security measures to protect sensitive employee and financial data from unauthorized access or breaches.

Payroll software in numbers

Automation in payroll processing has changed the HR landscape, offering substantial cost reductions and error minimization. 

Companies leveraging automated payroll systems report up to an 80% decrease in processing costs, alongside significantly lower error rates, which translates to increased efficiency and accuracy in payroll management​​. 

This shift towards automation is part of a broader trend where 62% of companies now use cloud-based payroll systems, a notable increase from 34.8% in 2019​, according to the Global Payroll Complexity Index​. 

These cloud-based solutions facilitate the seamless management of remote teams and streamline payroll processes across diverse locations, enhancing operational efficiency. 

This strategy allows businesses to navigate the complexities of payroll management while focusing on their core activities, driving overall productivity and compliance.

Top HR payroll software solutions

Let’s explore and compare some of the most prominent payroll software solutions. We will discuss their pros and cons, as well as pricing models.

1. ADP

ADP is a comprehensive HR payroll solution that offers a wide range of features, making it an ideal choice for enterprises. 

With robust functionality, scalability, and excellent customer support, ADP can handle the complex needs of large organizations. 

Pros: Robust functionality, scalability, and excellent customer support.

Cons: Higher cost compared to some competitors

Pricing: Starts at $79 per month plus $4/employee

2. Xero

Xero UK provides intuitive cloud-based accounting solutions tailored for small businesses, streamlining tasks like invoicing, expense monitoring, and payroll management. With a strong reputation among businesses and accountants alike, Xero UK revolutionizes financial management through its cutting-edge offerings.

Pros: User-friendly interface, affordable pricing, and strong integration with other Xero accounting features.

Cons: Limited customization options and fewer advanced features compared to some competitors.

Pricing: Starts at $39 per month for payroll, with additional costs for accounting features.

You can easily integrate ADP and Xero with Workable to manage your payrolls and workforce along with our exceptional recruiting and HR services.

Access accurate salary information

By leveraging data points from millions of jobs managed through Workable, you can instantly access salary estimations and plan your hiring budget accordingly.

Start now

3. Paylocity

Paylocity is a cloud-based HR & payroll software that offers a user-friendly interface, strong customer support, and a robust mobile app. 

It is suitable for mid-sized businesses looking for a comprehensive solution. 

Pros: User-friendly interface, strong customer support, and robust mobile app.

Cons: Higher cost and limited integration options with third-party systems.

Pricing: Customized based on company size and specific needs.

4. Gusto

Gusto is an all-in-one HR & payroll software designed specifically for small businesses. 

It offers easy setup, affordable pricing, and excellent customer support, making it an ideal choice for small business owners. 

Nonetheless, it may have limited scalability for larger enterprises and fewer integrations compared to some competitors.

Pros: Easy to set up and use, affordable pricing, and excellent customer support.

Cons: Limited scalability for larger enterprises and fewer integrations compared to some competitors.

Pricing: Starts at $40 per month plus $6 per employee.

5. Paychex Flex

Paychex Flex is a comprehensive HR & payroll solution that offers a robust feature set, scalability, and strong customer support. 

It is an excellent choice for growing businesses that need a solution that can adapt to their changing needs. 

However, it may come with a higher cost compared to some alternatives and may require a longer setup process.

Pros: Robust feature set, scalability for growing businesses, and strong customer support.

Cons: Higher cost compared to some competitors and a longer setup process.

Pricing: Customized based on company size and specific needs.

6. Rippling

Rippling is an all-in-one HR & payroll software that offers easy-to-use HR and IT tools, strong integration, and good customer support. 

It is suitable for businesses of all sizes looking for a comprehensive solution. 

As a relatively newer player in the market, it may have a smaller customer base compared to more established competitors.

Pros: Easy to use, strong integration with other HR and IT systems, and good customer support.

Cons: Relatively newer player in the market with a smaller customer base compared to established competitors.

Pricing: Custom

7. QuickBooks Payroll

QuickBooks Payroll is a payroll software that integrates seamlessly with QuickBooks accounting, making it an ideal choice for businesses already using QuickBooks. 

It offers a user-friendly interface, affordable pricing, and strong QuickBooks integration. 

However, it may have limited advanced features compared to some competitors and is primarily designed for QuickBooks users.

Pros: User-friendly interface, affordable pricing, and strong integration with QuickBooks accounting.

Cons: Limited advanced features compared to some competitors and primarily designed for small businesses using QuickBooks.

Pricing: Starts at $75 per month plus $6 per employee. 

*Additional discounts may be available periodically for all the aforementioned HR payroll solutions.

Let’s compare the top HR payroll software solutions

Here’s a side-by-side comparison table of the seven HR payroll software solutions, considering factors such as key features, pricing, and customer support.

table-hr-payroll-software

Factors to consider when choosing an HR payroll software

When selecting an HR payroll software, consider the following factors:

Company size and growth potential: Choose a solution that can scale with your business as it grows.

Industry-specific requirements: Some industries have unique payroll and compliance needs, so look for software that accommodates these requirements.

Budget and ROI: Evaluate the cost of the software against the potential time and cost savings it can provide.

User-friendliness and employee adoption: Select a solution with an intuitive interface to encourage employee adoption and minimize training needs.

Customer support and training resources: Look for software providers that offer robust customer support and training resources to ensure smooth implementation and ongoing success.

The seven software options presented in this article offer a range of capabilities and price points to suit various business requirements. 

Take the time to assess your needs and evaluate your options to find the best fit for your organization.

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How to measure (and improve) your offer acceptance rate https://resources.workable.com/tutorial/offer-acceptance-rate Tue, 27 Sep 2016 19:38:08 +0000 https://resources.workable.com/?p=6620 An offer acceptance rate (OAR) is the percentage of candidates who accepted a formal job offer. The OAR is measured by dividing the number of offers accepted by the number of offers extended by the company. A high offer to acceptance ratio indicates that there’s a good match between a company’s requirements and selected candidates’ […]

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An offer acceptance rate (OAR) is the percentage of candidates who accepted a formal job offer. The OAR is measured by dividing the number of offers accepted by the number of offers extended by the company. A high offer to acceptance ratio indicates that there’s a good match between a company’s requirements and selected candidates’ expectations and shows how effective their talent acquisition strategy is.

You’ve found your ideal candidate and can’t wait for them to accept your job offer. It’d be great if everyone agreed to join your team, but that doesn’t always happen.

Keeping track of your offers accepted is simple and can help companies assess their ability to entice the best candidates. It shows how effective a company’s talent acquisition strategy is.

What is the definition of offer acceptance rate?

DEFINITION
An offer acceptance rate shows the percentage of candidates who accepted a formal job offer.

Here’s the formula to calculate offer acceptance rate:

Calculate offer acceptance rate with this formula
Calculate offer acceptance rate with this formula

In this formula, you should only include final official offers to external candidates. Offers made informally or in different stages of the process don’t usually count towards this metric.

This metric has some flexibility. It’s usually calculated annually but you can also calculate it more frequently if, for example, you’ve had a busy recruiting month. Also, you could calculate job acceptance rate per recruiter, hiring manager or department.

As with every recruiting metric, numbers can be suspect. A 40 percent average offer acceptance rate shows that something is definitely wrong with your talent acquisition strategies. Hopefully, not many companies suffer from this affliction. Even an acceptance rate close to 100 percent could look odd, unless you’re Google or another prestigious company.

Generally, companies aim high with this recruiting metric. An offer acceptance rate above 90 percent can indicate that there’s a good match between a company’s requirements and selected candidates’ expectations. This high offer to acceptance ratio could be the result of good communication, reasonable and competitive offers and good candidate experience.

How to achieve high offer acceptance rates

A good way to tackle low acceptance rates (or preserve high ones) is to understand why candidates turned you down. Here are a few examples:

  • They were dissatisfied with the salary or benefits you offered
  • They received a better offer elsewhere
  • They weren’t sure about leaving their current job
  • They were just looking for leverage to negotiate a pay raise in their current job
  • They have personal restrictions that prevent them from accepting your offer (e.g. new job’s working hours would get in the way of their family responsibilities)
  • They’d have a longer commute
  • They didn’t like your company culture or senior leadership
  • They didn’t see any real challenge or opportunity in the role
  • They had a bad candidate experience

Some reasons, like personal restrictions, are outside your control. Other reasons, like company culture and leadership, aren’t just one person’s responsibility and can be difficult to fix. But, for other reasons, there are remedies.

Generally, you need to answer four questions:

1. Are my job offers competitive?

Benchmarking can help with this. By knowing your competition and their job offer acceptance rates, you can draw conclusions about whether they make better offers than you (and what these offers are). Alongside competitive analysis, aggregated salary data from sources such as Workable’s Salary Estimator AI model, Glassdoor, and Payscale can provide valuable insights.

Access accurate salary information

By leveraging data points from millions of jobs managed through Workable, you can instantly access salary estimations and plan your hiring budget accordingly.

Start now

2. Do I screen candidates correctly?

To answer this question, you may have to rethink your entire screening process. It’s important not to spend time interviewing or extending offers to candidates who aren’t really interested or available. Adding effective screening calls to your process can help. Also, it’d be a good idea to ask interview questions about how much candidates know about your company and the position they’re interviewing for. Their answers can tell you whether they’re serious about your job. You can also encourage candidates to share any concerns or questions during interviews. What they share can indicate what matters to them and whether they’re really considering working at your company.

3. Am I communicating with candidates?

Honesty will go a long way. Candidates want to know the good elements of a job offer. This makes sense; especially if candidates are looking for reasons to leave their current jobs. But, a job offer letter is often not enough to communicate important details. Recruiters and hiring managers can tell candidates what they need to know during interviews, when they’ll explain company culture, career opportunities and their company’s expectations. Communicating any negative points is also important. Candidates need to know any drawbacks to make an informed choice. If, for example, you expect people to work extensive overtime, it’s best to tell them ahead of time. If you accidentally misrepresent things, or are unclear, candidates will be less inclined to accept your job offer.

4. Do I treat candidates well?

Treating candidates well is very important. It’s key to building your employer brand. Positive candidate experience is also the first step towards persuading the best candidates to accept your job offer. If there are unnecessary delays during the process or if interviewers make mistakes, candidates will be less likely to accept an offer. Or worse, they might accept an offer because they need the job, and then they’ll likely turn into disgruntled employees.

Use complementary recruiting metrics

Here are some metrics that can be used alongside offer acceptance rates:

  • Days-to-accept: this metric indicates the average number of days it takes for candidates to accept a job offer. Usually, you could wait a couple of days for an acceptance to come. But, if a week goes by before you hear from a candidate, then you might need to rethink how clear or attractive your offer is. A possible solution: ask candidates to send their reply within a specific timeframe (four or five days is usually appropriate).
  • No-show rate: this metric indicates the percentage of candidates who accepted a job offer but didn’t show up on their first day (excluding emergency reasons). Some candidates might accept your offer before they have finished interviewing with other companies. Then, they might come across a better offer. It’s not ideal, but it happens. If your no-show rate is high, it might mean your hiring team has a problem evaluating candidates’ motivation for the job. In that case, it’d be a good idea to rethink your interview questions (Check out our latest list with the best interview questions to ask).

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Job offer acceptance rate metrics FAQ https://resources.workable.com/tutorial/faq-job-offer-metrics Fri, 15 Sep 2017 13:59:08 +0000 https://resources.workable.com/?p=23963 Job offer metrics help you measure the quality of your job offers and, by extension, your recruitment process. Here are frequently asked questions and answers on job offer metrics: What is the offer acceptance rate metric? How do you measure an offer acceptance rate? What’s a good benchmark for offer acceptance rate? How do you […]

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Job offer metrics help you measure the quality of your job offers and, by extension, your recruitment process. Here are frequently asked questions and answers on job offer metrics:

What is the offer acceptance rate metric?

Offer acceptance rate (OAR) shows what percentage of candidates accepted your job offer. This metric indicates how attractive and competitive your job offers are. If your OAR starts declining, then your team won’t hire the candidates they want. A low OAR could lead you to rethink your jobs salary ranges or try new ways of communicating with candidates.

How do you measure an offer acceptance rate?

Here’s the formula to measure your offer acceptance rate (OAR):

Offer acceptance rate formula
Offer acceptance rate formula

What’s a good benchmark for offer acceptance rate?

Aim high when it comes to offer acceptance rate (OAR.) An offer acceptance rate above 90 percent indicates that there’s a good match between a company’s requirements and candidates’ expectations.

To get valuable insight, calculate your OAR correctly. For example, imagine you want to include formal offers in your calculations. Yet, hiring managers usually extend verbal, informal offers first. Candidates who reject these verbal offers (which should still be counted against your OAR) don’t reach the point of receiving formal offers at all, thus skewing your results. Be consistent in how you measure your OAR and communicate your methodology to hiring teams.

How do you improve your offer acceptance rate?

To improve your offer acceptance rate, ask candidates why they rejected your job offers through a candidate experience survey. Their feedback will help you reshape your job offers and improve your OAR. Here are a few ways to address common issues:

  • Ensure your job offers are competitive. Research benefits and salaries through tools like Workable’s Salary Estimator AI model, Glassdoor, and PayScale.com to ensure your offers are on par with industry standards.
  • Communicate with candidates effectively. Your OAR could be low because you aren’t attracting the most relevant candidates. Ask candidates about their salary expectations and motivation in applying for the job early on over a screening call.
  • Discuss any issues during the interview. Candidates may face various issues that prevent them from accepting a job (e.g. long commute, inflexible hours.) Address those issues during the interview, by communicating any policies on flexible hours, remote work or relocation opportunities.
  • Be clear and consistent about the job. For example, if you mention the job is at the company’s headquarters in the job ad, the final offer shouldn’t be for a position at a company branch.
  • Mind your candidate experience. Positive candidate experience is the first step towards persuading the best candidates to accept your job offer. It shows you are a respectful employer that values employees.
  • Introduce your team to candidates. Potential coworkers matter when considering a job offer, as everyone wants to work with people who will make them feel challenged and comfortable. Talk about your team or take your finalist to meet your team members in person.

Access accurate salary information

By leveraging data points from millions of jobs managed through Workable, you can instantly access salary estimations and plan your hiring budget accordingly.

Start now

What is the “Reasons Offers are Being Accepted” metric?

This metric tracks the primary reasons candidates give for accepting your job offers. To measure the “Reasons Offers are Being Accepted” metric, ask your new hires why they accepted your job through your candidate experience survey. It’s best to use an open-ended question to gain more personalized insight. When you have enough data, group answers under a few useful categories (e.g. competitive salary, challenging job.)

Why should we measure “Reasons Offers are Being Accepted”?

The “Reasons Offers are Being Accepted” metric indicates what areas your candidates find most important when they consider accepting a job offer at your company. Here are two examples of ways to use this knowledge:

  • Prioritize elements that matter. For example, if your new hires’ top reason for accepting your job offer is your benefits package, you can use that to enhance your employer brand (e.g. by displaying your benefits prominently on your careers page) or attract more qualified candidates (e.g. by mentioning benefits in your job ads.)
  • Inform your team’s strategy for closing candidates. Your hiring team sells job openings to the best candidates. Knowing what most candidates value can help them deliver a more effective pitch.

What is the “Reasons Offers are Being Rejected” metric?

The “Reasons Offers are Being Accepted” metric tracks the primary reasons candidates give for rejecting your job offers. This metric offers insight into what you can do to ensure your best candidates accept your offers.

You could measure the reasons offers are being rejected in various ways:

  • Check your candidates’ communication with your hiring team. Some candidates may state a reason for rejecting your job offer in their rejection email or mention a concern during offer negotiations.
  • Ask candidates to complete an anonymous candidate experience survey. Use open-ended questions to get the most descriptive responses (e.g. What are the two most important reasons for you rejecting our job offer?)
  • Track feedback on social media. Candidates may indicate why they rejected your job offer online. Compile comments to gain actionable insight.

More Recruiting Metrics FAQs:

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Ask the Evil HR Lady: How do I prevent salary harassment? https://resources.workable.com/tutorial/ask-the-evil-hr-lady-how-do-i-prevent-salary-harassment Tue, 17 Jan 2023 14:58:33 +0000 https://resources.workable.com/?p=87013 Q: I have an employee, Heidi, who continually asks others for their salary info. Some people don’t want to discuss it and tell her that, but she won’t stop asking! I want to give her a supervisory directive to quit bugging people, but I also know she has the right to discuss this. What is […]

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Q: I have an employee, Heidi, who continually asks others for their salary info. Some people don’t want to discuss it and tell her that, but she won’t stop asking! I want to give her a supervisory directive to quit bugging people, but I also know she has the right to discuss this. What is the correct terminology I should use here?

You’re right that Heidi absolutely has the right to tell all her coworkers her salary. And it’s good that you know this because a shocking number of companies make rules forbidding employees from sharing their salaries and then end up in hot water.

But she doesn’t have the right to demand that other employees share their salaries with her. She can ask, but they don’t have to say. And if she badgers them, as you say, it makes for a very unpleasant workplace.

So, how to handle it without stepping over the line? Here are some suggestions.

1. Have a meeting with her and a witness

Sit down with Heidi and make it very clear that she is allowed to discuss her salary but that she’s annoying her coworkers. While she can talk about her pay to her heart’s content, she cannot annoy her coworkers into talking and you consider that behavior bullying.

The reason for the witness is you don’t want her to turn around and claim that you forbade her from talking about her salary. Tell her that some people (most people) are uncomfortable talking about their salaries. Perhaps inform her that about 40% of people don’t even share their salary with their live-in partner or spouse! They of course aren’t going to share that information with a coworker.

She may likely argue that’s all the more reason to encourage her coworkers to talk about salaries. That culture of lips being sealed around salaries does need to change. That may be true, depending on who you talk to. But it’s not appropriate to run that campaign in the office because it’s making people uncomfortable.

Note: Learn more about salary transparency and why it matters.

2. Remind everyone of their rights

Depending on your working environment, you may wish to send out an email to everyone or post a reminder in the break room that states, “Under the National Labor Relations Act, employees are free to discuss their working conditions, including salary. However, you are under no obligation to discuss your salary with anyone and the company will not reveal that information for you. We value your privacy.”

Of course, you can run that by your local attorney to make sure there aren’t any laws you are violating. Technically, you can reveal everyone’s salary, but most businesses don’t want to do that, and most people don’t want their salaries revealed.

3. Follow up consistently

If this doesn’t resolve your issue, you’ll need to readdress the issue with Heidi, but this time around you are not going to talk about salary; you are only going to talk about annoying and bullying behavior. Why? Because salary is simply a red herring. It’s her inability to take no for an answer that causes the problem.

If she constantly asked people about their diets, their personal lives, or where they buy their shoes, it would be equally annoying. Use phrases like, “The other employees don’t appreciate it when you pressure them to reveal private information,” and “Jane said no to your request to discuss salary, so you need to accept that.”

If this doesn’t solve the problem, you’ll need to place her on a performance improvement plan (PIP). Yes, it seems a bit formal, but you’d do the same if it were a different topic. However, because working conditions (and specifically salary) are protected topics of discussion, please consult with your local employment attorney as you write the PIP. You do want to make sure that you are not punishing her for the topic of her annoying questions, but instead, being disruptive to her coworkers and not respecting their wishes to be left alone.

4. Ensure you treat all annoying employees equally

This is a critical step when dealing with situations such as this. If you allow other employees to badger each other or allow general bullying but crack down on Heidi’s request for salary information, she’s going to say her punishment is because it’s about a protected topic (i.e. working conditions) and not because she’s annoying or disruptive.

So keep your eyes and ears open to what else goes on in the breakroom or on Slack or wherever your employees congregate. Make sure you don’t let others get away with bad behavior while you correct Heidi.

And of course, keep good documentation of all this! You’ll need it.

Have an HR or workplace-related question for the Evil HR Lady? Email contact@workable.com with “Evil HR Lady” in the subject heading and it may be featured in an upcoming article!

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The perfect HR tech stack: seven takeaways from a webinar https://resources.workable.com/tutorial/the-perfect-hr-tech-stack Thu, 06 Jul 2023 14:31:01 +0000 https://resources.workable.com/?p=89414 Workable recently partnered with Checkr and Bamboo to bring together experts to discuss technology priorities for small-to-medium businesses. Sharing their insights and expertise in the webinar were: Max Wesman, VP of Product, Checkr TJ Davis, Head of People Operations, BambooHR Rob Long, CHRO, Workable Trevor Schueren, Product Partner Manager, Workable The focus of the hour-long […]

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Workable recently partnered with Checkr and Bamboo to bring together experts to discuss technology priorities for small-to-medium businesses.

Sharing their insights and expertise in the webinar were:

The focus of the hour-long webinar was to share insights and expertise on how to build the perfect tech stack to meet the needs of HR teams.

Build the Ultimate SMB HR Tech Stack

Learn how integrating Workable, Checkr, and BambooHR can form a top-tier HR tech stack, enabling you to source and hire exceptional talent while streamlining your HR operations.

Watch the webinar now

Strapped for time? We’ve pulled together the top seven takeaways for you:

1. Know your needs before buying

Understand your processes first before procuring new technology for your HR tech stack. Map out your current workflows to identify pain points and areas for improvement. Then look for solutions that can address those needs.

“Really take the time. If we’re talking about onboarding, map out your onboarding process. And when I say map out, [I mean] what’s every single touch point that’s going on in your onboarding process? Is it manual? Is it automated? Is it one of those critical touch points that’s really about the employee experience that you need to nail?” – TJ Davis, Head of People Operations, BambooHR

“When you think about optimization, one of the key points I would say is don’t confuse your technology solution for your process.” – TJ Davis, Head of People Operations, BambooHR

2. Prioritize ease of adoption

Ease of use and user adoption are key. Look for tools that are intuitive and easy to implement so that hiring managers and others will actually use them.

“If adoption across your company of your recruitment technology is important, if getting hiring managers involved in hiring, [and] if getting interviewers involved with the tool is important, then work will tend to be a very strong option there.” – Rob Long, CHRO, Workable

“I think of that very much from our user’s point of view, which is HR people, hiring managers. But I think then [about] the ease of use on the candidate side, which we often call candidate experience; it’s so important as well.” – TJ Davis, Head of People Operations, BambooHR

3. Understand your compliance needs

Compliance and regulation requirements may determine some of your tech needs. Industries like healthcare, for example, require background checks, so that would need to be part of your stack.

“We work with certain customers that are in very compliance-heavy industries like healthcare, and so they don’t have a choice when they’re hiring someone new. They have to run a background check, and that has to be part of getting off the ground.” – Max Wesman, VP of Product, Checkr

4. Nail down what you need right now

Core HR tools like an ATS, HCM, background check, and payroll system will meet most companies’ basic needs as they scale to 100-200 employees. After that, you can consider more targeted solutions.

“I think when we think about the core, what do most companies have by the time they’re a hundred employees? Typically most of them are gonna have an HRIS. They’re gonna have an an ATS. They’ll have their background check provider. They’ve got their payroll set up, they’ve got a benefits provider maybe on a platform or a broker.”

“It depends on different things that different people need.” – TJ Davis, Head of People Operations, Bamboo HR

5. Integrations are uber-important

Integrations between tools in your HR tech stack are important, especially if you have a small team. Look for turnkey integrations that transfer data automatically without requiring technical resources to build and maintain them.

“If it’s not an out-of-the-box integration like the one between Workable, Checkr and Bamboo, do you really have the resources internally or the time yourself to try and go and connect an API with a third-party tool? Or will you get support if you have a tech team internally or an IT team to go and build that out?” – Rob Long, CHRO, Workable

6. Look at scaling capabilities

Consider both your current and future needs. Choose tools that can scale with your business but also meet your most pressing needs today. Don’t buy for what you might need in five years at the expense of solving today’s problems.

“Early on in the life cycle of a business, it’s important to find the right partners and ones that can grow with you that have flexibility.” – Max Wesman, VP of Product, Checkr

7. Get recommendations

Get recommendations from peers but evaluate tools for your own needs. While peer advice is helpful, make sure any solutions align with your company’s specific goals, priorities, and pain points.

“Those referrals are a great, great way of creating that initial list of what we want to look at, but do really make sure that they’re a good fit for your business and what you are trying to do right now as well.” – Rob Long, CHRO, Workable

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Your 30-60-90 day onboarding plan: set your people for success https://resources.workable.com/tutorial/30-60-90-day-onboarding-plan Thu, 15 Jun 2023 13:50:33 +0000 https://resources.workable.com/?p=89151 Those first few months of a new employee’s journey or a shift in an existing employee’s focus can strongly impact their level of engagement, productivity and overall success in their work. That’s why a structured employee onboarding framework is so critical – it’s more important than onboarding itself. That’s the 30-60-90 day onboarding framework for […]

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Those first few months of a new employee’s journey or a shift in an existing employee’s focus can strongly impact their level of engagement, productivity and overall success in their work.

That’s why a structured employee onboarding framework is so critical – it’s more important than onboarding itself.

That’s the 30-60-90 day onboarding framework for you – it’s to provide a consistent, uniform and thorough onboarding experience. It clearly outlines the activities, resources, and expectations for those first three months of an employee’s journey, setting them up for success in their role.

The benefits for the employee are clear – they reach higher productivity in a shorter time (in other words, their ‘time to ramp’ is shorter).

They’re more vividly engaged, they understand what’s expected of them, and they know how to do the work.

For the organization, this results in greater average revenue per employee, lower turnover, and a stronger reputation as an employer that believes in developing their people.

This 30-60-90 day onboarding blueprint is structured in three phases with end goals for each: at the 30-day mark, you’ve set a foundation for that employee.

By the 60-day mark, you’re establishing a clear momentum for the employee to thrive.

And, finally, at the 90-day mark, you’re ensuring that this fully onboarded employee is ready to work autonomously and independently because they’ve learned what they need to know to succeed in their role.

Let’s go into these three stages in depth.

The 30-60-90 Day Onboarding Plan

Join Workable as we collaborate with the global rewards and recognition platform Perkbox, and Your People Associates, to discuss the employee onboarding plan for the first 30, 60, and 90 days.

Watch the webinar now

30-day plan: the foundation

We’ll start the 30-60-90 onboarding plan with this famous adage: “Culture eats strategy for breakfast.”

It’s a given that you’ll be spending a fair bit of time during the first 30 days giving job-specific training to your new starters. But equally, a key focus should be on embedding them into the company culture and helping them build connections.

Here are some ideas to get started:

1. Designate a work ‘buddy’

This should be someone from the team who isn’t their manager. They can be the go-to person who shows them the ropes and gives advice. As this person will be a peer, rather than a manager, they’ll probably have gone through the same experience themselves so can empathize.

Link up new starters who are in a similar boat to each other. For example, you could set up a dedicated Slack or Teams channel which joiners are part of for their first few weeks.

2. Organize a team lunch

Ideally this can be done together in the same place, but if it’s not possible, you can still do it virtually. Why not send the new starter a voucher for them to order the meal of their choice?

Regardless, you should send them a small reward and note of appreciation after their first week – it’s a nice gesture which will put a smile on their face!

3. Set up casual meetings

Arrange “get to know” meetings with people the new starter will be working closely with. This is not a work-related induction, but more of a social meeting to break the ice and find out about each other. These meetings should be quite casual and don’t need any sort of agenda beforehand.

You can group people together – for example, instead of meeting all the web developers individually, they can be part of the same meeting. At the same time, try to keep the number of people in these chats quite small, perhaps to a maximum of four or five. Any more can make them feel daunting, which is the opposite of what you’re trying to achieve!

Basically, it should feel more like a coffee date, and less like you’re being grilled on a reality show!

4. Set up daily syncs

At this stage, managers should have a quick 10-minute catch-up with the employee at the end of each day, just to see how they’re getting on. Meeting lots of different people can be a little overwhelming, so having a regular chat with the same person each day adds a sense of routine.

5. Keep a finger on their pulse

One constant throughout the 30-60-90 day onboarding plan (and beyond) is wellbeing, so ensure managers are still checking in regularly. Pay particular attention to signs of burnout – it’s not uncommon for employees to push themselves extra hard during these opening few weeks.

6. Ensure a solid training plan

As mentioned earlier, training is very important during this stage of the 90 days plan. If you aren’t giving people the tools they need to be successful, it won’t work out for you or them. Things which should be included within the training plan are:

  • Company strategy
  • Sales positioning
  • Department objectives
  • Individual KPIs
  • Best practice methods
  • Systems and ways of working

7. … and be clear about those KPIs

A quick word on those individual KPIs: ensure you are completely clear on what these are – the employee needs to know three things, exactly:

  • what’s expected of them
  • how that links into the wider organization goals
  • what metrics you’ll be using for their work

Setting expectations properly reduces the chances of confusion later on down the line.

8. Make it a two-way street

When it comes to training, try to make this as interactive as possible. People should be able to ask questions and even make suggestions. When training them for the tasks they’ll be doing, incorporate a mix of different learning methods. There may be some things which they can study and practice in their own time, whereas others may require them to learn on the job or be shown step by step.

If you have an online L&D program in place, select the courses which you think will be most relevant to their job. This tailors their training and saves them from having to scroll through lots of different ones.

9. Keep it fun and engaging!

As for the actual work your new starter will be doing, this can vary based on the role and level of seniority. Try to make it engaging though – enthusiasm levels are normally super high at this stage, so you want to tap into this as much as possible. Perhaps you could set them a list of things to do each week and turn it into a fun challenge with points and prizes?

60-day plan: the momentum

Now you’re at one month in the onboarding plan. Your employee should be mostly familiarized with their work and the company’s processes, but that’s just the first step to success. Here’s what you need to think about in the second month of the 30-60-90 day onboarding plan.

1. Maintain a feedback loop

Feedback is crucial, and it’s a very important way to keep the new starter engaged and focused. Managers should give this on each piece of work. Remember it’s still early days, so don’t expect perfection.

At the same time, employees appreciate honesty so give them constructive feedback, and ask for theirs as well. Is there anything they think should have been done differently in the opening weeks?

2. Check on goal progression

It’s also a good time for managers and employees to have an honest discussion about the goals that were set early on. Does anything need to change? Does the employee feel like there are more things they could take on? Either way, do what you did the first time and communicate clearly.

3. Celebrate the small ‘wins’

It’s also important that people feel appreciated. Make sure you celebrate the small successes. If they work in Customer Service, make a big deal of the first ticket they resolve. If they’re in Marketing, recognise them for that first blog they wrote.

This could be a formal shoutout on the recognition platform you use, or even just a round of applause during your end of week wrap-up.

Try and link these recognitions to your company values – this is a great way to remind the employee what you stand for. Try to back the recognitions up with a reward as well. By getting a reward for displaying the right behaviors or for good work, it gives them a morale boost and a sense of gratitude.

You’re now building on the learning

Remember, learning doesn’t just stop after day 30 – but now it continues with the act of building. This is where you trust them to do more independent work and go deeper into their responsibilities. Normally, there are two routes you can take.

If there’s a specific project that was earmarked for them before they joined, allow them to run with this.

If the type of work they do is naturally quite repetitive – perhaps they work on the tills at a shop – ask them to come up with ideas to improve some aspect of what you do. This is a great way to keep them engaged and shows that you see them as a valuable part of the business. It also usually involves them needing to collaborate with other departments, which brings its own benefits in terms of relationship building.

Whichever one of the two routes you choose, ask them to follow the Plan, Develop, Implement model. Here’s a quick breakdown.

Plan

This is where the employee does their research, asks the questions they think are relevant, and puts together a strategy for what they think needs to be done. Give them the time, space and tools to do this.

Develop

Once the plan has been put together, the employee uses it to develop a solution. For example, if they’re in Business Development, maybe they have a better way to reach out to prospects. They can get these new ideas together and test them internally.

Implement

Now the employee takes the results from their tests and puts them into practice. This is where they’ll feel like they’re doing what they were brought in to do, and managers will be able to judge how far along they are.

At all times, managers should ensure help is available if needed – but allow the employee to take control.

Now, we mentioned how this type of task allows employees to build relationships with others in the company. But there’s other ways to do this as well, for example organizing social events. For example, Perkbox has monthly ‘Meet ‘n’ Greet’ events which are an opportunity for new starters to meet with people in social settings.

90-day plan: the independence

This last phase of the 30-60-90 day onboarding plan should help employees feel like they’re a fully-fledged part of the business. All being well, by the end of this period, they should have less of a ‘new starter’ feeling.

The employee should by now be nicely bedded in from a cultural point of view. This doesn’t necessarily mean they run to the karaoke machine on nights out – but they should feel comfortable with their colleagues. If they still seem a little uncomfortable, it’s the manager’s job to get to the bottom of this.

1. Assign full ownership and independence

A core measure of success at the 90-day stage is whether or not you’re able to grant full ownership to the employee. You should be able to confidently assign them projects without walking them through the steps of how to see it through to completion.

At the 90-day mark, that employee is equipped with the knowledge – and experience – to independently make decisions to move the project forward. They no longer will need to ‘check in’ with their manager or seek approval or validation before moving forward.

Of course, there’s always that question of making a mistake – can you trust your employee to do the right thing to ensure success? Well, that’s what onboarding is for in the first place – when you can trust your employees, you’ve onboarded them successfully.

2. Conduct a performance review

What else? Performance reviews. While you no longer require the employee to be checking in with you or other colleagues to get a job done, you do check in with them at the end in the performance review.

This is your opportunity to go through their performance, both in the first 90 days and in the long-term, and identify areas where they can do better and shine a light on areas where they’ve done well. In fact, it’s not simply a review – think of it as a refinement.

3. Ask them about their onboarding experience

A little different from the performance review is a simple check-in with HR. Ask the employee how they’ve found the onboarding process to date. Is there anything they feel should’ve been done differently?

Not only does this help you improve the process for the future, but it shows the employee you take their opinions seriously.

4. Identify their passions – and support them

Hopefully by now they can also let some of their other passions shine through. For example, do you have any Employee Resource Groups or social clubs that appeal to them? Send a reminder of these and encourage them to put themselves forward if they want.

Often, people who join up with these things early on in their time at a company, develop really strong connections with colleagues. This can only be a good thing from a retention point of view!

Those first three months are key for success

Those first 90 days of an employee’s journey within an organization, a new strategy, a different process, etc., sets the tone for their entire tenure going forward. A bad onboarding plan has obvious adverse effects – someone who isn’t properly familiarized with their roles won’t be able to rise to expectations. They get frustrated, demoralized, and worst of all, toxic. Cue ‘quiet quitting’, costly turnovers, and overall disenchantment.

Think of it as keeping a car properly maintained. When every part of the car is well-maintained, the engine is tuned regularly, the tires are leveled, the exterior is washed, the interior deep-cleaned, then the car lasts longer and performs better.

Your organization is your ‘car’ – keep it attuned, updated and optimized with a well-structured, 30-60-90 day onboarding plan for every step of the way, and it’ll pay dividends for you in the long run.

 

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AI-powered employee retention: using data to reduce turnover https://resources.workable.com/stories-and-insights/ai-powered-employee-retention-using-data-to-reduce-turnover Tue, 07 May 2024 20:16:50 +0000 https://resources.workable.com/?p=94574 In today’s highly competitive business landscape, the ability to retain top talent is paramount. The cost of employee turnover can be expensive, especially when the numbers go up. It’s not just the cost. Organizational knowledge and familiarity take a hit. Employee morale takes a downturn, as remaining colleagues pick up the leftover pieces left behind. […]

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In today’s highly competitive business landscape, the ability to retain top talent is paramount. The cost of employee turnover can be expensive, especially when the numbers go up.

It’s not just the cost. Organizational knowledge and familiarity take a hit. Employee morale takes a downturn, as remaining colleagues pick up the leftover pieces left behind. Overall productivity is affected in all this.

A Work Institute report finds that 78% of the reasons employees quit are preventable. What if you could use AI to help in all this? Yes – there are perpetually evolving digital solutions that can predict, analyze and influence employee retention rates.

Understanding employee attrition retention

Why do people leave their jobs? First, they may have found a better-paying position elsewhere. Work-life balance is a factor as well; perhaps an employee wants more flexibility in their work. In another opportunity, they can be better parents, or are able to focus on non-work things like training for a marathon or volunteering in their local community.

Or, perhaps, their career trajectory hasn’t gone the way they hoped – and they see better paths elsewhere. Finally, the company’s culture may not be the right fit.

Normally, you would find out all this information via exit interviews, employee surveys, and periodic reviews.

However, AI can enhance this process by continuously analyzing a broader spectrum of employee data points. This includes performance reviews and engagement surveys to social media behavior and communication patterns.

Your AI bot can comb through all this on a regular basis and not only identify what influences employee attrition and also how these factors interact in complex ways..

Applications of AI in employee retention

Let’s look at the different ways in which you can use AI in employee retention.

1. Predictive analytics

Predictive analytics is one of AI’s most powerful contributions to HR, enabling proactive talent management by forecasting employee behavior. Through sophisticated machine learning models, organizations can analyze historical and real-time data, such as:

  • employee demographics
  • performance metrics
  • engagement survey results

These data points help identify early warning signs that signal an employee might be considering leaving.

By understanding these patterns, HR teams can implement targeted interventions to address potential issues before they escalate.

Real-world application

IBM’s AI-powered predictive attrition model is a notable example of how predictive analytics can revolutionize retention strategies.

With a reported accuracy of 95% in identifying employees at risk of leaving, this tool helps HR departments design personalized retention plans tailored to individual employee needs. This can ultimately reduce turnover rates and boosting engagement.

Extended insight

Predictive analytics shifts HR from a reactive approach to a proactive one that prioritizes employee well-being.

This capability enables organizations to cultivate a healthier work culture by addressing employee concerns and aligning them with strategic business goals.

2. Sentiment analysis

Sentiment analysis, powered by natural language processing (NLP), provides organizations with a deeper understanding of employee morale and satisfaction.

By processing and interpreting unstructured data, such as feedback from internal communications, emails, social media posts, and review sites, sentiment analysis can pinpoint recurrent themes that affect employee engagement.

Real-world application

Amazon utilizes AI-based sentiment analysis tools to monitor employee satisfaction across its workforce.

By analyzing comments from internal communication channels and employee surveys, Amazon can quickly identify areas of concern and implement targeted solutions. Through this, Amazon ensures that employee feedback is integrated into strategic decision-making.

Extended insight

Sentiment analysis empowers HR departments to address the nuanced factors that contribute to employee satisfaction.

By continually monitoring sentiment trends, organizations can foster a transparent environment where employee voices are not only heard but also acted upon.

This proactive approach not only helps in mitigating discontent but also strengthens trust and alignment between employees and management.

3. Personalized employee experiences

The customization of employee experiences through AI is not just a tech upgrade but transforms how human resources nurture talent. Companies can use AI to analyze each employee’s performance data, preferences, and feedback to offer tailored career development paths.

This targeted approach can include recommending specific training programs that align with their skills gap, suggesting career advancements based on their success patterns, or even proposing suitable mentors within the organization who match their career aspirations and style.

There’s value in building career paths for your employees – Workable’s Great Discontent survey in 2023 found that 22% of workers say career opportunities are a factor in choosing to move jobs, and that’s up from 15.8% two years earlier. Meanwhile, when asked what could be better about their current job, 23.3% pointed to training and development – up from 20.9% in 2021.

Real-world application

Cigna is one example of AI use in career pathing and internal talent mobility. Faced with hiring for three to five thousand positions on a daily basis, the company realized its own employees were not properly informed of these opportunities within their teams.

To solve this problem, Cigna picked an AI-supported HR platform to surface open roles with its own employees in a setup described by its director of product marketing as a Netflix-style recommendation system based on user data.

Extended insight

Utilizing AI for career pathing allows HR departments to act more like career coaches than administrative bodies, providing employees with a more engaging and supportive work environment. This not only enhances the employee experience but also promotes a culture of continuous improvement and personal development.

You can also use ChatGPT to build a career development plan for your employees – complete with ready-to-use prompts.

4. Automation and employee support

AI-powered tools such as chatbots and virtual assistants represent a significant leap in providing real-time support to employees. These AI solutions can handle a wide range of inquiries related to HR policies, benefits, payroll queries, and job responsibilities efficiently, allowing HR professionals to focus on more complex issues.

This immediate assistance helps in reducing the turnaround time for query resolution, thereby enhancing employee satisfaction and operational efficiency.

Real-world example

As a 300-person company across three different major hubs (Boston, London, Athens) and sales and support on the ground in multiple other locations and time zones around the world, Workable’s HR team addresses numerous needs and questions on a regular basis.

To step up on its communications via an email, Slack, or even Confluence pages, the HR team built an “HR Workabot” trained on all the data, information, and content in its human resources.

This enables employees to immediately get answers to any question, including when the next holiday is, what benefits they have, how to get their tax documents, and more. The result is a speedier and more engaged workforce that knows it can get an answer to anything it needs.

Extended insight

By automating routine inquiries, AI not only streamlines operations but also collects valuable data on the types of queries being raised.

This data can be analyzed to further refine HR policies and procedures, ensuring they are clearly communicated and effectively meet employee needs.

Moreover, the constant interaction with a responsive AI tool fosters a tech-friendly atmosphere that can accelerate digital transformation across the organization.

Implementing an AI-powered retention framework

There are four fundamental steps when introducing AI into your employee retention strategy.

1. Data collection and integration

The success of any AI system heavily relies on the quality and quantity of the data fed into it.

For HR, this means integrating data across various systems – payroll, performance management, employee engagement, etc. – to create a comprehensive view of each employee.

2. Choosing the right AI tools

The market is replete with AI solutions, each offering different capabilities. Selecting the right tool involves understanding the specific needs of the organization and the problem it aims to solve.

It also requires considering the scalability, integration capabilities, and support offered by the vendor.

3. Ethical considerations

As AI systems are fundamentally driven by data, they are susceptible to the same biases present in their training data.

It’s essential for HR professionals to ensure that the AI tools they use are not only transparent but also regularly audited for bias and fairness.

4. Change management and employee buy-in

Implementing AI in HR processes can evoke concerns about surveillance and job displacement among employees.

Addressing these concerns transparently and highlighting the benefits of AI for employees is crucial for gaining their buy-in and ensuring the successful adoption of AI technologies.

Future trends in AI and employee retention

The future of AI in HR looks promising, with ongoing advancements in machine learning, predictive analytics, and natural language processing.

As these technologies become more sophisticated, they will provide even deeper insights into employee behavior and more refined tools for enhancing employee retention.

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Laundry Attendant job description https://resources.workable.com/laundry-attendant-job-description/ Fri, 11 Feb 2022 03:10:09 +0000 https://resources.workable.com/?p=84489 Laundry Attendants are professionals who are employed in many capacities to support the operations of laundromats, hotels and other facilities. Laundry workers use various techniques that help clean clothing as well as other textiles.   Use this Laundry Attendant job description to advertise your vacancies and find qualified candidates. Feel free to modify responsibilities and […]

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Laundry Attendants are professionals who are employed in many capacities to support the operations of laundromats, hotels and other facilities. Laundry workers use various techniques that help clean clothing as well as other textiles.

 

Use this Laundry Attendant job description to advertise your vacancies and find qualified candidates. Feel free to modify responsibilities and requirements based on your needs.

Laundry Attendant responsibilities include:

  • Sorting, washing, drying, pressing and folding clothing and other textile items
  • Removing stains from items using the appropriate procedures
  • Performing minor sewing duties as needed

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Organizational health: the key to sustained business success https://resources.workable.com/hr-terms/organizational-health Fri, 03 May 2024 19:42:14 +0000 https://resources.workable.com/?p=94559 As a business owner or HR professional, understanding and nurturing the health of your company is not just beneficial; it’s essential for sustained success and growth. We’re talking about organizational health here. Organizational health goes beyond mere profitability and productivity – it includes the vitality and functionality of your entire operation. But wait: what exactly […]

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As a business owner or HR professional, understanding and nurturing the health of your company is not just beneficial; it’s essential for sustained success and growth. We’re talking about organizational health here.

Organizational health goes beyond mere profitability and productivity – it includes the vitality and functionality of your entire operation.

But wait: what exactly is it? Let’s talk about that first.

What is organizational health?

Organizational health is characterized by a company’s capacity to unite under a shared vision, skillfully execute strategies, and dynamically evolve in response to market shifts and internal demands to maintain innovation and relevance.

Imagine your company as a well-oiled machine – employees are engaged and productive, management is strategic and effective, financials are robust and balanced, and your market presence is active and responsive.

This scenario epitomizes a robust organizational health. It highlights elements of a company that are not easily measured at the bottom line.

The importance of organizational health

Let’s take a look at the impact of employee engagement on organizational outcomes. McKinsey reports that 10% of all employees are pretty much out the door already, with another 43% either actively or mildly disengaged at work. That’s more than half.

This disengagement and attrition can be costly. In that same report, McKinsey finds that a medium-sized S&P 500 company loses between $288 million and $355 million per year in lost productivity as a result.

That’s the cost of poor organizational health.

Business author Patrick Lencioni also highlights the value of a healthy company: “The single greatest advantage any company can achieve is organizational health.”

“The single greatest advantage any company can achieve is organizational health.”

Patrick should know – he authored the book The Five Dysfunctions of a Team. It’s a compelling business fable that delves into team dynamics and strategies aimed at enhancing team performance. He’s also the top boss of The Table Group, a business service that helps companies improve their overall health.

Clearly, it’s important.

How do you measure organizational health?

To effectively measure and enhance your organization’s health, consider assessment tools like the McKinsey Organizational Health Index (OHI). This tool helps gauge various facets of organizational health, providing insights that guide improvement strategies.

Use these tangible measurements tied to OHI to monitor the rise (and fall) of your company’s overall health:

1. Evaluate management practices

Understanding how management behaviors influence organizational health is crucial for long-term success. You can measure this area via:

  • 360-degree feedback: Implement a system where employees can provide feedback on their supervisors. This helps identify leadership qualities and areas for improvement.
  • Behavioral assessments: Use tools that assess leadership behaviors and management practices to pinpoint specific areas that require development.
  • Performance metrics: Track the performance outcomes of different teams. Relate them back to specific management behaviors to identify what works and what doesn’t.

2. Assessing employee experiences

Every organization is made up of people. It makes sense to ask those people directly about how they perceive their working environment and culture. You can do this by conducting:

  • Employee surveys: Regularly conduct surveys that ask direct questions about job satisfaction, workplace environment, and the perceived support from management.
  • Exit interviews: Use exit interviews to gather information on why employees are leaving. This can provide insights into the work environment and employee engagement.
  • Focus groups: Organize focus groups to dive deeper into employee concerns and experiences to gather qualitative data on their daily work environment and culture.

3. Measuring health outcomes

Tracking key health outcomes helps quantify the effectiveness of the organization in maintaining a supportive and productive work environment. You can do this by tracking these three core KPIs:

  • Employee retention rate: Monitor employee retention rates as a key indicator of organizational health. High turnover can indicate issues with leadership, compensation, or work-life balance.
  • Customer satisfaction scores: Organizational health often impacts service quality. So, measuring customer satisfaction can provide indirect insights into the internal state of the organization.
  • Productivity metrics: Assess productivity levels across various departments to determine if leadership and organizational practices support employees’ ability to perform their roles.

How do you improve organizational health?

You can approach organizational health in five focal areas:

1. Be a leader and visionary

Leadership is more than managing day-to-day operations. It involves inspiring and aligning the entire organization with a clear and compelling vision. Effective leaders embody the values they wish to see throughout the organization, ensuring that their actions and decisions reinforce the strategic goals.

This includes not only setting the direction but being actively involved in your company, which strengthens trust and clarity across all levels.

2. Cultivate a supportive culture

A healthy organizational culture is one that promotes transparency and open communication, creating an environment where employees feel valued and recognized for their contributions. This involves more than just financial rewards – it includes acknowledging efforts in meaningful ways, providing growth and development opportunities, and fostering a positive workplace.

Such a culture enhances employee satisfaction and loyalty, which are critical for long-term success.

3. Focus on engagement and productivity

To keep your teams engaged and productive, emphasize continuous learning and well-being initiatives. This includes offering training and development programs that cater to the needs of employees, promoting work-life balance through adaptive working arrangements, and implementing wellness programs that address physical and mental health.

Engaged employees are more likely to be motivated and maintain high productivity levels, contributing positively to your overall goals.

4. Adopt an agile mindset

This business landscape seems to be in constant flux – and this could well be our ‘new normal’. The ability to adapt to change is crucial for maintaining organizational health. Embrace new technologies and processes. Train your teams to be prepared to handle the changes.

Effective change management strategies include involving employees in the change process, providing clear communication about the benefits and impacts of the change, and offering training and support to ease the transition.

5. Communicate far and wide

Strong internal communication is crucial for maintaining a healthy organization. This ensures all employees are informed on company developments. This helps them understand their specific roles within larger objectives, and feel involved in the organization’s journey.

Ensure regular updates, establish open forums for feedback, and include tools that facilitate easy and transparent communication across different levels of the organization.

A healthy body, a healthy mind, a healthy workplace

Just as maintaining a healthy body is crucial for personal well-being and effectiveness, fostering organizational health is essential for a company’s resilience and productivity.

Organizational health, involving comprehensive management of leadership quality, workplace culture, and employee engagement, acts as the backbone of business operations.

It supports the company’s ability to innovate and adapt swiftly to market changes, mirroring how a well-cared-for body responds to stress and recovers from illness.

Investing in organizational health is a strategic priority that yields long-term benefits, enhancing overall performance and ensuring sustainable success.

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Golden handcuffs: what is it and how your HR team can handle it https://resources.workable.com/hr-terms/golden-handcuffs-what-is-it-how-hr-team-can-handle-it Fri, 29 Mar 2024 16:14:29 +0000 https://resources.workable.com/?p=94147 Golden Handcuffs originally aimed at high-level executives, these incentives now span across various levels within organizations, tailored to keep valuable talent from moving to competitors. However, the essence remains the same: making the cost of leaving prohibitively expensive. From an HR perspective, the financial rationale is clear: retaining skilled employees is often more cost-effective than […]

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Golden Handcuffs originally aimed at high-level executives, these incentives now span across various levels within organizations, tailored to keep valuable talent from moving to competitors. However, the essence remains the same: making the cost of leaving prohibitively expensive.

From an HR perspective, the financial rationale is clear: retaining skilled employees is often more cost-effective than recruiting and training new ones. 

Losing a valuable employee can cost an employer three to four times the employee’s salary,* highlighting the financial stakes involved. 

Consequently, these incentives serve not just to retain talent but also to protect the company’s financial interests by discouraging movement to rival firms.

The double-edged sword

While Golden Handcuffs can effectively keep employees within an organization, they also present significant challenges. 

On the one hand, they offer a competitive edge in retaining talent, ensuring that the expertise and knowledge remain within the company. 

On the other hand, they can lead to a sense of entrapment among employees. 

Facet Wealth points out that Golden Handcuffs can create a scenario where the financial benefits tied to continued employment overshadow personal satisfaction and career aspirations, potentially leading to a workforce that is physically present but mentally and emotionally disengaged.

This sense of entrapment can have profound effects on workplace culture and employee well-being. 

The implications extend to exacerbating issues like burnout and dissatisfaction. A study found that about one-fifth (22%) of employees experienced burnout, with organizations not recognized as Best Workplaces™ seeing a 5% higher rate of burnout compared to their counterparts. 

This indicates a significant correlation between the presence of Golden Handcuffs and workplace satisfaction, suggesting that financial incentives alone may not mitigate the negative aspects of a job.

Furthermore, the broad applicability of Golden Handcuffs means their impact is not limited to top-tier compensation packages but can also involve high starting salaries and benefits designed to make leaving financially unattractive for employees at all levels. 

This widespread use of Golden Handcuffs raises important questions about their long-term viability and the potential for creating a culture of dissatisfaction and disengagement.

As the corporate world continues to evolve, HR professionals are tasked with navigating the complex interplay between employee retention, satisfaction, and the use of Golden Handcuffs. 

Action plan for HR professionals: managing the impact of Golden Handcuffs

The first step in addressing the challenges of Golden Handcuffs is to recognize their signs. 

Regular employee surveys can serve as a vital tool in this regard, providing anonymous feedback on job satisfaction, engagement, and the sense of feeling trapped. 

Additionally, monitoring turnover and retention rates offers quantitative insights into the dynamics at play, helping HR professionals identify patterns that may signal issues with Golden Handcuffs.

1. Fostering a positive workplace culture

Creating a positive workplace culture is essential in counteracting the potential downsides of Golden Handcuffs. 

Promoting open communication encourages employees to voice their concerns and suggestions without fear of retaliation. Valuing non-financial contributions, such as recognizing individual achievements and team successes, can enhance a sense of belonging and appreciation that transcends monetary incentives.

2. Enhancing employee well-being and satisfaction

To combat burnout and dissatisfaction, implementing wellness programs focused on mental health, stress management, and work-life balance is crucial. Offering career development opportunities, such as training and mentorship programs, can also contribute to higher levels of job satisfaction by aligning employee growth with organizational goals.

3. Implementing flexible incentive structures

Adjusting compensation packages to include more flexible incentive structures allows employees to tailor benefits to their specific needs. This approach, combined with offering performance-based bonuses and non-financial rewards, can make employees feel valued for their contributions beyond just their tenure.

4. Encouraging career growth and personal development

Developing clear career pathways within the organization helps employees visualize their growth potential, reducing the feeling of being stuck. 

Support for continuous learning and skill development, through access to courses and seminars, further empowers employees to pursue their career aspirations without feeling financially handcuffed to their current roles.

5. Addressing equity and inclusion

Conducting regular pay audits is vital to ensure equity across all levels of the organization, addressing any disparities that may exacerbate the negative effects of Golden Handcuffs. By fostering an inclusive environment, organizations can ensure that all employees, regardless of gender or background, feel valued and respected.

6. Preparing for the future

Staying informed on industry trends and evolving employee expectations allows HR professionals to adapt their retention strategies proactively. 

As the workforce’s values shift towards greater flexibility and meaningful work, understanding these changes can help organizations tailor their approaches to meet these evolving needs.

7. Review and feedback loop

Establishing a review process to assess the effectiveness of these strategies is crucial. Regular feedback loops, involving both employees and management, can provide insights into what works and what needs adjustment, ensuring that the organization remains agile in its approach to employee retention and satisfaction.

This balanced approach is the key to unlocking the true potential of the workforce, ensuring that financial incentives serve their intended purpose without undermining the broader goals of employee satisfaction and organizational culture.

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Career cushioning: a new trend and a call for action https://resources.workable.com/hr-terms/career-cushioning Tue, 30 Apr 2024 18:34:03 +0000 https://resources.workable.com/?p=94522 Meet Claudia Feinstein, an experienced project manager at a bustling tech startup. It’s a typical Monday morning, and she’s quietly updating her LinkedIn profile with a couple of the huge wins she and her team have accomplished along with some newly acquired skills. Don’t get stressed about this – Claudia isn’t leaving tomorrow. She could […]

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Meet Claudia Feinstein, an experienced project manager at a bustling tech startup. It’s a typical Monday morning, and she’s quietly updating her LinkedIn profile with a couple of the huge wins she and her team have accomplished along with some newly acquired skills.

Don’t get stressed about this – Claudia isn’t leaving tomorrow. She could just be proud of the work she’s done, but let’s be real: with all the economic uncertainty and industry layoffs, Claudia’s likely just building a backup liferaft. You know, just in case.

This is a strategy known as ‘career cushioning’. This approach involves networking, upskilling, and even exploring side projects, all to ensure a safety net is in place should their career landscape shift unexpectedly.

Claudia’s story is becoming increasingly common – Fast Company is calling career cushioning a trend set to grow in 2024.

What’s career cushioning?

First, let’s define it. Career cushioning refers to the practice of employees taking proactive steps to secure their professional future, often in response to economic uncertainty or a desire for greater career mobility.

This can involve activities such as networking, upskilling, building a personal brand, or exploring alternative job opportunities, all while remaining employed in their current role.

The evolving economic landscape and shifting employee priorities have given rise to this phenomenon. According to a Robert Walters survey, 68% of workers in the United States are now career cushioning.

68% of workers in the United States are now career cushioning. (Robert Walters survey, 2023)

That’s a significant number. As HR professionals, knowing this trend and its implications is crucial for navigating talent management and retention strategies.

What’s causing career cushioning?

Two major factors contribute to the growing prevalence of career cushioning:

Economic uncertainty: Global economic headwinds, inflation concerns, and high-profile layoffs have instilled a sense of job insecurity among employees. Those jitters are motivating employees to build out that liferaft, so to speak – just in case their careers are impacted.

Evolving priorities: The “Great Reshuffle” highlighted the shift in employee expectations, with many seeking greater work-life balance, flexibility, and purpose-driven careers. Side hustles are becoming more the norm and workers are less willing to put all their eggs in one basket in their main hustle.

What are the signs of career cushioning?

It’s not necessarily a reason to pull the fire alarm across the organization, but it’s something you should be mindful of as an employer.

HR advisor Taylor Queen at Insperity in Florida tells Fox Business: “Although ‘career cushioners’ may not want to leave their current position, they decide to get a jumpstart in case their role should change or be eliminated.”

So, to get ahead of this, it’s important to recognize these signals not only to understand individual employee needs but also to reflect on the broader organizational health.

Here are the key indicators:

1. Increased networking activity

Employees may intensify their connections on professional platforms like LinkedIn, often updating their profiles and engaging more actively with external networks. This indicates their intent to stay visible and relevant in the broader industry landscape.

2. Pursuit of additional qualifications

Enrolling in online courses and seeking certifications are signs that employees are gearing up for new opportunities. This continuous learning can be a double-edged sword: while it boosts their current role performance, it may also prepare them for external opportunities.

3. Exploration of side hustles

Engagement in side projects or freelance opportunities often reflects a desire for greater job security through diversified income streams. This could also point to a lack of fulfillment or challenges in their current roles.

4. Discreet job search activities

Subtle signs like increased private calls, discreet meetings, or a sudden spike in personal appointments during work hours could suggest that an employee is interviewing elsewhere.

What can you do as an employer?

Is career cushioning something to worry about? Maybe. On the contrary, it’s an opportunity for HR to adapt and enhance talent management strategies:

1. Foster open communication

Create an environment where employees feel comfortable discussing career aspirations and concerns. Regular check-ins and feedback loops can provide valuable insights into employee sentiment and identify potential flight risks.

Not quite communication, but on that last point – you can also use predictive analytics to find those trigger points that lead to turnover, and preempt them ahead of time.

2. Invest in employee development

Prioritize upskilling and reskilling initiatives to equip employees with the skills needed to thrive in evolving roles. Providing learning opportunities demonstrates a commitment to employee growth.

3. Champion internal mobility

Establish clear pathways for career progression within the organization – in other words, establish a culture of internal mobility. Encourage employees to explore different roles and departments, fostering a culture of talent development.

Those who stay with you even in different capacities will prove more valuable due to their familiarity with your brand and product/service.

4. Review compensation and benefits

Regularly benchmark compensation and benefits packages to ensure they remain competitive within the industry. Consider offering a range of attractors in your total rewards package, including clear career paths, flexible work arrangements, and well-being programs to enhance employee satisfaction.

5. Build a strong employer brand

Cultivate a positive work culture that emphasizes values, purpose, and employee recognition. Promote your employer brand through various channels to attract and retain top talent. Make your people proud to work for you!

You, too, can be their career cushion

“There’s a bit of a game of musical chairs playing out, and employees don’t want to be caught out when the music stops without a seat,” said Korn Ferry client partner Mark Royal, according to CNBC.

By understanding the motivations behind career cushioning and implementing proactive strategies, you can support employees like Claudia Feinstein to not only be assured of a seat in your company, but also motivate them to choose that seat should they have options in the future. And that’s the music your employees want to hear.

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What is Quittok? And what can you do about it? https://resources.workable.com/hr-terms/what-is-quittok-and-what-can-you-do-about-it Tue, 30 Apr 2024 15:45:46 +0000 https://resources.workable.com/?p=94505 You open your inbox and see an email from your CEO with the subject line, “What the heck is this?” The email includes a link to a video from a former employee who recorded their resignation and shared it on social media. If your stomach just dropped to your shoes, we get it. It feels […]

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You open your inbox and see an email from your CEO with the subject line, “What the heck is this?” The email includes a link to a video from a former employee who recorded their resignation and shared it on social media.

If your stomach just dropped to your shoes, we get it. It feels like a worst-case scenario for any HR professional, but it’s also a growing trend — especially on TikTok, where the term “Quittok” is gaining steam as a hashtag and category of videos.

A quick TikTok search for #Quittok returns over 2,600 posts. And while not all of them are recordings of actual resignation conversations, plenty of them are.

There’s this one of a corporate jargon-filled performance review that ended with a resignation.

@gabrielle_judge

Quit My Lazy Girl Job with Me! It’s been a year since I have quit my corporate career and I never posted this meeting so I thought I would now to celebrate! I just wrote a memoir on my upbringing and what created all of the anti work philosophy I have. #corporate #lazygirljob #careeradvice #quittok

♬ original sound – Anti Work Girlboss – Anti Work Girlboss

 

Or there’s this one where the employee quits and calls out a toxic work culture.

@josiejoyyy

honestly could have saved myself and just sent a text cause they don’t care but i had dreamt of this moment for 2 yrs. #quitting #resigning #quitmytoxicjob #cya #trafficcontrol

♬ original sound – Josie Joy

There’s a potential silver lining here: Not all of the conversations are negative. Some offer surprisingly good company publicity.

But it still marks a major shift for employers: Employee conversations that used to stay “in-house” are now out there for the world to see, share, and comment on — a concept that became unmistakably clear with the recent Cloudflare incident when an employee named Brittany Pietsch recorded herself being let go. The video racked up millions of views and tons of press.

So why are employees (particularly younger ones, considering TikTok’s users are primarily Gen Z) publicizing these potentially sensitive conversations? And perhaps even more importantly: Can (or should) you do anything about it?

Control and connection: why employees share their resignation conversations

The idea of publicly posting such a private and potentially confidential conversation feels foreign to many people — especially older generations who were taught not to bad-mouth their employers or air their dirty laundry. But for younger workers? The benefits of sharing their resignations could outweigh the potential fallout.

Building a sense of agency

“Many people use social media as a form of agency, the feeling of being in control of one’s life and one’s future,” explains Paula Caligiuri, DMSB Distinguished Professor at Northeastern University and co-author of “Live for a Living.”

Younger employees, in particular, are struggling at work — which can leave them grappling for some level of authority over their decisions, futures, and well-being.

Where previous generations might have just swallowed their concerns or written them off as normal parts of the working world, Gen Z isn’t as inclined to tolerate perceived mistreatment. The same McKinsey research showed that they’re far more likely than any other generation to point to a hostile work environment as a major impact on their ability to do their work.

Even if they don’t confront their employer directly (something they’re surprisingly unlikely to do), posting on social media is a way of calling their company to the carpet and “holding leaders accountable,” adds Rima Roychowdhury, a Gen Z Journalist and Content Creator who hosts “A Gen Z Journey,” a podcast aimed at bridging the gap between the senior and Gen Z workforce.

Controlling the narrative and perception

“Making a resignation public or sharing it with friends is a way to control the narrative,” says Paula. Think that sounds manipulative? Well, you’ve probably done the same thing before. Look back on your own resignations and you’ll see that you probably put your own spin on them when venting to family, friends, or trusted loved ones.

Maybe your employer didn’t recognize your skills. Or they restricted your development. Or they underpaid you. Or they showed favoritism. Whatever justification you gave, it’s always easier to point the finger at your employer than to accept accountability for why the role or workplace wasn’t the right fit.

Younger workers are doing that same thing, just in a far more public forum that feels intuitive to them. Sharing their resignations allows them to shape the story, manage the perception of themselves and their former employer, and ultimately feel justified in hitting the road.

Finding connection and camaraderie

Love them or hate them (we know, you hate them), these videos resonate with younger workers. “For most of us, it’s probably our first time, or among the first few times, getting fired or resigning, and acknowledging the reality of the situation is tough,” Rima says.

“Seeing others take charge of their situation and posting it gives us the confidence that we’re not alone.”

It’s natural for workers to rely on their social support systems when they experience career setbacks or make hard decisions. And, for younger employees, those support systems are often found online.

When research published in the Journal of Experimental Psychology: General states that “people pay more attention to information they perceive to be related to themselves,” it makes sense that these resignation videos quickly pick up steam online.

Seeing sharing as normal

“Social media has shaped many people to be comfortable making their private world public,” Paula explains. That’s especially true for Gen Z, who are the first real digital natives. They don’t remember a life pre-internet and pre-social media.

For them, sharing big moments — from childbirth to divorce to, yes, even job resignations — isn’t a bold move. It’s normal (and maybe even their ticket to achieving internet fame).

What can employers do to keep conversations in-house (and offline)?

Some of the reasons why younger employees turn to social media are understandable — but that doesn’t mean these videos are advisable. As an employer, this public posting can open up a whole can of worms in terms of your reputation and employer brand.

So it begs the question: What can you do?

“Employers may be tempted to wedge fine print in employment contracts to ban them from filming such videos,” Paula says. “And that’s exactly what they shouldn’t do.” It might not even be legal to do so in some locations.

Your next reaction might be to reach out to the former employee and request that they take the video down. But that could backfire, especially when you run the risk that they’ll record and share that conversation too.

It can feel like you’re tiptoeing around a lot of tripwires here. But rest assured, there are a few steps you can take to respond to this situation with strategy and tact.

Train supervisors on how to have these conversations

Paula says the most important thing companies can do is adequately train supervisors on how to have these types of meetings and employment conversations. “Basically, you want to keep your company from going viral for the wrong reason,” she says.

When managers know how to lead these discussions with respect, honesty, and support, it could turn a negative into a positive if the employee does decide to share the exchange.

For example, take a look at all of the “manager goals” comments on this video below, compared to all of the “groan, corporate jargon” comments in the video above:

@durbinmalonster

Quitting my corporate stable job that I love in this economy??? Y’all should have seen my dads face when I told him hahaha.

♬ original sound – Darby

Solid manager training leads to a more productive conversation – and exposure that helps (rather than hinders) your employer brand.

Take a hard look at your culture and employee experience

You’re asking why an employee is publicly posting about their decision to leave. But perhaps the better question to ask yourself is this: Why are they deciding to leave in the first place? What needs or expectations aren’t being met?

According to motivational psychologists Edward Deci and Richard Ryan, all humans have three innate psychological needs that are essential for well-being:

  • Autonomy: Control over work, decisions, and outcomes
  • Belonging: Sense of connection with others
  • Competence: Continued growth and development

Improving each of these elements can mean employees that are more engaged, happier, and less likely to leave — which means less potential for the dreaded “I quit” videos.

1. Autonomy

Remember that younger workers often share their resignation videos to achieve a sense of autonomy, which indicates they lack those feelings in their daily work lives.

Offering flexible work options can fuel a sense of independence, but organizations should also clearly articulate their purpose, values, and expectations.

“This clarity helps employees understand the boundaries within which they can make decisions autonomously while ensuring that those decisions are in line with the overarching goals of the organization,” says Debra Franckowiak, Organizational Psychologist at Inspired Training Institute.

2. Belonging

Gen Z expects a culture of belonging at work, but it’s something that’s undoubtedly suffered amidst remote or hybrid work arrangements and layoffs. Research form BetterUp shows that 25% of employees admit they feel like they don’t fit in at work.

Focus on ways to help employees feel like part of something bigger than themselves, whether that’s connecting their work to the company’s larger goals or offering plenty of social and bonding opportunities.

3. Competence

According to research from Handshake, 87% of undergrads say learning and development benefits are either important or essential when evaluating a job opportunity. It’s proof that employees — and especially those that are early in their careers — want chances to grow and develop new skills.

From listening to employees’ career goals and providing resources to offering helpful feedback and access to challenging projects, investing in employee development goes a long way in making them feel more valued and supportive.

When a video is posted online, the temptation is strong to jump into crisis mode. However, use it as an opportunity to look inward and make strategic improvements to these three areas. Doing so will create a more positive employee experience, which hopefully translates to more positive (or private) employee exits.

Try video stitching

Want to make lemonade from those lemons? Try using the video as part of your own marketing efforts in the form of a video stitch. It’s a technique that allows you to combine an existing video on Tiktok (in this case, the video of the employee resigning) with a video you create.

“If the public is firing shots at the company, it is an opportune moment for HR to step up and create a video stitch explaining their side of the issue,” Rima says. “It does the job of answering questions and helps with marketing, so it’s a win-win.”

“If the public is firing shots at the company, it is an opportune moment for HR to step up and create a video stitch explaining their side of the issue. It does the job of answering questions and helps with marketing, so it’s a win-win.”

Don’t use your video as an opportunity to pick the former employee’s perspectives apart. Rather, focus on how your organization is acting on that feedback to better meet employee needs moving forward.

When Rima says that “Gen Z wants more transparency,” this is a solid way to meet them where they are, take accountability, and highlight some of your upcoming changes and initiatives. However, remember to keep your audience in mind. If they’re not already in TikTok, the video probably won’t land.

Quittok: An opportunity to question, not quell

Quittok? For employers, it’s more I-don’t-like-it-one-bit-Tok. And for good reason: It’s nerve-racking to reckon with the fact that current and former employees can publicize sensitive conversations that you assumed would stay private.

But as much as the threat of virality might have you battening down the hatches or instituting punitive policies for employees who post online, treat this less as an opportunity to quell and more as an opportunity to question.

What about your culture or employee experience made them feel like they needed to resort to this? And more importantly, what can you do to address those shortcomings moving forward?

Will an employee sharing their resignation still feel like a betrayal? Of course — and posting online is likely not going to make it onto lists of career best practices anytime soon. But with the right next moves, you can transform that video from a blemish to a benefit.

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Learn the new EEOC changes in the Pregnant Workers Act https://resources.workable.com/tutorial/understanding-the-new-eeoc-changes-in-the-pregnant-workers-act Tue, 30 Apr 2024 14:42:36 +0000 https://resources.workable.com/?p=94470 The recent updates to the Pregnancy Discrimination Act (PDA) enforced by the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) represent significant changes known as the Pregnant Workers Act (PWA). These changes ensure the rights and protections of pregnant employees in the workplace. Understanding the Pregnant Workers Act The Pregnant Workers Act addresses issues surrounding pregnancy discrimination and […]

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The recent updates to the Pregnancy Discrimination Act (PDA) enforced by the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) represent significant changes known as the Pregnant Workers Act (PWA). These changes ensure the rights and protections of pregnant employees in the workplace.

Understanding the Pregnant Workers Act

The Pregnant Workers Act addresses issues surrounding pregnancy discrimination and accommodation in the workplace. It mandates that pregnant employees receive fair treatment and reasonable accommodations.

It also emphasizes that discrimination against pregnant employees based on pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions is unlawful sex discrimination under the Civil Rights Act of 1964.

Fundamental changes and implications

1. Explicit accommodation requirement

Old PWA: Before the amendments, employers had no explicit federal requirement to provide accommodations for pregnant workers.

New PWA: The amended PWA now explicitly mandates that employers provide reasonable accommodations for pregnant employees, similar to those required for individuals with disabilities under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).

2. Interactive process and reasonable accommodations

Old PWA: While the Pregnancy Discrimination Act (PDA) prohibited discrimination based on pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions, it did not specify a formal interactive process for determining reasonable accommodations.

New PWA: The amended PWA emphasizes the importance of engaging in an interactive process between employers and pregnant employees to determine suitable accommodations. This collaborative approach ensures that the needs of pregnant workers are adequately addressed.

3. Anti-retaliation

Old PWA: The PDA prohibited discrimination against pregnant employees but did not explicitly address retaliation against employees who requested accommodations.

New PWA: The amended PWA reinforces the prohibition of retaliation against employees who request accommodations or assert their rights under the Act, providing additional protection for pregnant workers.

4. Notice requirements

Old PWA: Before the amendments, employers had no specific federal requirements to inform employees about their rights regarding accommodations for pregnancy-related conditions.

New PWA: The amended PWA requires employers to notify employees about their rights under the Act, including information about the process for requesting accommodations and the protections against retaliation.

5. Clarity and consistency

Old PWA: The lack of clear federal guidance on accommodations for pregnant workers led to inconsistencies in treatment and uncertainty for both employers and employees.

New PWA: The amendments provide clear guidelines and requirements for employers regarding accommodations for pregnant employees, promoting consistency and fairness in the workplace.

Benefits for employers and employees

The Pregnant Workers Act benefits both employers and employees. Employers who comply with the PWA avoid legal repercussions and demonstrate their commitment to workplace equality and fairness.

Pregnant employees receive the necessary accommodations and fair treatment they deserve, improving their health, safety, and productivity.

Enhanced workplace culture: Employers can cultivate a positive workplace culture that prioritizes inclusivity and accommodation, fostering an environment that values the well-being of all employees.

Retention and productivity: Accommodating pregnant workers can lead to higher retention rates and increased productivity as employees feel supported and valued, resulting in improved morale and engagement.

Legal compliance: Adhering to the provisions of the PWA ensures that employers remain compliant with federal anti-discrimination laws, mitigating the risk of costly litigation and reputational damage.

The risks of non-compliance

Non-compliance with the new Pregnant Workers Act (PWA) can result in various penalties and consequences for employers.

Here are some potential repercussions for failing to adhere to the requirements of the new PWA.

1. Legal action and lawsuits

Employees who believe their rights under the PWA have been violated may file complaints with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) or pursue legal action against their employer. This can lead to costly litigation, damages, and legal fees for the employer.

2. Monetary damages

If a court finds that an employer has violated the provisions of the PWA, they may be required to pay monetary damages to the affected employee(s). Damages may include back pay, front pay, compensatory damages for emotional distress, and punitive damages in cases of egregious violations.

3. Civil penalties

Employers who violate the PWA may also be subject to civil penalties imposed by the EEOC or other relevant enforcement agencies. These penalties can vary depending on the severity of the violation and may include fines or other sanctions.

4. Injunctive relief

In addition to monetary damages, courts may also issue injunctive relief requiring the employer to take specific actions to come into compliance with the PWA. This could include implementing policies and procedures to prevent future violations and training employees and managers on their obligations under the law.

5. Reputational damage

Non-compliance with the PWA can also result in reputational damage for the employer. Negative publicity surrounding discrimination lawsuits or findings of non-compliance can harm the employer’s brand image and impact its ability to attract and retain customers, clients, and talented employees.

6. Loss of government contracts and benefits

Some employers, particularly those who contract with the government or receive government funding, may risk losing contracts or eligibility for certain benefits if found to violate anti-discrimination laws like the PWA.

7. Monitoring and oversight

Employers who violate the PWA may be subject to increased monitoring and oversight by regulatory agencies, leading to additional scrutiny and potential repercussions for future compliance failures.

Overall, the penalties for non-compliance with the new PWA can be significant in terms of financial costs and reputational harm. Employers must understand their legal obligations and proactively ensure compliance to avoid these consequences.

Disclaimer: Workable is not a law firm. This article is meant to provide general guidelines and should be used as a reference. It’s not a legal document and doesn’t provide legal advice. Neither the author nor Workable will assume any legal liability that may arise from the use of this article. Always consult your attorney on matters of legal compliance.

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New US overtime regulations set to increase salary thresholds https://resources.workable.com/tutorial/new-us-overtime-regulations Mon, 29 Apr 2024 17:11:54 +0000 https://resources.workable.com/?p=94450 New overtime laws for salaried workers have changed how overtime pay is calculated and who is eligible, impacting employers and workers. These changes were introduced to address concerns about fair compensation for overtime work and to ensure that the law keeps pace with the changing nature of work and employment practices. The US Department of […]

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New overtime laws for salaried workers have changed how overtime pay is calculated and who is eligible, impacting employers and workers.

These changes were introduced to address concerns about fair compensation for overtime work and to ensure that the law keeps pace with the changing nature of work and employment practices.

The US Department of Labor recently announced changes to the minimum annual salary threshold for overtime pay eligibility. These changes will be implemented in two stages. The first stage will take effect on July 1, 2024, when the threshold will increase from $35,568 to $43,888 per year. The second stage will begin on Jan. 1, 2025, and the threshold will rise to $58,656 annually.

This means that from July 1, 2024, to December 31, 2024, the threshold will be $ 43,888, and from January 1, 2025, onwards, it will be $58,656.

As a result of these changes, many workers and employers across the country will be impacted in significant ways. Let’s take a look at these changes:

1. More people are now eligible for overtime pay

This is because the eligibility threshold has been raised to include more workers. Previously, only workers who earned less than a certain salary threshold were eligible for overtime pay.

This threshold has been raised, which means that more workers, including salaried employees, will now be eligible for overtime pay if they work more than 40 hours per week.

2. The way overtime pay is calculated has changed

Previously, overtime pay was calculated based on a worker’s salary alone. Under the new regulations, overtime pay will be calculated based on a worker’s regular pay rate, which includes bonuses or commissions.

This means that workers who earn more than just a salary will now receive fair compensation for their extra work.

3. Employers are required to follow the new rules

This is not just a bureaucratic change, but a step towards a fairer work environment. It means they will need to update their payroll systems or adjust their contracts to comply with the latest regulations.

Employers who fail to comply could face penalties or legal action. The new rules are designed to ensure that all workers are treated fairly and that the law is being followed.

4. Workers stand to gain financially

The new regulations ensure that workers eligible for overtime pay will receive more money for their extra work, which can significantly boost their income.

This is a positive development for those who put in long hours and deserve fair compensation. It could also prompt employers to foster a healthier work-life balance, reducing the need for excessive overtime and improving employee well-being and productivity.

An opportunity for employers

The new regulations may require companies to make operational changes. However, this presents an excellent opportunity to improve work processes.

Companies may need to hire additional staff or adjust work schedules to avoid excessive overtime. Prioritizing employee satisfaction and engagement may also be necessary to retain their workforce, leading to significant shifts in work organization and management across various companies.

In summary, the changes to the overtime pay law will significantly affect both workers and employers. The new regulations aim to ensure that all workers are treated fairly and receive fair compensation for their extra work.

Employers who fail to comply with the new rules may face penalties or legal action. These changes may also bring about changes to the way companies operate and manage their workforce.

Disclaimer: Workable is not a law firm. This article is meant to provide general guidelines and should be used as a reference. It’s not a legal document and doesn’t provide legal advice. Neither the author nor Workable will assume any legal liability that may arise from the use of this article. Always consult your attorney on matters of legal compliance.

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‘I’m faking my paternity leave’: a Reddit post calls for HR action https://resources.workable.com/tutorial/fake-paternity-leave-and-hr-actions Mon, 12 Feb 2024 15:22:35 +0000 https://resources.workable.com/?p=93242 From feigned illnesses to concocted personal emergencies, the lengths to which some employees will go to exploit benefits systems reflect a deeper issue within the fabric of organizational trust.  As we delve into this blurry territory, it’s crucial to understand not just the act, but the implications it carries for HR practices and the overall […]

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From feigned illnesses to concocted personal emergencies, the lengths to which some employees will go to exploit benefits systems reflect a deeper issue within the fabric of organizational trust. 

As we delve into this blurry territory, it’s crucial to understand not just the act, but the implications it carries for HR practices and the overall workplace culture.

Faking leaves is a revamping trend

A post in Reddit – since deleted – by an employee fabricating a paternity leave narrative, complete with borrowed baby bump photos to secure two months off work, opens a Pandora’s box of ethical and operational dilemmas.

In a surprising turn of events, an employee at a large company has admitted to faking his paternity leave. 

Despite not having a girlfriend or any children on the way, he managed to deceive his employer by showing them pictures of a pregnant acquaintance. 

With the leave scheduled for December, the employee started feeling nervous about the consequences of his actions. Although he was prepared to face termination, he regretted the extent to which he had made this deceitful decision.

This case is far from isolated. Across forums, social media, and even whispered in office corridors, stories circulate of employees bending the truth to gain unearned leave or benefits. 

The reddit revelation is not something new. In 2022, an HR professional took to TikTok to reveal a startling revelation about their workplace. She disclosed that within their company, they had encountered not one, not two, but a staggering five incidents involving fake babies. 

@judithfiddler

Fake Baby Fraud. Beware!!! #hrprofessional #hrtrends #fakebaby #hrprofessional #hr #fyp #hrtiktok #goodhr #freemasterclass #cipd #hrinrehab

♬ original sound – HR Mindshift

This trend extends beyond paternity or maternity leave. There are tales of extended sick leaves based on non-existent medical conditions, bereavement leaves for fictional relatives, and mental health breaks leveraged without a shred of truth. 

Each case chips away at the mutual trust foundational to the employer-employee relationship, raising questions about the sustainability of current leave policies and the mechanisms in place to validate claims.

Other lies you may have encountered in the past include the following: 

  1. Claiming sudden illness or flu
  2. Fabricating a family emergency or crisis
  3. Stating car trouble or transportation issues
  4. Falsely claiming the death of a distant relative or friend
  5. Exaggerating the need for medical consultations or procedures
  6. Asserting sudden problems with childcare arrangements
  7. Describing home emergencies like burst pipes or power outages
  8. Claiming a mental health day without actual mental health concerns
  9. Pretending to be summoned for jury duty
  10. Using the excuse of a sick pet needing urgent care

These fabrications can be difficult to verify, posing challenges for HR professionals in distinguishing between genuine and deceitful claims.

Ethical and legal implications

The ethical quagmire presented by these deceptions is profound. On one hand, the necessity for compassion and support for employees through genuine life challenges is paramount.

On the other hand, the exploitation of these policies erodes trust, potentially disadvantageous to those with legitimate claims. 

The consequences for employees caught in the act range from termination to legal action, a stark reminder of the risks involved.

Yet, the implications extend beyond individual cases, touching on the very ethos of the workplace. 

A culture of skepticism can emerge, where employers feel compelled to scrutinize every claim, potentially invading privacy and damaging morale. 

The balance between trust and verification becomes a tightrope walk, challenging HR professionals to navigate these waters with both firmness and empathy.

Strategies for prevention and verification

Here are some strategies that you can follow and provide to your company another shield of protection to prevent these cases. Here are some strategies that you can follow and provide to your company, providing another shield of protection to prevent these cases. 

1. Employ future-proof HR policies and data analytics

As the workplace continues to evolve, so too must the policies that govern it. The rise of remote work, the increasing emphasis on mental health, and the changing dynamics of the employer-employee relationship call for a reevaluation of traditional leave policies. 

Future-proofing these policies means not only adapting to the current trends but anticipating the needs and challenges of tomorrow’s workplace.

Innovative approaches, such as flexible leave policies that accommodate the diverse needs of the workforce, can offer a solution. 

These policies, built on the principles of trust and accountability, allow for a more personalized approach to leave, reducing the temptation for deceit by addressing the genuine needs of employees.

Moreover, the integration of data analytics into HR practices can offer insights into patterns of leave requests, identifying potential areas of concern and allowing for proactive adjustments to policies and procedures.

This data-driven approach, combined with a steadfast commitment to ethical practices, can guide HR professionals in crafting policies that are both compassionate and robust, capable of withstanding the challenges of deception.

2. Do periodic check-ins

The introduction of periodic check-ins for long-term leaves, where employees are engaged in conversations about their situation and return-to-work plans, can also serve as a subtle yet effective form of verification. 

These interactions, when handled with care and empathy, can deter misuse by reinforcing the presence of an attentive and caring HR department.

3. Combine trust with verification

The heart of the matter lies in the delicate balance between trust and verification. An overzealous approach to verification can erode the foundation of trust that supports a positive workplace culture, leading to an atmosphere of suspicion and resentment. 

Conversely, a system too lenient opens the floodgates to abuse, undermining the very policies designed to support employee well-being.

HR professionals must, therefore, navigate these waters with a keen sense of fairness and a deep understanding of the human element at play. 

4. Build a culture of integrity

Building a culture of integrity starts with leading by example, where honesty and transparency in HR practices encourage similar behavior across the organization. 

Regular training sessions on the importance of work ethic, the implications of policy abuse, and the value of mutual respect can reinforce these principles.

The battle against the abuse of leave policies is not won through strict enforcement and rigid verification alone.

It is achieved by cultivating a culture of integrity, where mutual respect and understanding form the basis of every policy and interaction. 

As we move forward, let us remember that the strength of our organizations lies in the strength of our people and the values we share.

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AI Engineer job description https://resources.workable.com/ai-engineer-job-description Fri, 26 Apr 2024 13:19:00 +0000 https://resources.workable.com/?p=94432 An AI Engineer designs, develops, and implements artificial intelligence systems and applications that can simulate human intelligence processes through the creation and validation of algorithms, neural networks, and other machine learning techniques. What is an AI Engineer? An AI Engineer is a tech professional skilled in programming, machine learning, and data science. They apply their […]

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An AI Engineer designs, develops, and implements artificial intelligence systems and applications that can simulate human intelligence processes through the creation and validation of algorithms, neural networks, and other machine learning techniques.

What is an AI Engineer?

An AI Engineer is a tech professional skilled in programming, machine learning, and data science. They apply their expertise to develop algorithms that enable machines to perform tasks that typically require human intelligence. These tasks can range from speech recognition and image processing to decision-making processes within business applications.

What does an AI Engineer do?

AI Engineers are involved in the end-to-end development and deployment of machine learning models. They translate complex data into AI-driven solutions that can perform autonomously in real-time environments. This role includes writing code, deploying models to production, and continuously monitoring and updating them as needed.

Key responsibilities:

  • Design and develop AI models and algorithms from scratch.
  • Implement AI solutions that integrate with existing business systems to enhance functionality and user interaction.
  • Manage the data flow and infrastructure for effective AI deployment.
  • Collaborate across teams to align AI initiatives with organizational goals.

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AI Strategist job description https://resources.workable.com/ai-strategist-job-description Fri, 26 Apr 2024 12:55:32 +0000 https://resources.workable.com/?p=94430 An AI Strategist is a visionary role that orchestrates the integration of artificial intelligence into business strategies to boost efficiency, innovation, and competitive edge. This expert identifies AI opportunities and ensures alignment with business objectives to drive sustainable growth. What is an AI Strategist? An AI Strategist is a pivotal role that involves understanding the […]

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An AI Strategist is a visionary role that orchestrates the integration of artificial intelligence into business strategies to boost efficiency, innovation, and competitive edge. This expert identifies AI opportunities and ensures alignment with business objectives to drive sustainable growth.

What is an AI Strategist?

An AI Strategist is a pivotal role that involves understanding the potential of artificial intelligence technologies and applying this knowledge to craft strategies that align with and propel a company’s business goals. This role requires a deep understanding of both technology and business to effectively bridge the gap and drive meaningful innovation.

What does an AI Strategist do?

AI Strategists conduct comprehensive analyses to identify how AI can improve business processes, enhance customer experiences, and create new products or services. They design and oversee the implementation of AI strategies that incorporate ethical considerations and maximize ROI. Their work involves constant learning and adaptation to new technologies and market developments.

Key responsibilities

  • Strategically plan and manage AI initiatives to align with business goals and drive innovation
  • Lead the adoption and integration of AI technologies across business units to solve complex challenges and create value
  • Assess new AI technologies and their potential impact on the business, recommending investments and technology adoptions
  • Facilitate collaboration between departments to ensure that AI projects are effectively implemented and integrated

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AI analyst job description https://resources.workable.com/ai-analyst-job-description Fri, 26 Apr 2024 12:12:46 +0000 https://resources.workable.com/?p=94421 An AI Analyst specializes in analyzing and interpreting complex digital data to improve decision making and operational efficiency using advanced analytics, machine learning, and statistical methods. They play a crucial role in translating data insights into strategic action to drive business growth and innovation. What is an AI Analyst? An AI Analyst is a professional […]

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An AI Analyst specializes in analyzing and interpreting complex digital data to improve decision making and operational efficiency using advanced analytics, machine learning, and statistical methods. They play a crucial role in translating data insights into strategic action to drive business growth and innovation.

What is an AI Analyst?

An AI Analyst is a professional skilled in the art and science of data analysis and modeling, specifically within the realm of artificial intelligence. Their expertise helps to uncover hidden patterns, correlations, and insights from raw data, which can be pivotal in critical decision-making processes. The role demands a strong understanding of both the technical aspects of data analysis and the strategic implications of the insights derived from it.

What does an AI Analyst do?

An AI Analyst meticulously sifts through data using various analytical tools and techniques to support the objectives of their organization. This involves cleaning and preparing data, selecting suitable models, and performing exploratory data analysis to validate assumptions and infer conclusions. Their work often leads to actionable insights that can profoundly impact a company’s strategy, operational efficiency, and technological advancements.

Key responsibilities:

  • Lead and coordinate with data scientists and other stakeholders to develop innovative data analysis methodologies
  • Utilize advanced analytics to extract valuable insights from large datasets, helping to shape business strategies
  • Spearhead the implementation of machine learning models to automate data processes and enhance predictive analytics
  • Ensure the accuracy and integrity of data used for analytical purposes through rigorous validation and testing

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AI Auditor job description https://resources.workable.com/ai-auditor-job-description Fri, 26 Apr 2024 12:25:05 +0000 https://resources.workable.com/?p=94429 An AI Auditor is responsible for evaluating and ensuring that AI systems and algorithms adhere to legal, ethical, and safety standards. They play a critical role in assessing risks and compliance within AI implementations. What is an AI Auditor? An AI Auditor is a specialized role that focuses on the critical evaluation of artificial intelligence […]

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An AI Auditor is responsible for evaluating and ensuring that AI systems and algorithms adhere to legal, ethical, and safety standards. They play a critical role in assessing risks and compliance within AI implementations.

What is an AI Auditor?

An AI Auditor is a specialized role that focuses on the critical evaluation of artificial intelligence systems to ensure they operate within established ethical and legal frameworks. They assess various aspects of AI applications, including algorithms, data usage, and overall system design, to safeguard against biases and ensure transparency and fairness.

What does an AI Auditor do?

AI Auditors systematically review and verify the compliance of AI systems. They work closely with technical teams to understand AI workflows and identify any potential ethical or legal issues. This includes monitoring the data handling practices, evaluating the fairness of algorithms, and ensuring that AI implementations do not compromise user privacy or security.

Key responsibilities:

  • Evaluate AI systems for adherence to ethical, legal, and technical standards
  • Conduct risk assessments to identify vulnerabilities within AI implementations
  • Audit AI algorithms, models, and data streams for compliance and accuracy
  • Collaborate with AI ethics officers and data scientists to ensure integrity and fairness in AI applications

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AI Operations Manager job description https://resources.workable.com/ai-operations-manager Thu, 25 Apr 2024 13:26:06 +0000 https://resources.workable.com/?p=94420 An AI Operations Manager is pivotal in overseeing the seamless integration, operational management, and enhancement of AI systems within an organization. This role ensures that AI initiatives align with business strategies and are optimized for both efficiency and scalability. What is an AI Operations Manager? An AI Operations Manager strategically leads the deployment and ongoing […]

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An AI Operations Manager is pivotal in overseeing the seamless integration, operational management, and enhancement of AI systems within an organization. This role ensures that AI initiatives align with business strategies and are optimized for both efficiency and scalability.

What is an AI Operations Manager?

An AI Operations Manager strategically leads the deployment and ongoing management of artificial intelligence within an organization. This role requires a blend of technical acumen and managerial expertise to ensure AI systems are effectively integrated and consistently aligned with evolving business objectives.

The manager also ensures that AI deployments enhance operational processes and adhere to best practices and industry standards.

What does an AI Operations Manager do?

The AI Operations Manager is responsible for the operational aspect of AI within the company, ensuring that AI systems are not only up-to-date but also aligned with the strategic objectives of the organization.

This includes managing system updates, overseeing the integration of new AI capabilities, and collaborating with various teams to mitigate risks associated with AI deployments. The role also involves continuous monitoring and evaluation of AI systems to optimize performance and ensure maximum efficiency.

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AI Trainer job description https://resources.workable.com/ai-trainer-job-description Thu, 25 Apr 2024 12:11:00 +0000 https://resources.workable.com/?p=94419 An AI Trainer is a technology professional specialized in developing and optimizing training data to improve the accuracy and effectiveness of artificial intelligence models, particularly in natural language processing and machine learning contexts. What is an AI Trainer? An AI Trainer is a pivotal role in the field of artificial intelligence, dedicated to the continuous […]

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An AI Trainer is a technology professional specialized in developing and optimizing training data to improve the accuracy and effectiveness of artificial intelligence models, particularly in natural language processing and machine learning contexts.

What is an AI Trainer?

An AI Trainer is a pivotal role in the field of artificial intelligence, dedicated to the continuous improvement of AI systems through meticulous training and optimization of data. These professionals utilize their expertise in data science and machine learning to prepare datasets, develop training scenarios, and adjust algorithms to train AI systems efficiently and effectively.

What does an AI Trainer do?

AI Trainers play a crucial role in shaping the capabilities of AI systems, ensuring they are able to understand and respond to human input with high levels of accuracy. Their work involves crafting datasets, running simulation exercises, and continuously tweaking the training processes to teach AI models how to process and react to real-world data and scenarios.

Key responsibilities

  • Designing comprehensive training strategies for AI systems to enhance their learning and performance
  • Analyzing and interpreting model performance to identify training deficiencies and opportunities for improvement
  • Collaborating with AI engineers and data scientists to integrate and refine AI models
  • Overseeing the implementation of training protocols and adjusting them based on feedback and analytics

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Ensuring data security in your HRIS implementation https://resources.workable.com/tutorial/data-security-in-hris-implementation Wed, 24 Apr 2024 12:56:06 +0000 https://resources.workable.com/?p=94382 As the reliance on digital solutions increases, so does the risk of data breaches and security threats. Ensuring the security of an HRIS is not just about protecting data; it’s about safeguarding employee trust and complying with stringent regulatory requirements. Key security features to look for When evaluating an HRIS, several security features are paramount. […]

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As the reliance on digital solutions increases, so does the risk of data breaches and security threats. Ensuring the security of an HRIS is not just about protecting data; it’s about safeguarding employee trust and complying with stringent regulatory requirements.

Key security features to look for

When evaluating an HRIS, several security features are paramount. These not only protect against unauthorized access but also ensure that the data remains intact and confidential throughout its lifecycle in the system.

Data encryption

  • Encryption at-rest protects data stored on physical or virtual disks from unauthorized access by encrypting the data while it is not actively being used.
  • Encryption in-transit safeguards data as it moves between systems, ensuring that intercepted data cannot be read without the appropriate decryption keys.
  • Encryption in-use may also be provided, which encrypts data even when it is being processed, providing an additional layer of security.

Compliance with data protection regulations

An HRIS should comply with key data protection regulations relevant to the organization’s location and operations. 

This not only includes GDPR but may also involve local privacy laws and sector-specific regulations like HIPAA in healthcare.

Compliance ensures that the HRIS provider is following best practices for data privacy and security, which helps in protecting against legal and financial repercussions.

Access controls

Effective HRIS systems implement robust role-based access controls (RBAC) that restrict access based on the user’s role within the organization. This means that individuals can only access information that is pertinent to their job functions.

These controls help minimize the risk of data exposure internally and play a crucial role in preventing data leaks.

Each of these features contributes to a secure HRIS environment, ensuring that employee data is protected from both external attacks and internal misuse. As businesses increasingly rely on digital tools for human resources management, the security of these systems cannot be overstated.

This beginning sets the stage for your article by defining the importance of HRIS security, introducing essential concepts, and detailing key security features.

It will help guide your readers through the critical elements to look for when assessing the security of their HRIS provider.

Advanced security practices

While basic security measures are essential, advanced security practices provide additional layers of protection and monitoring that can significantly enhance the robustness of an HRIS. 

These include proactive monitoring and alerts, regular security audits, and enhanced user authentication and secure connections.

Proactive monitoring and alerts

Continuous monitoring involves tracking all activities within the HRIS to identify and react to abnormal behavior or potential security threats promptly. This not only helps in detecting breaches early but also in preventing them.

Security alerts are automated notifications that inform system administrators and security teams about unusual activities. These alerts enable quick response to potential threats, helping to mitigate risks before they escalate.

Regular security audits

Conducting regular technical security audits is crucial for maintaining the integrity of an HRIS. These audits assess the effectiveness of the security measures in place and identify any vulnerabilities or areas for improvement.

Audits can be performed internally by dedicated security red teams or externally by third-party security specialists. Regular reviews ensure compliance with security policies and standards, and they keep security practices up to date with the latest threats.

User authentication and secure connections

Strong user authentication methods, such as two-factor authentication (2FA), biometrics, or single sign-on (SSO), are critical for verifying the identity of users accessing the system. 

These methods help prevent unauthorized access by ensuring that only legitimate users can log in.

Secure connections, typically implemented through TLS protocols, encrypt data exchanged between users and the HRIS. This ensures that data remains private and unaltered during transmission, protecting against interception by malicious actors.

Vendor transparency and trust

Choosing an HRIS provider involves more than just evaluating their product; it also requires assessing the provider’s business practices, particularly their transparency and commitment to security.

Transparency in how an HRIS provider handles security is indicative of their reliability and trustworthiness. Providers should clearly communicate their security measures, policies, and any relevant certifications.

Building trust through open communication

Regular updates from the provider about new security measures, as well as timely disclosures about potential or actual security breaches, are crucial for maintaining trust.

Engaging with providers about their security practices and receiving satisfactory responses demonstrates their commitment to protecting client data.

Evaluating your HRIS provider

When assessing potential HRIS providers, it is essential to perform a thorough evaluation of their security features and practices. Always have in mind that prevention is always better than cure. 

This evaluation helps ensure that the provider can adequately protect sensitive employee data.

Steps to assess a provider’s security

  1. Review the security features outlined earlier in this article. Ensure that the provider meets or exceeds these basic and advanced security requirements.
  2. Ask specific questions about the provider’s data handling and security practices, including data storage, encryption methods, and how they manage data breaches.
  3. Check for independent security certifications like ISO/IEC 27001, which indicate adherence to high security standards.

Questions to ask providers

  • What encryption methods do you use for data at rest and in transit?
  • How do you handle and respond to data breaches?
  • What third-party security audits or certifications do you have?

Red flags in provider security

  1. Lack of clear and direct responses to security inquiries.
  2. Absence of regular and transparent security audits.
  3. No evident compliance with international data protection regulations.

At Workable one of the most compelling testaments to our confidence in our security measures is our use of the Workable HRIS tool.

As a true example of ‘dogfooding,’ we use our platform to store sensitive information such as our employee data. 

We do this not because it’s convenient, but because we trust the controls in place that protect data confidentiality and integrity. 

Remember, the strength of your HRIS security affects not just the operational aspects of your business, but also its moral and legal standing. Choose wisely, act responsibly, and prioritize security in every decision related to your HRIS.

Additional resources

To deepen your understanding of HRIS security and stay updated on the latest trends and practices, consider the following resources:

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AI Architect job description https://resources.workable.com/ai-architect-job-description Tue, 23 Apr 2024 13:02:30 +0000 https://resources.workable.com/?p=94381 An AI Architect is responsible for designing and leading the implementation of artificial intelligence infrastructures within an organization. This role focuses on optimizing AI technology integration to transform business processes and drive innovation effectively and ethically. What is an AI Architect? An AI Architect is a strategic role that involves planning and designing the foundational […]

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An AI Architect is responsible for designing and leading the implementation of artificial intelligence infrastructures within an organization. This role focuses on optimizing AI technology integration to transform business processes and drive innovation effectively and ethically.

What is an AI Architect?

An AI Architect is a strategic role that involves planning and designing the foundational frameworks that allow businesses to leverage artificial intelligence technologies effectively. These professionals ensure that AI implementations support business goals, enhance operational efficiency, and drive technological innovation while adhering to ethical standards.

What does an AI Architect do?

AI Architects are pivotal in bridging the gap between complex AI technologies and practical business applications. They design the technical blueprints for AI systems, collaborate with technical and business teams to tailor AI-driven solutions, and oversee the implementation process to ensure that these solutions deliver tangible benefits.

Key responsibilities of an AI Architect:

  • Architecting and deploying scalable AI solutions that integrate seamlessly with existing business and IT infrastructure
  • Leading cross-disciplinary teams to develop AI applications that meet strategic business objectives
  • Ensuring AI solutions comply with ethical standards and industry regulations
  • Staying abreast of advancements in AI, machine learning, and data science to continuously innovate and improve solutions

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AI Ethics Researcher job description https://resources.workable.com/ai-ethics-researcher-job-description Tue, 23 Apr 2024 12:47:27 +0000 https://resources.workable.com/?p=94380 An AI Ethics Researcher is a professional focused on integrating ethical standards into AI development to ensure technologies align with societal values and legal requirements. What is an AI Ethics Researcher? An AI Ethics Researcher specializes in analyzing and guiding the ethical implications of artificial intelligence systems. Their role ensures that AI technologies are developed […]

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An AI Ethics Researcher is a professional focused on integrating ethical standards into AI development to ensure technologies align with societal values and legal requirements.

What is an AI Ethics Researcher?

An AI Ethics Researcher specializes in analyzing and guiding the ethical implications of artificial intelligence systems. Their role ensures that AI technologies are developed and deployed responsibly, adhering to moral and societal norms while considering legal and regulatory frameworks.

What does an AI Ethics Researcher do?

AI Ethics Researchers are tasked with creating ethical guidelines, performing risk assessments on AI projects, and ensuring that AI implementations are free of biases and adhere to legal standards. They play a crucial role in maintaining ethical integrity in the rapid advancement of AI technologies.

Responsibilities include:

  • Developing ethical guidelines for AI projects.
  • Conducting ethical assessments of AI technologies.
  • Collaborating with multidisciplinary teams to ensure ethical compliance.
  • Educating stakeholders on ethical AI practices.

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Planet shares hiring challenges for a project-based company https://resources.workable.com/tutorial/planet-shares-hiring-challenges-for-diverse-roles-as-a-consulting-company/ Thu, 18 Apr 2024 15:46:55 +0000 https://resources.workable.com/?p=94359 Planet is a management consulting and project management company operating for more than 35 years  in Greece and internationally.  They run projects that require a wide range of services. They work across all sectors of the economy and public administration. Some projects are even funded by international financial groups, including the European Union and the […]

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Planet is a management consulting and project management company operating for more than 35 years  in Greece and internationally. 

They run projects that require a wide range of services. They work across all sectors of the economy and public administration. Some projects are even funded by international financial groups, including the European Union and the World Bank. 

“As a professional services company – where it’s not about smart hands but smart brains – the human factor is paramount. Finding the right talent at our scale, with an internal team of more than 250 people, is challenging,” Constantinos Calogirou, Senior Director, said.

“As a professional services company – where it’s not about smart hands but smart brains – the human factor is paramount. Finding the right talent at our scale, with an internal team of more than 250 people, is challenging.”

While their internal full-time staff numbers 250 people, their network of experts is truly growing.

“Currently, we maintain an extensive network of international expert partners that exceeds 7,000 people due to the variety of specialties and geographies,” Constantinos explains.

“Thus, our main asset – our people – needs constant cultivation, evolution, and the addition of new resources at all experience levels, from junior roles to the most experienced or deep experts in specific subjects.”

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The hiring challenges

Planet provides a diverse range of services, including strategic planning, financial advisory, transformation of organization and operations. That’s not all – human resources, information systems, national and economic, infrastructure development, and engineering consulting services are all included. 

Also, the company is organized into units, meaning different business leaders are involved in the hiring process for each.

“One factor contributing to our hiring challenges is the complexity and diversity of our work. The human factor is our main asset; it’s not merely about having people do something but ensuring they do what they’re meant to do.” Calogirou stated.

“Secondly, the current period presents a significant disparity between the demand for the right people and their availability. This is not exactly a shortage but rather a gap in matching qualifications. As a consulting company with a strong emphasis on soft skills, these are not qualities easily discernible from typical candidate characteristics like degrees or years of experience.”

“Curiosity is an important soft skill for every position in the company.”

As Calogirou said,”for example, curiosity is an important soft skill for every position in the company. Being interested in learning and staying informed allows us to remain at the cutting edge, providing value to our clients.”

Using Workable, they got assistance to accommodate this complexity enjoying the benefits of a “democratic” system.

“By democratic, I mean there’s no necessity to centralize all powers in a dominant HR role responsible for hiring and placement. Firstly, expecting HR to understand the diverse issues we face would be unrealistic.

“Secondly, this approach would necessitate a bloated HR department, which, for a company striving to deliver value to customers, cannot justify high overhead costs.”, he says.

 Planet is also now able to distribute the hiring and onboarding process to as many people as possible.

“You run in the cloud, you can have different and many people involved in different roles for different positions that you recruit. It has matched our business needs”.

Soft skills-first approach

While academic knowledge is essential for many of their roles, skills are the link between efficiency and revenue.

The challenge here is that the more skill-based tests a candidate takes, the easier it becomes to manipulate the results.

“With the specific tests that Workable has, such as the one with logical patterns, I found it quite innovative and in a way an offset to the trained mind.”

“With the specific tests that Workable has, such as the one with logical patterns, I found it quite innovative and in a way an offset to the trained mind of someone who has done many such tests; so it sort of balances out.”

For Calogirou, the interview is the primary process that helps them understand the candidate’s personality, followed by skill assessments.

“You can check the behavior, you see the body language, you get a lot of information. But at the same time, the combination of the legacy model interview, with the more innovative and more impersonal test, has helped us to do a fairly good screening of people.”

The engagement process

Clear communication is essential for Planet. This is a crucial part in engaging candidates and keeping them in the pipeline. However, this is a two-fold process. 

“Engagement starts in the first place from the fact that there is an immediate response when someone submits their resume, even if they didn’t submit it for the sake of a specific job ad. Certainly, there is a contact that can lead to an interview or a test. 

“In the following period, people who may not have been completely suitable for specific needs, while communication is maintained, we can always tell them that we would like to hear from them. Also, if anything changes in their status we advise them to let us know.”

Why KPIs don’t always work

Hiring for diverse roles and complex tasks can make it challenging to achieve a critical mass to meet specific KPIs. This becomes more complex when HR acts as gatekeeper and senior staff are responsible for project-based hiring.

How do they keep consistent and fair in hiring? 

They use three practices that make the hiring process easier for them. 

“The first dimension is maturity. We need people that have great experience based on really specific tasks. The second one is the diversity of skills. We have a broad portfolio of services requiring individuals capable of offering a wide range of expertise. For instance, an engineer’s skill set differs from that of a finance expert or a strategist. 

“The third dimension pertains to desire for professional development. As you may know, the career path of a business consultant begins in a more hands-on role, participating as a project team member with varying levels of responsibility. 

“They then progress to higher responsibility roles, project management, and project directorship, eventually overseeing a portfolio of contracts.”

During this process, employees can evolve on the commercial side as well, especially in winning new projects.

Hiring employees and project contractors at the same time 

With all the employees primarily based in Greece and international project needs addressed by external experts, Planet needed software to keep the hiring rolling depending on their specific needs. 

“Most of our recruitment in Greece is for permanent roles tied to the company’s growth and employee development. The remaining targets individuals on a project basis and with specific skills. 

“For instance, we are currently seeking engineers with experience in construction management in the airports sectors for a specific long term project and at the same time we are seeking for internal hires to develop our Strategy and Finance team.

“While Workable serves both purposes, geographically speaking, Greece primarily focuses on permanent hires, whereas international recruitment leans towards project-based roles.”

The hiring challenges differ when recruiting for the company versus seeking experts, especially across borders.

Key takeaways for effective hiring

Here are some key takeaways from the interview with Constantinos Calogirou focusing on their hiring strategies and challenges:

1. Human capital as core asset

Planet emphasizes the importance of human talent over just technical skills, highlighting that their consulting services depend heavily on the intellectual and interpersonal abilities of their employees.

2. Diverse and decentralized hiring process

The company has decentralized its hiring process to better manage the complexity of its diverse needs across different sectors. This approach allows for a broader participation in the recruitment process, reducing the strain on a central HR department and aligning more closely with business needs.

3. Soft skills emphasis 

Planet prioritizes soft skills such as curiosity, communication, and adaptability, recognizing that these qualities are critical in the consulting industry where needs and projects can vary significantly. They use innovative testing methods to evaluate these skills during recruitment.

4. Hiring challenges in skill and role matching: 

There is a noted gap between the availability of the right talent and the specific demands of the roles they need to fill. This discrepancy is managed by using advanced recruitment tools and maintaining a flexible engagement strategy with potential hires.

5. Engagement and communication 

Effective communication is key in keeping potential candidates engaged throughout the hiring process. Prompt responses and ongoing updates about changes in their application status help maintain a good relationship with candidates, even if they are not immediately hired.

6. Balanced assessment approach 

Combining traditional interviews with modern skill assessments helps Planet better understand a candidate’s true potential and fit for the role, balancing subjective impressions with objective test results.

7. Strategic use of technology 

The adoption of Workable has facilitated a more efficient and scalable hiring process, accommodating the needs of both local and international recruitment, and for both permanent roles and project-based contracts.

These insights from Planet’s strategic approach to deal with hiring challenges and managing talent is crucial for a company that operates across diverse fields and geographical locations.

Constantinos Calogirou

Constantinos Calogirou is a BoD member and a Senior Director, leading the Enterprises Business Unit of PLANET. He is responsible for business development and provision of management consulting services to the private sector as well as to selected public sector entities & authorities in Greece and internationally.

He is working for PLANET since 1993 and possesses significant working experience in Strategy & Business Planning, Management Information Systems, Corporate & Project Finance, Business Process Modeling and Reengineering, Corporate Restructuring and HR Management Systems, having managed a wide range of projects in industries such as Financial Institutions, IT & Telecommunications, Energy, Transport, Trade and Tourism & Leisure.

He holds a B.Sc. in Business Administration from the American College of Greece and a MBA from Aston University in Birmingham, UK.

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AI Product Manager job description https://resources.workable.com/ai-product-manager-job-description Mon, 22 Apr 2024 12:57:41 +0000 https://resources.workable.com/?p=94371 An AI Product Manager is responsible for guiding the development and implementation of artificial intelligence products, focusing on aligning product outcomes with business objectives and ensuring they meet both market and user demands. What is an AI Product Manager? An AI Product Manager is a role at the intersection of technology and business, tasked with […]

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An AI Product Manager is responsible for guiding the development and implementation of artificial intelligence products, focusing on aligning product outcomes with business objectives and ensuring they meet both market and user demands.

What is an AI Product Manager?

An AI Product Manager is a role at the intersection of technology and business, tasked with overseeing the development of AI products. This position requires a blend of technical expertise in artificial intelligence and skills in product strategy and market positioning.

The AI Product Manager ensures that the AI solutions developed not only leverage the latest in technology but also directly address customer needs and enhance the business’s value proposition.

What does an AI Product Manager do?

The AI Product Manager oversees the planning, execution, and delivery of artificial intelligence products. They collaborate with engineers and data scientists to define product specifications, while also working with marketing and sales teams to ensure the products resonate with the market.

Their responsibilities extend to managing the product roadmap, prioritizing features, and making strategic decisions to balance business goals with technological capabilities.

Key responsibilities of an AI Product Manager include:

  • Strategizing and defining the product vision for AI-driven initiatives
  • Managing the entire product lifecycle, from planning and development to deployment and updates
  • Leading cross-functional teams to ensure product success and integration
  • Conducting market analysis to identify trends and opportunities for AI applications

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AI Research Scientist job description https://resources.workable.com/ai-research-scientist-job-description Mon, 22 Apr 2024 11:55:02 +0000 https://resources.workable.com/?p=94370 An AI Research Scientist is a professional focused on the study, development, and implementation of cutting-edge artificial intelligence technologies. Their work is pivotal in pushing the boundaries of AI to enhance both theoretical understanding and practical applications. What is an AI Research Scientist? An AI Research Scientist is a dedicated professional who specializes in advancing […]

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An AI Research Scientist is a professional focused on the study, development, and implementation of cutting-edge artificial intelligence technologies. Their work is pivotal in pushing the boundaries of AI to enhance both theoretical understanding and practical applications.

What is an AI Research Scientist?

An AI Research Scientist is a dedicated professional who specializes in advancing the capabilities of artificial intelligence through methodical research and experimentation. They are committed to solving complex problems within AI, contributing to academic knowledge, and finding innovative applications for AI technologies across various sectors.

What does an AI Research Scientist do?

AI Research Scientists undertake detailed studies to innovate and improve upon existing AI systems. Their work encompasses the development of advanced algorithms, performing data analytics, and applying machine learning techniques to solve real-world problems. They also play a crucial role in publishing research results and sharing knowledge within the scientific community.

Responsibilities of an AI Research Scientist include:

  • Leading and conducting rigorous AI research to develop new methodologies and technologies
  • Designing experiments and prototypes to test the viability and efficiency of new AI models
  • Collaborating with interdisciplinary teams across academic and industrial spheres to apply AI research outcomes
  • Disseminating research findings through scholarly publications, conferences, and community engagements

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How to write an RFP for HRIS to select the right vendor https://resources.workable.com/tutorial/how-to-write-an-rfp-for-hris Wed, 17 Apr 2024 12:57:31 +0000 https://resources.workable.com/?p=94336 If you’re a hiring professional or company owner considering an investment in HR software, determining the best fit is crucial. With a plethora of options in the Human Resource Management Systems market, finding the right match for your company’s specific needs can be challenging. Sending out a request for proposal (RFP) is an effective strategy […]

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If you’re a hiring professional or company owner considering an investment in HR software, determining the best fit is crucial. With a plethora of options in the Human Resource Management Systems market, finding the right match for your company’s specific needs can be challenging.

Sending out a request for proposal (RFP) is an effective strategy to gather comprehensive information about different HRIS solutions and understand how they align with your HR objectives.

Short on time to manage multiple RFPs? A concise overview of top Human Resource Management Systems can guide you in making a sound choice.

What exactly is an RFP?

An RFP is a formal document produced by a company seeking new software or services. It outlines pertinent questions to vendors regarding essential criteria like features and pricing.

Distribute the HRIS RFP to several vendors and evaluate their responses. This approach not only aids in identifying the most suitable software for your organization but also provides valuable insights to present to your decision-makers, essentially helping you build a compelling business case.

Steps to write an RFP for HRIS

Here’s a 5-step process you can follow when preparing an RFP, including the possible sections of an RFP for HRIS.

1. Know what you want

To choose the right system, pinpoint why you need it. For instance, if you’re seeking an HRIS due to inefficiencies in employee data management, prioritize a system with centralized information and analytics features. If your goal is improved document management, inquire about e-signature capabilities when drafting an HRIS RFP.

Identify your priorities by consulting with regular system users and those overseeing your company’s HR strategy. Ask about the challenges faced by hiring managers and their expectations from new technology. Understand the executive vision for HR processes, such as efficiency enhancements or quicker time-off approvals.

Compile a list of frequently mentioned goals and rank them. For instance, reducing new hire onboarding time might be crucial. Differentiate between essential and optional goals.

2. Develop specific requirements

If your teams highlighted the need for improved employee management and data tracking, an HRIS can offer features like enhanced employee data management and analytics.

Conversely, if executives aim to introduce a comprehensive performance appraisal system, your HRIS should facilitate streamlined performance reviews and feedback management.

Certain universal requirements for HRIS vendors include:

  • Security: Ensure compliance with data protection laws applicable to your region.
  • User experience: The system should be intuitive and valuable to users.
  • Scalability: Opt for a system adaptable to increasing demands.
  • Support services: Choose a vendor offering reliable customer support and quick respond times.
  • Existing customers: Check if companies similar to yours use the system.
  • Recognition: Check for reviews and rewards included on aggregator sites.

You may also prioritize vendors with a global perspective, business sustainability, or a robust product roadmap.

3. Draft the RFP for HRIS

Instead of overwhelming vendors with numerous yes/no questions, focus on open-ended queries. This approach allows vendors to elaborate on their system’s functionalities. For specific features like ISO certification or integration capabilities, yes/no questions are acceptable.

Customize the sections based on your specific needs and include questions addressing your unique requirements.

4. Write effective questions

Inquiries should generally focus on understanding “how” a system operates. Avoid overly detailed feature-specific questions, as functionalities can vary among systems. Here are sample questions:

  • How does your system facilitate employee communication?
  • How do you comply with GDPR regulations?
  • Do you offer system integrations?
  • How does your system manage document signing?
  • Can I build customized reports?

Ensure your RFP seeks essential information without being overly intricate. If a vendor meets basic criteria, request a demo or trial to evaluate specific functionalities or desirable features.

5. Write an introduction

Offer pertinent information to RFP respondents. While some companies provide extensive details like growth plans or market research, a concise introduction suffices. Include:

RFP purpose: “XYZ Inc. seeks an HRIS to enhance employee management and streamline onboarding.”

RFP timeline: “Submit responses by [date].”

Company details: “We’ve onboarded 50 new hires this year and are experiencing rapid growth.”

Requirements summary: “Our objectives include efficiency improvement, effective onboarding, and automated time-off management.”

Response instructions: “Provide comprehensive yet concise answers. Include resource links if available.”

Evaluation criteria: “We prioritize systems meeting at least 70% of our requirements and offering favorable ROI.”

Contact for clarifications: “Reach out to [Name] at [+010000000] or [email@email.com] for queries.”

Keep the introduction short. It’s important not to confuse respondents with unnecessary details.

6. Add space for a Unique Value Proposition

Include a query where vendors can present their Unique Value Proposition, highlighting their distinctive offerings and advantages.

7. Send the RFP and make your decision

Having researched available options, distribute the HRIS RFP to potential vendors.

After receiving responses, compare vendor answers (potentially using a scoring system). Shortlist promising vendors for the next step: scheduling demos with each to observe system functionalities firsthand. The RFP provides valuable insights, but witnessing system features in action is crucial for an informed decision.

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How to build a new employee onboarding process https://resources.workable.com/tutorial/employee-onboarding Fri, 08 Sep 2017 13:44:19 +0000 https://resources.workable.com/?p=22951 Building a strong onboarding process is the best way to welcome, and retain, new employees. Effective onboarding is all about planning ahead and thinking from your new employee’s point of view. It doesn’t begin and end on your new hire’s first day with you. It starts at the beginning of your hiring process and ends […]

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Building a strong onboarding process is the best way to welcome, and retain, new employees. Effective onboarding is all about planning ahead and thinking from your new employee’s point of view. It doesn’t begin and end on your new hire’s first day with you. It starts at the beginning of your hiring process and ends when your new employee is fully settled into their role.

Are you onboarding remotely? These remote onboarding FAQs will give you a head start, and you’ll also want to read insights from real-life remote employers on standardizing the onboarding of remote employees.

Here’s a planning timeline and some checklists (plus this onboarding new hire checklist) that HR professionals and hiring managers can use to design a good employee onboarding experience:

1. During the hiring process

Hiring and onboarding are often treated as separate. But their edges blur. New hires get their first impressions of your company during your hiring process, so your candidate experience efforts should be as thoughtful and welcoming as the rest of your onboarding efforts:

  • Write a clear job description that gives your new hire a concrete list of their responsibilities.
  • Tell candidates how you structure your hiring process and how long each stage is likely to take.
  • Follow up early and often and communicate with candidates at each stage of the hiring process.
  • Give candidates your full attention at interviews and respond to any questions they may have.
  • Give candidates full information about reference checks and background checks.

2. During the offer stage

  • Opt for a phone offer, if possible. Phone offers are more personal than email offers and can help you better communicate your enthusiasm for a candidate. It’s best to schedule your call ahead of time, so you don’t end up catching your candidate off guard.
  • Follow up with an enthusiastic offer letter. Aim for a warm tone and include all relevant benefit details and contact information, so you can easily address any remaining questions.
  • Be courteous during salary negotiations. Salary negotiations, done badly, can be tense and confrontational. Done well, they can help solidify your new employee’s value on your team and build a foundation of mutual respect. So, be open and try not to penalize candidates for being their own best advocates.
  • Set a start date and share it with your new hire’s team. Offer some start date flexibility, if possible. It’s best to respect your new employee’s need to finish up projects and give appropriate notice with their current employer. Once you’ve set a date, share it with your new employee’s team so they can prepare to welcome their new colleague.
  • Transfer your new hire’s information from your applicant tracking system to your Human Resource Information System (HRIS) or onboarding software. To avoid asking new employees to give you all their personal information again for your HRIS records, see if you can transfer their relevant details from your ATS. This will allow you to create a seamless transition for HR, hiring managers and new employees alike.

Streamline your offer to onboarding

Ensure a great new hire experience with our recruiting solution and its seamless integrations with onboarding tools and HRIS providers.

Improve your onboarding

3. 1-2 weeks before your new employee’s first day

Prepare your new hire paperwork. Consider including the following policies and forms for new employees to fill out and sign:

  • An Employment Agreement.
  • A Non-Disclosure Agreement.
  • An Employee Invention Agreement.
  • An Employee Handbook.
  • IRS form W-4.
  • IRS form I-9.
  • A direct deposit form.

Set up your new employee’s online accounts, including:

  • Company email.
  • Company instant message.
  • Company HRIS software.
  • Company password management software (LastPass, etc.)
  • Company productivity software (Asana, Jira, etc.)
  • Company ATS for members of hiring teams.

Prepare your new hire’s tech, including:

  • A laptop.
  • A monitor.
  • A phone.
  • A mouse.
  • A keyboard.
  • A headset.

And then:

  • Confirm your employee’s new office phone number.
  • Order business cards and/or a desk nameplate.
  • Arrange for new employee ID card/building access fob.
  • Schedule introductory meetings with key colleagues for the new employee’s first few weeks.
  • Encourage team members (especially those on the interview panel) to reach out to your new hire to congratulate and welcome them prior to their start date. This goes a long way in establishing relationships early in the process.
  • Ask your new employee to fill out an onboarding form, including information about allergies, food preferences and T-shirt size, if you’re including a company shirt in your welcome package.
  • Make a welcome lunch plan for your new hire’s first day.
  • Schedule a HR onboarding meeting for your new hire’s first day.
  • Arrange for parking access, if needed.
  • Plan your new hire’s first assignment.
  • Arrange any relevant internal (or external) trainings required for the job.
  • Send your new hire a welcome email telling them what to expect. Include maps, meeting details, etc. Make sure they know when to arrive on their first day and ask if they have any more questions.

4. The day before your new hire’s first day

Clean your new employee’s desk and set up their equipment and welcome kit. Consider including the following in your welcome kit:

  • A welcome letter.
  • New hire paperwork and HR documents.
  • Technology setup instructions.
  • A company notebook.
  • A company T-shirt.
  • A company mug.
  • Pens.
  • Stickers.
  • A copy of your office map.
  • A copy of your company org chart.
  • A copy of your new hire’s first week schedule.
  • A copy of a book relevant to your team culture.

And also:

  • Make sure your new hire’s company email account is set up and forward regular team meeting invites to them.
  • Send a message to your new hire’s department to remind everyone of their start date.
  • Add your new employee’s email to relevant distribution lists and add their new phone number to relevant phone lists.
  • Add your new employee’s details to your HRIS system, if you haven’t done so already.
  • Add your employee’s desk to your office’s internal desk map.

4. On your new employee’s first day

  • Have someone ready to welcome your new hire when they get to the office.
  • Give your new hire a detailed office tour and make them aware of their schedule for their first few days.
  • Arrange for a welcome meeting with your new hire’s manager to provide an overview of their new team, their role and how their success will be measured.
  • Schedule time for new hire paperwork.
  • Take your new hire out for lunch with some of their key team members.
  • Allow your new hire some downtime to set up their new equipment, set new passwords and log in to their new accounts.
  • Conduct a formal HR onboarding meeting, including details about benefits enrollment, company holidays and policies, company structure, team culture and review your company’s vision, mission and values. (If you have formally documented them.)

5. During your new employee’s first week

  • Schedule your new hire’s regular 1:1 management meetings.
  • Set clear goal and performance objectives for your new hire’s first 3 months, 6 months and year.
  • Go over a 3 month roadmap for key projects they will be working on.
  • Schedule meaningful work tasks that get them up and running.
  • Provide quick feedback on their initial work tasks and establish management expectations for their performance.
  • Schedule introductory meetings with each department, not just those the employee will partner but all departments throughout the company, so that they can get a full understanding of different parts of your business.
  • Check in with them on a regular basis and respond to any questions they have.

6. During your new employee’s first 3 months

  • Continue to have regular 1:1 meetings.
  • Hold an informal 30 day check in to address any immediate concerns followed by a 90 day check in to see how everything is going.
  • Ask for feedback on your onboarding process so you can improve the process for future new hires.

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Employee Handbook https://resources.workable.com/employee-handbook-policies Fri, 15 Sep 2017 13:19:02 +0000 https://resources.workable.com/?p=23129 The employee handbook is a document outlining a company’s mission, policies, and expectations. It provides clarity on employee rights and responsibilities, ensuring a harmonious work environment. The handbook covers employment basics, workplace policies, code of conduct, compensation, benefits, working hours, and termination procedures. From a code of conduct to benefits and perks to employment details, […]

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The employee handbook is a document outlining a company’s mission, policies, and expectations. It provides clarity on employee rights and responsibilities, ensuring a harmonious work environment. The handbook covers employment basics, workplace policies, code of conduct, compensation, benefits, working hours, and termination procedures.

From a code of conduct to benefits and perks to employment details, this employee handbook template has everything you need to start your own company policies.

employee handbook

What is an employee handbook?

An employee handbook is a document that communicates your company’s mission, policies and expectations. Employers give this to employees to clarify their rights and responsibilities while they’re employed with the company.

To help you build the best employee handbook, we crafted a template to give you a headstart in creating your own document. Download the full Employee Handbook template in .doc and pdf format by clicking on the links at the bottom of this page.

The employee handbook policy should include:

  1. Employment basics: Definitions of employment-related terms, rules regarding attendance, and an overview of the recruitment process
  2. Workplace policies: Descriptions of the workplace environment, including confidentiality, harassment prevention, and workplace safety
  3. Code of conduct: Guidelines on employee behavior, including dress code, cyber security, conflict of interest, and workplace relationships

Words in brackets are placeholders — substitute them with your company’s specific guidelines. Also, feel free to modify this template’s language to match your company’s culture.

Here’s what should be included in an employee handbook; our template covers every important policy of an employee manual:

If you need to work only on specific parts of your handbook, click on each of the following sections to download them separately.

By tying these sections together, you can build a complete company employee handbook. The full template includes these sections plus an introduction so you can welcome new employees to your company.

To support your efforts even further, here’s our guide on what each section entails and tips to flesh out your own employee manual matching your company’s requirements:

Keep in mind that our employee handbook examples and relevant advice are not legal documents and may not take into account all relevant local or national laws. Neither the author nor Workable will assume any legal liability that may arise from the use of these templates. Please ask your attorney to review your finalized policy documents or Handbook.

Get our new HRIS Buyer's Guide

Learn what an HRIS is, what features to look for, and how it can help you so you can make the right decision in getting this crucial HR software.

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Predictive analytics: why it matters for employee retention https://resources.workable.com/tutorial/predictive-analytics-and-employee-retention Tue, 16 Apr 2024 19:03:10 +0000 https://resources.workable.com/?p=94325 In an era where businesses face relentless challenges of retaining top talent, the strategic deployment of predictive analytics emerges as a crucial tool in the HR arsenal. This technology not only forecasts potential employee turnover but also provides actionable insights, enabling companies to proactively address retention challenges. After all, Eric Siegel writes in his book […]

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In an era where businesses face relentless challenges of retaining top talent, the strategic deployment of predictive analytics emerges as a crucial tool in the HR arsenal.

This technology not only forecasts potential employee turnover but also provides actionable insights, enabling companies to proactively address retention challenges.

After all, Eric Siegel writes in his book that predictive analytics is “technology that learns from experience (data) to predict the future behavior of individuals in order to drive better decisions.”

Through predictive analytics, HR professionals can identify patterns and predict future outcomes based on historical data, allowing for the development of more effective employee retention strategies.

What is predictive analytics in HR?

Predictive analytics refers to the use of data, statistical algorithms, and machine learning techniques to identify the likelihood of future outcomes based on historical data.

Innovation analyst Andrey Koptelov summed it up in an interview with HR Reporter as it relates to HR:

“Predictive analytics in HR is using data mining, statistics, and machine learning to make more informed decisions about recruiting, staffing and other HR functions. Whether it’s identifying employees that are at risk of quitting or determining the best candidate for a position, by analyzing data from CVs, job descriptions, and HRIS systems, predictive analytics can significantly improve talent management.”

“Predictive analytics in HR is using data mining, statistics, and machine learning to make more informed decisions about recruiting, staffing and other HR functions.”

The role of AI in predictive analytics for employee retention

Of course, AI has a role. It significantly enhances the decision-making processes within HR, particularly in the context of employee retention. AI’s capabilities allow for a more nuanced and effective approach to managing workforce dynamics.

AI supports analytics in the following ways:

Enhanced decision-making: By employing advanced algorithms, AI can process and analyze vast amounts of data more efficiently than traditional methods – especially crucial for larger organizations with a vast volume of data.

Identifying patterns and trends: AI, when trained right, can spot complex patterns and trends in data – including predicting potential turnover by analyzing variables such as job satisfaction levels, employee engagement scores, and even subtle factors like changes in work habits.

Proactive retention strategies: With AI-driven predictive analytics, HR can develop strategies tailored to specific needs. For example, AI can help customize employee development programs that target individuals’ career aspirations, potentially increasing their loyalty.

Continuous learning and improvement: AI systems continually learn from new data, adapting and improving their predictive accuracy over time. This dynamic learning process ensures that the predictive models stay relevant and effective as the organization evolves and as new data becomes available.

5 ways to use predictive analytics in employee retention

So what specific ways can you use predictive analytics in retention? Let’s look at five for starters:

1. Employee Satisfaction Analysis

Utilize surveys to calculate the Employee Satisfaction Index (ESI), focusing on aspects such as workplace environment, managerial support, and role satisfaction. For example, using a scale from 1 to 10, employees rate their satisfaction with each element.

Aggregating these scores provides a comprehensive view of areas that are well-perceived versus those needing improvement.

Tie to retention: A company may find that departments with ESIs below 6 experience higher turnover rates, prompting targeted initiatives to address dissatisfaction.

2. Turnover Risk Modeling

Develop a predictive model using factors like job role longevity, monthly engagement scores, and recent promotion history to calculate a turnover risk score for each employee.

This model helps identify which employees are at risk based on key predictive indicators.

Tie to retention: If an analysis shows that employees with low engagement and over two years in the same role have a high turnover risk, HR can prioritize career development discussions and opportunities for these individuals.

3. Flight Risk Assessment

Implement anomaly detection algorithms on performance metrics to identify significant changes, such as a top performer’s productivity dropping by 20% over two consecutive quarters.

Such a change might indicate personal dissatisfaction or external job searching.

Tie to retention: Early detection allows managers to engage in meaningful discussions with these employees, possibly addressing their concerns and averting potential resignations.

4. Personalized Retention Strategies

Analyze feedback from exit interviews and retention programs using regression analysis to tailor future retention efforts. For instance, if exit interviews commonly cite lack of growth as a reason for leaving, HR can build personalized development plans.

This strategy uses historical data to predict what retention initiatives will be most effective for different employee segments.

Tie to retention: For employees identified as high-risk but highly valuable, customized retention plans involving mentorship, training, and clear career pathways can be introduced to increase their job satisfaction and engagement.

5. Predictive Succession Planning

Use predictive models to forecast potential leadership vacancies and identify internal candidates for these roles by evaluating performance trends and leadership competencies. For example, an employee consistently exceeding targets in a junior management role may be flagged as potential senior management material.

Proactively preparing for leadership transitions ensures continuity and reduces the disruption caused by external hiring.

Tie to retention: Demonstrating a clear succession plan and growth trajectory can significantly boost morale and retention among ambitious employees, as they see tangible future opportunities within the organization.

3 softwares to support predictive analytics in employee retention

There are softwares out there to get you started on predictive analytics in this area. Among them are:

1. Visier People

Visier People specializes in workforce analytics, providing predictive insights into employee turnover and what drives it.

Its user-friendly interface and robust analytical tools make it easy to derive actionable insights without needing a background in data science.

Suitable for mid-sized to large companies, it helps HR departments predict turnover rates and understand the underlying causes to formulate effective retention strategies.

2. SAP SuccessFactors

This cloud-based HR solution offers comprehensive analytics with predictive capabilities, focusing on various HR functions including employee retention.

It integrates seamlessly with other SAP products, offering a holistic view of employee data and predictive insights.

It’s ideal for organizations already using SAP products, looking to leverage integrated data for predictive insights on employee behavior.

3. UltiPro

UltiPro provides predictive analytics to forecast employee retention and identify potential high performers.

Features include sentiment analysis to gauge employee satisfaction and customized reporting for deeper insight into workforce dynamics.

It’s effective for companies of all sizes looking to enhance employee experience.

3 potential use cases of predictive analytics in talent retention

Predictive analytics has real-world applications across various industries, each with unique challenges and needs. Here are three use cases demonstrating how predictive analytics can address industry-specific issues by enhancing employee retention strategies:

1. Restaurants

In the restaurant industry, staff turnover can peak during high seasons such as holidays and summer months. Predictive analytics can help manage and reduce this turnover.

By analyzing historical data on employee shifts, customer volume, and staff feedback, predictive models can identify patterns that lead to high turnover.

Restaurants can use this information to improve scheduling, enhance work conditions, and provide targeted incentives during peak times.

2. Healthcare

Healthcare roles, especially in high-stress environments like emergency and intensive care units, have high rates of burnout and turnover, which have been exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Predictive analytics can assess risk factors for burnout by monitoring work hours, patient load, and staff wellness reports.

Healthcare facilities can use these insights to implement preventative measures, such as adjusting workloads, offering more support, and creating wellness programs tailored to the needs identified through the data.

3. Software as a Service (SaaS)

In the SaaS industry, where many employees work remotely, maintaining employee engagement and satisfaction is crucial for retention.

Predictive analytics can analyze data from employee engagement surveys, performance metrics, and online interaction patterns to predict factors influencing employee satisfaction and lifecycle.

SaaS companies can leverage this information to refine remote work policies, enhance communication strategies, and provide personalized career development plans that align with individual employee aspirations and company goals.

These use cases illustrate how predictive analytics can be effectively tailored to meet the specific challenges of different industries, leading to improved employee retention and overall business efficiency.

It’s all in the numbers

Predictive analytics represents a transformative force in human resources, offering profound insights into employee behavior and retention.

By harnessing this powerful tool, HR professionals can move beyond traditional reactive approaches, adopting proactive strategies that significantly enhance workforce management and planning.

The strategic implementation of predictive analytics enables organizations to not only retain top talent but also reduce turnover, thus stabilizing their workforce in a competitive market.

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How to calculate employee turnover rate https://resources.workable.com/tutorial/calculate-employee-turnover-rate Wed, 13 Jul 2016 13:43:03 +0000 https://resources.workable.com/?p=5590 People usually include voluntary resignations, dismissals, non certifications and retirements in their turnover calculations. They normally don’t include internal movements like promotions or transfers. The employee turnover rate is a metric of the effectiveness of the human resources management system and the overall management of an organization. How do you calculate turnover rate? To calculate […]

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People usually include voluntary resignations, dismissals, non certifications and retirements in their turnover calculations. They normally don’t include internal movements like promotions or transfers. The employee turnover rate is a metric of the effectiveness of the human resources management system and the overall management of an organization.

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How do you calculate turnover rate?

To calculate the monthly employee turnover rate, all you need is three numbers: the numbers of active employees at the beginning (B) and end of the month (E) and the number of employees who left (L) during that month. You can get your average number of employees (Avg) by adding your beginning and ending workforce and dividing by two (Avg = [B+E]/2).

Now, you should divide the number of employees who left by your average number of employees. Multiply by 100 to get your final turnover percentage ([L/Avg] x 100).

monthly employee turnover rate

However, most companies find quarterly or annual turnover rate calculations more useful, because it usually takes longer for their numbers to get large enough to show meaningful patterns.

Here’s the formula for annual turnover rate:

annual employee turnover rate formula

So, if you have 45 employees at the start of the year and 55 at the end and 5 employees left during that year, your annual turnover rate would be:

example annual employee turnover rate

You can also calculate your employee retention rate by taking your turnover rate and subtracting it from 100 to get the result.

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What’s the best turnover rate formula?

Depending on what you want to measure, you can use different numbers to calculate your employee turnover rate.

For example, if you want to illustrate competitive retention you would normally define separation as voluntary resignations since non-voluntary separations and retirements don’t necessarily mean that you’re losing employees to other employers.

However, if you simply want to illustrate overall turnover, you may want to include all separations. If you do include retirements in your turnover calculation, you should make this clear, so people understand what you’re including in your measurements.

One interesting and useful way to measure turnover is to see whether your new hire turnover rate is higher or lower than your overall turnover rate.

In this example, we define new hire turnover rate as the number of new employees who leave within a year.

Your new hire turnover formula would look like this:

first year new hire employee turnover rate

A healthy turnover rate

Now that know how to calculate employee turnover rate using a basic formula, you can calculate your company’s turnover and come up with a number. But what does your number actually mean? How do you know if your turnover rate is high or low?

One way is to compare your company’s turnover rate with the average rate within your industry. Turnover rates can vary widely across industries. Usually, hospitality and healthcare have the highest turnover rates. In 2015, the US hospitality industry had a voluntary turnover rate of 17.8% and the US healthcare industry, 14.2%. Rates were a lot lower in other industries, like insurance (8.8%) and utilities (6.1%).

Nobscot offers an application that gives you instant access to current US turnover rates based on industry and location. Likewise, the Bureau of Labor Statistics and the European Union’s database can provide interesting statistics. Sites like comdatasurveys.com and xperthr.co.uk also release relevant surveys.

Once you compare your rate with your industry or location average, you can reach some conclusions. If, for example, your turnover rate is higher than your industry average, it probably means your management is not as effective as it could be. So, you’ll probably want to identify and address some internal issues.

Besides external benchmarking, you can conduct your own internal turnover rate research. To get a better sense of your turnover trends, collect data from different periods of time, from different departments and from all managerial levels.

Although managers and employers dread turnover, a turnover rate of zero is unrealistic. People will inevitably leave at some point, to retire, relocate or because of changing circumstances in their lives. As strange as it may sound, you can have a ‘healthy’ turnover rate. Keep an eye on your rates, ensuring they stay within healthy industry and location ranges.

Analyze your turnover rate

To better understand your employee turnover, all you have to do is answer three questions:

  • “Who are the employees who leave?”
  • “When do they leave?”
  • “Why they are leaving?”

Who

Even if your turnover rate is lower than your industry’s average, there’s no reason to celebrate unless you can identify who leaves you. If your top performers are leaving, then you should take immediate action, otherwise your company’s performance will flag. On the other hand, if your low performers are leaving, you could stand to gain by enjoying better employee engagement, productivity and profits.

When

Keeping track of when people leave can be very useful. For example, your new hire turnover rate can offer a lot of insight. First, it can tell you whether your recruitment methods are working. If a significant number of your new employees leave because they found their job duties different to, or more complicated than, what they were expecting, perhaps you should consider reviewing your job descriptions. Investing more time and money developing your orientation process could help too, if employees leave because of cultural mismatches. You could also consider offering other employee engagement programs like parental leave or flexible working hours, if your employees struggle with work-life balance.

Why

When you know why your employees leave, you can change your company’s management style or policies in response. Exit interviews are a useful way to see whether people give similar reasons for leaving, or whether they offer useful suggestions for how you can improve. For example, employees often say they decided to resign because their input and effort were not appreciated. If you hear these kinds of comments in your exit interviews or in performance reviews, HR should work with managers to consider changing performance appraisal processes.

Employee turnover rates can uncover hidden problems within organizations. A high turnover rate is a warning sign you shouldn’t ignore. Review your recruitment processes, change your compensation and benefits plan or incorporate a succession planning policy. Ultimately, if you respond to turnover issues proactively, you will improve your company and retain great employees.

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What is sabbatical leave? https://resources.workable.com/hr-terms/sabbatical-leave-definition Mon, 01 Jul 2019 12:16:20 +0000 https://resources.workable.com/?p=32980 So what is sabbatical leave? Organizations provide employees with various types of leave, such as sick leave, vacation time or parental leave. One of the less common types of leave is the sabbatical leave. Contents: What is a sabbatical? How long is a sabbatical? Is sabbatical leave paid or unpaid? How does a sabbatical work? […]

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So what is sabbatical leave? Organizations provide employees with various types of leave, such as sick leave, vacation time or parental leave. One of the less common types of leave is the sabbatical leave.

Contents:

What is a sabbatical?

The sabbatical definition is “a break from work” during which employees can pursue their interests, like traveling, writing, research, volunteering or other activities (or even rest). During that time, the employee is still employed at their organization, but they don’t need to perform their normal job duties or report to work.

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This practice is common in educational institutions; for example, a professor may take a sabbatical leave for a semester or two to teach at a foreign university or do research in their field.

Some corporations offer a professional sabbatical as a benefit, too – in 2018, 15% of employers were offering sabbaticals (though only 5% offered paid sabbatical leave). This leave is granted to employees after they complete a certain number of years in service, usually more than five.

The sabbatical leave is separate from other kinds of leave. For example, you may be entitled to 20 days of paid time off per year plus a sabbatical after your fifth year with the organization.

The benefits of a sabbatical leave are clear for employees: they get to take their minds off the stress of their jobs and focus on what they love outside of their work. They can also develop skills, both personal and professional. Employers benefit in various ways, too: for example, their employees are rejuvenated and return to work with new energy and motivation (and without the fear of employee burnout). Plus, offering sabbaticals is a great way to attract talent to your organization.

How long is a sabbatical?

The length of a sabbatical from work varies according to the institution or organization. Some universities may grant this leave for six months, a year (called “sabbatical year”) or more.

Private companies may offer one or more months of sabbatical leave depending on their policy and each employee’s years of service. For example, Adobe offers four weeks of sabbatical to those who’ve been employed in the company for at least five years and five weeks to those who’ve completed 10 years of service.

Is sabbatical leave paid or unpaid?

Often, sabbatical leave is paid, either with the full salary or a percentage of that salary – although some organizations may offer unpaid sabbatical leave.

How does a sabbatical work?

Employees who qualify for this type of leave will usually need to ask for it several months in advance. Organizations will consider that request and approve it if it meets their criteria. Organizations will also need to make arrangements to replace that employee for as long as they’re on sabbatical, or divide their work among other employees.

Many organizations have specific rules regarding sabbaticals. For example, employees might need to take their sabbatical within a specified period after they become eligible or they lose it. Also, if an employee chooses to take advantage of a sabbatical leave, they may need to commit to staying at the company for at least a specified period after they come back (much like with tuition reimbursement benefits).

While on sabbatical, people are still officially employed by the organization. This means that they remain bound by their organization’s policies including harassment, confidentiality, data protection etc.

Sabbatical leave policy

If you’re thinking of introducing a relevant policy to your company, that policy needs to be absolutely clear. First, define sabbatical leave. Is it a break from work so employees can do what they want? Or is it a break for a specific reason, e.g. volunteering in an environmental program?

Then, decide when employees should qualify for sabbaticals. Usually, the minimum is five years, but consider what makes sense for your organization.

The next step is laying out clear guidelines about how employees can ask for sabbatical, how you will evaluate their request, what their obligations are and what applies in regards to their pay, benefits or contract. These elements are essential for an employee sabbatical policy, and clarity and transparency about all aspects of the policy is essential to its success.

If you’re not sure where to start, use our sabbatical leave policy template.

Want more definitions? See our complete library of HR Terms.

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8 steps of the selection process for hiring employees https://resources.workable.com/tutorial/employee-selection-process Wed, 27 Feb 2019 10:00:00 +0000 https://resources.workable.com/?p=32426 Let’s face it: finding and selecting a candidate for a job isn’t as cut and dried as it may initially seem. You don’t just look up and down the list of candidates and say, “Hmm, that person will do just fine.” Instead, you have to go through numerous steps to get to the final stage […]

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Let’s face it: finding and selecting a candidate for a job isn’t as cut and dried as it may initially seem. You don’t just look up and down the list of candidates and say, “Hmm, that person will do just fine.”

Instead, you have to go through numerous steps to get to the final stage of the employee selection process, right from building a hiring plan, drafting a job announcement, conducting interviews, running background checks, and sending the final offer letter, among many other steps along the way.

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If you’re like any employer, HR representative or recruiter, you probably don’t have the time to get into the nitty-gritty details of the selection process. Whether you want to hire an intern for your company, fill positions in your rapidly growing startup, build out your sales team, or grow your employee base by tenfold, there’s something here to meet your needs: a quick step-by-step guide to follow for your recruitment and selection process so you can get that new star candidate on your team.

Here are eight steps in the selection process for hiring employees and how to best go through each — if you’re interested in specific employee selection process steps, click on the table of contents below:

1. Application

The application phase in the selection process is sometimes seen as passive from the hiring team side – you just wait for candidates to respond to your job ad. However, applications can and should be selection tools, helping you sort candidates as qualified or unqualified.

How can you do this? There are two options to get started: qualifying questions and gamification.

Qualifying questions

If you’re using software to build your application forms, using qualifying questions at the beginning of your selection process should be easy. You can add two or three questions relevant to the position. The candidates must answer these questions in order to apply. For example:

  • Briefly describe your experience with Excel.
  • What’s the difference between content marketing and journalism?
  • Can you legally work in the UK?

Some of these questions could require simple yes/no answers with the wrong answer automatically disqualifying a candidate – this is something that can also easily be done via recruitment software. Of course, automatic disqualification should be reserved only for absolute must-have skills. For example, if you’re looking for a senior designer, a disqualifying question could be “Do you have 5+ years of design experience?”

Help candidates complete your applications

Of course, you want candidates who start completing your forms to actually go all the way and submit their application. Yet, so many candidates abandon applications because it takes too long to complete them or they’re too complicated. To avoid this, here are a few things you can do to streamline this part of the selection process:

  • Keep qualifying questions to a minimum and make sure they don’t require complex or long answers.
  • Try applying to one of your open roles; that’s how you’ll be able to spot glitches, hurdles or lengthy applications.
  • Test your application forms’ (and careers page’s) mobile version. Many people apply via mobile so it needs to work well.

To see whether there’s an issue with your application forms, you could also track your application abandonment rate. Ideally, you’d like it to be close to 0%, so the higher that number is, the more improvements your applications need.

Gamification

Gamifying your recruitment process isn’t a new trend, but with the progress of technology, you can now use gamification tools more effectively in the selection process. Especially in the application phase, consider asking less-experienced candidates and those transitioning from different backgrounds to play online or offline games.

The reasoning behind this is that candidates who are recent graduates, or have made a career change, won’t have much relevant experience to showcase in their resumes — despite being possibly the right fit for a job. This can be a problem when you’re trying to evaluate them based on their application. By using gamified assessment methods in the that stage, you can shortlist promising people and your hiring team will have better chances of interviewing only a few truly qualified candidates.

This also gives you an opportunity to diversify your applicant pool when you find the majority of applicants that meet your required background come from a narrow subset or demographic.

There are many options to insert gamification in your selection process; for example, an online service like benchmark.games or coding challenges, like Workable’s integrated tool HackerRank, could be useful.

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2. Resume screening

Now that you have wrapped up the application phase of the employee selection process, you have a collection of resumes or CVs to sift through and filter those deemed suitable for a screening call. What you’ll need to do now is go through resumes one by one, whether manually or software-assisted, and identify prime candidates.

This is one of the most traditional employee selection methods to move candidates to the next step by identifying and disqualifying those who don’t quite fit what you’re looking for.

There may be hundreds – in some cases, thousands – of applicants for a single job. There are numerous ways to filter resumes:

Background

This is a practical side of the selection process; you’re looking for the background that qualifies a candidate for the position you want to fill. You’ll want to know if they have the academic knowledge or professional expertise – or both – to perform a job well.

For instance:

  • If you’re looking to fill an accounting position, someone with an accounting degree yet with little to no practical work experience might be suitable for a junior-level position.
  • If you’re looking for a bartender, someone who has already worked at several reputable pubs or restaurants in your area may be a good fit.
  • Or, if you’re looking to fill an editorial manager position, you want to know they have the academic expertise that proves their advanced ability to think, edit, and write for school assignments, coupled with a number of years in a high-intensity media environment requiring decision-making on the fly.

You want to be careful not to stick to these parameters too rigidly; many qualified candidates may not have the traditional background for this position. Learn about how non-traditional candidates can bring as much to the table as their traditional counterparts.

Resume layout

Even something as simple as the layout of a candidate’s resume can be an indicator of how qualified they are for a position. The skill of organizing and presenting information in a clear and concise way is on full display here.

Consider the following examples of how a resume’s layout can offer a quick demonstration of a candidate’s skill set:

  • If you’re looking to fill a creative position – such as graphics or web design – the resume layout can be a powerful indicator of how well they can design.
  • If you’re looking to fill a sales position, the manner in which they present a resume can show you how they might be able to catch your client’s eye with important, relevant information to convert them into buyers.
  • If you’re looking for a marketing copywriter, the resume shows their ability to describe things in a tight, concise and engaging manner.

Here are some original ways a resume can be presented.

On the flip side, you’re also looking for resume red flags that a candidate may not be what they present themselves to be. For instance, a resume can include obvious copy-and-pasted boilerplate text, mismatched dates, typos, embellishments or even clear fiction (such as a school that doesn’t turn up in a Google search).

Cover letter

Similarly to the resume, a candidate’s cover letter gives you an idea of who they are and what they bring to the role. You’re looking for tightly and smartly written language that clearly describes what they can bring to the position. Does the candidate:

  • Describe their skills and background in a relevant way to the position being applied for?
  • Show their knowledge of your company and its goals, and how they can contribute?
  • Write in a professional, error-free manner that reflects their ability to communicate via email and other channels?

Intangibles

It may initially seem corny to list one’s hobbies and personal interests in a resume, but even those can be great indicators of the kind of person applying for the role. For instance:

  • “Running” indicates they’re a healthy person and disciplined enough to train for 10Ks or marathons on a regular basis.
  • “Volunteering” shows they’re interested in the bigger picture (i.e. your company’s mission and vision) and can have the empathy that would make them a great team member.
  • “Chess” indicates an ability to process complex information in a logical/logarithmic way, an invaluable skill for a developer position

Unconscious bias

As through every step of the employee selection procedures, you want to keep your unconscious bias in check. Harvard’s Project Implicit is a great tool to help you realize where your unconscious biases lie and how strong they are. Maintain that awareness as you sift through resumes.

For example, during the selection process, watch out for potential biases including someone’s name, gender, race, age, class, and even academic background – for instance, just because someone got their MBA from a local college rather than from Harvard doesn’t necessarily make them less worthy of a candidate or their MBA degree less impressive.

If you are like many employers and recruiters, you’re also actively pursuing a D&I initiative. If you’re looking to build a gender-balanced team in a sector dominated by one gender, check out these five steps in which you can do it successfully.

This stage of the employee selection process often involves multiple parties in the hiring team, including the HR representative, the hiring manager, the recruiter, and sometimes even the direct report. Learn more about how you can work together as a team within the same platform, including adding comments, scores, and other data to each application.

If this feels like a time-consuming affair, you’re probably right. There are numerous AI tools within Workable’s software that enable you to speed up this stage of the selection process.

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3. Screening call

The screening call, or phone screen, is among the initial hiring stages where recruiters shortlist applicants. The purpose of this call is to establish whether the candidate is truly interested in the job and (at least) minimally qualified to do it successfully. This way, only the best applicants will go to the next, stricter (and more expensive) hiring stages, like assessments and in-person interviews, saving your team time and money.

Schedule a phone screen

The email you’ll send to candidates to schedule a screening call is important; that’s because it may very well be your very first communication with that candidate. So this is your chance of setting the tone of your relationship with that candidate and, who knows, future employee.

In this case, you need to be straightforward and positive, giving out a professional outlook. Thank the candidate for applying to your open role and ask them if they’d like to speak with you so you can get to know them and give them details about the job. Keep it short and sweet.

Here’s our template to get you started – make sure to customize it to fit your company’s voice.

Prepare well beforehand

Without being able to see candidates face to face and connect with them or assess their body language, and with the added issues of occasional bad signal or background noise, you might find screening calls difficult to navigate. The key is to prepare thoroughly: know exactly what you’re looking for and what you want to learn about each candidate, as well as what information you’d like to convey, before you begin with the selection process.

  • Write down your requirements. You probably already know the basic qualifications you’re looking for, so make a list of basic ones you’d like to check during the screening call. These might include “must be able to start work within the month” or “they should want to relocate.” It might be useful to give some thought on what you can be flexible on – for example, would you be able to convert a full-time job to part-time or agree to flexible hours?
  • Read candidate resumes. This is important for two reasons: you’ll show candidates that you’re serious about their application, and you’ll be able to spot discrepancies you can ask about. For example, if candidates have a huge gap in their employment record, you might ask why that was.
  • Make sure you can answer basic questions. Candidates will be evaluating your company throughout the recruitment process, just like you’ll be evaluating them. To persuade a good candidate to complete and assessment or come in for an interview, you should pitch the position and your company effectively. Do your homework about the role and refresh your knowledge of the company’s mission.

Select the right questions

The questions you’ll ask should tell you whether the candidate is suitable and interested in the role. So make sure you address both those points during the screening call (without going into too much detail in terms of skills – reserve these questions for later hiring stages.) Here are a few example questions:

  • When could you start if you were offered the job?
  • Would you be comfortable with 50% travel?
  • How much money would you like to earn in this position?
  • What did you find most interesting in the job description?
  • What interests you about our company?
  • Tell me about this two-year gap in your resume
  • Why do you want to leave your current position?

Ask questions and listen carefully to the candidate. Determine whether their attitude suits your company and whether their answers are satisfying. Watch out for answers that may not sound genuine or contradictions with their resume or application.

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4. Assessment test

Once you’ve screened candidates and sorted them out into “promising”, “maybe”, and “disqualified” groups, you want to look at the surviving candidates and further assess their ability to do the job you’re looking to fill. These assessments can take place in a multitude of forms in the selection process:

  • An in-person audition for an acting position, a sales job where you request the candidate to pitch you a product, or a kitchen position where you ask them to cook something for you on the spot.
  • A written or online test to test for aptitude, personality, intelligence, etc.
  • A practical skills test to determine a candidate’s typing speed, data entry capabilities, memory, etc.

It should be noted that personality- and culture-based assessment tests are often debated as to their applicability in determining the success of a candidate in a certain job – not everyone agrees that a Myers-Brigg assessment test is a good thing, for instance.

However, practical skills assessments are a powerful tool to determine whether a candidate is indeed able to do a job well as they’ve claimed in previous stages of the employee selection process.

Check out our top 10 assessment tools for different focal areas, including judgment, aptitude and coding skills. Also, learn about Workable’s own assessment tools and integrations to best optimize this stage, as well as a selection of “how-tos” for assessing a candidate’s skill sets for different common positions within a company. Assessments can also be gamified, as above.

Navigate the assessment stage effectively

Timing is a consideration. You want to give candidates enough time to complete the assessment – for instance, give them 3-5 business days to complete a short test. Stay close to realistic goals that you might expect of them if they were working in your company; don’t ask them to complete a complex project in a 24-hour span, but don’t give them 20 days either.

Communication is key. Explain clearly to candidates the scope and purpose of the assessment, so they understand fully why you’re doing it. You don’t want them thinking you’re asking free work of them.

In many cases in this phase of the selection process, you aren’t just looking at a candidate’s ability to do the task at hand; you’re also looking at the way they communicate themselves leading up to, during, and after the assessment. You’ll also want to look at the way they approach the assessment, especially when it comes to creative projects such as in development and design which often require some collaboration and planning.

A follow-up interview – separate from other interviews – dedicated to this particular assessment can shed valuable insight on how candidates worked on the project and their takeaways and learnings from it.

It’s important to note the many variables associated with an assessment. It’s not necessarily enough that a candidate is able to perform the task with flying colors or seemingly unlimited creativity. You’re looking at all the ways in which they’ve gone into it; perhaps a junior developer has not completed a technical test perfectly but demonstrated great intangibles in the “good” questions they’ve asked of you or in their receptiveness to feedback and a willingness to grow and learn.

Or, perhaps a senior designer didn’t do exactly what was asked of them, but “bent the rules” a little bit and turned out an even better product in the end; and what’s more, they talked to you about their idea before going ahead and doing it.

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5. In-person interviewing

You’re now deep in the selection process, having screened candidates, evaluated their skills, assessed their abilities, and created a shortlist of the most qualified people. It’s finally time to meet in person with those promising candidates and determine who’s going to be your next hire.

A good interview will help you make better hiring decisions, as you will objectively evaluate and compare candidates’ potential. But there’s more to do than the actual interview. You need to prepare yourself and the entire hiring team to make sure you ask all the right questions. More specifically, you should prepare:

  • A list of job-related questions that assess how well candidates can manage regular job duties. You can ask a mix of:
  • Cultural fit questions that will help you pick these candidates who are more likely to thrive in your work environment. For example, you could ask:

Once you have your set of interview questions ready (and double-checked that you’re not asking anything illegal), you can invite candidates to your offices – or schedule a video call if you’re hiring remotely. Here are a few tips to help you schedule interview with candidates more effectively:

  • Schedule interviews at least two or three business days in advance. Surely, if you’ve found the perfect candidate or if you’re in a rush to close an open role, you want to speed up the process. But, calling candidates to ask them to meet on the same or next day could send the wrong message and make you look desperate. Besides, candidates might be working elsewhere, so they need to adjust their schedule. They also need some time to prepare themselves for the interview (e.g. do some research on your company, take a closer look at their assignment, etc.)
  • Provide candidates all necessary information. This includes:
    • the exact day and time of the interview, taking into consideration different time zones if you’re interviewing remote candidates
    • the address of your offices along with directions on how to get there (or, instructions on how to log in to a video platform, in case of a video interview)
    • the names and roles of the interviewers
    • the scope of the interview (e.g. “We’ll go over your assignment” or “You’ll meet with the CEO”)
    • the estimated duration of the interview

Add any other details that candidates might find useful, such as what they need to bring with them (e.g. their ID for security reasons or their portfolio) or where they can park their car. You can use a scheduling interview email template to save time; you will only need to adjust the names and dates every time you invite a candidate to your offices but the main information will stay the same.

  • Offer candidates a few alternative days for the interview. Busy schedules and multiple interviews and interviewers can make the interview scheduling process very complicated. To save time and avoid back-and-forth emails or double-bookings, let candidates pick the most convenient day and time. You could either share via email your availability (highlighting your preferred three or four time slots) or share your entire calendar through a self-scheduling tool.

Before the day of the interview, make sure that all interviewers are well-prepared. For members of your hiring team with little or no experience in recruiting, consider running a mock interview; this way, they’ll feel more comfortable when they actually meet with the candidates.

Here’s a checklist that will help you conduct more effective interviews during the selection process:

  • Stick to the interview questions you have prepared; small talk with candidates or questions that are irrelevant to the job could result in biased hiring decisions.
  • Ask all candidates the same set of questions in a structured way; this way, it’ll be easier to compare their answers and select the most qualified ones.
  • Be prepared to answer questions from candidates, too; they’ll probably want to learn more about the team, the company goals and the employee benefits.
  • Review candidates’ profile (e.g. resume, assignment, previous communication) before you meet them; you’ll refresh your memory and won’t ask things they’ve already mentioned.
  • Provide interview feedback to your hiring team as soon as the interview finishes; the best hiring decisions rely on collaboration.

Keep in mind that a good interview will not only help you spot deal breakers, it will also impact the overall candidate experience. Naturally, you won’t hire every candidate you interview. But, if you come to interviews prepared, ask job-related questions and are respectful to candidates, even the ones you reject will leave with a positive impression about your company.

Want to learn more about how to organize and improve your interview process? Read our detailed guide here.

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6. Background checks

Background checks reassure you that your finalists are reliable and don’t pose risks to your company. For example, employers may conduct pre-employment checks to make sure candidates have told the truth in their resumes or don’t currently do illicit drugs. In fact, there are several types of background checks including:

  • Criminal records
  • Credit reports
  • Driving records
  • Verification reports (e.g. identity, education, work history, social security number, national insurance number, etc.)
  • Drug tests

These checks are most useful in the selection process when there’s high risk involved in employing someone unsuitable in a particular job. For example, you probably wouldn’t want a convicted sex offender working at a nursing home or someone with bad credit handling your company’s finances; current drug users would be a huge safety risk as machine operators and professional drivers with extensive drunk driving records would probably not make the best hires. And so on.

So in these cases, conducting a pre-employment test would be very important (you could do background checks in other instances too, but there might not be a necessity to do so). If you’re thinking of conducting background checks, be sure to:

a. Consider legal aspects of background checks

First, some background checks are mandated by law in certain industries or roles depending on location. For example, in some jurisdictions, working in substance abuse facilities or daycare centers requires passing a criminal record check. So make sure you know the applicable regulations to order background checks as necessary.

Also, pre-employment checks are themselves regulated by law. For example, in the U.S., you need to comply with the guidelines set by the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) and the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA). The UK has its own set of guidelines regarding background checks. Local laws in your area may also require a candidate to have an offer in hand before you can ask permission for a background check.

b. Choose a reputable and reliable background check provider

There are generally two options for conducting background checks: the full-service provider and online DIY websites. DIY websites let you do your own investigations and are cheaper, but many may not be compliant with local laws and using them to research candidates may pose legal risks.

Full-service providers, on the other hand, are usually compliant (though you should always ask for proof that they are) and can undertake the full investigation on your behalf. Look for providers and evaluate them based on compliance, costs, turnaround time and types of checks they offer.

If you’re using recruiting software like Workable, you’ll be able to access background checks straight from the system via an integrated provider, thus saving time.

c. Navigate discussions with candidates appropriately

The law in many places mandates that you ask candidates’ permission before you conduct checks in an employee selection process. So, you need to tell them that you’re thinking of looking into their past. Afterwards, you also have to inform candidates of your intention to reject them (adverse action notification) to give them time to rebut a false report. Candidates will inevitably have their own concerns and questions on the pre-employment screening. They may distrust your intentions, see this as an invasion on their personal information or believe you’re looking for reasons to reject them.

Be honest about what background checks are for. If they’re mandated by law, say so. If it’s your company’s policy for certain roles, be sure to explain how you’ll handle results: for example, let this candidate know that they’re one of your finalists (perhaps the only finalist) and you just need to reinforce your decision to hire them.

After you’ve ordered the test, it’s good to keep in touch with candidates for as long as you’re waiting for results (which can be several weeks).

For more tips on how to handle potentially awkward conversations about background checks in the selection process, see our 8 useful tips.

d. Interpret results correctly

There are a number of background check red flags you can find after you get the results of a test. Some might justify an immediate disqualification, such as if you learn that a candidate for a role as an accountant has been convicted of fraud or embezzlement.

But other results might not be as serious. For example, one candidate might have lied about where they went to school. You might decide that lying is enough to disqualify them, but that’s not necessarily the case. In these instances, it might be useful to have an open conversation with a candidate and see if they regret lying, or if they had a reason to do so. The report might even be inaccurate, so it will be fair to hear the candidate’s side of the story.

With that in mind, it’s important to understand that employment background checks should be used as one of many employee selection tools – they alone shouldn’t make the hiring decision for you. Background screening shouldn’t be used as a way to disqualify someone or reduce the number of applicants for a position. Checks are meant to reinforce a hiring decision and ensure candidates who have been selected for a job are suitable.

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7. Reference checks

In the final stages of the selection process, you might want to get some references for your best candidates. This way, you’ll get feedback about their performance from people they’ve actually worked with in the past, such as former managers, former colleagues or business partners and clients.

You could ask candidates to provide contact details from former employers and coworkers. Or, you can reach out directly to people you know they used to work with. In any case, when requesting references for a candidate, it’s best to initially send an email to introduce yourself and explain why you want this information. This way, you can schedule a call where you’ll discuss in more detail.

During reference checks, you will:

  • Confirm what candidates have already told you (e.g about time of employment and previous job responsibilities)
  • Learn how candidates use their skills on the job
  • Discover potential weaknesses or lack of practical experience
  • Understand how candidates behave in the work environment (e.g. if they’re punctual, if they receive feedback well, etc.)

To obtain objective and relevant information, you need to ask targeted questions. Here are a few sample questions to ask when getting references for candidates:

  • When did [Candidate_name] work at your company and what was their job title?
  • What were [Candidate_name’s] main responsibilities?
  • Could you mention one or two group projects [Candidate_name] was involved in? What was their role and how did they collaborate with their colleagues?
  • Do you think [Candidate_name] could take on a more senior role? Why or why not?
  • Given the opportunity, would you rehire [Candidate_name]?

While getting references, keep an eye out for red flags. For example, it’s not a good sign when you notice discrepancies between what the candidate mentioned during the interviews and what their former employer told you. You should also consider any negative feedback you get that shows that candidates aren’t as skilled or as reliable as they seem.

Once you’ve taken everything you learned in the selection process into account, from your own candidate evaluation to background and reference checks, you’re ready to make your hiring decision.

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8. Decision and job offer

Congratulations! After a series of well-organized selection processes for recruiting new employees, you’ve finally found your perfect hire. Now it’s time to let them know you’re offering them a position at your company. The job offer process is a critical one; done right, you’ll soon welcome your new employee in the office. But, if you miss something, you might lose a great candidate and have to start the hiring process all over again.

Here are some tips that will help you streamline the job offer approval process:

  • Discuss employment terms early in the selection process. Salary, bonuses and working hours are all potential dealbreakers, so it’s best to learn whether you agree with candidates on those factors before you offer them a job.
  • Make an informal verbal offer. It’ll cost you time if you wait to craft a formal job offer letter before you inform candidates. You can first call them to give them the good news and get a hint as to whether they’re going to accept or reject your offer. Be sure to give the candidate the opportunity to “think on it” so they don’t feel pressured to give an answer right away.
  • Use a job offer letter template. Instead of writing a new job offer letter from scratch every time you’re offering a job, use an existing template and add only what’s different (e.g. candidate’s name, job title, salary, etc.)
  • Keep HR, Finance and the CEO in the loop. A job offer process usually requires filling out paperwork, getting approvals and completing other prep work before you welcome a new hire in your offices.

If you’re using Workable, you can simplify the offer letter approval process by keeping all necessary data in one place and automating parts of the process.

When a candidate accepts the job offer a hiring cycle ends successfully.

Now what? It’s time to start preparing your new employee’s arrival. You can send them a welcome email to get them excited and plan their first day for a smooth onboarding. Before that, though, don’t forget to inform rejected candidates that they didn’t get the job; not only are they potential employees for another position down the road, but also a positive candidate experience will work miracles for your employer brand.

The post 8 steps of the selection process for hiring employees appeared first on Recruiting Resources: How to Recruit and Hire Better.

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110+ best interview questions and answers (according to 250+ recruiters) https://resources.workable.com/tutorial/interview-questions-to-ask Tue, 30 Aug 2022 14:12:50 +0000 https://resources.workable.com/?p=32653 Between the nuances involved with hiring for different positions and the importance of finding the right company culture fit, coming up with a comprehensive list of questions is no easy feat. That challenge is made even more difficult by the fact that sample answers to common job interview questions are easily found online, making it […]

The post 110+ best interview questions and answers (according to 250+ recruiters) appeared first on Recruiting Resources: How to Recruit and Hire Better.

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Between the nuances involved with hiring for different positions and the importance of finding the right company culture fit, coming up with a comprehensive list of questions is no easy feat. That challenge is made even more difficult by the fact that sample answers to common job interview questions are easily found online, making it hard to trust that responses are authentic, original, or accurate.

The ability to ask the best interview questions can set you apart as a hiring professional and helps optimize the interview process. Honing this essential skill can lead to a host of advantages including a reduced time-to-hire, lower turnover rates, and the ability to make better hiring decisions with confidence.

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In an effort to help you find the most effective and insightful interview questions, we asked 250 experienced recruiters for their opinions about the best interview questions and created this comprehensive guide of our findings. Here’s what you’ll learn:

Most popular interview questions and answers

Although it’s tempting to want to curate a list of unique and creative questions, popular interview questions are popular for a reason and the answers can reveal a lot about a candidate’s personality or background. We surveyed hiring professionals to find out which popular interview questions are their favorites.

1. Tell me about yourself.

Although this is a common interview question that candidates are likely to prepare for in advance, its open-ended format allows for a wide range of response types. It’s also a great way to transition from introductory small talk to official interview mode.

How a candidate approaches the answer can offer another angle of insight: Do they launch right into an elevator speech about their personal or professional life? Do they use the question as an opportunity to explain how their education or work history supports the position they’re hoping to fill? Do they have a clear career path in mind and would this role help fulfill those goals?

There’s no wrong answer but the applicant’s response and how that response is delivered can tell you a lot about a candidate.

Answer example:

“Sure! For the past three years, I’ve been working as a social media specialist for a mid-sized marketing agency, where I create, schedule, and manage content for between 5 and 10 clients at a time. I really enjoy the work — I’m creative, organized, I love meeting deadlines, and I find the analytics reports fascinating, so it’s a good fit for my personality! It’s been great but I’d prefer the opportunity to focus my efforts on building a strong brand identity and online community for one company like yours.”

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2. Give an example of a time that you improved or optimized a process that was outdated.

A candidate with the ability to identify potential areas of improvement in a workflow, their role, or within the company is an invaluable asset, particularly if they’re also willing and able to offer a solution. Creative, process-focused employees are more likely to take ownership of their position and offer innovative ideas that could benefit the entire organization.
Asking for an example of a time they optimized a process doesn’t have to be limited to work experience, either. Although that may be the ideal response, any reply that demonstrates superior problem-solving skills is worth considering.

Answer example:

“At my current job, we were using Slack to communicate about upcoming and ongoing projects. Although it’s a great platform for conversation, it wasn’t the best option for project planning; messages would get buried, misplaced, or wouldn’t be seen by everyone involved. I researched project management platforms and presented the idea of using Notion — it was flexible enough to work for the different types of projects various teams worked on but created one resource that anyone could easily reference. Once we got past the learning curve, everyone agreed that project planning felt so much more efficient and organized.”

3. If you were an interviewer, what do you think the three most important criteria would be for hiring someone for this position?

Asking which qualities or skills would be most valuable for a position allows you to assess an applicant’s understanding of the role while also offering them the opportunity to explain how they fulfill those needs.

This is also the type of question that many candidates might need a moment to think about — and how they handle that can be as revealing as their answer. Do they rush right into an answer, forming their response as they reply? Do they feel comfortable taking a moment to consider their answer? Do they play it safe with surface-level answers or go more in-depth by offering some more interesting ideas?

Answer example:

“That’s a great question. What are the three most important criteria I’d be looking for in an administrative assistant? Well, I think an obvious one is being organized since there are a lot of responsibilities and different tasks involved. I’m a huge fan of productivity and calendar apps to help with that. Second, although you work directly with so many people, the ability to work independently and self-motivate is critical, so that you don’t end up creating more work for others! Good communication skills are also important — you have to be clear in explaining what you’re working on, what is needed, and follow-up persistently. I’m a people-person and won’t hesitate to pick up the phone or send a message.”

4. How would your past coworkers describe your interactions with them? Why would they describe them this way?

Understanding a candidate’s personality and work style is important to how well they’ll do in the role they’re applying for, as well as how they’ll fit into their team and into company culture. It’s easier to hire a good fit than it is to adjust someone’s general disposition.

While it’s obvious that a candidate is unlikely to reveal negative traits, what they choose to highlight can be a good indicator of their self-awareness and if they’d be a team player or not.

Answer example:

“The coworkers at my current company would describe my interactions with them as helpful and friendly. I’m a problem-solver by nature; I really enjoy the challenge of identifying an issue and brainstorming a solution. So, if someone was working on a project or had a difficult client, they’d often come to me for advice and I was always happy to throw out some ideas or ask questions that would help them land on a solution.”

5. Please give an example of a project that you owned and what the process was like from start to finish.

Asking for specific examples of projects a candidate has been responsible for offers insight into the level of responsibility an applicant has taken on in the past, experience and skills they may have learned along the way, and the executive function skills needed to accomplish the assignment.

It may be helpful to ask follow-up questions about what they found most satisfying or challenging about the work that they completed or how they overcame any obstacles that they outlined in their answer.

Answer example:

“I was responsible for revising the landing page for the website at my last job. Our objective was to streamline the information and improve the copy, functionality, and design. I came up with some rough drafts, worked closely with the writers and designers on the marketing team to improve on those ideas, and then used A/B testing to determine which was more popular based on bounce rate and sign-ups. It was a big job with a lot of moving pieces but we saw a 25% increase in sign ups once the new page went live and it was interesting to work with teams in other departments.”

6. What kind of people do you have trouble interacting with? How do you deal with them?

Asking people to discuss what kind of people they find difficult can help you gauge their personality type as well as their willingness and ability to answer honestly.

Even people who get along with everyone encounter certain personality types that are more challenging to manage, and being able to admit that demonstrates authenticity. Obviously, if their answer is applicable to the people they’d be working closely with, they may not be the best fit for the position. Most people will try to play it safe with a response to a question like this, so being able to provide a clear answer should count in their favor.

Answer example:

“I work well with a lot of different people and got a lot of experience in doing so during a prior job as a customer support representative. I’d say the biggest challenge is people who always seem adversarial — as if they’re looking for fault in you or your work. However, it’s important to remember that it’s probably not personal. It may just be their style of communication or a reflection of something they have going on in their own lives. I respond by being patient and friendly, and I accept their feedback without letting my perception of their tone interfere with their actual message.”

7. What do you do when a decision is being made that you disagree with?

It’s impossible to please everybody all of the time, at work and in life. Conflict comes in many forms, and knowing how a candidate reacts when they disagree with a decision can reveal whether or not they’d be a good culture fit for the role or team they’ll be working on.

Respectfully voicing a conflicting opinion can also demonstrate a level of interest and a sense of ownership in an outcome, which is a trait that can have many different advantages for your company.

Answer example:

“I think it’s important to try to figure out why the other side thinks the way they do. Even if I don’t agree with their perspective, trying to understand the reasoning behind it can be helpful. I also make an effort to communicate my ‘why’ calmly and clearly and, when possible, suggest alternate solutions that might meet everyone’s needs. Ultimately, I listen and respond thoughtfully, accept the prevailing outcome, and move on.”

8. How would you describe yourself in 5 words?

The words someone chooses to describe themselves can reveal a lot about their personality. Using adjectives listed in the job description would be a sharp and strategic tactic. However, whatever words they offer up as an answer are likely to provide a sneak peek into what aspects of their personality they’re most proud of, and what they think is most relevant to the available position.

Answer example:

“That’s a great question! I’d say that I’m honest, independent, curious, responsible, and competitive. I actually think those personality traits have contributed to my success in sales. It’s the perfect career path for someone who is driven and comfortable with themselves and others.”

General interview questions

These are questions that can take any form. They might be generic or clarifying questions to behavioral and situational questions, they can be role-specific or questions to determine culture fit.

They can also be icebreaker questions or closing questions. You can tailor these questions to each specific candidate if there are particular areas about their background that you’d like to explore further. For example:

Great interview questions to ask:

  • Why do you want to work here?
  • Why did you leave your last job?
  • You have a lot of experience in the customer support industry. What do you think you’d like about moving to a sales role and what do you think would be the biggest challenge you’d face?
  • What do you like about our company from what you’ve learned so far during the hiring process?
  • I’ve noticed an employment gap in your resume. Can you tell me more about that period?
  • Why did you pursue this career?
  • How did you choose your field of study?
  • What do you love about your field of expertise?
  • Does this position line up with what you expected, based on the job ad?
  • Now that we’ve discussed this position in-depth, would you re-apply? Why / Why not?
  • Should you get hired, what do you think would be most challenging in this role?

These are some of the most common questions to ask in an interview because they are general enough to be adapted to any role or candidate.

These questions are great as first-round interview questions to ask. Also, you can use some of them as phone interview questions to ask candidates before you bring them in for a technical interview.

Behavioral interview questions

Behavioral questions ask candidates to share an experience they had at a previous job and explain how they handled a situation.

This can give you insight into how people will react in similar situations at your company.

You can craft behavioral questions to assess most kinds of qualities or skills. For example:

  • Tell me about a time you had to deal with a difficult colleague. (assesses communication skills, diplomacy and ability to overcome obstacles)
  • Have you ever missed a deadline? What would you do differently next time? (assesses ability to learn from mistakes)
  • Have you ever been assigned with a task you were not familiar with? (assesses problem-solving abilities and openness to ask for advice

Make sure you give your candidates an opportunity to reflect and ask follow-up questions if needed.

Behavioral questions, as well as the situational questions that follow, can be part of the third round of interviews where qualified candidates are compared to each other based on soft skills and culture fit.

Situational interview questions

Situational questions present candidates with hypothetical scenarios and ask them to explain how they would act.
Situational interview questions work particularly well for sales, manager, and customer service roles, since these candidates will need to think quickly on their feet.

Just like with behavioral questions, you can evaluate a variety of job-related qualities. Some examples:

  • If you discovered your supervisor was breaking the company’s code of conduct, what would you do? (assesses integrity, judgment and communication skills)
  • If an angry customer demanded to speak with your manager without specifying their problem, how would you handle it? (assesses ability to stay calm in trying situations, diplomacy and judgment.)
  • What would you do if your manager gave you a seemingly impossible task with a tight deadline? (assesses tactfulness and confidence)

Keep in mind that how people say they would act isn’t necessarily the same as how they would act. When evaluating answers to situational questions, pay less attention to their actual answer and more to the candidate’s thought process and how well they can justify their decisions.

Skill-based interview questions

Skill-based questions are designed to gauge an applicant’s proficiency and personality. Questions about hard skills touch on a candidate’s professional background, while questions about soft skills tap into personal characteristics.

Identifying a candidate’s skills helps determine not only how they’d perform in their role, but also within the company itself.

Communication skills questions

The ability to communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing, makes it possible to convey ideas, set goals, report progress, and interact positively with clients and colleagues. Although good communication skills are essential components of certain positions, like sales, public relations, or marketing, they’re a valuable asset in every role.

Hiring a candidate with strong communication skills increases productivity, enhances collaboration, and contributes to a more pleasant work environment all around.

Top 3 communication skills interview questions

Here are the most common communication skills interview questions. Check our dedicated communication skills interview questions article to see more.

  • How would you overcome communication challenges on a remote team?
  • Have you ever worked with someone you struggled to communicate with? If so, what was the obstacle and how did you handle it?
  • Describe a time you had to share bad news with your team or have a difficult conversation with a coworker.

Teamwork questions

Candidates with good teamwork skills are able to accept feedback, resolve issues, recognize the strengths of other individuals, and help foster a healthy work environment.

Good interpersonal skills and the ability to work as part of a team is important, even in roles where a candidate does their actual work independently. Promoting a culture of teamwork, and hiring to support that effort, improves communication and collaboration on a company-wide level.

Top 3 teamwork interview questions

Here are the most common teamwork interview questions. Check our dedicated teamwork interview questions article to see more.

  • Describe a group project you worked on. What was your role and what did you achieve?
  • Has your team ever failed to reach a goal? If so, what went wrong and what did you learn from that experience?
  • Tell me about a time you had to work with a colleague you didn’t get along with.

Learning and adaptability questions

Change can be challenging for many different personality types, but the ability to adapt is essential to innovation and critical to succeeding in a dynamic work environment.

Learning and adaptability questions can reveal whether or not a candidate is likely to remain calm under pressure, accept new team members or tools, or if they can adjust swiftly to unpredictable circumstances. Seek out candidates who are flexible and open to new experiences.

Top 3 learning and adaptability interview questions

Here are the most common learning and adaptability interview questions. Check our dedicated adaptability interview questions article to see more.

  • Imagine you have submitted a piece of work that you thought was finished, but a colleague returns it to you with multiple corrections and comments that would take you hours to address. What would you do?
  • Tell me about a time you had to learn how to use a new tool at work. How long did it take you to understand its features use it daily?
  • What are the biggest challenges you’re facing when starting a new job?

Creativity-focused questions

Creativity is a skill that can turn a good candidate into an amazing hire.

While it’s an obvious skill requirement for some positions, such as graphic designers, photographers, or writers, creative thinkers are more likely to offer ideas and solutions that lead to quality outcomes in any project or role.

Top 3 creativity focused interview questions

Here are the most popular creativity-focused interview questions:

  • Tell me about a time you gave a creative solution to a problem.
  • How do you find inspiration to produce a piece of work?
  • If I asked you to tell me one new idea we can implement into our product/website/services, what would you tell me?

Problem-solving skills questions

Candidates with superior problem-solving skills are often results-oriented employees who can adapt easily and perform effectively in stressful or unexpected situations.

The ability to analyze information and identify effective solutions to complex situations indicates that an applicant can predict potential issues, overcome challenges, and improve existing processes or workflows.

Top 3 problem-solving interview questions

Here are the most common problem-solving interview questions. Check our dedicated problem-solving interview questions article to see more.

  • Tell me about a time you predicted a problem with a stakeholder. How did you prevent it from escalating?
  • How do you know when to solve a problem on your own or to ask for help?
  • Describe a situation where you faced serious challenges in doing your job efficiently. What were the challenges, and how did you overcome them?

Culture-fit questions

Culture fit is a tricky concept. It’s not about wanting to have beers with someone, but you certainly need to be able to communicate and work well with them. Before you choose what interview questions to ask, think about what ‘culture fit’ means in your team or company.

For some teams, “working well” with someone means being able to leave all personal affairs aside and be effective at the task at hand. This can be beneficial in highly structured environments, like consultancies or auditor companies. For other teams, culture fit means being able to have fun and be open with each other (more common in startup environments). Try to formulate specific criteria that will help you determine culture fit for your own company.

Top cultural fit interview questions

Here are the most popular culture-fit interview questions to ask candidates. (Note that these questions can also help you identify common deal breakers, such as arrogance or unhealthily competitive behavior). Check our dedicated article to see more examples of culture-fit interview questions.

  • Describe the type of work environment in which you are most productive.
  • What’s one thing you like about your current (or prior) job and you’d want here as well?
  • What do you hope to achieve during your first six months here?
  • Which was your favorite team to work with in your current or previous jobs and why?

Decision-making questions

Making decisions is part of daily life, both personally and professionally. From prioritizing tasks to solving unexpected problems, good decision-makers routinely use critical thinking skills to evaluate circumstances, consider alternatives, and weigh the pros and cons of available options.

Employees with excellent decision-making skills often work well under pressure and make good leaders or team members since they’re willing to take ownership of a potential solution.

Top 3 decision-making interview questions

Here are the most common decision-making interview questions. Check our dedicated decision-making interview questions article to see more.

  • Describe a time you made an unpopular decision. How did you handle the feedback? How would you have handled the situation differently?
  • Do you usually make better decisions alone or with a group? Why? When do you ask for help?
  • You want your manager to buy a new software that will help your work and you’re trying to choose between two options. The first is more expensive, but has better reviews and the second has fewer features, but is within budget. Which one would you recommend and how?

Critical-thinking questions

Candidates with critical thinking skills routinely employ the use of analytic reasoning and logic to make sound decisions. Critical thinkers often have an independent mindset and are likely to improve processes instead of simply performing the tasks associated with their position.

Critical thinking incorporates a broad range of valuable skills, including adaptability, creativity, objectivity, decision-making, and problem-solving abilities, which makes employees with strong critical thinking skills an asset to any team, role, or project.

Top 3 critical-thinking interview questions

Here are the most common critical-thinking interview questions. Check our dedicated critical-thinking interview questions article to see more.

  • Tell me about a time you had to make a decision with incomplete information. What did you do?
  • During a live presentation to key stakeholders, you spot a mistake in your manager’s report, but your manager isn’t at the presentation. How do you handle this?
  • Describe a time when you had to convince your manager to try a different approach to solve a problem.

Soft-skills questions

Although work experience and history is undoubtedly important, it’s often soft skills like communication, adaptability, and collaboration that become the deciding factor between two equally proficient candidates.

Hiring candidates that are a good fit for their team, and for company culture in general, helps build lasting rapport and can reduce turnover rates. Choose soft skill questions that will help you assess aptitude in a few different areas to get a better perspective of an applicant’s personality.

Top 3 soft-skills interview questions

Here are the most common soft-skills interview questions. Check our dedicated soft-skills interview questions article to see more.

  • What would you do if your team rejected all of your ideas?
  • If you’re presenting ideas during a meeting and your audience seems disengaged, what would you do to get their attention?
  • Describe a time you fell behind schedule. What went wrong and what would you do differently next time?

Technical interview questions

These questions are at the core of technical interviews. If you’re the hiring manager or a team member who does a similar job as the position you’re hiring for, you’ll want to ask these questions. Note that “technical” does not mean tech-related – in this case, it means specific and job-related.

Technical questions are usually part of the second interview questions to ask candidates who have been shortlisted after the initial interview or screening call. In this stage, you’re evaluating the candidate’s ability to actually do the job.

To find the best technical interview questions to ask potential employees, search for the role you’re hiring for in our vast library of 390+ interview question samples.

Here are some examples of position specific interview questions:

Interview questions for Management

If you’re hiring team leaders, you want to make sure they can answer the above types of interview questions well. But, hiring for each managerial position will entail an additional set of questions specifically to judge the candidate’s management skills (such as setting and tracking goals or training and motivating team members). Depending on the seniority of the manager’s role, there are different interview questions to ask managers.

Top 3 Management interview questions

Here are the most common interview questions for managers.

  • What’s your approach to delegating work to employees? How do you ensure that tasks are completed?
  • How would you describe your management style?
  • Tell me about a time you had to deal with a team member who constantly opposed your ideas. How did you handle it?

Other interview questions for Management positions

Check our dedicated managers interview questions articles for more questions depending on the position you are hiring for.

Interview questions for Accounting and Finance

When interviewing for accounting and finance positions, you’re searching for a motivated, detail-oriented individual with work experience that’s relevant to your company’s specific needs. Situational and process-based questions can provide insight into the kind of work they did in prior positions.

Accounting-related tasks are often routine and repetitive. Hiring a candidate with critical thinking or problem-solving skills is more likely to lead to improved systems and an increase in productivity.

Top 3 Accounting and Finance interview questions

Here are the most common interview questions for accounting and finance positions:

  • Describe an accounting process that you developed or improved.
  • Describe a time you helped your company reduce costs.
  • How would you set up an internal control system for processing invoices?

Other interview questions for Accounting and Finance positions

Interview questions for Administration

Administrative positions cover a broad range of important operational duties. Work history requirements will vary depending on the available position, but the best candidates for administration-related roles are diligent, organized, and have strong verbal and written communication skills.

Combine operational, role-specific, and behavioral questions to get a better understanding of what attributes each candidate may bring to the position.

Top 3 Administration interview questions

Here are the most common interview questions for admin positions:

  • In what ways have you improved efficiency at work? (e.g. finding a cheaper vendor for office supplies that reduced costs)
  • What does “managing up” mean to you? In what ways have you done that?
  • How would you prioritize your work if different managers assigned you tasks due at the same time?

Other interview questions for Administration positions

Interview questions for Customer Service

The people you hire for customer service positions ultimately become the face and voice of your business, so it’s important to choose candidates with strong communication skills and a genuine desire to help others.

Operational or role-specific questions are an excellent way to evaluate a candidate’s prior experience or judgment, but keep in mind that it’s easier to train someone to do the tasks associated with the job than it is to change personality. Behavioral questions are a valuable way to gauge their potential success in interacting with customers, and it’s particularly helpful to pay close attention to non-verbal cues such as body language during the interview process.

Top 3 Customer Service interview questions

Here are the most common interview questions for customer service positions:

  • Let’s say that the customer you’re talking to is complaining about a well-known problem with your product. How do you diffuse the situation?
  • Describe a time you turned a negative situation with a customer into a positive one.
  • Are you familiar with our products/services? What do you think are the most common issues we face with clients?

Other interview questions for Customer Service positions

Interview questions for IT and Tech

Hiring for IT and tech roles is unique because the roles are so reliant on hard skills and experience. Being proficient is often critical to the functionality of the business—it’s rarely a role where you can successfully “fake it ‘til you make it.”

Although a formal education is valuable, hands-on experience and a genuine interest in the field is often even more important since technology changes so rapidly. Strong candidates should have a desire to learn and an interest in acquiring new knowledge.

Top 3 IT and Tech interview questions

Here are the most common interview questions for IT and tech positions:

  • How would you spend your first week on the job?
  • You have an idea you want to try out quickly enough. What tools would you use to prototype it?
  • Describe a commercially successful product that you like. What makes it so successful?

Other interview questions for IT and Tech positions

Interview questions for Human Resources

Hiring accomplished HR professionals has a wide-ranging ripple effect of advantages for your employees and your company. The ability to attract, identify, and retain top talent can reduce costs, increase profits, improve company culture, and optimize every aspect of your business.

Strong candidates for HR positions are organized, analytical, detail-oriented, and possess good decision-making and communication skills.

Top 3 Human Resources interview questions

Here are the most common interview questions for human resources positions. Check our dedicated HR interview questions article to see more.

  • Describe a time you successfully resolved differences between an employee and upper-level management.
  • Talk about a hiring process from a previous company. What worked well? What didn’t work well? What would you change?
  • What benefits would you suggest offering to help improve our employees’ work/life balance, but maintain each team’s productivity?

Other interview questions for Human Resources positions

Interview questions for Marketing

Promoting your brand and engaging customers is essential to the overall success of a business. Marketing requires a mix of critical thinking, problem-solving skills, creativity, and communication.

Strong marketing candidates will be independent thinkers who have a genuine interest in your product and intended audience, along with an ability to think outside of the box.

Top 3 Marketing interview questions

Here are the most common interview questions for marketing positions:

  • Who do you think is our biggest competitor? What differentiates our companies?
  • What strategies would you suggest to increase our market share?
  • Describe a time when you worked with a team to create a campaign on a tight budget. What did you have to prioritize?

Other interview questions for Marketing positions

Interview questions for Sales

Sales professionals represent your business to the public, so it’s important to hire candidates who are interested in learning about your customers and products, enjoy working on teams, and are motivated to set and meet individual goals and sales quotas.

When interviewing applicants for sales positions, seek out candidates who take initiative, seem results-driven, and communicate clearly and with confidence.

Top 3 Sales interview questions

Here are the most common interview questions for sales positions. Check our dedicated sales interview questions article to see more.

  • What’s your biggest professional success so far? What do you want to achieve next?
  • Imagine I’m a prospective client. Sell me this object or close a deal with me in 3 minutes.
  • Tell me about the most difficult sale you’ve ever had to make.

Other interview questions for Sales positions

Interview Questions you should not ask

There are certain interview questions that should be avoided, either because they’ve outlived their usefulness or because they’re illegal under U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) guidelines.

Cliche interview questions are unlikely to add any real value or insight—candidates expect these questions and have prepared for them in a way that makes answers inauthentic, or the questions lead to answers that simply lack substance.

Illegal questions should be avoided for obvious reasons, however, it may be easier to accidentally stray into EEO violation territory than you realize.

Cliche interview questions

Smart interview questions can help interviewers make smart hiring decisions but they have a shelf life. There’s no need to buy into the notion that interview preparation is an arms race between interviewers and candidates, but once a question is out there then the model answers will quickly follow. Too often the result is canned responses to predictable questions.

You can’t blame candidates for trying to figure out what they will be asked and what you want to hear. This is what bored Google’s Larry Page out of his mind and prompted him to ask candidates to tell him something he didn’t already know. But even this approach doesn’t always work.

Interviews have limits as a means of predicting future job performance. Asking certain questions may not give you the insight you’re looking for, and other, more direct questions, may actually be illegal. And hiring on intuition, as Nobel winner Daniel Kahneman argues, is no better. So what are you left with? The need to freshen up and give your interview questions the attention they deserve. Devising variations can take candidates out of their comfort zone and prompt a revealing conversation.

Here are our half-dozen cliched questions that need to be banished, together with some of the best interview questions employers can ask instead:

1. Why do you want this job?/ Why do you want to work at our company?

Who wants a candidate that doesn’t like the job or the company? Still, these questions are quite easy to prepare for and candidates have also been instructed to respect the “it’s not about you” approach. Answers will largely move along the same lines, which greatly diminishes their significance.

Alternative: What were two things that made you want to apply for this position? / From what you know of our company, what are the two things you like best and why?

These alternatives can be answered using what they know of the company and the job. What distinguishes them from the originals, is that they require a certain degree of thinking. Candidates must contemplate on what is important to them and instead of a lengthy abstract paragraph they must be specific and to the point.

2. Why should we hire you?

One of the most popular questions seems hard to answer at first. It requires candidates to find ways in which they are truly special. It screams for a rehearsed response and most of the time candidates will give you just that. The result, unfortunately, doesn’t really help you much. All candidates have seen your job description (which is worth writing well to help it stand out) and they will sell themselves as hard as possible. They will focus on their best assets and demonstrate they can add value to your business. Few surprises expected.

Alternative: If you were hired, how do you think you could help with this project?

Being specific can make them think on their feet. You will not hear a canned response; you will see a candidate actively trying to think. The result may not be as eloquent as the one they had prepared, but it may be a lot more meaningful.

3. What is your greatest weakness?

Candidates know this question is a great favorite with hiring managers. What you end up with is a carefully prepared and faithfully recited answer. Even if the candidate answers truthfully, they will talk about a shortcoming that’s minor and unimportant for the position. You will admire them for their forthrightness but you won’t be any closer to discovering if they are right for the job.

Alternative: Describe a time you experienced failure in your previous job.

This question might also be anticipated, but its greater advantage is that it can’t be so easily faked. Candidates have to talk about a situation that is both verifiable and requires details. Great storytellers may still get there but you will probably get more truthful answers. Anyhow, there’s more bravery involved in admitting a mistake during previous employment than a minor personality flaw.

4. Where do you see yourself in 5 years?

The purpose of this question is to see if candidates have long-term ambitions or how serious they are about this job.

Unfortunately, it has the potential to kill a good interview. It’s always anticipated and the answer could easily either be a lie or elaborate and non-believable.

Alternative: What’s your biggest dream in life?/ What would be your priorities for the first 90 days?

The two alternatives can tell you different things. If you are set on finding out the person’s ambitions, you can ask “What’s your biggest dream?” like Zhang Xin, CEO and co-founder of SOHO China.

This may give you insight in the way a candidate thinks and whether they aim high or low. The other alternative question “What would be your priorities for the first 90 days?” is more down-to-earth and practical. You can see how this person prioritizes their short-term goals and builds on the future.

5. Tell me about a difficult situation you had to overcome

All companies ask behavioral questions. Although some doubt their value in predicting job performance, they are here to stay.

Despite the endless variations, they have become abstract and predictable. So much so, that candidates are advised to come prepared with a bunch of stories — whether they are true or not — that can fit any number of behavioral questions. More often than not, these stories are trotted out.

Alternative: Have you ever had to deal with a customer while having another one on the phone?

Since behavioral questions may be sometimes your best bet, why not focus on something specific? Don’t let the candidates choose their difficult situation. Find an issue that you expect to happen often and ask if they have encountered it in the past. If they haven’t, you can turn to asking a situational question instead.

6. How many golf balls can you fit in a school bus?

The brainteaser family of questions was once a big deal at companies like Microsoft and Google. Many expressed doubts as to their effectiveness until Google’s data showed they had no predictive ability for job performance. What’s more, they sometimes stressed and annoyed qualified candidates making it more likely for companies to miss out on talent. Many interviewers though, still use them since they may find it useful in assessing quick thinking and analytical ability.

Brain teaser questions are detached from reality. How much do you really want to count all the haircuts in America? To see a candidate’s analytical ability you can ask them to solve a real problem. If you are set on puzzles, there’s a long list of actually solvable problems. Better yet, it can be something directly related to the job (also known as the work sample), which requires an equal degree of thinking and background knowledge. This, in particular, is the single best predictor of job performance.

Employers should keep in mind that structured interviews are the ones that work best. Not only do you want to ask the best interview questions, but you want to ask them in a particular order and with a pre-determined system. Dedicate some time to streamline your hiring process and you can boost your chances of making a good decision.

Illegal interview questions

This goes without saying. Using one of these illegal interview questions to ask the interviewee can damage your employer brand at best and, at worst, you might actually run afoul of the law or even get sued.

The problem with illegal questions is that they often crop up in an interview without the interviewer (or even the candidate) being aware that they’re illegal. But, often, these questions are also personal and not job-related, so it’s easy to learn to steer clear of them.

Here are some examples of illegal questions:

  • How old are you?
  • Are you a native English speaker?
  • Do you plan to have children?
  • Are you married or plan to get married soon?
  • Have you ever been arrested?
  • Have you ever used any drugs?
  • When did you graduate?

These interview questions have the potential of illegally disadvantaging a protected group. For example, in the United States, the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) warns against making decisions based on arrest records because this may cause you to unwittingly discriminate against protected groups.

Similarly, in the UK, age is one of the protected characteristics of the Equality Act 2010. This means that a direct question about age, or even an indirect one (such as “When did you finish school?”) might get you in trouble.

As a general rule of thumb, don’t ask anything about a candidate’s past that’s not job-related and don’t ask for details about a candidate’s personal life. If you want to make sure a candidate doesn’t use illegal drugs, for instance, inform them you’re going to conduct a legal background check.

But, if a candidate is a recovering addict or is taking necessary prescription drugs because of an illness, they may be legally protected from adverse employment decisions. Make sure you learn about the applicable laws beforehand.

Tips for better interview questions

Interviewing is a skill that can (and should) be refined through planning and practice. Identifying which questions to ask requires not only an in-depth understanding of the role you’re hiring for, but also of the nuances of communication and human nature. It’s possible to ask the “right” question the wrong way; make sure your questions are open-ended enough to give candidates the opportunity to elaborate.

It’s also important to conduct the interview in a way that puts candidates at ease for a more accurate insight into their personality.

Prepare your interview questions

We can’t talk about how to conduct an interview or interview questions if we don’t know the specific skills we want to assess.

Interview questions will determine whether you’ll get enough useful insight to judge candidates’ suitability for the job. This means that your questions must be directly related to the job requirements. Otherwise, it will be challenging to compare one candidate to another on the criteria that really matter.

To do this, first determine what qualities you want to see in your new hire. Start with the job description (by the way, if you don’t know where to start writing your job ads, we have a vast library of job description templates to help you). Ask yourself:

  • Which requirements do I want to assess during the interview? Make a comprehensive list and select those qualities you can assess through interview questions. Some of your requirements can be evaluated more effectively at previous stages (such as the testing phase or initial screening call).
  • What requirements carry the most weight? For example, you definitely want your salespeople to have great communication skills, but they might not need to have extroverted personalities. So, your interview questions should focus on communication skills, instead of extroversion.

Example: Content Writer position

Let’s look at the complete list of requirements for the role of Content Writer.

These exclude experience and education, which can vary considerably depending on the role and are elements you can evaluate directly from the job application phase.

Must-have skills

Some companies may have other or additional requirements, but this list covers the most important qualities.

Hard skills

  • Writing skills
  • Editing skills
  • Researching skills

Soft skills

  • Communication skills (including clarity of expression and vocabulary)
  • Teamwork
  • Learning skills / Openness to feedback
  • Creativity
  • Problem-solving skills
  • Culture fit

The first three skills can be classified as hard, tangible skills and they’re the absolute minimum candidates should possess to be considered qualified for the job. That’s why you can evaluate them via an assessment or a work sample (in fact, the work sample is one of the most effective methods of predicting job performance.)

You can ask content writing candidates to submit their answers to an editing exercise. For other roles, it might be a simulation or a presentation (for instance, you can ask a salesperson to prepare a short presentation for a fictional product).

Assessments will give you a strong measuring stick to evaluate candidates: you can shorten your candidate pool to ensure that only the best candidates make it to the interview phase.

There, you can start evaluating the soft skills, along with culture fit, attitude, and other intangibles that aren’t as easily measured. Some skills (such as communication skills) can also be evaluated during initial screening calls.

Nice-to-have skills

It’s important to consider nice-to-have skills. These skills are additional qualities that would help each candidate do the job at the highest level. They aren’t strictly necessary, but they can be effective tie-breakers when you have to choose between equally qualified candidates. For example, here are some nice-to-have skills for the role of Content Writer:

  • Knowledge of SEO and keyword research
  • Experience with WordPress
  • Familiarity with the Chicago Manual of Style

When evaluating candidates, look for those nice-to-have skills, but make sure you don’t use them to decide on a candidate at the initial stages. If you find yourself with two awesome candidates at the offer stage, then you can use nice-to-have skills to choose ‘the one’.

Now that we have determined the desirable skills and requirements, we can dive into interview questions.

Structure your interviews

Structured interviews are effective methods of predicting job performance. Their three main characteristics are:

  • You ask all candidates the same questions.
  • You ask questions in the same order.
  • You evaluate answers based on standardized rating scales.

The first two characteristics are easy, yet critical for success. If you ask different questions of each candidate, it’s impossible to objectively compare their answers. This will result in you trying to make a hiring decision on your gut feeling which potentially leads to harmful biases and discrimination.

So, when you decide which interview questions to ask, spend some time putting them in order. To do this, use the format of an interview scorecard; your applicant tracking system may have a function to help you build scorecards and share them with your team.

Rating scales mitigate bias

The third characteristic of a structured interview – the rating scales – is immensely helpful in ensuring you’ll hire objectively. You create a scale and then you evaluate candidates’ answers with that scale. To do this right, define what exactly each item on the scale means.

For example, you might choose 1 to 5 scale for organizational skills and say “1” is “poor organizational skills”, while “5” is “excellent organizational skills”. Make sure though that your hiring team is aligned for what “excellent” or “poor” or anything in-between means. One way to do that is to describe behaviors that a person with “excellent organizational skills” would show, such as “they’ll be able to know at any given time what tasks they have and when they should finish them.” If you want to give these scales a shot, download our complete structured interview guide.

Alternatively, you can use a simpler scale, such as “Yes,” “No” and “Definitely” (which is the system that the Workable platform uses in the built-in scorecards.)

Make natural transitions between questions

Having a list of interview questions to ask is good practice, but it has an inherent difficulty: it might make the interview seem more robotic and inflexible.

For example, imagine you’re listening to a candidate’s answer. When they finish talking, you may suddenly feel awkward, so you nod and say something akin to “OK, interesting” and then you move on to the next question. This isn’t how a natural conversation would flow, and it might make the experience less pleasant for the candidate (and yourself).

There are some things you can do to make the transition easier:

1. Group the questions according to topic

For example, if you want to ask about writing skills, list all these questions together. Then, if a candidate answering one question touches on another question in your list, you can easily say; “Actually, I was planning to ask you about that. Tell me more about…”. This applies to similar skills as well – for example, list organizational interview questions and leadership interview questions one after the other.

2. Ask prompting questions

Candidates will use their experiences, knowledge and thoughts to back up their answers. Most of the time, you’ll have something to ask about those that’s relevant to the role. For instance, you can say something like; “You mentioned that you did this project with a team of designers. We actually have a great team here that you’ll be working closely with should you be hired. How would you feel about this?”

3. React like you would in a social situation

If somebody told you at a party that they’re currently working on a cutting-edge face recognition program, how would you react? You might say something like “That sounds fascinating. Tell me more!” or “What’s the program like?” It’s OK to respond this way during an interview, as long as you make sure the conversation doesn’t stray from the job you’re hiring for.

For all these to work though, you need to be a good interviewer with two skills of your own: 1) active listening and 2) good preparation.

Read and learn your questions before the interview, and think about what answers you’d like to hear. Then, give the candidate your undivided attention during the interview.

How to evaluate candidates’ answers

Asking great questions is just the beginning; now you’ll have to tell whether the candidate’s answer was good or not (and how good compared to other candidates’). Before you dive into the answers, make sure you:

Remember what the candidate said

To do this, take a few notes, either during the interview or right after. This will help you recall the answer and analyze it. Inform the candidate beforehand that you’ll be doing this. Avoid writing down generic judgments, but write down something that will help you recall the candidate’s answer or behavior. For example:

  • Don’t write: He’s not a good communicator (too general and abstract)
  • Do write: He strayed off topic several times (very specific)

Get all the information you need with the STAR framework

For example, imagine you asked a candidate a behavioral question. Well-prepared candidates may (wittingly or unwittingly) compose their answers around the STAR framework (Situation – Task – Action – Result).

You can use this, too, to make sure you get complete information since a good answer should touch on each of the four STAR elements. Here’s an example:

  • Question: “Tell me about a time you had to deal with a difficult colleague.”
  • Answer: “When my team took up the launch of a marketing campaign for a new product, we had to work with a senior designer to prepare some graphics.”

This designer, because he was very talented and experienced, disagreed with a lot of our requirements and refused to make the changes we asked for. My boss said I had to find a way to work with him.

So, I arranged a 1:1 meeting with him to find out how he envisioned the graphics, why he objected to our requirements and what he would like to do instead. I also explained the reasoning behind what my team wanted, too.”

  • Question: “And what happened in the end?”
  • Answer: “The designer appreciated my effort and we managed to find common ground. The end result was really high quality and received the praise of our CEO.”

You can see that this candidate initially touched on situation, task, and action, but didn’t mention the end result. Knowing the STAR framework would give you a cue to ask for the missing information.

7 factors to evaluate candidates interview answers

Now, consider these factors to help you evaluate candidates:

1. Concreteness and simplicity

We all know people who can ramble on and on about something. If the candidate does this without answering your questions, that’s a potential interview red flag. This also applies if they include a lot of irrelevant information in their answer.

2. Staying on topic

It’s one thing to go off in tangents on a topic, and another thing to deliberately avoid answering a question. This might happen inadvertently, so try to bring the conversation back on topic or ask a more specific question. If the candidate still seems unwilling or unable to answer, it’s a red flag.

3. Attitude

Yes, the tone of each answer matters. If someone is condescending or arrogant when answering, consider whether they’re a good fit – even if the content of their answer is appropriate.

4. Authenticity

Answers to some questions might be similar among candidates. Look for those who stand out and have unique and honest answers.

5. Listening

Candidates who listen give the most relevant answers. If a candidate constantly interrupts you or misunderstands the meaning of your questions, that can indicate they aren’t very good listeners.

6. Using examples

Pay attention to the quality and details of examples that candidates give. The outright lack of real examples is a red flag, while vague examples might be embellished or even made up. Ask follow-up questions to get clarification.

7. Consistency

If a candidate says they have excellent communication skills and yet they struggle to complete their sentences, that’s a red flag, too.

Be prepared to answers candidates’ questions

Now that you have a complete overview of the best interview questions to ask, there’s one last thing to do: be prepared to answer common questions from candidates.

They’re interviewing you too, after all. That way, candidates can also get useful insight on whether your company is a good fit for their skill set and motivations – and hopefully, you’ll get to convince the best among them to join your team. Happy interviewing!

The post 110+ best interview questions and answers (according to 250+ recruiters) appeared first on Recruiting Resources: How to Recruit and Hire Better.

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What are soft skills? https://resources.workable.com/hr-terms/what-are-soft-skills Mon, 01 Jul 2019 13:00:25 +0000 https://resources.workable.com/?p=32929 Soft skills are general traits not specific to any job, helping employees excel in any workplace. They include communication, teamwork, and adaptability, often termed as transferable or interpersonal skills. They’re essential for professional success. At a minimum, employees need role-specific knowledge and abilities to perform their job duties. But, those who usually stand out as […]

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Soft skills are general traits not specific to any job, helping employees excel in any workplace. They include communication, teamwork, and adaptability, often termed as transferable or interpersonal skills. They’re essential for professional success.

At a minimum, employees need role-specific knowledge and abilities to perform their job duties. But, those who usually stand out as high performers need some additional qualities, such as the ability to communicate clearly, the ability to work well with others and the ability to manage their time effectively. These abilities are examples of soft skills.

Neil Carberry, Director for Employment and Skills at CBI, talks about the balance between attitude and technical skills: “Business is clear that developing the right attitudes and attributes in people – such as resilience, respect, enthusiasm, and creativity – is just as important as academic or technical skills. In an ever more competitive jobs market it is such qualities that will give our young talent a head start and also allow existing employees to progress to higher skilled, better-paid roles”​​.

According to research conducted by Harvard University, 85% of job success comes from having well-developed soft and people skills, with only 15% attributed to technical skills. This underlines the substantial impact soft skills have on professional success​​.

In addition, Deloitte’s research indicates that jobs requiring intensive soft skills are expected to grow 2.5 times faster than other job types. By 2030, it is predicted that 63% of all jobs will be comprised of soft skills roles, showcasing the growing demand for these competencies in the labor market​​.

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Contents:

Here are 15 soft skills examples that are essential traits among employees:

  • Communication
  • Teamwork
  • Problem-solving
  • Time management
  • Critical thinking
  • Decision-making
  • Organizational
  • Stress management
  • Adaptability
  • Conflict management
  • Leadership
  • Creativity
  • Resourcefulness
  • Persuasion
  • Openness to criticism

Forbes adds to the above Emotional Intelligence and Work Ethic, which are as important as the others mentioned.

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Why are soft skills important?

In job ads, it’s common to include requirements such as “communication skills” or “a problem-solving attitude”. That’s because soft skills help you:

  • Identify employees who are not just able to do the job, but they’re also able to do it well.
    • Example: An employee with good time management skills knows how to prioritize tasks to meet deadlines.
  • Choose between qualified candidates who meet the typical requirements for the job.
    • Example: When two candidates have a similar academic and professional background, you’re more likely to hire the one who’s more collaborative and flexible.
  • Hire for potential; not just knowledge.
    • Example: For a junior position, it makes sense to look for candidates with a “willingness to learn” and an “adaptive personality”, as opposed to hiring an expert.
  • Make well-rounded hiring decisions.
    • Example: When hiring a salesperson, you want to find a candidate who’s familiar with the industry and has experience in sales, but is also resilient, knows how to negotiate and has excellent verbal communication abilities.
  • Evaluate candidates’ culture fit.
    • Example: If you value accountability and you want to have employees who can take initiative, it’s important to look for candidates who are not afraid to take ownership of their job, who are decisive and have a problem-solving aptitude.

How to evaluate soft skills in the workplace

Identifying and assessing soft skills in candidates is no easy feat: those qualities are often intangible and can’t be measured by simply looking at what soft skills each candidate includes in their resume. Besides, candidates will try to present themselves as positively as possible during interviews, so it’s your job to dig deeper to uncover what they can really bring to the table in terms of soft skills.

How do you assess soft skills in candidates?

1. Know what you’re looking for in potential hires beforehand and ask all candidates the same questions.

Before starting your interview process for an open role, consider what kind of soft skills are important in this role and prepare specific questions to assess those skills. This step is important for you to evaluate all candidates objectively. For example, in a sales role, good communication is key. By preparing specific questions that evaluate how candidates use their communication skills on the job, you’re more likely to find someone who can actually communicate with clients effectively, instead of hiring someone who only appears so (e.g. because they’re extroverted).

To help you out, we gathered examples of soft skills questions that test specific skills:

2. Ask behavioral questions to learn how they’ve used soft skills in previous jobs.

Past behaviors indicate how candidates behave in business settings, so they can be used as a soft skill assessment, too. For example, you can ask targeted questions to learn how candidates have resolved conflicts, how they’ve managed time-sensitive tasks or how they’ve worked in group projects.

Here are some ideas:

  • How do you prioritize work when there are multiple projects going on at the same time?
  • What happened when you disagreed with a colleague about how you should approach a project or deal with a problem at work?

Check our list of behavioral interview questions for more examples.

3. Use hypothetical scenarios, games and activities that test specific abilities.

Often, it’s useful to simulate job duties to test how candidates would approach regular tasks and challenges. That’s because each job, team and company is different, so you want to find a candidate who fits your unique environment. For example, a role-playing activity can help you assess whether salespeople have the negotiation skills you’re specifically looking for. Or, you can use a game-based exercise to identify candidates who solve problems creatively.

Here are some examples:

  • If you had two important deadlines coming up, how would you prioritize your tasks?
  • If one of your team members was underperforming, how would you give them feedback?

For more ideas on using hypothetical scenarios to evaluate candidates, take a look at our situational interview questions.

4. Pay attention to candidates’ answers and reactions during interviews

You can learn a lot about candidates’ soft skills through job-specific questions and assignments. Even if you want to primarily test candidates’ knowledge and hard skills, you can still notice strong and weak points in soft skills, too. For example, one candidate might claim to have excellent attention to detail, but if their written assignment has many typos and errors, then that’s a red flag. Likewise, when a candidate gives you clear, well-structured answers, it’s a hint they’re good communicators.

To form an objective opinion on candidates’ soft skills and abilities, make sure you take everything into consideration: from the way they interact with you during interviews to their performance on job-related tasks. This way, you’ll be more confident you select the most competent employees, but also those who fit well to your work environment.

Want more definitions? See our complete library of HR Terms.

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8 job offer letter templates for every circumstance with extra tips https://resources.workable.com/tutorial/job-offer-letter-template-examples Thu, 21 Feb 2019 13:13:20 +0000 https://resources.workable.com/?p=32367 Finding the perfect hire isn’t easy. Most of the time you have to review a lot of resumes and see many candidates before you make a decision. And after all this effort, it’s time to send your job offer letter –  and you realize this is equally important to any other hiring stage since you […]

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Finding the perfect hire isn’t easy. Most of the time you have to review a lot of resumes and see many candidates before you make a decision. And after all this effort, it’s time to send your job offer letter –  and you realize this is equally important to any other hiring stage since you have to make your job offer stand out to bring the best candidate on board.

What is a Job Offer?

When a hiring team finds the right candidate, it usually contacts them in order to announce its decision and make a job offer. When the job offer is verbal, the hiring manager calls the selected candidate and lets them know they are offering them the position. Depending on the company’s policy and hiring process, the candidate will also receive the offer via email or in writing. A job offer to a candidate, whether it is made via phone or email, must be followed by a formal job offer letter where the details of the offer of employment are confirmed.

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What is included in a job offer?

A job offer letter from employer to employee should include:

  1. Job title
  2. Job description
  3. Starting date
  4. Work schedule
  5. Reporting structure
  6. Salary (Compensation Bonus or Commission)
  7. Paid time off
  8. Employee benefits
  9. Privacy policies
  10. Termination conditions

Depending on each situation, there are different job offer letters a company or a hiring manager can use. To help you send a job offer letter that will suit your needs, we collected eight sample job offer letter templates.

8 job offer letter examples for any case:

1. General job offer template

If you want a simple job offer letter sample, then this template is for you. This is a job offer email template you can use when you have found your perfect candidate and want to officially offer them a position. Feel free to customize it in order to include as many details as you think your candidate will want to know before making up their mind.

The general job offer template can be found here.

general job offer letter

2. Formal job offer template

This formal job offer letter sample can be used when a company is offering a full-time position to the best candidate. The formal offer of employment includes a sample job offer email along with a formal job offer attachment that covers the most important terms of employment.

The formal job offer template can be found here.

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3. Informal job offer template

This job offer letter example enables your candidate to acknowledge your offer via email, and is just as official, but not as comprehensive as our formal offer letter format.

An email offer letter tends to be less formal and covers the most basic aspects of the job offer before sending a full offer letter. An offer letter email can include salary, an outline of benefits, and immediate next steps. Feel free to use this template when authoring a job offer email for any position.

The informal job offer letter can be found here.

informal job offer letter template

4. Part-time to Full-time job offer template

Have you decided to change a part-time employee to full-time? Use this job offer template and modify it to suit your needs. Before you send a job offer, make sure to ask employees if they’d like to take on a full-time position. Then, send them a job offer email or letter detailing the new position.

The part-time to full-time offer letter template can be found here.

part-time to full-time offer letter

5. Internal job offer template

Sometimes it is common for companies to offer a new job opening to a current employee. Although this is an existing employee, the company still has to send an internal job offer to them in order to make this internal promotion official. This email should follow a discussion and verbal agreement between the employee and their current manager to ensure the promotion aligns with the employee’s career goals.

The sample job offer letter template for internal promotion can be found here.

internal promotion job offer letter template

6. Sales job offer template

Hiring salespeople? What better than sending a sales-customized job offer. This offer letter template for sales candidates contains placeholders where you can fill in your company’s data and you can also tweak the tone and modify employment terms.

The sales job offer template can be found here.

7. Developers job offer template

If you hiring a developer, use this template that includes tips on how to optimize your developer job offer letters, a sample job offer email and a sample formal job offer letter for developers. You can also customize employment terms or include a personalized message to your potential hire.

The developers job offer template can be found here.

8. The Workable job offer template

This is our very own job offer template. We use it for every formal job offer we send to selected candidates (aka Workablers!)

The Workable job offer letter email can be found here.

Workable's job offer letter example

Tips for making a job offer to candidate

Making a job offer to a candidate seems simple at first glance: you create the offer letter, ask management to approve and send it to candidates. However, each of these steps requires time, effort and a good deal of coordination and care.

A few tips that will help you optimize your job offer process are:

  1. Cover important job details before you start hiring
  2. Make a job offer over the phone first
  3. Use effective offer letter templates
  4. Speed up the job offer approval process via recruiting software

For more details, read our complete guide with tips for making a job offer.

Further reading: How to write a standout job offer email

How you can measure and improve your job offer acceptance rate

What is offer acceptance rate?

Definition: An offer acceptance rate shows the percentage of candidates who accepted a formal job offer.

offer acceptance rate formula

The job offer acceptance is a useful recruitment metric. A low rate (i.e. <40%) shows that something might be wrong with your talent acquisition strategies. On the other hand, a high acceptance rate (i.e. >90%) can indicate that there’s a good match between your company’s requirements and selected candidates’ expectations. Generally, a high offer to acceptance ratio is a combined result of good communication, reasonable and competitive offers, and good candidate experience.

So, it is important to send a very good job offer, but also receive an acceptance letter. Learn more about the acceptance rate and how to improve it in our comprehensive article.

Feel free to use a free job offer letter template from our list above, modifying it as you want to make it fit your needs and requirements.

 

More:

 

 

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18 policies every organization should have (+templates) https://resources.workable.com/tutorial/policies-any-organization-should-have-plus-templates Mon, 08 Apr 2024 12:30:19 +0000 https://resources.workable.com/?p=94250 Bringing the human factor to the forefront, policies foster employee engagement, satisfaction, and productivity by promoting transparency and fairness. Reflecting your company’s values and culture, policies contribute to a cohesive work environment, ultimately driving the success and sustainability of your business. From smaller companies to large organizations, policies are vital for their existence, serving as […]

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Bringing the human factor to the forefront, policies foster employee engagement, satisfaction, and productivity by promoting transparency and fairness.

Reflecting your company’s values and culture, policies contribute to a cohesive work environment, ultimately driving the success and sustainability of your business.

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From smaller companies to large organizations, policies are vital for their existence, serving as a shield against any threats to your organization.

As your company evolves, so should your policies. It’s important to seek legal approval before implementing new policies due to the rapidly changing landscape.

Here’s a list of the top 18 company policies your organization should have, and guess what? We have ready-to-use templates for each of them linked to their titles.

Company policies you need to have

company policies you should have

1. Code of conduct policy

The Employee Code of Conduct policy is among the policies every organization should have. It sets forth the standards of behavior expected from employees in their interactions with colleagues, supervisors, and the organization as a whole. It underscores the importance of transparent communication, professionalism, mutual respect, and compliance with legal requirements. Additionally, it delineates the consequences for any breaches of these standards.

A code of conduct policy delineates the appropriate conduct expected of employees within the workplace, encompassing their interactions with colleagues, supervisors, and the overarching organization. This template for an Employee Code of Conduct Company Policy can be customized to suit your company’s specific requirements and serves as a foundational document for establishing your employment guidelines. This policy may alternatively be referred to as a Conduct in the Workplace Policy.

2. Equal employment opportunity policy

The Equal Opportunity Policy emphasizes the importance of fairness and diversity within the workplace, ensuring that all aspects of employment remain free from discrimination based on protected characteristics. This policy promotes an environment where the rights of every individual are respected and valued, from the hiring process to termination.

Key components of this policy include clear definitions of protected attributes such as age, gender, ethnicity, and religion, guidelines to ensure fairness in all stages of employment, and procedures for reporting violations with outlined disciplinary actions for non-compliance.

3. Workplace health and safety policy

The Workplace Health and Safety policy underscores the company’s dedication to fostering a safe and hazard-free environment for its employees. It comprehensively outlines preventive measures, emergency protocols, and supplementary actions aimed at promoting health and safety standards. This policy highlights the significance of adhering to established guidelines and procedures to mitigate risks effectively.

Key elements encompass preventive action guidelines, which detail risk assessments, job hazard analysis, and strategies to prevent workplace-related injuries or illnesses. Additionally, it includes emergency management provisions addressing plans for responding to sudden catastrophes such as fires, floods, and other emergencies. Furthermore, the policy emphasizes additional measures such as regularly updating the policy in alignment with legislative changes, analyzing past incidents for improvement, and establishing clear procedures for accident reporting.

4. Leave and time off policy

The Paid Time Off (PTO) Policy outlines the provision of paid leave offered to employees on an annual basis, covering vacation time that can be utilized at the employee’s discretion. It’s essential and one of the policies every organization should have.

It delineates the accrual process, usage guidelines, and distinguishes PTO from other forms of leave.

Essential components to include in this policy involve defining and differentiating PTO from other types of leave, specifying the accrual process, including the amount of PTO offered to various categories of employees. Additionally, it should detail procedures for requesting PTO and provide guidelines on its usage throughout the year.

5. Data protection and privacy policy

The Data Protection Policy underscores the company’s dedication to handling information with meticulous care and confidentiality. It emphasizes transparency in the collection, storage, and handling of data while upholding individual rights.

This policy extends to employees, contractors, partners, and other entities requiring occasional access to data. Key elements to include in this data protection policy involve defining the types of data collected and specifying the parties covered by the policy.

Additionally, it entails establishing rules for collecting, storing, and handling data to ensure accuracy, security, and legal compliance. Furthermore, the policy outlines procedures for reporting data breaches and misuse, along with delineating the company’s obligations towards data owners.

6. Social media policies

The Social Media Policy offers comprehensive guidelines for employees regarding their use of social media platforms, whether for personal or professional purposes on behalf of the company. It underscores the importance of responsible utilization, maintaining productivity, and safeguarding the company’s image and confidentiality.

Additionally, the policy outlines potential disciplinary actions for any violations. Key components of this policy include guidelines for using personal social media during work hours to ensure it doesn’t impede productivity.

Moreover, it provides clear instructions for employees representing the company on social media platforms, emphasizing the values of respect, accuracy, and responsibility. Furthermore, disciplinary consequences for policy violations, including the possibility of termination, are clearly outlined within the policy.

7. Remote work policy

The Remote Work Policy sets forth clear guidelines for employees engaged in work outside the traditional office environment. It defines remote work arrangements, providing clarity on both permanent and temporary setups. Additionally, it offers comprehensive guidance to ensure the effectiveness of remote work, covering aspects such as workspace setup and communication practices.

The policy underscores the importance of compliance with company policies, emphasizing the adherence to established standards even in remote work settings. Furthermore, it details provisions regarding equipment provisions, compensation adjustments, and ensures alignment with other company policies for remote employees.

8. Expense reimbursement policy

The Employee Expense Policy provides a structured framework for reimbursing employees for work-related expenditures. It categorizes expenses into two main groups: those directly covered by the company and those eligible for reimbursement to employees.

Emphasizing the importance of thorough documentation and adherence to approval processes, the policy aims to streamline expense management. It also offers clear definitions of reimbursable and non-reimbursable expenses, ensuring clarity for employees.

Key components of this policy include defining work-related expenses and delineating between company-paid and reimbursable expenses. Additionally, it provides detailed guidelines on what qualifies as reimbursable expenses and outlines the necessary documentation.

Moreover, the policy establishes procedures for submitting reimbursement claims, including timelines and the approval process, to ensure transparency and efficiency in expense reimbursement.

9. Conflict of interest policy

One of the policies that every organization should have is, also, the Conflict of Interest Company Policy. It is designed to mitigate situations where an employee’s personal interests could potentially conflict with those of the company. It places a strong emphasis on fostering mutual trust and transparency within the organization.

By providing clear definitions and examples of potential conflicts of interest, the policy aims to raise awareness among employees. Additionally, it outlines procedures for reporting and resolving identified or suspected conflicts, ensuring prompt and appropriate action is taken to address any conflicts that arise.

Moreover, the policy specifies disciplinary consequences for employees who conceal conflicts of interest or fail to resolve them in a timely manner, underscoring the importance of compliance and accountability within the company.

10. Whistleblower policy

The corporate whistleblower policy serves as a vital mechanism for employees to report any instances of unethical or illegal behavior within the organization without fear of retaliation.

Its primary goal is to foster a culture of transparency and accountability within the company.

A well-crafted whistleblower policy is crucial for promoting ethical practices and ensuring the integrity of the organization. HR professionals can utilize this template to tailor a policy that aligns with the specific needs and values of their organization, providing employees with a safe and confidential reporting avenue.

By implementing such a policy, HR demonstrates the company’s commitment to maintaining a safe and ethical workplace for all employees.

11. Performance management policy

Performance Management is a structured process aimed at enhancing a company’s effectiveness through the improvement of its employees’ performance. This policy delineates the organization’s approach to managing employee performance, encompassing objective setting, performance reviews, feedback mechanisms, and development plans.

A comprehensive Performance Management Policy should include clear definitions of performance management and delineate the respective responsibilities of both employers and employees throughout the process.

It should also outline the procedures for setting objectives and conducting performance reviews, as well as the steps the organization will take to address any performance issues that may arise. Additionally, the policy should specify the potential consequences for unsatisfactory performance.

This Performance Management Policy template is provided as a foundational resource that can be customized to suit the specific needs and requirements of your company. It serves as a starting point for establishing comprehensive employment policies tailored to your organization’s unique context.

12. Email use policy

The Email Usage Policy serves as a guiding framework for employees utilizing corporate email addresses, establishing clear guidelines regarding their appropriate and inappropriate usage. It underscores the importance of adhering to security measures and maintaining professionalism in all email communications.

Additionally, the policy addresses limitations on personal use, outlines specifications for email signatures, and delineates potential disciplinary actions for violations.

A comprehensive corporate email usage policy should include distinct criteria distinguishing appropriate from inappropriate email use, encompassing security measures such as password requirements and strategies for identifying phishing attempts. Moreover, it should provide guidance on crafting professional email signatures and specify the consequences of policy breaches.

13. Harassment and discrimination policy

The Anti-Discrimination Policy is paramount in establishing a safe and inclusive workplace environment, aiming to prevent discrimination based on protected characteristics. It meticulously outlines behaviors deemed discriminatory and specifies the corresponding actions to be taken, thereby upholding principles of fairness and equality for all employees.

This policy should incorporate comprehensive definitions of discrimination along with a delineation of protected characteristics, encompassing factors like age, gender, ethnicity, and sexual orientation. Furthermore, it should provide explicit examples of discriminatory behaviors, accompanied by the prescribed consequences for such actions.

Additionally, clear procedures should be established for reporting, investigating, and addressing discrimination complaints in a timely and effective manner.

14. Recruitment and selection policy

The Employee Recruitment and Selection Policy serves as a comprehensive guide to the procedures involved in attracting and selecting external job candidates. It underscores the importance of conducting a well-structured and discrimination-free hiring process to ensure fairness and equality. The policy offers detailed guidelines for various aspects of recruitment and selection, including job postings, selection stages, feedback mechanisms, and potential offer revocations.

Key components to include in this Employee Recruitment and Selection Policy involve providing an overview of the recruitment and selection process, from identifying the need for an opening to extending an official job offer.

Additionally, it should outline specific guidelines for job postings, covering internal postings, creation of job descriptions, and ensuring clarity and consistency in job advertisements.

Furthermore, the policy should detail the standard selection stages, such as resume screening, phone screening, and interviews, while also allowing flexibility to adapt or modify stages as necessary to meet the organization’s needs and objectives.

15. Travel policy

The company travel policy serves as a comprehensive guide for business-related travel, detailing reimbursable expenses and guidelines for employees. It encompasses various aspects such as transportation, accommodation, legal/medical expenses, and daily allowances.

Employees are encouraged to exercise discretion and ensure timely submission of expenses for reimbursement. Key components to include in the policy are guidelines on transportation methods and their reimbursement, provisions for accommodation including specified hotel standards, and instructions for managing meal expenses and client meetings during trips.

16. Drug and alcohol policy

The drug and alcohol policy establishes guidelines for the acceptable use and misuse of drugs and alcohol in the workplace, aiming to maintain a safe and productive work environment. It sets clear boundaries regarding the consumption and possession of these substances while also providing support mechanisms for employees facing substance misuse issues.

17. Intellectual property policy 

An Intellectual Property (IP) Policy is a framework that governs the creation, protection, and use of intellectual property assets within an organization. It outlines the rights and responsibilities of employees regarding the development, ownership, and utilization of intellectual property, including inventions, patents, trademarks, copyrights, and trade secrets.

The policy serves to safeguard the organization’s intellectual assets, promote innovation, and ensure compliance with legal requirements and ethical standards.

Key components that should be included in an Intellectual Property Policy typically encompass provisions for defining the types of intellectual property covered, establishing procedures for disclosing and protecting intellectual property, outlining ownership rights and assignment agreements, specifying confidentiality and non-disclosure obligations, and addressing issues related to licensing, infringement, and enforcement.

18. Grievance handling policy

A Grievance Procedure Policy outlines the process by which employees can express their complaints or grievances in a constructive manner. The policy emphasizes the importance of supervisors and senior management being aware of issues that affect employees’ work and promptly addressing them to prevent conflicts.

Additionally, it promotes open communication and encourages employees to voice their grievances to foster a supportive and pleasant workplace environment.

The employee handbook 

Until now, we’ve had the opportunity to explore the most important policies of an organization. However, we felt that this guide would be incomplete without addressing the most crucial asset of the HR department: the employee handbook.

The Employee Handbook serves as an essential resource for new employees during the onboarding process, offering valuable insights beyond mere policies and procedures.

It not only acquaints them with the company’s values, vision, and mission but also provides a comprehensive overview of the organization’s history, product or service offerings, and customer base.

Additionally, the handbook outlines the structure of various teams within the company, providing new hires with a clear understanding of the organizational hierarchy and how they fit into the broader picture.

For HR professionals, the Employee Handbook serves as a centralized repository of essential information that new hires can refer to as they navigate their roles and responsibilities within the organization.

Moreover, the handbook serves as a guide for HR teams, helping them address frequently asked questions related to HR policies and procedures, as well as IT-related queries.

By incorporating details about the HR team and their roles, the handbook facilitates smoother communication channels between employees and HR personnel, fostering a supportive and collaborative work environment.

Let’s complete this article with a disclaimer:

All these policy templates you can find above are meant to provide general guidelines and should be used as a reference. They may not take into account all relevant local, state or federal laws and they are not legal documents. Neither the author nor Workable will assume any legal liability that may arise from the use of these policies. We highly advise you to contact your legal counsel before taking any action.

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Email best practices in the modern hybrid workplace https://resources.workable.com/tutorial/email-best-practices-in-the-modern-hybrid-workplace Tue, 19 Mar 2024 16:32:07 +0000 https://resources.workable.com/?p=93879 Following the COVID-19 pandemic, the workplace­ environment has encounte­red a significant metamorphosis. The e­mergence of re­mote work and the revitalization of in-pe­rson collaboration have brought forth what is now commonly known as the hybrid workplace. This new work set-up­ brings individuals from a myriad of backgrounds and work styles togethe­r. It undeniably presents a challenge­ […]

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Following the COVID-19 pandemic, the workplace­ environment has encounte­red a significant metamorphosis. The e­mergence of re­mote work and the revitalization of in-pe­rson collaboration have brought forth what is now commonly known as the hybrid workplace.

This new work set-up­ brings individuals from a myriad of backgrounds and work styles togethe­r. It undeniably presents a challenge­ to conventional norms, and it calls for creative approaches to communication and collaboration.

An entrepreneur or organization should promote best email practices to survive the hybrid workplace. So, you may be a small business owner balancing remote and in-office teams or an HR person sorting through recruitment. Knowing how to use email effectively is critical to earning success in the modern, well-connected world.

Understanding the hybrid workplace

Adapting to changing employee­ preference­s, technological advancements, and global e­vents is pivotal in the hybrid workplace. Understanding the intricacie­s of the hybrid workplace is esse­ntial for thriving in this new era of work.

Let’s disse­ct the fundamental principles that unde­rlie the hybrid workplace. What is its profound impact on productivity, fostering collaboration, and enhancing the holistic well-being of employee­s?

The transformation of the hybrid workplace

Recently, the traditional office-based work framework has seen a significant overhaul, propelled by technological advancements and societal shifts. In 2023, 12.7% of full-time employees opted for remote work, with 28.2% adopting a hybrid model.

 28.2% of full-time employees are in a hybrid work model as of 2023. (source: Forbes)

The hybrid workplace symbolize­s a departure from the rigid boundarie­s of conventional 9 to 5 office norms, granting employe­es increased fle­xibility and independence­ in choosing how and where they work.

This shift has be­en spurred by the wide­spread embrace of re­mote work tools such as video confere­ncing platforms and collaborative software fostering se­amless communication and collaboration across geographically disperse­d teams.

Many organizations have embraced a fle­xible approach that empowers their employees to choose­ the workspace that aligns best with their ne­eds. This adaptability supports a harmonious work-life balance and unlocks a broade­r talent pool for companies free­ from the shackles of geographical boundarie­s.

The role of communication in a hybrid setting

At the core­ of a hybrid workplace lies the­ essence of e­ffective communication. It serves as the­ vital link between re­mote and in-person team me­mbers and nurturing a profound sense of conne­ction and belonging.

In a hybrid workplace scenario, where­ face-to-face interactions may be­ limited, embracing digital communication channels be­comes paramount. Ranging from emails and instant messaging to vide­o conferencing and project manage­ment tools, organizations must equip their e­mployees with the ne­cessary infrastructure to communicate and collaborate­ effectively re­gardless of their physical location.

Beside­s, fostering transparent and open communication practice­s plays a vital role in alleviating potential obstacle­s associated with remote work like­ feelings of isolation, and lack of alignment.

By sche­duling regular check-ins, defining cle­ar expectations, and encouraging candid dialogue­, teams can cultivate a culture built on trust and re­sponsibility ultimately enhancing productivity and stimulating innovation within the hybrid workplace­.

When to email and when not to

Emails stand out as a cornerstone­ in the hybrid workplace, playing a vital role in communication dynamics. The­y serve as a versatile­ platform not just for relaying formal messages but also for sharing time­ly updates and preserving crucial de­cisions.

In instances where asynchronous communication take­s precedence­ like disseminating vital companywide ne­ws or articulating detailed project outline­s, emails emerge­ as priceless assets.

The­y empower recipie­nts with the flexibility to revie­w and respond at their convenie­nce bridging time zone gaps and accommodating dive­rse work schedules e­ffectively.

The case for emails in the hybrid workplace

In hybrid work settings, emails eme­rge as the favored me­ans of communication for dispersing noncritical information-seeking opinions and upholding writte­n records of exchanges.

From sharing me­eting schedules to discussing proje­ct timelines or garnering fe­edback on suggestions, emails pre­sent a centralized ave­nue for information flow accessible to all te­am members irrespe­ctive of their physical location.

However, there are conflicts we can’t avoid. Email is quite limited, and they can sometimes be confused. Emails can’t show the tone of your voice, the look on your face, or the way you say something. So, sometimes, what you mean to say gets misinterpreted.

One of the best practices for email is being clear and direct. Pick your words well and explain if you have to. Don’t use language that can mean two things. Keep it short and to the point. This helps the reader understand what you mean.

Also, there might be better ways to talk than email. Talking face-to-face or over a call is better for tasks involving personal matters or detailed issues needing instant answers, and knowing when to use an email and when not helps smooth conversations in a hybrid workplace.

When to choose meetings over emails

In circumstance­s wherein the intricacy or imme­diacy of a message nece­ssitates real-time inte­raction favoring the utilization of video calls ove­r emails. Whether in a virtual se­tting or face-to-face mee­tings, invest in a platform for detailed discussions, cre­ative brainstorming sessions, and decision-making proce­sses that call for collective input and conse­nsus-building.

From strategic planning conventions to team re­trospectives, a meeting via video conference software fosters engageme­nt and stimulates collaboration; it reinforces alignme­nt among hybrid teams.

The role of phone calls in instant problem-solving

While emails and video call meetings play crucial roles in communication, there are situations where immediate resolution is paramount, such as phone calls. A quick phone call enables swift problem-solving and prevents misunderstandings arising from asynchronous communication in urgent issues, clarifications, or conflicts.

By bypassing the constraints of written correspondence, phone calls facilitate real-time dialogue, allowing teams to address challenges expediently and maintain workflow continuity.

In the hybrid workplace­, excelling in communication involves maste­ring the art of choosing the proper communication mode – be­ it email, video call meetings, or phone­ calls – to maximize efficiency, collaboration, and e­ffectiveness.

By navigating the­se nuances skillfully, organizations can cultivate a communication culture­ that fosters connections, drives productivity, and e­mpowers teams to thrive in an inte­rconnected world.

Crafting effective emails

Mastering the­ skill of crafting impactful emails starts with attention-grabbing subje­ct lines and continuing with explicit, concise me­ssage content is crucial to ensure­ your emails resonate with re­cipients.

Let’s dive into the­ essential aspects of cre­ating persuasive emails that stand out amidst the­ clutter and create a lasting impre­ssion.

Subject lines that get noticed

The subje­ct line of your email acts as the gateway to your message. It is the the­ initial point of contact with recipients. Crafting a clear and e­ngaging subject line that grabs attention and e­stablishes expectations re­garding the email’s content is essential.

To cre­ate subject lines that stand out, aim for bre­vity and relevance. This e­ffectively summarizes the purpose­ or critical takeaway of your message­. Consider incorporating actionable language, thought-provoking que­stions or personalized ele­ments to spark recipients’ inte­rest and motivate them to ope­n your email.

The art of concise and clear email body

Once you’ve­ captivated readers with an intriguing subje­ct line, it’s crucial to convey your message­ clearly and succinctly within the email body. Ke­ep your content focused and to the­ point, avoiding unnecessary details or ve­rbosity.

Structure your email for easy re­adability utilizing short paragraphs, bullet points, or numbered lists to bre­ak up the text and emphasize­ key points. Present re­levant context and esse­ntial details promptly, enabling recipie­nts to quickly grasp the purpose and significance of your me­ssage without sorting through extraneous information.

Personalization and tone in emails

It is essential to move­ beyond the content itse­lf. Through email personalization, one can forge me­aningful connections and facilitate effe­ctive communication. Focus on tailoring the tone and personalization of your e­mails to align with the recipient and the­ situation.

Strive to strike a delicate­ balance betwee­n professionalism and authenticity. Address re­cipients by name whene­ver possible and convey e­mpathy and understanding in your language, recognizing the­ir perspectives and conce­rns.

Whether you are conve­ying positive news, see­king assistance, or offering fee­dback ensure your tone re­sonates with the intende­d message and recipient’s preference­s fostering trust and rapport in your interactions.

To thrive in the­ modern hybrid workplace, mastering effe­ctive email communication is esse­ntial. Detailed attention to cle­ar expression and understanding your audie­nce are critical.

By pe­rfecting subject lines, body conte­nt, and personalized tone, your me­ssages will deeply conne­ct with recipients, enhancing e­ngagement and fostering strong re­lationships in the evolving work landscape.

Best practices and tools for efficient email management

Enhancing your inbox organization for optimal productivity by harnessing innovative­ email tools and seamlessly incorporating additional communication platforms can re­volutionize your email workflow efficie­ncy. Discover essential strate­gies and cutting-edge tools to boost e­mail management in the hybrid workplace­.

Organizing your inbox for peak efficiency

Organizing your inbox with email tools ensures you stay on top of things without feeling overwhelmed

Simplify by creating labeled folders, using filters to prioritize, and scheduling regular email checks.

Email assistants and tools

To manage inbox overload in a hybrid work environment, tools like Canary Mail streamline workflows and enhance productivity.

Canary Mail provides fe­atures to streamline focus and promote­ email organization. Copilot Tabs automatically sort emails into categories to facilitate stre­amlined attention. Its Bulk Cle­aner feature enables rapid archiving or de­letion of outdated message­s.

An AI-powered email assistant can also aid in crafting and formatting emails. Canary Mail’s AI Copilot can propose suitable response­s based on the message­ context. It is equipped with an AI writer that transforms your inbox into a productivity powerhouse. Its additional AI capabilities can set up reminders for subseque­nt follow-ups.

Advanced email assistants prioritize important emails and sort them into folders, organizing your day more efficiently.

Integrating email assistants into your workflow is a must for a highly efficient hybrid work setup.

Similarly, the utilization of email tracking tools e­mpowers you to track email engage­ment metrics like ope­n rates and clickthrough rates, offering valuable­ insights into the recipient’s be­havior and optimizing your communication strategy accordingly.

By embracing these­ cutting-edge tools, you can expe­dite mundane tasks, minimize manual input, and channe­l your time and effort towards more high-value tasks.

Integrating other communication tools with email

While e­­mail persists as an essential communication device in the­ hybrid workplace, integrating various digital tools can significantly e­nrich and streamline your communication e­cosyste­m.

Embracing platforms facilitating re­al-time collaboration, efficient file­ sharing, and interactive discussions compleme­nts email.

Integrating a business text messaging app with your email client can significantly enhance communication across functions, offering a direct and immediate form of interaction that is especially beneficial for time-sensitive communications and quick check-ins.

Integrating project manage­ment tools, team software, and me­ssaging apps with your email client can enhance­ communication across functions. It centralizes information sharing and ensure­s a cohesive flow across channels.

Whethe­r coordinating project tasks, hosting virtual meetings, or providing re­al-time updates; teams can collaborate­ effectively and adapt to the­ dynamic demands of hybrid workplaces by leve­raging diverse communication tools.

Some tools e­mpower quick check-ins, while othe­rs facilitate complex coordination. This diversity and fle­xibility allow teams to customize solutions, enhancing productivity.

To refine­ email management in the­ hybrid workplace, combine effe­ctive methodologies and mode­rn tools tailored to your prefere­nces. Carefully blend approache­s to cater to your specific nee­ds.

Invest in tools that can assist with e­mail organization, integrating generative AI capabilities to ele­vate productivity. These tools promote­ collaboration, streamlining daily operations in the digital workspace­. Exploiting email assistants’ abilities and integrating communication platforms he­lps maintain best practices.

Beyond emails: enhancing communication in the hybrid workplace

Creating an environment that empowers individuals to select the most suitable communication method for any context is crucial. Le­t’s delve into the hows of e­nhancing communication within the hybrid workplace.

Fostering a culture of open communication

If a team in a modern hybrid workplace wants to foster an e­nvironment where te­am members fee­l empowered to choose­ the most effective­ means of communication, it requires nurturing ope­nness, transparency, and mutual respe­ct.

Sincere, freque­nt dialogues that underscore active­ listening, empathy, and constructive fe­edback are also esse­ntial.

This culture enables since­rity and frequent discussions among team me­mbers regarding the most e­ffective communication methods.

In this era where technology intertwines seamlessly with our daily routines, incorporating tools like QR codes can streamline how we share information and foster a culture of open communication.

Imagine a hybrid workplace where QR codes are strategically placed around the office and accessible virtually, directing team members to a central hub for updates, feedback forms, and communication preferences. This not only embraces individual work styles but also encourages a tech-savvy approach to staying connected and informed.

Establishing explicit communication norms and guide­lines that outline prefe­rred channels for differe­nt types of communication promotes flexibility. This cate­rs to individual preference­s and work styles. Fostering open communication builds trust, collaboration, and e­ngagement. This lays the groundwork for succe­ssful teamwork and collective accomplishme­nts in the hybrid workplace.

Training and resources for effective communication

Providing team members the­ needed abilitie­s and tools to navigate complex hybrid workplace communication channels is vital. It bolste­rs productivity and fosters cooperation.

Workable pre­sents various training programs, workshops, and resources me­ticulously curated to elevate­ communication skills within mixed teams. From engaging we­binars exploring virtual collaboration best practices to se­lf-paced courses illuminating effe­ctive remote communication, Workable­ equips employee­s with the indispensable tools and knowle­dge to thrive in a hybrid work environme­nt.

Moreove­r, Workable’s repository furnishes insights and tips for workflows, re­solving conflicts, and fostering resilient te­ams across frontiers. Their guides optimize­ communication and unite virtual and physical teams.

Communication at the core

Amidst the dynamic shifts of the­ hybrid workplace, communication remains the corne­rstone.

Transcending tools or best practice­s cultivates environments for dialogue­ to thrive. Priority: explicit, concise communication uniting te­ams, whether remote­ or in-person.By empowe­ring employees with e­ssential skills and resources, organizations can navigate­ this evolving landscape.

Fostering collaboration and le­veraging communication channels strategically, the­y can flourish in hybrid workplaces. This drives productivity, innovation, and success.

Kris Escaño is the SEO Outreach Manager at Canary Mail and the founder of Link Forge Digital. She specializes in strategic SEO and link building for SaaS, tech, and affiliate websites. Outside of her professional life, Kris is an avid traveler and photographer, capturing the beauty of her adventures around the world.

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Skills-first approach: what it is and why it can help you https://resources.workable.com/hr-terms/what-is-skills-first-approach Tue, 06 Feb 2024 14:38:36 +0000 https://resources.workable.com/?p=93184 It’s out with the old and in with the new, as this strategy takes center stage, promising a more inclusive, vibrant, and streamlined way of doing things.  This piece is your deep dive into the skills-first universe—what it’s all about, how it stands to shake things up, and why it’s more than just a trend.  […]

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It’s out with the old and in with the new, as this strategy takes center stage, promising a more inclusive, vibrant, and streamlined way of doing things. 

This piece is your deep dive into the skills-first universe—what it’s all about, how it stands to shake things up, and why it’s more than just a trend. 

It’s the roadmap for HR professionals who are ready to ride the wave of change and set foot in a new and undiscovered environment of skills-based hiring

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What is a skills-first approach?

The essence of a skills-first approach is succinctly captured by Careerplug’s perspective, which emphasizes the recognition of transferable skills across different roles and industries. 

It acknowledges that a candidate’s diverse experiences and proven track record as an effective employee are as significant as their formal qualifications. 

This paradigm shift towards valuing skills over traditional credentials such as degrees or job titles is reshaping the hiring landscape, fostering a more flexible and inclusive workforce.

The LinkedIn Skills-First Report further illuminates this concept, presenting it as a strategy that not only benefits individuals by democratizing access to opportunities but also offers organizations a robust framework for building resilient workforces. 

By prioritizing skills, companies can tap into broader, more diverse talent pools, enhancing innovation and competitiveness. 

The report’s findings suggest that adopting a skills-first approach allows for a more equitable hiring process, breaking down barriers that have historically hindered underrepresented groups from accessing employment opportunities.

For instance, when it comes to occupations where women are not well-represented, adopting a skills-first approach to hiring can result in a 24% higher increase in the number of women in candidate pools compared to men. 

Also, skills-first hiring globally leads to a 9% increase in the candidate pools of workers without bachelor’s degrees compared to those with degrees. 

The skills-first framework for action

At the heart of this transformative approach is the Skills-First Framework for Action, as outlined by the World Economic Forum

This framework champions the prioritization of skills themselves over the traditional focus on how these skills were acquired. 

Such a focus has the potential to democratize access to economic opportunities, creating pathways to employment that were previously obscured by conventional hiring practices. 

The framework calls for a collective effort from businesses, governments, and educational institutions to foster a skills-driven economy. 

This collaborative action is pivotal in developing a highly skilled and inclusive workforce equipped to navigate the complexities of the modern job market.

Key components of the framework include actionable strategies for identifying and nurturing talent based on skill proficiency, rather than educational background or work history. 

It advocates for the development of skills inventories and the use of skill-based assessments in hiring and promotion decisions. 

By doing so, it lays the groundwork for a more adaptable and forward-thinking workforce, capable of meeting the demands of a rapidly changing world.

The skills-first economy

A skills-first economy is one where the primary currency is not the degrees or certificates that individuals hold but the skills they possess and can apply in various contexts. 

Remember the type typesetters? The profession of a typesetter, once pivotal in the printing industry for arranging text and layout, largely vanished with the advent of digital publishing. 

However, the meticulous skills of typesetters in typography, design, and attention to detail found new relevance in graphic design, web design, and digital publishing. 

Their expertise in visual aesthetics and layout seamlessly transitioned into these modern domains, showcasing the power of transferable skills amidst technological evolution.

Same with shoemakers. Shoemakers, once central figures in every town, crafting custom footwear for every foot, have seen their traditional role evolve with industrialization and mass production. 

However, the artisan skills of shoemakers—ranging from leatherworking, stitching, and understanding foot anatomy to an eye for fashion and durability—remain in demand within niche markets and high-end fashion. 

Today, their expertise is not only preserved but revered in bespoke shoemaking, repair services, and in the design departments of luxury footwear brands, proving that the meticulous craftsmanship and personalized touch of a shoemaker still hold significant value in an era of ubiquitous factory-produced shoes.

This shift represents a fundamental change in how value is assigned within the labor market, with far-reaching implications for economic growth, innovation, and social equity.

Benefits of a skills-first approach

The transition towards a skills-first approach in hiring and talent management carries significant advantages for both employers and employees. 

The insights from LinkedIn and additional research underscore several key benefits that underscore the value of this strategy for HR professionals:

1. Expanded talent pools

By focusing on skills rather than degrees or job titles, organizations can access a wider array of candidates. 

This expansion is not just in numbers but in diversity, including historically underrepresented groups, individuals without traditional degrees, and those from varied industry backgrounds. 

The WEF report suggests that adopting a skills-first approach can add up to 20x more eligible workers to employer talent pools.

2. Increased diversity and inclusion

A skills-first model inherently supports more equitable hiring practices. It allows companies to move beyond biases associated with educational pedigree or industry experience, thus leveling the playing field. 

In particular, it can significantly increase the representation of women in roles where they are underrepresented, fostering a more diverse and inclusive workplace culture.

3. Adaptability and resilience

In an era where the nature of work is constantly evolving, a workforce selected for its skills is better equipped to adapt to new challenges and technologies. 

Companies can more easily pivot in response to industry trends and demands, ensuring their workforce remains competitive and productive.

Challenges and considerations

While the benefits of a skills-first approach are compelling, HR professionals must also navigate its challenges and considerations to implement it successfully:

Identifying and assessing skills

Transitioning to a skills-first model requires robust mechanisms to accurately identify, assess, and validate the skills of candidates. This can involve developing new assessment tools and training hiring managers to evaluate skills effectively.

Upskilling and reskilling

To fully leverage a skills-first approach, organizations must commit to the continuous development of their workforce. 

This means investing in upskilling and reskilling programs that enable employees to acquire new competencies and adapt to changing job requirements.

According to the WEF, companies that excel at internal mobility retain employees for an average of 5.4 years, nearly 2x as long as companies that struggle with it (2.9 years).

Cultural shift

Adopting a skills-first approach entails a significant cultural shift within organizations. It challenges traditional notions of career progression and success, requiring buy-in from all levels of the organization to foster a culture that values skills and learning.

Implementing a skills-first strategy

For HR professionals looking to embrace a skills-first approach, a strategic implementation plan is essential. Here are steps to consider in rolling out this transformative strategy:

1. Develop a skills framework

Begin by defining the specific skills and competencies that are critical for success in your organization. This framework should be dynamic, reflecting the evolving nature of your industry and business needs.

2. Revise hiring practices

Update job descriptions, recruitment materials, and interview processes to focus on skills. Incorporate skills assessments into the hiring process to evaluate candidates objectively based on their capabilities.

3. Invest in learning and development

Build a robust learning and development ecosystem that supports the ongoing growth of employees’ skills. This includes formal training programs, mentorship, and opportunities for on-the-job learning.

4. Foster a skills-first culture

Encourage a workplace culture that values continuous learning and skill development. Recognize and reward skill acquisition and application, and ensure that career advancement opportunities are tied to skill progression.

5. Leverage technology

Utilize HR technology platforms, like Workable, that can support a skills-first approach, from skill assessment tools to learning management systems that track skill development and alignment with business needs.

As organizations worldwide embrace this approach, the potential for innovation, growth, and inclusivity in the workplace is boundless. The future of work is skills-first, and the time to prepare for that future is now.

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Upskilling opportunities for HR pros in the AI revolution https://resources.workable.com/tutorial/upskilling-opportunities-for-hr-professionals-ai-revolution Wed, 20 Mar 2024 16:30:05 +0000 https://resources.workable.com/?p=93909 AI’s integration into HR processes is not just a futuristic concept, nor is it akin to the Roko’s basilisk experiment, but rather a present reality brimming with opportunities for you and your team. From automating routine tasks to facilitating data-driven decision-making, AI empowers HR professionals to transcend traditional boundaries and embrace a strategic role.  Learning […]

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Few business leaders would deny the value of showing appreciation to employees. Most see appreciation as a critical component of a healthy culture that yields huge benefits in the workplace because they know it results in workers who are more engaged, loyal, and productive.

Still, many companies fail in this area. A Workhuman survey revealed that more than half of employees want to see their companies offer more recognition, while a BlueBoard survey showed that 40% of companies have not taken steps to build a culture of appreciation.

Even when bosses take the time to show appreciation, it can often fall flat. Another study on workplace culture that surveyed employees in the US, UK, and China found that 43% of employees who were recognized by their companies felt the gesture was “empty” and “not meaningful.” The study puts organizations on notice that employees expect recognition to be sincere and significant.

So what does meaningful recognition look like? One valuable way to express appreciation is by showing an interest in your employees’ professional development.

The value of employee learning and development

Essentially, recognition shows employees they are important and serves as an organization’s way of communicating that it sees and values its employees’ efforts and accomplishments. It says, “We’re glad you’re here and we want you to stay.”

Providing opportunities for learning and development is a powerful form of employee appreciation because it acknowledges an employee’s value. It indicates that the employee is seen as a worthwhile investment and communicates that the organization has confidence in the employee and their abilities.

Recent studies support the idea that employees see value in learning and development. A 2021 Pew Research Study showed that 63% of the employees who left jobs that year pointed to a lack of advancement opportunities as a reason. In 2022, a McKinsey and Company study identified a lack of career development as the top reason for leaving a job.

The impact of employee learning and development

The list of benefits that organizations gain from facilitating employee learning and development is long and broad, but almost always begins with improved morale.

As mentioned above, investing in an employee’s development communicates they are a valued part of the organization – a message that can dramatically improve employee satisfaction.

Learning and development also drive employee engagement. As employees become more skilled at their jobs, their confidence level grows, leading to greater motivation, initiative, and output. When widespread, it drives greater overall corporate profitability.

Retention rates can also increase through learning and development programs. The University of Phoenix Annual Career Optimism Index for 2022 revealed that 68% of employees said they would stay at a job with an employer who provided upskilling opportunities and showed that 65% of employees would stay based on reskilling opportunities.

Employees who upskill and reskill their employees also contribute to a more robust talent pipeline. Learning and development make an organization’s workforce more agile and capable of shifting into new positions as opportunities arise. It can also inspire workers to take the steps necessary to advance to higher levels within the organization.

The best approach to creating or enhancing L&D

The ideal learning and development approach aligns with both employee expectations and corporate goals. Consequently, the first step in crafting a program will involve assessing organizational and individual needs.

An assessment of performance metrics can provide insights into skills gaps that exist within the organization, which will help the organization define the learning objectives that are critical for moving the organization forward. General training programs should flow from those learning objectives.

Assessments should also involve interviews and surveys that identify the personal learning and development goals of employees. This is a critical step in communicating that learning and development are meant to support and benefit the employee as well as the organization. Gathering and acknowledging employee input has the potential to increase motivation and participation when learning and development programs are rolled out.

Individual interviews can also be used to create personalized development plans for employees by identifying their career goals as well as any skills gaps that need to be bridged to meet those goals.

These interviews create an environment in which employees and their managers work together to map out steps, such as formal training and stretch assignments, that will contribute to learning and development.

As programs are developed, organizations should acknowledge that the best learning is not a “one-size-fits-all” endeavor.

Learning and development can be delivered through a variety of channels and formats to provide a higher likelihood of success, including online courses, mentoring programs, conferences and seminars, job rotations, and more.

Measuring the effectiveness of programs is also critical to their ultimate success. Organizations can assess the value of learning and development by evaluating participation, employee feedback, and the impact on individual and corporate performance.

Learning and development programs require a significant investment from organizations, but they can also provide a significant return. They are a powerful tool for showing employees how much they matter to the organization and the potential they have for growth.

Ultimately, they result in a workforce that is more engaged, more confident, and more equipped to meet the shifting needs of today’s rapidly evolving business landscape.

Lauren Winans is the Chief Executive Officer and Principal HR Consultant for Next Level Benefits, an HR consulting practice offering clients access to HR professionals for both short-term and long-term projects. Based in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, she has 20 years of human resources and employee benefits experience and possesses a deep expertise of HR best practices and what resonates with employees. She founded Next Level Benefits in 2019, offering HR teams access to former corporate HR professionals on-demand when they need them most.

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Use ChatGPT to make a career development plan, with prompts https://resources.workable.com/tutorial/how-to-use-chatgpt-to-make-a-career-development-plan-with-prompts Tue, 26 Mar 2024 13:39:08 +0000 https://resources.workable.com/?p=93970 Your responsibility to your team as an HR professional is to invest in your team members as much as they invest in your company. As an HR professional, you have a gift – and a responsibility – to support your fellow team members to achieve their own ambitions and goals and grow professionally. Personalized career […]

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Your responsibility to your team as an HR professional is to invest in your team members as much as they invest in your company.

As an HR professional, you have a gift – and a responsibility – to support your fellow team members to achieve their own ambitions and goals and grow professionally.

Personalized career planning and skill development plans help your team members grow their knowledge and skills which they can then put back into your team. For their part, personalized career planning helps them see a future at your company.

ChatGPT’s personalized responses and real-time feedback make it a very helpful tool when making personalized career development plans. ChatGPT can’t replace you as a career coach, but it can help you make a list of action items for career development. It’s one of the many ways ChatGPT for HR is so useful.

This tutorial will show you how to use ChatGPT to make career development plans, and what ChatGPT career prompts to use.

1. Career path exploration

Note: The ChatGPT career prompts will make use of the PocketHR custom GPT, denoted by “@PocketHR” in any prompts where applicable. To learn how to use custom GPTs, read the OpenAI documentation here.

ChatGPT can help you find potential career paths for your team members that align with their skills, interests, and professional goals. Once they have an action plan and set milestones to achieve it, they can bring their newfound knowledge and add that back to your team.

Putting time and energy into helping your team members explore career paths also helps with employee retention. Employees who get opportunities for career development have 34% higher retention and are 15% more engaged with their work.

Skill and interest assessment

If an employee wants to broaden their skill set or explore a potential role or transition, you can use ChatGPT to help them find a way to explore the area they’re interested in.

Let’s say you have a team member who is a digital marketing specialist, and they’re curious about transitioning to data analytics.

You can use a ChatGPT career prompt like:

ChatGPT Career Prompt: @PocketHR Identify key skills and interests for a professional specializing in digital marketing with an interest in data analytics.

This is useful for finding overlap between the team member’s current skill set and the area of interest they want to explore, to make a skill set development path that fits their unique profile.

You can then take that information, and build on it to make a timeline for the team member to learn skills in their chosen area of interest.

ChatGPT Career Prompt: @PocketHR Give me a timeline for learning the skills this professional needs to transition to data analytics, with goals and milestones. Include recommendations for courses and certifications.

Role identification and career mapping

You can use ChatGPT to find specific roles that fit the team member’s career goals and aspirations based on their existing skills and industry trends and narrow down the ones that are the best fit for their career development.

ChatGPT Career Prompt: @PocketHR List potential roles for an HR professional interested in incorporating technology into employee engagement strategies.

From there, you can build off the role the team member is most interested in, and make a career plan to transition to their desired role.

ChatGPT Career Prompt: @PocketHR Create a career map for transitioning from their current role to {{desired role}}. Include skill development, experience accumulation, timelines, and any necessary certifications or qualifications.

For this example, we’ll go with role 2: Employee Experience Manager

Industry trends analysis

What if the team member wants to prepare themselves for an emerging role in a new or growing industry?

ChatGPT can help your team members future-proof their careers. With the right prompt, ChatGPT can act as a career coach and anticipate the skills they should learn to pivot and adjust to changing industry trends for their next career move.

ChatGPT Career Prompt: @PocketHR What are the current trends in AI and machine learning for professionals in software development?

ChatGPT is great at predicting possible outcomes and simulating hypothetical scenarios. You can use that to help your team members stay relevant and move into roles where demand is growing.

2. Skill gap analysis

With ChatGPT, you can find the specific areas where a team member needs development or training for promotion to a more senior role within the same team or department.

For example, if a mid-level marketing coordinator wants to be considered for a senior manager role, you can ask ChatGPT:

ChatGPT Career Prompt: @PocketHR Compare the skills required for a senior marketing manager role to those of a mid-level marketing coordinator.

If something among those skills catches your team member’s interest, you can then have ChatGPT make a plan to learn that required skill and position themselves for the promotion. Let’s do Budget Management, as an example.

ChatGPT Career Prompt: @PocketHR Make a skill development plan for the mid-level marketing coordinator to learn Budget Management.

What if the team member wants to transition into another department altogether? ChatGPT can give you a list of actions for career development to guide the transition.

ChatGPT Career Prompt: @PocketHR What are the key skills needed for transitioning from a customer service role to a sales position?

Learning and development recommendations

If you’ve already had discussions with your team members about what roles and paths interest them and what skills they need to break into them, ChatGPT can then recommend resources and learning paths for them to learn what they need to.

In this example, a data analyst wants to learn Python but doesn’t know where to get started. You can recommend courses and online platforms to give them a nudge in the right direction.

ChatGPT Career Prompt: @PocketHR Recommend online platforms offering advanced Python programming courses suitable for data analysis.

You can also create a structured learning plan for the team member to learn what they need to learn, and have milestones to complete those courses and apply the skills they learned in their current role.

ChatGPT Career Prompt: @PocketHR Design a 6-month learning plan for learning advanced Python skills, including timelines and milestones, and which courses to complete and when.

Remember to make the plan realistic and take into account the team member’s current workload to prevent them from getting overburdened.

Learning and development go beyond individual skill training. Your team member will likely need mentorship to help guide them on their chosen path. You can use ChatGPT to make that a part of your plan.

ChatGPT Career Prompt: @PocketHR How can I integrate mentorship into this learning plan for learning Python as a data analyst?

Then, use ChatGPT’s recommendations to help find the perfect mentor from within your organization. Organize periodic meetups and discussions for the team member to get a chance to talk to people who have made the same career change they’re doing.

3. Resume and LinkedIn profile optimization

Even after your team member gets all the skills, certifications, and coaching they need to take the next steps in their career, they’ll still need to present those somehow.

A well-crafted resume and a polished, updated LinkedIn profile are how they do that. ChatGPT can give you some pointers on what to include and what to say on your team member’s resume and profile to help them on their way.

ChatGPT Career Prompt: @PocketHR What are some best practices for updating a LinkedIn profile for career advancement in software engineering?

You can take it a step further and identify which sections to expand on and what language to include, like what skills and experiences to highlight.

ChatGPT Career Prompt: @PocketHR What should I include in {{skill 1}} and {{skill 2}} to attract opportunities in advanced software engineering? Highlight skills and qualifications I need to include.

We’ll go with 4 and 5 for this example.

4. Interview preparation

The time has come, your team members have spent months preparing, upskilling, and getting guidance from mentors and peers, and now they have everything they need to excel in their desired roles.

The last remaining obstacle in their way is to ace the interview for their transition or internal promotion. You can help them overcome their imposter syndrome and tell a story about their work history that sells them.

There are ways you can help them with that, with ChatGPT’s guidance.

In this example, you’re helping a software engineer at your company transition to a cybersecurity specialist role. You can help prepare a mock interview to help them answer any questions that come their way with confidence.

ChatGPT Career Prompt: @PocketHR Simulate a mock interview for a software engineer transitioning to a cybersecurity specialist.

After you have the basic structure down, you can then prepare for the questions that might come up in each part of the interview, and how to prepare a response based on your team member’s background.

ChatGPT Career Prompt: What are some common questions that someone might get in this interview, and how could a software engineer prepare for them?

Use ChatGPT to give your team members the best chance to succeed

Helping other people reach their hopes and dreams and watching them grow to be the best professional version of themselves is one of the greatest things about working in HR.

ChatGPT can’t replace a human career coach, but it can help you at every step of making a career development plan, from identifying any skills gaps, right down to the interview where you succeed in helping them land their dream role.

To learn more about how ChatGPT can improve your processes and make life easier for you as an HR professional, check out our ChatGPT tutorials here.

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How to write better HR policies with ChatGPT: a guide https://resources.workable.com/tutorial/write-better-hr-policies-with-chatgpt-guide Mon, 18 Mar 2024 17:51:10 +0000 https://resources.workable.com/?p=93776 Your HR policies are the gears that keep the machine of your business turning. Whenever you onboard a new employee, train someone in a new subject area, or have a dispute between two team members, the HR policies you set make sure each situation is resolved consistently, the same way, every time, in a way […]

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Your HR policies are the gears that keep the machine of your business turning.

Whenever you onboard a new employee, train someone in a new subject area, or have a dispute between two team members, the HR policies you set make sure each situation is resolved consistently, the same way, every time, in a way that’s consistent with your company’s mission and core values.

Try out our interview question generator

In a hurry? Our interview question generator will build a complete IQ kit for you in seconds!

Ask and ye shall receive

Here, generative AI tools like ChatGPT can be a huge asset for you. ChatGPT can put together HR policies and documentation in a fraction of the time it would take for you to do it on your own. If you have a basic structure in mind, you can give it to ChatGPT and tell it what language to use, and it can take care of the rest.

All you need to do then is review the policy and make sure it’s legally compliant and in line with your company’s values.

If you know how to talk to ChatGPT, it can save you hours of labor-intensive work and free up more time for the strategic planning and thinking that goes into drafting HR policies.

This tutorial will walk you through how to use ChatGPT to make better HR policies.

Best practices for HR policy creation with ChatGPT

If you’re new to using ChatGPT, it helps to have a clear purpose and intention for it in mind before integrating it into your workflows. That will help guide the way you use ChatGPT so that your company policies are as useful as possible.

A few things you should do before you get started:

Define your needs: Identify the types of HR policies you’ll want to create or update. This can include your remote work policy or your diversity, quality, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives

Gather information and documents: Get together your existing policies and compliance checklists, that ChatGPT can use as a reference to build off of. ChatGPT works best with context, so its output will give you more value if it knows what policies you had before

Use clear, direct prompts: When you interact with ChatGPT, use clear prompts that spell out exactly what you need and why. This will make your HR policies more targeted and useful

Personalize output: The AI-generated HR policies you’ll get from ChatGPT will have the basic structure you need but are told in generic language. Edit the policies to reflect your company culture, and have your HR team review them before building them into your existing documentation.

1. Drafting policies

Note: These prompts make use of the PocketHR GPT, denoted by “@PocketHR” at the beginning of every prompt.

ChatGPT can do a lot of the legwork that goes into writing your HR policies themselves.

Writing an HR policy is a complicated and multi-step process. Broadly, these steps are:

  1. Define the Scope and Objectives of the Policy
  2. Research Relevant Laws and Regulations
  3. Draft the Initial Policy
  4. Review and Revise the Draft
  5. Finalize the Policy
  6. Create an Implementation and Communication Plan

This tutorial will show you how you can use ChatGPT at each step, but you can choose to do each or all of these steps yourself.

Step 1: Define the scope and objectives of the policy

Before you start writing your HR policy, you’ll want to have a clear idea of what what you want the policy to cover and what you want it to accomplish.

Say you’re drafting a new remote work policy for your company, and you want to set some objectives before writing it yourself. A

ChatGPT prompt you can try might be:

ChatGPT Prompt: @PocketHR Help me outline the key objectives and scope for a remote work policy tailored for a mid-sized tech company emphasizing flexibility, productivity, and work-life balance.

Step 2: Research relevant laws and regulations

Before building any new HR policy into your current processes, you’ll want to make sure it’s compliant with state and federal law.

If you enable ChatGPT to browse the web with certain plugins, it can help you research any laws and regulations you’ll need to be aware of before drafting the policy.

Keep in mind that ChatGPT is not a lawyer and shouldn’t be relied upon for official legal advice. Still, it can give you a place to start and give you some general guidelines to follow while you do a legal compliance check.

ChatGPT Prompt: @PocketHR List the key federal and state laws in the U.S. that a remote work policy must comply with, focusing on labor standards, data protection, and employee rights.

If you want to dive deeper into how a certain law impacts the policy you’re making, you can even have ChatGPT give you a detailed breakdown of the codes and aspects of the law that relate to the policy.

In the above example, you can ask ChatGPT to tell you more about how The Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) would factor into your new remote work policy.

ChatGPT Prompt: How would the Fair Labor Standards Act factor into my new policy?

Step 3: Draft the initial policy

Now that you know what you want the policy to accomplish and what laws you’ll need to stay compliant with, you can have ChatGPT draft the policy itself.

ChatGPT Prompt: @PocketHR Draft an initial remote work policy including sections on eligibility, application process, work hours, communication expectations, data security, and legal compliance, based on the objectives and scope outlined earlier.

If you feel like the policy is too general, you can have ChatGPT fill each section out with more detail by having it write each section individually, one at a time.

First, have ChatGPT give you the sections that will go in the policy.

ChatGPT Prompt: @PocketHR What sections should the remote work policy include? Give the names of the section headings. Eligibility, application process, work hours, communication expectations, data security, and legal compliance, etc.

Then, have ChatGPT tackle each section individually. This will give each section more depth than if it were to write the whole policy all at once.

ChatGPT Prompt: @PocketHR Please write this section of the policy: Workspace Requirements.

Step 4: Review and revise the draft

Once you have your policy, you can personalize your output and refine the draft by giving ChatGPT feedback and telling it to make some necessary adjustments.

ChatGPT Prompt: @PocketHR Revise this draft to emphasize greater flexibility in work hours and include guidelines for managing work-life balance while ensuring data security and compliance with labor laws.

Step 5: Create an implementation and communication plan

Now that your remote work policy is to your liking, you can ask ChatGPT to help you plan how to get the word out to the rest of the company and make a communication plan.

ChatGPT Prompt: @PocketHR Draft an implementation and communication plan for the new remote work policy, outlining steps for training managers and employees, updating internal systems, and scheduling informational sessions.

2. Updating procedures

Creating a new remote work policy from scratch is one thing. What if you already have a remote work policy, but you just want to update it and make sure it’s still legally compliant?

ChatGPT can help with that too. Give it your existing policy, and it can find areas that need updating and where you may want to revise it.

Step 1: Review current procedures

Let’s say you want to make sure your time-off request procedure fits with the new remote work policy you just made.

First, give ChatGPT the policy you already have. We’ll use the Workable remote employee onboarding checklist as an example.

First, we’ll scan and read the checklist using the WebPilot custom GPT.

ChatGPT Prompt: @WebPilot scan and read our company’s remote employee onboarding checklist. Just say “Done.” when you’re finished, no need to do anything else: https://resources.workable.com/remote-employees-onboarding-checklist

Click “Allow” when prompted.

Then switch back to PocketHR, and summarize the remote work policy.

ChatGPT Prompt: @PocketHR Summarize the key components and objectives of our current remote work policy.

Step 2: Identify areas for update

Then, use ChatGPT to find any changes or updates in current laws and technology for remote work you may need to build into your remote employee onboarding.

ChatGPT Prompt: @PocketHR Based on the latest federal employment laws and remote work trends, what sections of the remote employee onboarding checklist should be updated?

Step 3: Research best practices and legal requirements

You can use this opportunity to look into any changes in the law or industry best practices before making the changes in your new HR policy procedure. That way, you can take the policy you already have and build upon it.

ChatGPT Prompt: @PocketHR What are the current best practices for onboarding employees in a remote work environment, and what legal considerations should we be aware of?

Step 4: Draft updates to the procedure

Then you can use what you learned about the changes in best practices and trends to update your remote work onboarding checklist accordingly.

ChatGPT Prompt: Use what you learned about the changes in best practices and trends to update your remote work onboarding checklist accordingly.

3. FAQ creation for HR policies

You can also use ChatGPT for one-off simple tasks that don’t require much time and effort so you can spend your energy on more important things. For instance, you can have it make an FAQ section for a policy you already have.

In this example, we’ll add a remote onboarding FAQ to go with our onboarding checklist. ChatGPT can anticipate common questions and answers to go with them.

Use @WebPilot again and have it look at your existing policy. You can either paste the raw text, or you can give it the link and have it analyze the web page.

ChatGPT Prompt: Here is our remote employee onboarding checklist. Based on this policy, generate a list of FAQ questions that employees are likely to have.

{{Insert Policy}}

4. Compliance checks

Before implementing a new policy or updating an existing one, you can have ChatGPT do a preliminary compliance assessment and make sure it’s in line with industry regulations.

First, prompt ChatGPT with your current policy, and then have it draft an appropriate list of questions. We’ll use the Workable compensation policy template in this example.

ChatGPT Prompt: @WebPilot Here is our compensation policy. Based on this, make a checklist of compliance questions for evaluating this policy against the latest GDPR and employment laws.

{{Insert Policy}}

Then, switch back to @PocketHR and flag any potential areas that might clash with the laws you’re cross-referencing.

ChatGPT Prompt: @PocketHR Now, identify potential areas in our compensation policy that may not comply with GDPR and employment laws

Make your HR processes better than ever

Making an HR policy from scratch or even updating an existing one to be up-to-date with existing laws and trends is a time-intensive process. ChatGPT expedites that process by helping you every step of the way: from deciding what needs to into your new HR policy to figuring out how to get the message out to the rest of the company.

Are you curious about other ways ChatGPT can help make your life easier as an HR professional? Check out the rest of our Workable ChatGPT tutorials and be on your way to making your HR policies and procedures better than ever.

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Accounting Intern job description https://resources.workable.com/accounting-intern-job-description Tue, 02 Jan 2024 11:23:00 +0000 https://resources.workable.com/?p=89887 An Accounting intern is a recent graduate or student in the last year of their Accounting & Finance studies who assists with various accounting tasks, gaining practical experience in the field. Use this accounting intern job description template to find reliable employees for your company. Feel free to modify the accounting intern duties and responsibilities […]

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An Accounting intern is a recent graduate or student in the last year of their Accounting & Finance studies who assists with various accounting tasks, gaining practical experience in the field.

Use this accounting intern job description template to find reliable employees for your company. Feel free to modify the accounting intern duties and responsibilities as well as the qualifications listed below to fit your specific needs.

What is an Accounting intern?

An Accounting intern is a recent graduate or student in the last year of their Accounting & Finance studies. They work in the accounting department, gaining practical experience and assisting with various accounting tasks.

What does an Accounting intern do?

An Accounting intern handles transactional accounting for local and international entities, assists with accounting entries, and prepares periodic reports. They also support month-end closing and perform general accounting tasks like reconciliations and invoice handling.

Accounting intern responsibilities include:

  • Assisting with transactional accounting tasks for local and international entities.
  • Supporting the preparation of periodic financial reports for management.
  • Contributing to month-end closing processes and handling general accounting tasks such as reconciliations and invoice handling.

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Why middle managers are so unhappy – and what you can do https://resources.workable.com/tutorial/why-middle-managers-are-so-unhappy-and-what-you-can-do Fri, 22 Mar 2024 15:40:30 +0000 https://resources.workable.com/?p=93926 Middle managers might be the busiest people in your organization. They oversee other employees, negotiate with peers, and manage up to executives – all while juggling individual responsibilities. They’re crucial to executing organizational goals but often lack the time, resources, or authority to do so effectively. Instead of asking why middle managers are so unhappy, […]

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Middle managers might be the busiest people in your organization. They oversee other employees, negotiate with peers, and manage up to executives – all while juggling individual responsibilities. They’re crucial to executing organizational goals but often lack the time, resources, or authority to do so effectively.

Instead of asking why middle managers are so unhappy, perhaps we should wonder why any are happy.

As leaders and organizations, we can’t ignore this problem.

According to Gallup, managers are the biggest single factor in employee engagement – 70% of team engagement is determined by the manager. As our middle managers go, so do our businesses.

70% of team engagement is determined by the manager

And yet, in 2023, managers were rewarded with smaller budgets and more work – and they are the top target for layoffs.

Given these competing pressures, how can we give middle managers the support they need so they can flourish instead of fueling discontent and disengagement?

Here are three suggestions.

1. Promote a culture of psychological safety

Middle managers face the unique challenge of managing not only their direct reports but also their superiors and peers. Conflict and stress are inevitable when managing these relationships. Add in the murkiness of office politics, and it’s easy to see why middle managers get worn out by navigating interpersonal relationships.

Related: How to ensure psychological safety at work

The antidote to burnout here is to actively cultivate a greater sense of psychological safety in your culture.

You’ll have to be patient – psychological safety accumulates over time. It’s the result of many, many small interactions where a person actively views a situation from somebody else’s perspective.

They don’t immediately judge something as right or wrong. Rather, they explore other perspectives and ideas, and they learn from the interaction. The other party feels seen, heard, and welcomed.

The reason these exchanges matter – sharing your thinking while learning about other people’s thinking – is because psychological safety is dependent on the people involved. Their thinking, their personality, their comfort level all matter.

For example, I’m an analytical thinker who loves to tear into data and explore what it means. That can create psychological safety for me and like-minded people. But for people who don’t understand the data or feel personally attacked by such an examination That approach can make them quickly feel confused and overwhelmed.

Imagine a workplace where middle managers feel they can be honest and vulnerable about their thinking and perspectives with their bosses. In turn, they’re also curious about their colleagues’ thinking, and they proactively inquire about their direct reports’ insights.

Suddenly, there’s less confusion and miscommunication. Even the most difficult conversations become easier because both parties start with some level of trust.

2. Coach middle managers for the role

Many people enter management because they’re top performers who get promoted, often without specific training for their new role. Unfortunately, RedThread Research found that managers received less support in 2023 than the year before.

Unsurprisingly, manager effectiveness plummeted.

Middle managers need executive-level support. That means recognizing the unique stresses they’re under and how to offset them.

Related: Employee development and the Peter Principle: Why your managers keep messing up

Start with robust training and coaching before, during, and after their rise through the ranks. You can help middle managers better understand their thinking through the Herrmann Brain Dominance Instrument® (HBDI®) and other assessments.

When they understand how they prefer to think in the workplace, they can be more deliberate and effective in their communication — and develop deeper, more collaborative relationships.

Consider training middle managers in conflict resolution so they’re better prepared to handle difficult situations while managing up, down, and across.

By helping middle managers view workplace conflict as an opportunity for collaboration rather than winner-take-all, they’ll feel less defensive and more engaged.

3. Reexamine their workloads

Even when companies recognize middle managers’ importance to company culture and strategic execution, the result is often more work – without an increase in resources. This expanded scope of work can be overwhelming, leaving little time for self-care and personal development.

Look at your middle managers’ individual responsibilities. Can they reasonably complete their individual work and elevate their teams?

Freeing up your overworked middle managers isn’t easy. That’s where culture comes back into play. Do your middle managers feel they can ask for help with their workloads, or do they fear being labeled as incompetent or lazy? HR leaders need to help middle managers see that speaking up won’t be penalized.

Work with executives to reprioritize middle managers’ individual responsibilities. Some top performers might be better off as more of an individual contributor. Others will need support for redistributing their work down to their reports, across to other teams, or both.

Organizations that train, support, and elevate their middle managers will improve productivity, retention, engagement, and business results. Those who don’t will keep wondering why their managers are so unhappy – and why turnover and brain drain are a constant problem.

Karim Nehdi is CEO at Herrmann, which has helped people at the world’s best-performing organizations bring their Whole Brain® to work for more than 40 years with an evolving suite of assessments, employee engagement, and talent intelligence solutions.

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The ROI of HR technology integration explained https://resources.workable.com/tutorial/the-roi-of-hr-technology-integration Mon, 25 Mar 2024 13:22:01 +0000 https://resources.workable.com/?p=93927 The strategic advantages of HR technology extend beyond operational efficiencies and financial metrics. The ROI of HR technology integration is more than that. It touches the very core of organizational culture, transforming it into a more agile, informed, and engaged entity.  This shift is not merely about keeping pace with technological advancements but about reimagining […]

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The strategic advantages of HR technology extend beyond operational efficiencies and financial metrics. The ROI of HR technology integration is more than that. It touches the very core of organizational culture, transforming it into a more agile, informed, and engaged entity. 

This shift is not merely about keeping pace with technological advancements but about reimagining the role of HR in driving business success.

The benefits of HR technology

Notably, companies that use HR technology like an ATS or an HRIS have witnessed, according to Lighthouse Research & Advisory report, a 47% surge in productivity—an impressive figure that underscores the efficiency gains enabled by modern HR solutions. 

surge in productivity

This leap in productivity is more than a mere enhancement of work processes; it represents a transformation in how tasks are executed, making room for strategic endeavors that propel the organization forward.

Beyond productivity, the integration of HR technology has been instrumental in improving the accuracy and insightfulness of reporting. 

With a 73% improvement in reporting capabilities, businesses are now better equipped to make data-driven decisions that align with their strategic goals. 

This leap in data accuracy and insights is a game-changer, offering a clear view of the workforce dynamics and enabling a proactive approach to talent management.

Perhaps one of the most compelling outcomes of HR technology adoption is its impact on employee engagement. Companies with recent HR technology implementations are twice as likely to observe enhanced engagement among their workforce. 

This heightened level of engagement is a testament to the technology’s role in creating a more connected, transparent, and responsive work environment.

Trends shaping HR technology investments in 2024

As we venture into 2024, the landscape of HR technology investments is shaped by a series of emerging trends that reflect the evolving priorities of businesses and HR leaders alike. 

One of the most authoritative voices in the realm of HR technology, Josh Bersin, highlights the growing significance of Talent Marketplace platforms, Capability Academies, Employee Experience Platforms, and mid-market talent suites in his latest HR Technology Report. 

These categories represent a shift towards more personalized, agile, and comprehensive HR solutions that cater to the diverse needs of the modern workforce.

The emphasis on Employee Experience Platforms is particularly noteworthy. In an age where the employee experience is as crucial as the customer experience, these platforms offer a holistic approach to engaging, developing, and retaining talent. 

By integrating various aspects of the employee lifecycle, from onboarding to development and performance management, these platforms are setting new standards for what it means to be a ‘great place to work.’

Backing this trend is a survey by Gartner, which reveals a notable shift in budget priorities among HR leaders. According to the survey, 89% of HR leaders plan to increase their HR technology budget this year, double the number from last year’s report, signaling a strong commitment to leveraging technology for strategic advantage.

budget in HR technology

The convergence of these trends points to a broader realization among businesses: investing in HR technology is not just a tactical move but a strategic imperative. 

The ROI of HR technology integration: Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS)

The ROI of an ATS extends beyond mere cost savings, embedding itself in the strategic fabric of the recruitment process.

Let’s see the most important factors that can benefit your organization using an ATS.

1. Avoiding bad hires

One of the primary benefits of an ATS is its ability to improve the quality of hires. 

By automating the screening process and leveraging sophisticated algorithms to match candidate profiles with job requirements, ATS significantly reduces the risk of bad hires—a scenario that can cost organizations dearly, both financially and culturally. 

A study by ResearchGate underscores the efficiency of technology in recruitment, showing that an ATS can enhance the selection process, ensuring a better fit between the candidate and the organizational needs.

2. Reducing external recruitment costs: 

External recruitment efforts, including agency fees and advertising costs, can accumulate rapidly. An ATS streamlines the recruitment process, making it more efficient and less reliant on external resources. 

By building a robust talent pool and enhancing the employer brand through a seamless candidate experience, organizations can reduce external recruitment costs significantly.

3. Boosting recruiter productivity

The automation of routine tasks, such as resume screening and scheduling interviews, frees up recruiters to focus on more strategic aspects of their role, such as engaging with candidates and enhancing the recruitment strategy. 

This shift towards strategic tasks is not only more fulfilling for recruiters but also adds greater value to the organization, as highlighted in the efficiency improvements reported by companies implementing recent HR technology.

4. Decreased time to fill

The speed at which vacancies are filled is critical in maintaining organizational productivity. An efficient ATS reduces the time to fill by streamlining the entire recruitment process, from posting job ads to making the final offer. 

This efficiency not only impacts the bottom line by minimizing the costs associated with vacancies but also enhances the organization’s agility in responding to market demands.

The ROI of HR technology integration: Human Resource Information Systems (HRIS)

Human Resource Information Systems (HRIS) serve as the backbone of HR operations, integrating various HR functions into a unified system. The ROI of an HRIS is manifested through direct cost savings, improved efficiency, and strategic contributions to the organization.

Let’s explore the factors that can save you time and money:

1. Time savings value

The core value of an HRIS lies in its ability to save time for HR professionals and employees alike. 

By automating administrative tasks, such as leave requests and benefits administration, an HRIS frees up time that can be redirected towards strategic HR initiatives. 

2. Total system costs vs. savings 

Evaluating the ROI of an HRIS involves a careful analysis of the total costs—implementation, training, and maintenance—against the tangible savings it delivers. 

Cloud-based HRIS solutions like Workable, for example, offer lower upfront costs and scalability, presenting a compelling case for their higher ROI as reported by HR Executive, which highlights the cost-effectiveness of cloud technology in HR operations.

3. Adoption rate and employee feedback 

The success of an HRIS is also measured by its adoption rate and the feedback from its users. 

A high adoption rate indicates that the system is user-friendly and meets the needs of its users, contributing to its overall ROI.

Employee feedback, including eNPS scores, offers insights into how the HRIS affects employee satisfaction and engagement, further influencing the system’s value to the organization.

4. Engagement scores and productivity

Finally, the impact of an HRIS on employee engagement and overall productivity cannot be overlooked. 

By facilitating a better employee experience and streamlining HR processes, an HRIS can lead to higher engagement scores. 

This enhanced engagement is directly linked to increased productivity, as engaged employees are more motivated and committed to their work, driving the organization’s success.

These sections delve into the tangible and intangible benefits of ATS and HRIS, providing a detailed look at how these systems contribute to the ROI of HR technology integration. 

By examining specific metrics and impacts, the narrative underscores the strategic value of investing in HR technology to optimize recruitment processes and HR operations.

Best practices for maximizing HR Technology ROI

The decision to invest in HR technology is a significant one, carrying the promise of enhanced efficiency, better employee experiences, and, ultimately, a stronger bottom line. 

However, the realization of these benefits is contingent upon strategic implementation and continuous optimization. 

Herein lies the blueprint for maximizing the ROI of HR technology:

Strategic implementation and alignment: The foundation of a successful HR technology integration is its alignment with the organization’s broader business goals and HR strategy.

This alignment ensures that the selected technology solutions directly contribute to achieving strategic objectives, be it through improving recruitment processes, enhancing employee engagement, or streamlining administrative tasks. 

Organizations should undertake a needs analysis, involving key stakeholders in the process, to identify the most pressing requirements and the best tech solutions to address them.

Continuous training and support: To achieve a high adoption rate and ensure that all users can leverage the HR technology to its full potential, continuous training and support are paramount. 

This involves not only initial training sessions but also ongoing support and refresher courses to accommodate updates in the technology and changes in organizational processes. 

Such an approach encourages user engagement with the technology, ensuring that it becomes an integral part of the HR workflow.

Data-driven decision making: One of the most significant advantages of modern HR technology is its ability to generate actionable insights through data analytics. 

Organizations should capitalize on this by regularly reviewing analytics and reports generated by their HR systems. 

This data can inform strategic decisions, from identifying areas for process improvement to uncovering trends in employee engagement and productivity. Moreover, it serves as a direct feedback loop for assessing the technology’s impact and ROI.

Feedback mechanisms and continuous improvement: The landscape of HR technology is ever-evolving, with new solutions and updates emerging at a rapid pace. 

To maintain an optimal ROI, organizations must embrace a culture of continuous improvement. 

This involves not only staying abreast of technological advancements but also soliciting and acting on feedback from users. 

Regular surveys and feedback sessions can reveal insights into the system’s effectiveness, usability, and areas for enhancement, guiding future investments and technology optimization efforts.

In the digital age, the question is no longer whether to invest in HR technology but how to maximize its value for the organization. 

With a strategic approach to HR technology integration and an eye on the evolving landscape, businesses can navigate the complexities of the modern workforce, ensuring their position at the forefront of innovation and success.

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Avoiding common pitfalls in HRIS implementation https://resources.workable.com/tutorial/avoiding-common-pitfalls-in-hris-implementation Thu, 14 Mar 2024 15:18:58 +0000 https://resources.workable.com/?p=93738 An HRIS can effectively shorten the ramp to full productivity. Additionally, it will assist your organization’s HR team in better managing teams, automating tasks that were previously manual and time-consuming, and focusing on other important aspects that require their expertise.  Therefore, it’s crucial to recognize common pitfalls and ensure that the HR software you choose […]

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An HRIS can effectively shorten the ramp to full productivity. Additionally, it will assist your organization’s HR team in better managing teams, automating tasks that were previously manual and time-consuming, and focusing on other important aspects that require their expertise. 

Therefore, it’s crucial to recognize common pitfalls and ensure that the HR software you choose works to your advantage. Let’s explore how you can effectively address these common pitfalls and work to overcome them.

1. Clear strategy

One of the most critical steps in avoiding pitfalls during HRIS implementation is the establishment of a clear strategy

Jumping headfirst into implementation without a well-defined plan is a recipe for confusion, misalignment, and, ultimately, failure.

It’s essential to assemble a dedicated project team tasked with defining precise software requirements, ensuring alignment with organizational goals, and mapping out the implementation process.

A clear strategy encompasses a comprehensive understanding of what the organization aims to achieve with the HRIS, how it aligns with broader business objectives, and a detailed roadmap for achieving these goals. 

This preparatory step is not just about technical readiness but also about ensuring buy-in from all stakeholders and preparing the organization for change.

2. Process and workflow documentation

Another cornerstone of successful HRIS implementation is meticulous documentation of HR processes and workflows. Before transitioning to a new system, it’s vital to have a clear understanding of current processes by documenting them in detail and avoiding common pitfalls in HRIS implementation.

This documentation should cover all functional areas within HR, including recruiting, onboarding, benefits management, payroll, performance management, compensation, and termination processes.

This detailed mapping serves multiple purposes. It helps identify inefficiencies in current processes, provides a blueprint for configuring the new HRIS, and ensures that all critical functions are supported by the new system. 

Furthermore, it facilitates smoother transitions and training efforts, as stakeholders have a clear reference for how processes will be managed within the new system.

3. Data integrity and migration

The foundation of any HRIS’s effectiveness is the integrity of the data it contains. Data migration, the process of moving existing data into the new system, is a critical phase where many pitfalls can occur. 

Ensuring data integrity involves auditing current data for accuracy, completeness, and consistency, and then cleaning any inaccuracies before migration.

Data integrity is not just about cleaning up existing data but also about setting up processes and protocols to maintain this integrity moving forward. This involves regular audits, validation checks, and training for users on proper data entry and management practices.

4. System integration

The integration of a new HRIS with existing systems represents one of the more technical yet crucial stages of implementation, constituting one of the most common pitfalls in HRIS implementation.

System integration challenges stem from the need to ensure seamless communication and data flow between the HRIS and other business systems, such as finance, payroll, and benefits platforms. 

These challenges are often underpinned by compatibility issues, data mapping complexities, and technical hurdles that can derail the project if not addressed properly.

Evaluating compatibility

A fundamental step in overcoming integration challenges is thorough compatibility evaluation during the selection phase. 

This involves assessing how well the new HRIS will work with existing software in terms of data formats, application programming interfaces (APIs), and overall integration capabilities. 

Selecting an HRIS with a strong track record of successful integrations can significantly smooth this transition.

Engaging IT experts

Integration is not merely a task for HR professionals but a multidisciplinary effort that requires the expertise of IT professionals. 

Involving IT specialists early on can provide the necessary technical guidance and insights to navigate the complexities of system integration. 

These experts play a critical role in establishing clear communication channels, troubleshooting issues, and ensuring that the integration process aligns with technical best practices.

Leveraging integration tools

The use of integration tools and platforms can simplify the process by offering pre-built connectors or APIs that facilitate data exchange between systems. 

These tools can help map data fields accurately, ensuring that information is correctly transferred and reducing the risk of errors or inconsistencies. 

Moreover, thorough testing at each stage of the integration process is imperative to identify and address issues proactively.

Continuous monitoring and feedback

Post-implementation, it’s essential to continuously monitor the integration, ensuring data consistency and addressing any unforeseen issues that may arise. 

Regular feedback from users can provide valuable insights into the integration’s effectiveness and areas for improvement. This ongoing vigilance helps maintain the integrity of the HRIS ecosystem and supports the organization’s evolving needs.

5. Scalability and flexibility

A common oversight in HRIS implementation is failing to consider the system’s scalability and flexibility

Organizations grow and change, and an HRIS must be able to accommodate these evolutions without necessitating a complete overhaul. 

Designing an HRIS with future growth and regulatory changes in mind is paramount for long-term success.

Global consistency vs. Local adaptability

Balancing global consistency with local adaptability is a delicate dance for organizations operating across different regions. 

While global processes ensure uniformity and efficiency, local nuances must be respected to ensure the HRIS meets diverse needs. 

A flexible HRIS allows for customization where necessary, without compromising the integrity or usability of the system as a whole.

6. Engaging stakeholders: the key to adoption and success

The success of an HRIS implementation is heavily dependent on user adoption, which in turn relies on the active involvement of all stakeholders in the process. 

From the initial planning stages through to training and go-live, ensuring that the needs and concerns of end-users, managers, and executives are addressed is crucial for smooth adoption.

Collaboration and communication

Effective stakeholder engagement is rooted in open communication and collaboration. Regular updates, feedback sessions, and the inclusion of user suggestions in the development process can foster a sense of ownership and enthusiasm for the new system, mitigating resistance and promoting a positive adoption experience.

7. Vendor selection and cost consideration

Choosing the right HRIS vendor is a critical decision that impacts not just the implementation phase but the long-term value and effectiveness of the system. 

Beyond assessing features and capabilities, organizations must consider the total cost of ownership, including implementation, training, maintenance, and potential scalability costs. 

A strategic approach to vendor selection, focusing on long-term needs and alignment with organizational goals, can prevent costly missteps and ensure a robust HRIS foundation.

Implementation approach: tailoring the transition

The approach to HRIS rollout—be it immediate, parallel, or gradual—can significantly influence the implementation’s success and the organization’s adjustment to the new system. 

Each method has its merits and risks, and choosing the right one depends on the organization’s specific circumstances, including its readiness for change, the complexity of the existing systems, and the criticality of uninterrupted HR services.

Comprehensive planning

The foundation of a successful HRIS implementation is laid with comprehensive planning. This encompasses a needs assessment, gap analysis, and a strategic roadmap tailored to your organization’s specific requirements. 

A common pitfall is inadequate planning, which can lead to selecting a system that misaligns with your organizational needs, causing functionality gaps and user dissatisfaction.

8. Training, support, and communication: ensuring smooth adoption

One of the most significant challenges in HRIS implementation is ensuring smooth adoption among all users. This challenge can be mitigated with comprehensive training, robust support systems, and proactive communication strategies.

Training programs

Developing and delivering effective training programs is crucial for user competence and confidence. Training should be tailored to different user groups within the organization, addressing specific needs and concerns. Additionally, consider offering ongoing training sessions to cover system updates and refreshers on core functionalities.

Support systems

Establishing a dedicated support system, such as a helpdesk or support team, can significantly ease the transition. Users are more likely to embrace the new system if they know help is readily available for troubleshooting and guidance.

Proactive communication

Keep lines of communication open throughout the implementation process. Regular updates, Q&A sessions, and forums for feedback can help address concerns, manage expectations, and foster a sense of involvement among all stakeholders.

How Workable can help you avoid common pitfalls in HRIS implementation

Workable offers a comprehensive and structured solution, designed to help organizations overcome common pitfalls in HRIS implementation. 

Through a detailed process that includes requirements discovery, fact gathering, content and data migration, walkthroughs, orientation and training, and robust rollout, Workable ensures a smooth and efficient implementation journey.

At the heart of Workable’s approach is a dedicated onboarding specialist, providing personalized support throughout the implementation phase. 

This ensures that organizations have expert guidance at every step, significantly reducing the risk of common implementation challenges such as poor stakeholder engagement, inadequate training, and system integration issues.

Workable’s benefits extend beyond the implementation phase. 

With features like an implementation tracker for HR admins, hands-on training sessions, access to Workable Academy for both HR admins and managers, and a wealth of guides, videos, and collateral for all users, Workable is committed to ensuring that organizations not only successfully implement their HRIS but also maximize its utilization.

Furthermore, Workable’s technical support is available to all users, ensuring that any post-launch questions or issues are promptly addressed.

Remember, the goal of implementing an HRIS is not just to modernize HR processes but to create a more efficient, responsive, and strategic HR function that drives organizational success. 

With the right approach, your HRIS can become a powerful tool in achieving these objectives.

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Succession planning: a guide to get it right https://resources.workable.com/tutorial/succession-planning Thu, 23 Jun 2016 08:13:14 +0000 https://resources.workable.com/?p=5407 Effective succession planning is a company’s insurance policy for sustainability. This becomes clear when critical positions become vacant. A good succession plan means there’ll always be a talented and properly trained employee who can take over before operations fall into disarray. Often, the succession planning process is way down a company’s list of priorities. But […]

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Effective succession planning is a company’s insurance policy for sustainability. This becomes clear when critical positions become vacant. A good succession plan means there’ll always be a talented and properly trained employee who can take over before operations fall into disarray.

Often, the succession planning process is way down a company’s list of priorities. But critical roles are hard to fill. All businesses need to be ready to respond to employee departures, both planned (like retirements) and unexpected (like career changes).

Related: A poorly thought-out or non-existent succession plan in your organization could contribute to the glass cliff. What’s a glass cliff? Read more and find out.

Here is a comprehensive guide to help you build an effective succession plan:

So, what’s succession planning?

Imagine you’re a football coach. Before a big game, one of your most valuable players announces they’re leaving the team. Do you have players sitting on the bench who have the skills, maturity and motivation to take their place? Well, you should. Succession planning ensures that each key role vacancy will be passed on to an appropriate employee.

Key roles may be leadership positions of any ranking, highly specialized roles or important operations positions. Companies can identify internal talent and prepare (in other words “groom”) them to assume key positions, should the need arise. Succession planning isn’t the same as replacement planning because it doesn’t just focus on temporary solutions. It’s a mechanism to counteract turnover and uncertainty, a way for teams to continue operating successfully in the long-term, even when key players leave.

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What is a succession planning process?

Get to know the ground rules:

  • Identify current and future needs (succession, skills etc.) based on strategic planning and company vision.
  • Find critical roles and identify incumbents’ profiles. C-suite and high level directors are always critical roles, but it’s worth looking at lower level roles too. Gather information on when vacancies might occur (e.g. retirement.)
  • Plan. Determine who can fill which positions and conduct gap analysis to identify the difference between current skills and those needed in the future. Groom individuals and pay attention to their learning and development.
  • Reevaluate. Succession plans shouldn’t be put on the shelf. The process of succession planning is ongoing and needs change. Review your plan periodically to keep it current.

Why do I need succession planning when I can recruit?

Recruitment is always important and it’s worth investing in expertise, efficient processes and technology. However, it’s sometimes better to look internally to fill a position. It can help cut recruitment costs and avoid spending valuable time onboarding. If you promote from within, you’d be filling a critical position with someone who already knows your company’s history, objectives and vision. And it supports retention and enhances employee engagement by demonstrating that you value your employees and want to give them opportunities for advancement.

How can I build an effective succession plan?

Ensure you’ll make the most out of your plan by considering the following tips:

Create a formal process

Especially in small businesses, there’s a tendency to overlook formal processes for succession planning. But a formal process promotes consistency and can be communicated more easily to everyone involved. It’ll support visibility and effectiveness. Don’t aim for a rigid process though. Guidelines can be more useful for people to reference.

Communicate properly

Companies use succession plans when incumbents retire, get promoted or pursue new opportunities. Communicating those plans ahead of time can positively impact your employees. Employees (and potential employees) will see you invest in talent. Trust and loyalty will be enhanced. It may also help morale remain high as they won’t have to worry about what’ll happen if a leader leaves.

Plan across all ranks

Succession planning used to be just for executives. But just focusing on executives means you could overlook people in other key positions. It’s important to have more than just a CEO succession planning process. After all, lower level employees are more involved with everyday operations than the C-suite or board of directors.

Build the appropriate training plan

Succession plans don’t work without training plans. People who can fill critical positions now may have outdated skills by the time succession rolls around. Likewise, people who may not be ready to fill certain positions yet might be the best choices after the right training and coaching. The succession planning process flow should be developed alongside training plans. Try to train employees for future roles as well as their current role.

Look for external opportunities

Large businesses have a wide range of internal choices to fill positions. Smaller companies may sometimes need to turn to the outside world to build their positions’ talent pipelines. You can create an external pool of talent by always looking for great candidates. For example, you can interact with key people on social networks to build rapport and then reach out when succession issues arise.

Proactive sourcing gives you a head start on filling positions. Download our free sourcing guide.

Encourage a culture of learning

If employees gain a lot of skills, there’s good chance they’ll be able to advance to critical positions. Succession planning process steps like mentoring, shadowing and job rotation to foster a culture of continuous learning and development.

Think about motivation

Not all employees will agree with your plans to place them in the critical position you have in mind. They may have other plans. Don’t indiscriminately include people in your succession planning. Talk to them about their career goals before critical positions become vacant. Otherwise, you may have to start looking for a successor from scratch in a time crunch.

Create an emergency succession plan

Although you can anticipate and plan for retirement and promotions, people may leave their positions unpredictably. In these cases, replacement plans can help. Replacement plans don’t really need training plans or talent pipelines like succession plans. But it’s important to identify a couple of people that can step in and save the day. Look for people who can act as interims until you find a real successor.

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Choosing the best employee management software https://resources.workable.com/tutorial/best-employee-management-software Mon, 20 Mar 2023 18:40:56 +0000 https://resources.workable.com/?p=87906 With these technology-based solutions, companies can simplify human resources management roles to maximize efficiency. Additionally, all personal and work-related details of employees are stored securely within the employee information system making it more convenient for managers to quickly access relevant data. All businesses can benefit from the implementation of the EMS tool in the following […]

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With these technology-based solutions, companies can simplify human resources management roles to maximize efficiency.

Additionally, all personal and work-related details of employees are stored securely within the employee information system making it more convenient for managers to quickly access relevant data.

All businesses can benefit from the implementation of the EMS tool in the following ways:

  • implementing processes to help companies achieve their business objectives
  • assisting managers in keeping track of admin activities
  • help improve employee engagement and increase productivity
  • assist with vacations and absence management and timekeeping
  • help HR managers and organizational leaders track performance reviews of employees
  • connect the workforce and create a sustainable hybrid work model

EMS vs. HR software – what’s the difference?

The terminology used in human resources tech can be confusing, but it needn’t be. “Employment Management Software” is a broad term, so you may find it referred to as the following, each of which comes with subtle differences but includes features of employee management:

Human Resources Information System (HRIS)

An HRIS is a tool Human Resources departments use to optimize their operations. It contains all the components necessary to ensure efficiency and effectiveness in managing HR tasks.

Human Capital Management software (HCM)

Focused on employee management, it is designed to help organizations acquire and develop talent and optimize their team performance. Its features can assist with recruiting, onboarding, and assessing employee performance.

Human Resources Management system (HRMS)

A digital platform designed to facilitate and streamline a variety of HR processes. It is there to help organizations keep track of their personnel and the activities carried out by the people management team. In essence, these systems are used to provide complete oversight of an organization’s operations.

For a deeper dive, check out our HRIS vs. HCMS vs. HRM guide!

Related: What is employee management?

Benefits of Employee Management Software

Let’s look at some of the benefits of using employee management software in more detail, but matching their features with goals:

Goal: To optimize internal processes

Why you need to do it: Managing different HR processes can be challenging and time-consuming. EMS eliminates the need to use several tools and helps improve the HR team’s overall efficiency.

Goal: To improve the work climate

Why you need to do it: Timely feedback helps improve the work culture. EMS lets you monitor, evaluate, and provide workers with feedback on their performance.

Goal: To ensure compliance with legal obligations

Why you need to do it: Organizations must adhere to legal and regulatory standards concerning employees and management. EMS tools ensure you remain up-to-date with the HR and labor rules and regulations.

Goal: To ensure employee engagement

Why you need to do it: To improve workplace motivation and increase employee productivity. EMS helps you easily monitor and evaluate employees’ progress, helps employees feel confident and encourages them to develop a good relationship with the organization, and creates an environment that encourages communication.

Goal: To save HR team time

Why you need to do it: Access to employee data helps managers implement strategic decisions and increase workplace productivity quickly. Most systems are cloud-based, which gives employers and HR teams access to the data anywhere. EMS saves time because HR no longer has to wait to make decisions because of a lack of information

Goal: To achieve better data security

Why you need to do it: Reduce the risk of sensitive information being accessed without authority and adhere to data storage regulations. EMS can guarantee your data security with encryption measures.

Goal: Reduce paperwork

Why you need to do it: Introduce more sustainable practices into your organization and streamline processes. EMS can be customized to meet the requirements of each department to reduce paperwork. It also enables the HR department and employees to complete forms online.

Breaking down the different types of employee management software

Here are three types of employee management software:

1. Time and productivity management software

Managers and business leaders need to be able to track the productivity of their employees; this is where time and productivity management software comes in. These systems are designed to measure:

  • productive and non-productive hours
  • what projects each employee is working on
  • any potential signs of wasted time
  • other factors of employee efficiency

Such tools offer a great deal of insight into the busiest days for each department and allow managers to recognize when an employee might need to be more productive.

2. HR Management Software

A crucial element in successful employee management is an HR management system. These systems store all employee data and streamline HR operations to enhance decision-making.

These tools provide a comprehensive solution for organizations’ HR tasks, from onboarding staff to managing payroll activities.

In addition, the compliance-driven elements of many HR processes make manual labor time-consuming and expensive; using such systems simplifies this process and helps managers preserve time, resources, and money.

3. Employee collaboration and communication software

For the team to succeed, effective communication is essential. With the proper tools in place, everyone on the team can remain connected and collaborate effectively. By establishing an atmosphere of regular communication, each individual’s tasks can be completed successfully. Along with providing swift communication, many of these systems enable members to exchange data easily.

Next-gen employee management software: talent management tech

HR departments today have a much different challenge than in the past. With many companies embracing diverse demographics of employees, they must be able to keep up with and respond to workers spread across many generations, skill levels, locations, and unique career goals. All while keeping up with the changing times of a fast-paced world where staying connected is paramount.

As a result, there has been an upsurge in demand for highly intelligent, user-friendly, and efficient tools for managing talent resources. These are some features in employee management software that can help HR departments enhance their recruiting efforts.

1. Streamlining the onboarding process

By utilizing a strong Human Resources strategy, companies can ensure the onboarding process of their new hires is effortless and impactful.

With access to a digital hub filled with company culture and aspirations, newcomers can become quickly informed about what is expected from them.

Recruits are granted the ability to virtually get accustomed to job or department details before their first day.

2. Mainstreaming performance management

Moving away from a system that only includes yearly reviews, the performance management process is now incorporating a more continuous feedback loop with a 360-degree approach. This enables employees and managers to provide one another with continual feedback and advice.

Performance monitoring tools monitor what tasks employees work on and how long they spend on each task to determine their productivity.

Automated employee management software reminds a business unit to share reviews or feedback about a colleague’s performance.

3. Personalized learning and teaching

Companies must learn how to tailor both learnability and teachability to maximize success.

Data and feedback loops can greatly help assess a learner’s current skills and interests and match those qualities with individual preferences and company objectives.

Top employee management software providers

1. Workable.com

Elevate your HR operations effortlessly with Workable, an easy-to-use HRIS platform designed to streamline the employee onboarding and management journey. This platform stands out for its blend of customizable features that cater directly to the nuances of HR tasks.

Through Workable, you can set up custom workflows, launch a branded onboarding portal, and leverage automated compliance tools to ensure a smooth transition and management of new hires. It’s all about creating an organized, efficient, and engaging experience for both HR managers and employees alike.

Key features: Customizable workflows, branded onboarding experiences, automated compliance management, company document organization, clear organizational structure, efficient time-off management.

What makes it good:

  • Tailored for quickly growing businesses
  • Enhanced HR management
  • Seamless integration
  • Professional and polished experience
  • Cost-effective solution
  • Comprehensive compliance tools
  • Advanced reporting and analytics
  • Mobile accessibility for on-the-go management

2. Monday.com

Organize your business operations easily with the help of the cloud-based platform, monday.com. This comprehensive tool provides features to support Human Resources needs, making it ideal for employee management tasks.

From creating collaborative workflows, assigning tasks to keep track of performance indicators, and sending out reminders, you will be able to do all this and more.

Key features: HR templates, onboarding, recruitment pipeline, employee wellbeing, employee development and learning, employee engagement, workflows.

What makes it good:

  • Suitable for mid-sized businesses
  • It helps you communicate and collaborate easily
  • It has powerful reporting and analytics
  • Supports multiple integrations
  • It’s mobile-enabled
  • Offers customizable dashboards
  • Offers reports for progress tracking, budget totals, capacity limitations, missed deadline warnings, and more
  • It has a user-friendly interface
  • It is reasonably priced

3. Gusto

Gusto is a complete HR solution for small businesses, offering an array of features that simplify managing payroll hiring.
It might be best known for its payroll system specifically designed with the needs of smaller companies in mind. This means it takes care of filing all local, state, and federal tax forms on behalf of your company – with electronic signing, faxing, and document storage available within the Gusto dashboard.

Key features: Payroll, contractor payment, benefits administration, time tracking, taxes, compliance.

What makes it good:

  • Ideal for first-time and experienced HR administrators
  • Includes easy-to-use setup tools, management, and payroll runs
  • Offers team management tools, employee engagement features, performance reviews, and time-off management
  • Good customer service and support
  • Offers personalized solutions
  • It has powerful integrations such as QuickBooks

4. Rippling

Rippling’s HR and IT automation features make it a breeze to use. Its intuitive platform and app integration capabilities offer a comprehensive range of tools that both administrators and HR staff will find useful.

Features include applicant tracking, custom hiring workflows, task management, compliance training, and customizable reporting. These are all designed to streamline human resources processes that are time-intensive.

Key features: Onboarding and offboarding, payroll, benefits administration, workflow management, time tracking, security

What makes it good:

  • Intuitive and easy-to-use
  • Highly customizable
  • Easy to automate several HR processes
  • It has a mobile app
  • It makes the onboarding process simple and quick

5. Paycor

Paycor has designed its human capital management software to simplify businesses’ payroll, talent acquisition, workforce management, and benefits administration processes.

It also provides added value by giving insight into the experiences of employees. Advanced reporting and analytics features make it a good choice for companies keen to explore their data further to make smarter choices.

Small business owners can benefit from the tools that aid with employee engagement, turnover, diversity, and budgeting efforts.

Key features: analytics and reporting, benefits administration, employee surveys, expense management, payroll, workforce management

What makes it good:

  • Offers extensive reporting and customizable analytics features
  • Analytics data is presented in a helpful visual format
  • The web platform and mobile app are user-friendly and easy to navigate
  • Integrates well with popular benefits, retirement, background checks, and hiring tools

Choosing the right employee management software for you

Are you in search of the perfect employee management software? There are a few key aspects to consider.

You will need an application that enables quick and easy observation of your workforce.

You must be able to access up-to-date job titles, salary details, skills, contact data, and more. Staff scheduling and PTO is another essential function this system should offer.

Performance review tools, as well as survey services, should be accessible to deliver feedback to employees while monitoring company satisfaction.

Benefits and payroll management need to be accessible within the same platform to avoid any unnecessary duplication of data entry.

Automation options should also be available, so you don’t need to spend extra time managing tasks manually.

Finding what works best for your employees

To find the optimum solution for your organization, consider the size of your team. A large-scale organization may opt for an approach that helps track productivity and performance; in contrast, a smaller firm that relies on highly talented personnel might prefer a management strategy geared toward encouraging creativity and collaboration.

Either way, weighing up the pros and cons of the employee management software requires engagement from all personnel who will ultimately be working with it – that’s how you get buy-in and achieve success.

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The 6 best free HR and employee management software solutions https://resources.workable.com/tutorial/best-free-hr-and-employee-management-software-solutions Sat, 25 Mar 2023 19:50:10 +0000 https://resources.workable.com/?p=88005 Need HR software but struggling to decide? Check out our list of the top 5 free HR and employee management software providers, and how they compare. Type “free HR software” in the search box and prepare for a deluge of results. With some, you quickly realize that “free” actually refers to a trial version, while […]

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Need HR software but struggling to decide? Check out our list of the top 5 free HR and employee management software providers, and how they compare.

Type “free HR software” in the search box and prepare for a deluge of results. With some, you quickly realize that “free” actually refers to a trial version, while others are sponsored adverts. To help you distinguish the wheat from the chaff, read through our quick overview of the best free HR and employee management software solutions out there.

Related: What is employee management?

Let’s have look at what they are:

Workable

The main focus of Workable’s HRIS is streamlining the onboarding and management process. With its customizable features such as custom workflows, branded onboarding portal and automated compliance tools, Workable offers a seamless experience for HR management. Key offerings include organized company documents, a clear organization structure and efficient time-off management.

Workable is an ideal choice for companies looking for a centralized platform to effectively manage employee onboarding and HR-related tasks. The user-friendly interface and emphasis on organization make it an excellent tool for businesses striving for a smooth and professional HR experience. It comes free of charge with the purchase of its best-in-class recruitment solution.

Need to manage HR but don't have time?

Our HRIS tools helps you save time by automating your onboarding process and keep track of all employees’ information effortlessly, all in Workable.

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WebHR

This free, cloud-based service is ideal if your business requires a high level of communication between employees. Built-in messenger and employee discussion forums explain why WebHR is known as ‘The Social HR Software’.

Well – it’s only free if you have five employees or fewer using it, so this software suits small businesses. Some key free modules include onboarding, time and attendance, an employee self-service portal, file and document management, reports, and time off. Should you decide or need to upgrade, you can do so one module at a time.

Zoho People

Zoho offers a fairly comprehensive free package that includes file and document management, time and attendance tracking, performance management, employee development, and time off management. Free for five users, Zoho People provides an employee database as well as office readiness features.

This includes work premises configuration, work from office management, and visitor management. And while you’re only getting 250MB of storage, you’ll still get classic support and e-signature integration. Zoho People is great for organizations looking for many features that offer basic HR services.

OrangeHRM

This is the one that pops up in most “Best free HR software” lists. Companies can self-host; however, this open-source software offers the same solutions in its cloud-based version. With more than 5 million active users, OrangeHRM takes its tagline “HR software for all” seriously.

The free starter package provides time tracking, reporting, HR admin, and recruitment features, along with employee self-service. Leave management, performance, and employee management also form part of the deal. If your priority is scalability, then Orange HRM is a solid choice.

Bitrix24

Collaboration is the key feature of this software. An unlimited number of users in its free version combined with a portfolio of task and project management features make Bitrix24 an excellent platform for cooperative work. Included among the 35 free tools are employee profile pages, company structure, a social network, and a company knowledge base.

This HR software will suit companies that want to easily connect to other aspects of the business, such as customer relationship management and website building.

Freshteam

Affordable scalability that won’t break the bank when you decide to upgrade is what you can expect from Freshteam. With access for fewer than 50 employees, you can take advantage of its free-forever plan that offers a customizable career site, employee referrals, an organizational chart, and an employee information system.

Freshteam’s selling points are its low prices for upgrades, user-friendly interface, and support. This cloud-based system works for small to medium-sized businesses looking for a one-stop shop for their HR needs.

It’s all about what you need

Take the time to carefully consider your company’s needs. Once you have decided on a HR and employee management software solution, it will be difficult to change it once it is implemented.

Even if no payment has been made, certain HR processes are now embedded in the chosen solution, requiring system overhaul and possibly user retraining.

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The Kate Photoshop fiasco: 3 major lessons for employers https://resources.workable.com/tutorial/the-kate-photoshop-fiasco-lessons-for-employers Wed, 13 Mar 2024 16:21:07 +0000 https://resources.workable.com/?p=93710 Catherine, Princess of Wales, colloquially still referred to as Kate Middleton, had surgery earlier this year. Even though the official message from the British Royal Family was that she would be off work and out of the public eye through the end of March, people are wondering what happened and where she is. This is […]

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Catherine, Princess of Wales, colloquially still referred to as Kate Middleton, had surgery earlier this year. Even though the official message from the British Royal Family was that she would be off work and out of the public eye through the end of March, people are wondering what happened and where she is.

This is not a gossip blog, but I’m intrigued. I do want to know that Her Royal Highness is okay, but I’m also fascinated by the lessons we can learn about corporate communication from this debacle.

Yes, companies make the same mistakes the Royals are making all the time. Here we go.

1. Be honest in your messaging

This seems easy to do. In January, the Palace released a statement that HRH had been admitted to the hospital for a planned abdominal surgery.

Frankly, while the public is very nosey, we aren’t entitled to know why she had surgery. Yes, she’s a public figure, but she’s still entitled to medical privacy.

But the dishonesty started here. If the surgery was planned, why did she cancel upcoming events? Those two statements are contradictory.

Now for normal humans, our surgeries may get moved up or pushed out based on the surgeon’s availability, but I doubt the royals have trouble with getting bumped or moved up.

So why not be honest from the beginning? “Her Royal Highness Catherine, Princess of Wales, underwent abdominal surgery and will be recovering until after Easter. She regrets that she won’t be attending upcoming events.”

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You can hire with Workable, and you can also onboard and manage your new employees all within the same platform without messy integrations.

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Lessons for your business

People can see through the misdirections and squishy language used to hide things.

No, you’re not required to tell people confidential information (whether it be health information about your CEO or details about an upcoming merger.

But you need to be honest about what you do say. Otherwise, people will see through it.

Related: Going viral as an employer – for all the wrong reasons

2. Don’t pretty things up

While there will always be rumors about the Royals, what really stirred things up was a picture of Catherine and her children at the palace released for Mother’s Day in the UK. People noticed right away that there was a lot of Photoshop going on in that picture and cried foul.

Now, let’s have a reality check: A ton of the pictures you see on the internet have been photoshopped. If that’s a scandal, let me introduce you to another scandal: Filters, and filters’ close friend, makeup.

So why the problem?

Because this was poorly done and appeared to be more than a few little things to make everyone look like their mother hadn’t just been screaming at them, “If you can just not make a face for 30 seconds, we will be done with this and you can go back to Minecraft.

(Apologies: I’m sure your children, like the Royal children, love taking family pictures, and you’ve never experienced this phenomenon.)

Catherine is recovering from surgery and has been out of the public eye since January, so a Photoshopped picture raised eyebrows and, admittedly, produced some very entertaining social media posts.

Lessons for your business

If you try to tell everyone things are great and fudge numbers and talk about VPs who “left to spend more time with their families”, people know that you’re trying to hide something.

Honestly? Honesty is the best policy.

The other option, of course, is to keep your mouth shut and stick with the original message: HRH will be recovering until the end of March, and so here is a picture of the kids on Mother’s Day. Or: here’s a picture of them with their grandmother.

If nothing is changed from your original communication, just stay the course.

3. Rumors are (almost) always worse than reality

Catherine released a statement that she Photoshopped the picture and didn’t do a great job.

Ha, ha, ha.

Then the Palace released a photo of her and Prince William where Catherine could be any person with long dark hair.

So, the rumors are flying. Did she die? Is she stuck with a cat on her lap? Does she have cancer, and her hair all fell out? Did she decide to leave her husband? Did William run off with a mistress?

@casstherockwillson

It’s me, Kate! Everything is fine :) #royalfamily #katemiddleton

♬ Mozart Minuet with violin(815356) – 松本一策

Likely, none of these are true, and Kate – sorry, Catherine – is just still recovering from a major surgery.

But, by changing the original message (you won’t see her again until after Easter) and showing a poorly prettied-up picture, you invite rumors.

Adding a sketchy follow-up picture further fueled the rumors.

Lessons for your business

Stick to the truth. In the absence of information, people make stuff up, and that’s what’s happening here.

People will assume the worst because that’s the most exciting answer. It’s really boring to think, “She’s a 42-year-old woman who had major surgery. She needs time to recover, and she’s recovering.” It’s much more dramatic to think something horrible happened.

Present the truth. Hiding things makes it worse.

You’ll probably never have as much drama in your business as the Royals are having now, but you will have drama.

Trying to hide it and making iffy communication will make it worse.

Want to read more from the Evil HR Lady? Check out her other articles here.

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Optimize your hybrid work environments – Here’s how https://resources.workable.com/tutorial/optimize-your-hybrid-work-environments/ Tue, 12 Mar 2024 15:52:46 +0000 https://resources.workable.com/?p=93703 The era of endless pajama days is officially over for most companies. Now, employees need to divide their time between the home workspace and the company establishments, adopting the so-called hybrid model. HR teams are once again tasked with squeezing water from a rock. We are here to provide some optimizations that could untie the […]

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The era of endless pajama days is officially over for most companies. Now, employees need to divide their time between the home workspace and the company establishments, adopting the so-called hybrid model.

HR teams are once again tasked with squeezing water from a rock. We are here to provide some optimizations that could untie the knot and turn challenges into opportunities for your work environment.

Gallup research reveals a compelling narrative: hybrid work setups not only accommodate the preferences of a diverse workforce but also align with improved productivity and employee wellbeing. 

The allure of hybrid work lies in its ability to offer employees control over their work environments, thus enhancing their satisfaction and loyalty to the company​​.

However, a McKinsey report highlighted that 71% of employees who prefer hybrid work are likely to seek other opportunities if it is not available​​. This underscores the urgency for HR professionals and employers to adapt and optimize their hybrid work policies to retain top talent.

Implementing a hybrid work model 

Transitioning to a hybrid work model necessitates a reevaluation of traditional HR practices, especially in organizations that do not utilize a Human Resource Information System (HRIS). 

Key challenges include maintaining seamless communication, ensuring equitable access to resources, fostering a cohesive company culture, and tracking performance across disparate environments.

One of the most significant hurdles is mitigating the sense of isolation among remote employees and ensuring they feel as valued and connected as their in-office counterparts. 

Deloitte’s insights on equitable workplace practices emphasize the need for intentional efforts to create an inclusive environment that transcends physical boundaries​​. This involves redefining the purpose of the office space to accommodate a more flexible, diverse workforce and leveraging real estate strategically to enhance employee experiences​​.

Strategies for effective communication and collaboration

The cornerstone of a successful hybrid work environment is robust communication. Without the luxury of spontaneous face-to-face interactions, HR professionals must champion the use of digital tools and platforms to bridge the gap. 

This includes regular video conferences, instant messaging for real-time collaboration, and digital workspaces to keep everyone aligned on projects and goals.

But technology alone is not enough. Cultivating a culture of open communication and regular check-ins can foster a sense of belonging and team cohesion.

Deloitte’s recommendations extend to creating equitable incentives and experiences, ensuring all employees, regardless of their location, have equal opportunities to contribute and succeed​​. By prioritizing these equitable practices, organizations can navigate the complexities of hybrid work, ensuring a fulfilling and productive experience for all employees.

Performance management in a hybrid setting

Managing performance in a hybrid work environment presents unique challenges. Without the direct oversight possible in a traditional office setting, employers must redefine their approach to monitoring and evaluating employee performance. 

The key is to focus on outcomes rather than activities. This shift requires clear goal-setting, with specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART) objectives at the forefront.

Regular feedback loops are crucial. Constructive feedback and timely recognition of achievements can motivate employees and guide their development, regardless of their physical location. 

Employers should leverage performance management tools that allow for continuous assessment and feedback, enabling employees to stay aligned with organizational goals and expectations.

Another aspect is fostering a culture of trust and autonomy. Empowering employees to manage their tasks and time can lead to higher productivity and job satisfaction. 

Trust, once established, acts as the foundation for a successful hybrid work model, encouraging responsibility and accountability among team members.

Bolstering employee engagement and well-being

Employee engagement is vital for maintaining high levels of productivity and retaining talent. In a hybrid model, this means ensuring all employees feel valued and connected to the organization’s mission and culture, regardless of where they work. 

Initiatives to bolster engagement can include virtual team-building activities, opportunities for professional development, and channels for employees to voice their ideas and concerns.

Well-being is another critical consideration. The flexibility of hybrid work can blur the boundaries between personal and professional life, leading to burnout. 

Employers should encourage healthy work-life boundaries and offer support resources, such as mental health days and wellness programs. 

Furthermore, recognizing and accommodating the diverse needs of your workforce can significantly enhance well-being. 

For example, providing flexible hours for caregivers or creating quiet spaces in the office for deep work can make a substantial difference.

Engagement strategies must be inclusive, ensuring remote and office-based employees have equal access to opportunities and support. This can be facilitated through regular surveys to gauge employee sentiment and identify areas for improvement.

Integrating technology and HRIS for hybrid work optimization

The successful integration of technology and HRIS is pivotal in managing a hybrid workforce effectively. These systems can streamline various HR functions, from recruitment and onboarding to performance management and employee engagement. 

An effective HRIS provides a centralized platform for managing employee data, facilitating communication, and supporting decision-making processes with analytics.

When selecting an HRIS, consider features that support hybrid work models, such as mobile accessibility, integration with communication tools, and advanced reporting capabilities. This ensures that employees can access the system from anywhere, fostering a more connected and engaged workforce.

Furthermore, leveraging technology to enhance the employee experience is crucial. This can include creating digital spaces for collaboration, implementing AI for personalized learning and development paths, and using analytics to understand workforce trends and predict future needs. 

By adopting a strategic approach to technology integration, organizations can not only optimize their operations but also create a more adaptable, resilient, and future-ready workforce.

Future-proofing your hybrid work model involves staying informed about advancements in HR technology, understanding the changing dynamics of the workforce, and being proactive in addressing potential challenges.

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Web Optimization Manager job description https://resources.workable.com/web-optimization-manager-job-description Fri, 08 Mar 2024 13:57:52 +0000 https://resources.workable.com/?p=93689 A Web Optimization Manager is a professional focused on analyzing web traffic and user behavior to implement strategies that improve website conversion rates. They use analytics and testing tools to identify optimization opportunities and enhance user experience on a website or digital platform. Use this Web Optimization Manager job description template to advertise open roles […]

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A Web Optimization Manager is a professional focused on analyzing web traffic and user behavior to implement strategies that improve website conversion rates. They use analytics and testing tools to identify optimization opportunities and enhance user experience on a website or digital platform.

Use this Web Optimization Manager job description template to advertise open roles for your company. Be sure to modify requirements and duties based on the unique needs of the role you’re hiring for.

What is a Web Optimization Manager?

A Web Optimization Manager is crucial in leveraging web analytics and conversion rate optimization (CRO) techniques to maximize the efficiency of web properties. They delve deep into data to understand how users interact with a website and identify areas for improvement.

Through systematic testing and analysis, they implement changes that lead to better user experiences and higher conversion rates, ultimately driving business growth and customer satisfaction.

What does a Web Optimization Manager do?

A Web Optimization Manager strategizes and executes optimization tests across a company’s web presence to increase user conversions.

This role involves working closely with cross-functional teams to identify key performance indicators, set up and interpret analytics, conduct A/B testing, and improve the overall user journey.

By continuously analyzing traffic trends and user behavior, they pinpoint areas for enhancement and lead projects to improve site functionality, usability, and conversion rates. Their work ensures that the web platform is not only visually appealing but also effectively guides users to take desired actions.

Web Optimization Manager responsibilities include:

  • Analyzing visitor segments and identifying optimization opportunities
  • Measuring and specifying changes to improve conversion rates, including checkout and sign-up flows
  • Collaborating with Design and Product teams to enhance marketing funnels
  • Setting up analytics to track user interactions throughout the website

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VP of Self Service Revenue job description https://resources.workable.com/vp-of-self-service-revenue-job-description Fri, 08 Mar 2024 13:36:01 +0000 https://resources.workable.com/?p=93688 A VP of Self Service Revenue is a strategic role focused on driving the commercial success of a company’s self-service product line. This executive is responsible for managing the product line’s profitability, customer base, and growth strategy to maximize revenue and market share. Use this VP of Self Service Revenue job description template to advertise […]

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A VP of Self Service Revenue is a strategic role focused on driving the commercial success of a company’s self-service product line. This executive is responsible for managing the product line’s profitability, customer base, and growth strategy to maximize revenue and market share.

Use this VP of Self Service Revenue job description template to advertise open roles for your company. Be sure to modify requirements and duties based on the unique needs of the role you’re hiring for.

What is a VP of Self Service Revenue?

A VP of Self Service Revenue is a senior executive who oversees the profitability and growth of a company’s self-service product offerings. They are pivotal in strategizing and executing plans that drive user acquisition, retention, and upselling. This role demands a deep understanding of the market, the ability to analyze data for actionable insights, and the skill to align product features with user needs for maximum revenue generation.

What does a VP of Self Service Revenue do?

A VP of Self Service Revenue steers the strategic direction of a company’s self-service offerings, focusing on maximizing revenue through efficient go-to-market strategies, pricing models, and customer engagement programs. They work closely with cross-functional teams to refine product offerings, optimize marketing efforts, and enhance the overall customer experience.

By analyzing market trends, customer feedback, and performance data, they identify growth opportunities and ensure the product’s competitive edge in the marketplace. Their leadership drives the success of the self-service product line, contributing significantly to the company’s overall growth and profitability.

VP of Self Service Revenue responsibilities include:

  • Owning the P&L and customer base for the self-service product line
  • Defining and implementing commercial strategies in alignment with market goals
  • Collaborating with Marketing and Product teams to optimize customer acquisition and conversion
  • Formulating pricing, positioning frameworks, and revenue maximization strategies

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VP of Demand Generation job description https://resources.workable.com/vp-of-demand-generation-job-description Fri, 08 Mar 2024 13:01:36 +0000 https://resources.workable.com/?p=93687 A VP of Demand Generation is a high-level executive responsible for strategizing and implementing marketing initiatives that drive customer interest and engagement towards a company’s products or services. They focus on growing the company’s client base and revenue through various marketing channels and analytics-driven strategies. Use this VP of Demand Generation job description template to […]

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A VP of Demand Generation is a high-level executive responsible for strategizing and implementing marketing initiatives that drive customer interest and engagement towards a company’s products or services. They focus on growing the company’s client base and revenue through various marketing channels and analytics-driven strategies.

Use this VP of Demand Generation job description template to advertise open roles for your company. Be sure to modify requirements and duties based on the unique needs of the role you’re hiring for.

What is a VP of Demand Generation?

A VP of Demand Generation is an executive role within the marketing department, focusing on generating demand for the company’s products or services. This involves developing and executing strategies that increase brand awareness, drive traffic, and convert leads into paying customers.

The VP of Demand Generation uses data and analytics to inform decisions, optimizing marketing efforts for maximum efficiency and impact.

What does a VP of Demand Generation do?

A VP of Demand Generation leads the efforts to create demand for a company’s offerings through targeted marketing strategies. They oversee the development of a marketing function that encompasses paid and organic channels, SEO, SEM, content marketing, and more.

This role involves managing teams, budgets, and external agencies to execute campaigns that align with the company’s growth objectives. By closely monitoring market trends and performance metrics, they adapt strategies to ensure ongoing improvement in customer acquisition, engagement, and retention.

The VP of Demand Generation plays a critical role in scaling the company’s reach and revenue by effectively attracting and converting leads into loyal customers.

VP of Demand Generation responsibilities include:

  • Building a scalable acquisition marketing function targeting quality traffic growth and conversion
  • Optimizing inbound marketing to improve website visitor conversion
  • Overseeing paid acquisition efforts and managing paid media budgets
  • Collaborating with content and product marketing teams to increase traffic and generate demand for new features and products

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UX Writer job description https://resources.workable.com/ux-writer-job-description Fri, 08 Mar 2024 12:49:56 +0000 https://resources.workable.com/?p=93686 A UX Writer specializes in crafting clear, concise, and user-friendly copy for digital products. Their work enhances user experience through language, guiding users effectively within software applications or websites by providing intuitive instructions, error messages, and navigational cues. Use this UX Writer job description template to advertise open roles for your company. Be sure to […]

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A UX Writer specializes in crafting clear, concise, and user-friendly copy for digital products. Their work enhances user experience through language, guiding users effectively within software applications or websites by providing intuitive instructions, error messages, and navigational cues.

Use this UX Writer job description template to advertise open roles for your company. Be sure to modify requirements and duties based on the unique needs of the role you’re hiring for.

What is a UX Writer?

A UX Writer is an integral part of the product design team, focusing on the text users interact with when using digital products. Their main goal is to communicate complex ideas simply and intuitively, helping users navigate products, resolve issues, and understand features.

By focusing on language that fits the product’s tone and serves its users’ needs, UX Writers play a crucial role in creating a seamless and positive user experience.

What does a UX Writer do?

A UX Writer crafts the words we read or hear in digital products like apps, websites, and software.

This includes everything from buttons and error messages to help articles and email notifications. They work closely with designers, researchers, and product managers to ensure that the copy is user-centered, aligned with the brand’s voice, and effectively guides users through their journey.

UX Writers also create and maintain style guides and content strategies, ensuring consistency and clarity across all product communications.

UX Writer responsibilities include:

  • Writing and editing clear copy for product features, including navigational elements and error messages
  • Creating content guidelines for design system components
  • Collaborating with Product Designers and Managers to maintain brand voice and follow UX writing best practices
  • Influencing strategic decisions to improve user experience and ensure consistency across platforms

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UX Data Analyst job description https://resources.workable.com/ux-data-analyst-job-description Thu, 07 Mar 2024 14:05:20 +0000 https://resources.workable.com/?p=93654 A UX Data Analyst is a professional who specializes in analyzing user interaction data to inform and enhance the design and usability of a product. They use quantitative and qualitative data to understand user behavior, preferences, and challenges, contributing to a user-centered design process. Use this UX Data Analyst job description template to advertise open […]

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A UX Data Analyst is a professional who specializes in analyzing user interaction data to inform and enhance the design and usability of a product. They use quantitative and qualitative data to understand user behavior, preferences, and challenges, contributing to a user-centered design process.

Use this UX Data Analyst job description template to advertise open roles for your company. Be sure to modify requirements and duties based on the unique needs of the role you’re hiring for.

What is a UX Data Analyst?

A UX Data Analyst plays a pivotal role in the product development process, focusing on gathering and interpreting data related to how users interact with a product. By analyzing website or app usage data, such as page views, click-through rates, and conversion funnels, they provide insights that drive design decisions aimed at improving user experience and satisfaction.

What does a UX Data Analyst do?

A UX Data Analyst meticulously collects, organizes, and analyzes data from web analytics tools, usability tests, and user feedback to uncover patterns and insights into user behavior. They work closely with design and product teams to translate these insights into actionable design strategies that enhance user experience.

Their work involves configuring analytics tools, monitoring feature performance, ensuring web accessibility standards are met, and developing clear, insightful reports that guide product evolution and innovation.

UX Data Analyst responsibilities include:

  • Collaborating with Product Managers and Designers to determine and analyze metrics
  • Implementing and tracking product metrics and KPIs using various data sources
  • Developing strategies for data analysis, visualization, and reporting
  • Setting up and managing UX analytics tracking and reporting tools

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UI Engineer job description https://resources.workable.com/ui-engineer-job-description Thu, 07 Mar 2024 13:31:55 +0000 https://resources.workable.com/?p=93653 A UI Engineer is a skilled professional specializing in implementing user interface designs into functional and engaging digital experiences. They bridge the gap between visual design and technical implementation, ensuring that users interact with applications in an intuitive and aesthetically pleasing manner. Use this UI Engineer job description template to advertise open roles for your […]

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A UI Engineer is a skilled professional specializing in implementing user interface designs into functional and engaging digital experiences. They bridge the gap between visual design and technical implementation, ensuring that users interact with applications in an intuitive and aesthetically pleasing manner.

Use this UI Engineer job description template to advertise open roles for your company. Be sure to modify requirements and duties based on the unique needs of the role you’re hiring for.

What is a UI Engineer?

A UI Engineer is a developer focused on creating the front-end part of web applications, transforming design concepts into code that produces the visual elements of the software. They work closely with designers to ensure that the implemented designs accurately reflect the intended user experience, paying close attention to details that enhance user interaction and engagement.

What does a UI Engineer do?

A UI Engineer takes designs and mockups and turns them into live, functioning websites or applications. This involves writing clean, efficient code that works across multiple browsers and devices, maintaining style guides, and optimizing web pages for speed and scalability.

They play a critical role in the development team, bringing the user interface to life and ensuring a seamless interaction for users. By staying up-to-date with the latest web technologies and design trends, UI Engineers contribute to creating innovative and responsive designs that meet the needs of modern users.

UI Engineer responsibilities include:

  • Translating interactive mockups into reusable code
  • Implementing UI designs using HTML and Sass ensuring cross-browser compatibility
  • Writing reusable code and building widget libraries for future use
  • Optimizing design for maximum speed and scalability

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Content specialist intern job description https://resources.workable.com/content-specialist-intern-job-description Thu, 07 Mar 2024 13:07:04 +0000 https://resources.workable.com/?p=93652 A Content Specialist Intern is a role focused on creating and optimizing online content, including guides, job description templates, and research articles. They collect data through online research, develop educational content, and perform SEO to enhance visibility and engagement. Use this Content Specialist Intern job description template to advertise open roles for your company. Be […]

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A Content Specialist Intern is a role focused on creating and optimizing online content, including guides, job description templates, and research articles. They collect data through online research, develop educational content, and perform SEO to enhance visibility and engagement.

Use this Content Specialist Intern job description template to advertise open roles for your company. Be sure to modify requirements and duties based on the unique needs of the role you’re hiring for.

What is a Content Specialist Intern?

A Content Specialist Intern is an entry-level position aimed at individuals interested in content creation, digital marketing, and SEO. This role involves extensive research, writing, and editing to produce high-quality content that educates and engages a specific audience.

Interns learn about content strategy, audience analysis, and the technical aspects of online publishing, making it an excellent opportunity for those looking to start a career in content marketing, HR, or business management.

What does a Content Specialist Intern do?

A Content Specialist Intern researches, writes, and edits content that educates and assists readers, particularly on topics related to recruitment and HR practices. They play a crucial role in content creation from initial research to final publication, ensuring the content is informative, engaging, and optimized for search engines.

Additionally, they work with content management systems like WordPress and perform SEO tasks to increase the content’s online visibility. This internship is an opportunity to contribute significantly to a project, learn from experienced professionals, and gain valuable insights into recruitment and hiring practices.

Content Specialist Intern responsibilities include:

  • Collecting and processing content and data through online research
  • Developing guides and online content for publication
  • Writing and preparing content for WordPress sites
  • Conducting online keyword research and simple content SEO

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Apply the Pareto principle wisely –  and boost productivity by 4X https://resources.workable.com/tutorial/apply-the-pareto-principle Wed, 06 Mar 2024 22:27:42 +0000 https://resources.workable.com/?p=93645 Explore how you can apply methods from agile software development to any kind of unpredictable project you face. Learn 3 essential tactics to boost your team’s performance and continuously stay on top of surprises. In much of our work, you’ll find that 80% of the impact comes from just 20% of your efforts. This so-called […]

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Explore how you can apply methods from agile software development to any kind of unpredictable project you face. Learn 3 essential tactics to boost your team’s performance and continuously stay on top of surprises.

Boost your productivity

Speed up time to hire by automating repetitive tasks and emails with Workable’s automated actions.

Kick-start your automations

In much of our work, you’ll find that 80% of the impact comes from just 20% of your efforts. This so-called Pareto Principle is evident in the software we use daily, such as text editors or spreadsheet tools, where we typically utilize a fraction of the available features.

This phenomenon isn’t limited to software; consider how few buttons you use on your TV remote.

Smart companies leverage this principle by focusing on delivering the valuable 20% to capture 80% of the value, effectively quadrupling productivity.

Read more: Augmented workforce is not the future – it’s happening now

In work, the 80/20 rule often applies when you’re doing something that’s new to you – projects where you can expect surprises to happen. When repeating something, you already know what parts play a role and can focus only on those.

Skills responsible for managing this have been honed and improved in the software industry over the last 30 years. Unpredictable projects tend to be the rule here.

Today, however, more and more commercial, non-profit, and even government organizations are using the same methods in any kind of project, and you can too.

Common misapplication

Be cautious about where you apply the 80/20 principle; it can backfire if not used thoughtfully.

Imagine you are a headhunter looking to fill an executive position and you do a background check on them, looking only at the 20% most obvious spots. Most likely, you will overlook something important with potentially dire consequences for your client.

In other words; as a general rule, you cannot just do the most important 20% of an activity. Your quality will suffer. A spoon that’s only been washed 20% is still dirty, even though the largest pieces of food have been removed.

As a general rule, you cannot just do the most important 20% of an activity. Your quality will suffer. A spoon that’s only been washed 20% is still dirty, even though the largest pieces of food have been removed.

Having experienced such problems with quality, many managers have become cautious and prefer to play it safe by doing 100% everywhere.

Focus on results, not the activities

The secret to harnessing the Pareto Principle lies in focusing on results rather than getting bogged down in activities and processes. It’s the 20% of features of a product that deliver 80% of the value. These features should be implemented well, without compromising quality.

So, how can you identify the different results in your project when it doesn’t have anything to do with creating a product?

To answer this, you need to look at your project from the perspective of the people for whom you are doing it – your stakeholders.

Anything that they could see, use, or that would change their behavior is such a result; we call it a vertical slice of work.

In making food, it’s the cooked dishes. In social media marketing, it’s a written and posted article. In hiring, it’s filling an open position.

Often, it’s as easy as in these examples to identify many vertical slices. Once you do, you can prioritize the most useful ones and work on delivering them within days or weeks. Once you deliver them, you and your team can learn from your stakeholders whether they were that valuable.

And again, you prioritize the next items now with your new knowledge. Deliver, learn, repeat.

Identify the many small results

Often, valuable results in many projects aren’t delivered until the very end. This doesn’t give you space to choose what you think the most valuable 20% of them are. For this, there are several tactics to slice a large deliverable into smaller, but still valuable, ones.

And this isn’t just helping you find the useful 20%. When working with unpredictability, there is one sure way to fail: hoping to deliver the one result in the end that will make your stakeholders happy. Slicing helps you get feedback early and mitigates risk.

How to apply the Pareto principle

Here are a few effective tactics for slicing work into manageable, vertical slices:

1. Defuse the risk

Identify the riskiest parts of your project, then think of a result that, once delivered, would demonstrate that the risk isn’t there.

Example: You aren’t sure whether candidates for a particular position would submit a two-minute application video when invited to.

Instead of waiting for applicants to do it, you find 10 potential candidates and ask them directly to apply. Stay in touch with them if they don’t submit a video, to learn why.

2. Narrow the target

If your project affects a large group of people, try to focus on subgroups first.

Example: Instead of targeting all employers in North America, start with female founder CEOs of companies with less than 25 employees. Then move to a different subgroup.

3. Start with a reduced impact

Instead of striving for the target behavior, identify a behavior on the way to your goal.

Example: Instead of focusing on getting heads of HR departments to procure your hiring services, get them to book a half-hour meeting with you.

Focusing on such results allows you to address all possible surprises head-on, learn about what belongs to the most valuable 20%, and deliver the project piece by piece at the same time.

Anton Skornyavkov is a Certified Scrum Trainer with Scrum Alliance and the managing director of Agile.Coach based in Berlin, Germany. His new book “The Art of Slicing Work” is a real-world, low-jargon guide that teaches the main skill of a successful manager in the 21st century – the ability to master unpredictability.

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Support Specialist job description https://resources.workable.com/support-specialist-job-description Wed, 06 Mar 2024 14:45:58 +0000 https://resources.workable.com/?p=93644 A Support Specialist is a professional dedicated to assisting customers by providing guidance, solving issues, and ensuring a positive experience with a product or service. They utilize their knowledge and skills to troubleshoot problems and offer solutions, often acting as the first point of contact between a company and its customers. Use this Support Specialist […]

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A Support Specialist is a professional dedicated to assisting customers by providing guidance, solving issues, and ensuring a positive experience with a product or service. They utilize their knowledge and skills to troubleshoot problems and offer solutions, often acting as the first point of contact between a company and its customers.

Use this Support Specialist job description template to advertise open roles for your company. Be sure to modify requirements and duties based on the unique needs of the role you’re hiring for.

What is a Support Specialist?

A Support Specialist plays a critical role in customer service and satisfaction. They are experts in the products or services offered by their company and provide support, advice, and solutions to customers facing issues or having questions.

This role requires a mix of technical proficiency, communication skills, and patience to effectively resolve problems and enhance the customer experience.

What does a Support Specialist do?

A Support Specialist ensures customers get the most out of a product or service, whether by advising on best practices, resolving issues, or guiding through features. They handle inquiries via email, live chat, and phone, delivering support that’s both efficient and empathetic.

By understanding user needs and providing timely solutions, they play a pivotal role in customer retention and satisfaction. Support Specialists are essential in fostering loyalty and advocacy among users, turning them into long-term customers and even evangelists for the brand.

Support Specialist responsibilities include:

  • Advising businesses on optimizing their recruitment processes
  • Responding to user queries with friendly and pragmatic advice
  • Troubleshooting and providing support for customer issues
  • Reviewing job descriptions to ensure their success on job boards

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Software Development Intern job description https://resources.workable.com/software-development-intern-job-description Wed, 06 Mar 2024 13:19:52 +0000 https://resources.workable.com/?p=93641 A Software Development Intern is a student or recent graduate undergoing professional training in software development within a company, working on real projects under the guidance of experienced developers to gain practical skills and knowledge in the field. Use this Software Development Intern job description template to advertise open roles for your company. Be sure […]

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A Software Development Intern is a student or recent graduate undergoing professional training in software development within a company, working on real projects under the guidance of experienced developers to gain practical skills and knowledge in the field.

Use this Software Development Intern job description template to advertise open roles for your company. Be sure to modify requirements and duties based on the unique needs of the role you’re hiring for.

What is a Software Development Intern?

A Software Development Intern is an aspiring software developer, usually a student or recent graduate, who joins a company to learn about software development practices and contribute to real projects.

This role provides an opportunity to apply academic knowledge in a professional environment, gain hands-on experience, and understand the day-to-day workings of a software development team.

What does a Software Development Intern do?

A Software Development Intern works on coding, testing, and debugging software applications under the mentorship of experienced developers. They participate in meetings, contribute to the development of features, and may work on side projects to improve existing processes or develop new functionalities.

Interns are encouraged to explore different areas of software development, such as web, mobile, or API development, and gain experience with various programming languages and frameworks. They play a supportive role in teams, helping to accelerate project timelines while learning industry best practices, agile methodologies, and user-centric design principles.

Software Development Intern responsibilities include:

  • Assisting in the development of commercial web applications
  • Collaborating with development teams on various projects
  • Learning and applying user-centered interaction design principles
  • Engaging with modern web frameworks and technologies

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Support Engineer job description https://resources.workable.com/support-engineer-job-description Wed, 06 Mar 2024 14:11:20 +0000 https://resources.workable.com/?p=93643 A Support Engineer is a technical professional responsible for resolving production issues, troubleshooting customer-reported problems, performing root cause analysis, and ensuring the smooth operation of software and systems through maintenance and integrations. Use this Support Engineer job description template to advertise open roles for your company. Be sure to modify requirements and duties based on […]

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A Support Engineer is a technical professional responsible for resolving production issues, troubleshooting customer-reported problems, performing root cause analysis, and ensuring the smooth operation of software and systems through maintenance and integrations.

Use this Support Engineer job description template to advertise open roles for your company. Be sure to modify requirements and duties based on the unique needs of the role you’re hiring for.

What is a Support Engineer?

A Support Engineer is an essential role within the engineering operations team, focused on maintaining the integrity and reliability of software applications. They play a crucial part in addressing and solving technical issues that arise, ensuring that customers receive prompt and effective solutions to their problems.

Support Engineers use their technical knowledge to perform analyses, make recommendations for improvements, and execute necessary maintenance to enhance the user experience and system functionality.

What does a Support Engineer do?

Support Engineers provide vital technical support, both internally and to customers, ensuring the seamless operation of software products.

They are responsible for diagnosing and solving complex technical issues, conducting root cause analysis to prevent future problems, and developing and implementing scripts to automate system verifications. Additionally, they handle data migrations and integrations, working closely with product teams to recommend enhancements based on their findings.

Through diligent investigation and technical expertise, Support Engineers contribute significantly to the product’s continuous improvement and customer satisfaction.

Support Engineer responsibilities include:

  • Investigating and resolving production issues
  • Troubleshooting technical issues reported by customers
  • Developing scripts for verifying the correct operation of integrations
  • Performing data imports/exports and maintenance of third-party integrations

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Software Product Manager job description https://resources.workable.com/software-product-manager-job-description Wed, 06 Mar 2024 13:52:06 +0000 https://resources.workable.com/?p=93642 A Software Product Manager is a professional responsible for guiding the success of a software product and leading the cross-functional team that is responsible for improving it. They focus on building products that customers love by defining the product vision, strategy, and roadmap. Use this Software Product Manager job description template to advertise open roles […]

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A Software Product Manager is a professional responsible for guiding the success of a software product and leading the cross-functional team that is responsible for improving it. They focus on building products that customers love by defining the product vision, strategy, and roadmap.

Use this Software Product Manager job description template to advertise open roles for your company. Be sure to modify requirements and duties based on the unique needs of the role you’re hiring for.

What is a Software Product Manager?

A Software Product Manager acts as the bridge between the market’s needs and the development team, ensuring that the products developed meet customer demands and drive business value. They are instrumental in setting the product’s direction, prioritizing features, and making strategic decisions to achieve the company’s long-term vision.

What does a Software Product Manager do?

A Software Product Manager oversees the entire lifecycle of a software product, from conception to launch and beyond. They gather and prioritize product and customer requirements, define the product vision, and work closely with engineering, sales, marketing, and support to ensure revenue and customer satisfaction goals are met.

Their job also includes ensuring that the product supports the company’s overall strategy and goals. They play a key role in understanding the market, defining detailed user stories, setting sprint goals, and evaluating product progress through data analysis and user feedback.

Software Product Manager responsibilities include:

  • Understanding user needs and incorporating them into the product roadmap
  • Defining sprint goals and detailing user stories
  • Collaborating with the development team to build and refine product features
  • Analyzing data to validate product goals and inform decisions

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Social Media Advertising Associate job description https://resources.workable.com/social-media-advertising-associate-job-description Tue, 05 Mar 2024 14:32:54 +0000 https://resources.workable.com/?p=93612 A Social Media Advertising Associate is a digital marketing professional specializing in creating, managing, and optimizing social media ad campaigns to achieve specific objectives, such as recruitment or brand awareness, leveraging platforms like Facebook and Google Ads. Use this Social Media Advertising Associate job description template to advertise open roles for your company. Be sure […]

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A Social Media Advertising Associate is a digital marketing professional specializing in creating, managing, and optimizing social media ad campaigns to achieve specific objectives, such as recruitment or brand awareness, leveraging platforms like Facebook and Google Ads.

Use this Social Media Advertising Associate job description template to advertise open roles for your company. Be sure to modify requirements and duties based on the unique needs of the role you’re hiring for.

What is a Social Media Advertising Associate?

A Social Media Advertising Associate is a role focused on utilizing social media platforms to run advertising campaigns that effectively reach target audiences and meet marketing goals. They are experts in crafting campaign strategies, creating engaging content, and analyzing data to ensure optimal performance.

Their goal is to leverage social media’s power to drive meaningful results, whether for recruitment, sales, or brand engagement.

What does a Social Media Advertising Associate do?

A Social Media Advertising Associate designs and implements social media advertising campaigns, tailoring strategies to meet specific objectives.

They manage campaign setups, targeting, budgeting, and creative aspects, such as ad copy and graphics. Regularly analyzing performance data, they refine campaigns for better results and report on their effectiveness to stakeholders.

Their work involves staying up-to-date with social media trends, platform updates, and advertising best practices. By understanding the nuances of each platform, they maximize campaign impact, helping companies find talent or promote their brand efficiently through social media channels.

Social Media Advertising Associate responsibilities include:

  • Running Facebook recruitment marketing campaigns
  • Conducting tests to optimize ad performance
  • Communicating with customers about campaign performance
  • Working closely with Data Management and Data Science teams to improve product performance

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Social Media Advertising Administrator job description https://resources.workable.com/social-media-advertising-administrator-job-description Tue, 05 Mar 2024 14:17:03 +0000 https://resources.workable.com/?p=93611 A Social Media Advertising Administrator is a professional specializing in creating, managing, and optimizing social media advertising campaigns, focusing on leveraging these platforms to meet specific marketing objectives, such as recruitment or brand promotion. Use this Social Media Advertising Administrator job description template to advertise open roles for your company. Be sure to modify requirements […]

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A Social Media Advertising Administrator is a professional specializing in creating, managing, and optimizing social media advertising campaigns, focusing on leveraging these platforms to meet specific marketing objectives, such as recruitment or brand promotion.

Use this Social Media Advertising Administrator job description template to advertise open roles for your company. Be sure to modify requirements and duties based on the unique needs of the role you’re hiring for.

What is a Social Media Advertising Administrator?

A Social Media Advertising Administrator is a key player in digital marketing, focusing on harnessing the power of social media platforms to achieve advertising goals. This role involves strategic planning, execution, and analysis of advertising campaigns that align with the company’s objectives, such as recruitment or enhancing brand visibility.

Their expertise in social media dynamics, targeting, and ad optimization makes them instrumental in turning social networks into effective channels for advertising and engagement.

What does a Social Media Advertising Administrator do?

A Social Media Advertising Administrator manages and executes social media advertising campaigns to achieve specific objectives.

This involves targeting the right audience, creating compelling ad content, and analyzing data to refine campaign strategies.

They work closely with customers to understand their needs and report on campaign performance. Additionally, they collaborate with internal teams to leverage insights for product enhancement and stay updated with advertising trends to ensure the effectiveness of campaigns. Their role is crucial in maximizing the return on investment in social media advertising and contributing to the company’s growth.

Social Media Advertising Administrator responsibilities include:

  • Running Facebook recruitment marketing campaigns
  • Conducting tests to optimize ad performance
  • Communicating with customers about campaign performance
  • Collaborating with Data Management, Data Science, and Product teams for continuous improvement

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Senior Tax and Accounting Specialist job description https://resources.workable.com/senior-tax-and-accounting-specialist-job-description Tue, 05 Mar 2024 13:40:22 +0000 https://resources.workable.com/?p=93610 A Senior Tax and Accounting Specialist is a professional expert in managing tax compliance, overseeing accounting processes, and ensuring financial regulations are met. They play a critical role in maintaining the financial health and legal standing of an organization. Use this Senior Tax and Accounting Specialist job description template to advertise open roles for your […]

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A Senior Tax and Accounting Specialist is a professional expert in managing tax compliance, overseeing accounting processes, and ensuring financial regulations are met. They play a critical role in maintaining the financial health and legal standing of an organization.

Use this Senior Tax and Accounting Specialist job description template to advertise open roles for your company. Be sure to modify requirements and duties based on the unique needs of the role you’re hiring for.

What is a Senior Tax and Accounting Specialist?

A Senior Tax and Accounting Specialist is a vital member of a company’s finance department, responsible for managing tax obligations and ensuring compliance with financial regulations. They ensure that the company adheres to tax laws, prepares accurate financial documents, and develops efficient tax strategies to optimize financial performance.

Their expertise in accounting and taxation is crucial for the financial integrity and compliance of the organization.

What does a Senior Tax and Accounting Specialist do?

A Senior Tax and Accounting Specialist manages a wide range of tax-related activities, including compliance with local and international tax laws, preparation of tax documents, and liaison with external tax consultants.

They also play a significant role in transfer pricing, ensuring that all intercompany transactions are documented and accounted for correctly.

By designing and implementing reconciliation processes, they bridge accounting and tax reporting, contributing to the accuracy and reliability of financial statements. Their work supports the organization’s strategic tax planning and audit preparation, making them key to financial management and planning.

Senior Tax and Accounting Specialist responsibilities include:

  • Overseeing tax and statutory compliance in various jurisdictions
  • Monitoring and documenting the company’s transfer pricing policies
  • Designing and implementing accounting to tax reconciliation processes
  • Supporting tax and financial audits at both global and local levels

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Senior Software Developer job description https://resources.workable.com/senior-software-developer-job-description Tue, 05 Mar 2024 13:13:42 +0000 https://resources.workable.com/?p=93609 A Senior Software Developer is a seasoned expert in creating, testing, and improving software applications. They play a critical role in driving the development process, leveraging their extensive coding skills and knowledge to build robust, scalable, and innovative software solutions. Use this Senior Software Developer job description template to advertise open roles for your company. […]

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A Senior Software Developer is a seasoned expert in creating, testing, and improving software applications. They play a critical role in driving the development process, leveraging their extensive coding skills and knowledge to build robust, scalable, and innovative software solutions.

Use this Senior Software Developer job description template to advertise open roles for your company. Be sure to modify requirements and duties based on the unique needs of the role you’re hiring for.

What is a Senior Software Developer?

A Senior Software Developer is an experienced professional who leads the design, development, and maintenance of software applications. They apply advanced programming skills to create scalable, efficient, and high-quality software solutions.

Senior Developers are instrumental in making strategic decisions regarding application architecture, technology stack, and development practices, ensuring the software meets business requirements and industry standards.

What does a Senior Software Developer do?

A Senior Software Developer takes on complex coding tasks, mentors junior developers, and collaborates with other teams to ensure seamless integration of new technologies and features. They are responsible for the entire software development lifecycle, from concept to deployment, including troubleshooting and resolving issues in production environments.

They work with modern programming languages and frameworks, ensuring the application’s architecture supports scalability and performance. By staying updated on new technologies and best practices, they contribute to continuous improvement and innovation within the development team.

Senior Software Developer responsibilities include:

  • Designing and building enterprise-level web applications
  • Ensuring the performance, quality, and responsiveness of applications
  • Collaborating with teams across different areas of software development
  • Implementing security and data protection measures

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Senior QA Automation Engineer job description https://resources.workable.com/senior-qa-automation-engineer-job-description Mon, 04 Mar 2024 14:56:49 +0000 https://resources.workable.com/?p=93601 A Senior QA Automation Engineer is a specialized professional responsible for ensuring software quality through the design, development, and execution of automated tests and frameworks, contributing to the delivery of high-quality software products. Use this Senior QA Automation Engineer job description template to advertise open roles for your company. Be sure to modify requirements and […]

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A Senior QA Automation Engineer is a specialized professional responsible for ensuring software quality through the design, development, and execution of automated tests and frameworks, contributing to the delivery of high-quality software products.

Use this Senior QA Automation Engineer job description template to advertise open roles for your company. Be sure to modify requirements and duties based on the unique needs of the role you’re hiring for.

What is a Senior QA Automation Engineer?

A Senior QA Automation Engineer is an expert in automating the testing process to identify defects, ensure software quality, and support continuous integration and deployment. They play a critical role in the software development lifecycle, from planning to deployment, by automating and executing test cases, reporting issues, and ensuring that all aspects of the software function as expected before release.

What does a Senior QA Automation Engineer do?

A Senior QA Automation Engineer designs and implements automation strategies to streamline the testing process, making it more efficient and effective. They work closely with development and product teams to understand requirements, develop test plans, and create automated tests for various platforms, including web and mobile.

These engineers maintain testing frameworks, analyze test results, identify and report defects, and work on their resolution. By integrating tests into the CI/CD pipeline, they enable continuous delivery and ensure software reliability and performance. Their work significantly contributes to the product’s quality, usability, and customer satisfaction.

Senior QA Automation Engineer responsibilities include:

  • Driving the software quality assurance lifecycle within Agile processes
  • Designing and implementing test strategies, plans, and cases
  • Developing and maintaining mobile test automation frameworks
  • Executing automated UI and functional tests on devices and emulators

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Senior Product Designer job description https://resources.workable.com/senior-product-designer-job-description Mon, 04 Mar 2024 14:01:18 +0000 https://resources.workable.com/?p=93600 A Senior Product Designer is a creative and technical professional dedicated to designing the aesthetics, functionality, and usability of a product, ensuring it delivers an exceptional user experience and aligns with the company’s goals. Use this Senior Product Designer job description template to advertise open roles for your company. Be sure to modify requirements and […]

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A Senior Product Designer is a creative and technical professional dedicated to designing the aesthetics, functionality, and usability of a product, ensuring it delivers an exceptional user experience and aligns with the company’s goals.

Use this Senior Product Designer job description template to advertise open roles for your company. Be sure to modify requirements and duties based on the unique needs of the role you’re hiring for.

What is a Senior Product Designer?

A Senior Product Designer is an expert in crafting the visual and interactive elements of a product, focusing on creating intuitive, engaging, and aesthetically pleasing designs. They apply their deep understanding of user behavior, design principles, and technology to solve complex challenges and enhance the overall user experience.

What does a Senior Product Designer do?

A Senior Product Designer plays a crucial role in the product development process, from initial research and ideation to the final design and testing phases. They work closely with product managers, developers, and users to ensure the product not only looks appealing but also meets functional requirements and user needs.

Their work involves creating wireframes, prototypes, and high-fidelity designs, conducting usability tests, and continuously iterating on designs based on feedback and data analysis. They are instrumental in defining the product’s design language and ensuring consistency across the product.

Senior Product Designer responsibilities include:

  • Designing user-centric product interfaces and experiences
  • Collaborating with product managers and engineers to bring visions to life
  • Conducting user research and translating insights into design decisions
  • Prototyping and testing designs to refine and validate usability

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Senior Performance Engineer job description https://resources.workable.com/senior-performance-engineer-job-description Mon, 04 Mar 2024 13:29:12 +0000 https://resources.workable.com/?p=93599 A Senior Performance Engineer is a specialized role focused on enhancing the efficiency and reliability of software systems, ensuring optimal performance under varying loads and conditions to deliver a seamless user experience. Use this Senior Performance Engineer job description template to advertise open roles for your company. Be sure to modify requirements and duties based […]

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A Senior Performance Engineer is a specialized role focused on enhancing the efficiency and reliability of software systems, ensuring optimal performance under varying loads and conditions to deliver a seamless user experience.

Use this Senior Performance Engineer job description template to advertise open roles for your company. Be sure to modify requirements and duties based on the unique needs of the role you’re hiring for.

What is a Senior Performance Engineer?

A Senior Performance Engineer is an expert in analyzing, testing, and optimizing the performance of software applications across various platforms, including web and mobile. They are responsible for identifying bottlenecks and issues that may affect the application’s efficiency and user experience.

By using a combination of analytical skills, software development knowledge, and understanding of system architecture, they ensure that applications are scalable, responsive, and can handle the expected load.

What does a Senior Performance Engineer do?

A Senior Performance Engineer plays a crucial role in the development lifecycle of software applications by ensuring they perform optimally under all conditions. They design and execute performance test strategies, develop and maintain testing tools and frameworks, and work closely with development teams to identify and resolve performance issues.

Their work involves analyzing system architecture, conducting performance monitoring, and implementing solutions to improve response times and system scalability. By focusing on the end-to-end performance of the system, they help in creating a robust, efficient, and high-quality user experience, even under high traffic conditions.

They also serve as a performance advisor within agile teams, ensuring performance considerations are integrated into software development practices.

Senior Performance Engineer responsibilities include:

  • Developing performance test plans and strategies
  • Implementing performance testing tools and frameworks
  • Advising development teams on performance enhancement
  • Executing exploratory testing for new features within Agile development processes

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Senior People Operations Manager job description https://resources.workable.com/senior-people-operations-manager-job-description Mon, 04 Mar 2024 13:16:55 +0000 https://resources.workable.com/?p=93598 A Senior People Operations Manager is a strategic leader responsible for overseeing and enhancing the human resources functions within an organization, focusing on fostering a positive work environment, optimizing employee performance, and supporting the company’s growth. Use this Senior People Operations Manager job description template to advertise open roles for your company. Be sure to […]

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A Senior People Operations Manager is a strategic leader responsible for overseeing and enhancing the human resources functions within an organization, focusing on fostering a positive work environment, optimizing employee performance, and supporting the company’s growth.

Use this Senior People Operations Manager job description template to advertise open roles for your company. Be sure to modify requirements and duties based on the unique needs of the role you’re hiring for.

What is a Senior People Operations Manager?

A Senior People Operations Manager is a key figure in the HR department who plays a crucial role in shaping the workforce strategy of an organization. They are tasked with developing policies, programs, and practices that promote a high-performance culture, employee engagement, and organizational effectiveness.

This role involves a blend of strategic planning and hands-on management to ensure the alignment of HR functions with business objectives, fostering a supportive and productive workplace.

What does a Senior People Operations Manager do?

A Senior People Operations Manager oversees the HR functions such as recruitment, training, performance management, and employee relations. They work closely with senior leadership to develop HR strategies that support the organization’s goals, focusing on talent management, succession planning, and workforce development.

This role is pivotal in creating a rewarding and inclusive work environment, where employees feel valued and motivated. They manage employee benefits, ensure legal compliance, and lead initiatives to enhance employee satisfaction and retention.

The Senior People Operations Manager also uses people analytics to inform decision-making, drive improvements, and measure the impact of HR initiatives on organizational performance.

Senior People Operations Manager responsibilities include:

  • Leading People Operations, Talent Acquisition, and Office Management functions
  • Developing and implementing HR strategies and initiatives
  • Managing employee lifecycle, rewards, benefits, and progression
  • Ensuring compliance with employment laws and regulations

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Senior Operations Engineer job description https://resources.workable.com/senior-operations-engineer-job-description Fri, 01 Mar 2024 13:59:40 +0000 https://resources.workable.com/?p=93580 A Senior Operations Engineer is a key technical role responsible for troubleshooting and resolving production issues, optimizing operational procedures, and developing software to enhance system efficiency and customer experience. Use this Senior Operations Engineer job description template to advertise open roles for your company. Be sure to modify requirements and duties based on the unique […]

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A Senior Operations Engineer is a key technical role responsible for troubleshooting and resolving production issues, optimizing operational procedures, and developing software to enhance system efficiency and customer experience.

Use this Senior Operations Engineer job description template to advertise open roles for your company. Be sure to modify requirements and duties based on the unique needs of the role you’re hiring for.

What is a Senior Operations Engineer?

A Senior Operations Engineer is an experienced professional who plays a critical role in maintaining and improving the operational infrastructure of a company. They are tasked with ensuring that systems run smoothly and efficiently, identifying and resolving any issues that arise in production environments.

Their expertise in software development and system operations helps in automating tasks, enhancing system capabilities, and ultimately supporting the company’s growth by ensuring scalability and reliability.

What does a Senior Operations Engineer do?

A Senior Operations Engineer works on a wide range of technical and operational challenges, focusing on maintaining the health and efficiency of the company’s production environment.

They investigate and solve complex production issues, collaborate with the Product team to ensure new features meet operational standards, and develop tools and software to automate processes and improve data management.

Additionally, they perform root cause analysis to prevent future issues, monitor system integrations, and work closely with customer-facing teams to address technical inquiries. Their role is pivotal in enhancing the overall customer experience, ensuring the product delivers maximum value, and supporting the operational needs of various departments within the organization.

Senior Operations Engineer responsibilities include:

  • Investigating and resolving production issues
  • Developing software to automate operational procedures
  • Performing root cause analysis for production errors
  • Working with Product and other departments to ensure operational efficiency and customer satisfaction

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Senior Machine Learning Engineer job description https://resources.workable.com/senior-machine-learning-engineer-job-description Fri, 01 Mar 2024 13:45:10 +0000 https://resources.workable.com/?p=93578 A Senior Machine Learning Engineer is an expert in developing and implementing machine learning algorithms and models, focusing on solving complex problems and enhancing technological solutions within an organization. Use this Senior Machine Learning Engineer job description template to advertise open roles for your company. Be sure to modify requirements and duties based on the […]

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A Senior Machine Learning Engineer is an expert in developing and implementing machine learning algorithms and models, focusing on solving complex problems and enhancing technological solutions within an organization.

Use this Senior Machine Learning Engineer job description template to advertise open roles for your company. Be sure to modify requirements and duties based on the unique needs of the role you’re hiring for.

What is a Senior Machine Learning Engineer?

A Senior Machine Learning Engineer specializes in creating, deploying, and maintaining advanced machine learning models that drive innovation and efficiency within software applications. They leverage their deep understanding of machine learning, natural language processing, and data science to develop algorithms that can learn from and make decisions based on data.

This role involves a blend of technical expertise, creativity, and problem-solving skills to tackle complex challenges in various domains, including search and recommendation systems.

What does a Senior Machine Learning Engineer do?

A Senior Machine Learning Engineer designs and implements machine learning solutions to improve and automate decision-making processes within an organization. Their work spans the full machine learning lifecycle, from data preparation and model development to deployment and monitoring.

They utilize NLP and ML algorithms to power semantic search and recommendation engines, ensuring the models are scalable, efficient, and integrated seamlessly into the product ecosystem. Additionally, they write and optimize code for production environments, ensuring the robustness and reliability of ML services.

Staying at the forefront of ML advancements, they continuously explore new technologies and methodologies to enhance model performance and functionality.

Senior Machine Learning Engineer responsibilities include:

  • Applying deep learning NLP and ML models to enhance search and recommendation engines
  • Managing the ML lifecycle from data collection to deployment and monitoring
  • Writing production-quality code for ML models as services and APIs
  • Keeping up with the latest ML tooling and communities

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Senior Learning and Development Manager job description https://resources.workable.com/senior-learning-and-development-manager-job-description Fri, 01 Mar 2024 13:23:16 +0000 https://resources.workable.com/?p=93577 A Senior Learning and Development Manager designs and implements strategies to enhance the skills and knowledge of employees within an organization, focusing on professional growth and performance improvement. Use this Senior Learning and Development Manager job description template to advertise open roles for your company. Be sure to modify requirements and duties based on the […]

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A Senior Learning and Development Manager designs and implements strategies to enhance the skills and knowledge of employees within an organization, focusing on professional growth and performance improvement.

Use this Senior Learning and Development Manager job description template to advertise open roles for your company. Be sure to modify requirements and duties based on the unique needs of the role you’re hiring for.

What is a Senior Learning and Development Manager?

A Senior Learning and Development Manager is a strategic role focused on fostering an environment of continuous learning and development within an organization. This professional is tasked with creating, implementing, and managing training programs that support the professional growth of all employees.

They play a critical role in identifying skill gaps, designing curriculum, and evaluating the effectiveness of training initiatives to ensure they meet the evolving needs of the business and its workforce.

What does a Senior Learning and Development Manager do?

A Senior Learning and Development Manager leads the development and implementation of an organization’s learning strategies and programs. They collaborate with department heads and managers to identify training needs and design effective training solutions.

This role involves hands-on coaching, facilitating workshops, and delivering training sessions across various formats, such as e-learning and in-person workshops.

They are also responsible for managing training logistics, tracking budget expenditures, and analyzing training effectiveness to continually improve learning outcomes. Beyond training delivery, they play a pivotal role in overseeing performance review cycles, aiding in career path development, and enhancing onboarding programs to align with organizational goals and employee development.

Senior Learning and Development Manager responsibilities include:

  • Designing and coordinating training programs
  • Identifying learning needs in partnership with managers
  • Delivering and facilitating trainings
  • Measuring training effectiveness and adapting programs accordingly

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Senior IT Administrator job description https://resources.workable.com/senior-it-administrator-job-description Fri, 01 Mar 2024 13:06:01 +0000 https://resources.workable.com/?p=93576 A Senior IT Administrator is a seasoned professional who manages and oversees the IT infrastructure of an organization, ensuring all IT services and systems run smoothly. Use this Senior IT Administrator job description template to advertise open roles for your company. Be sure to modify requirements and duties based on the unique needs of the […]

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A Senior IT Administrator is a seasoned professional who manages and oversees the IT infrastructure of an organization, ensuring all IT services and systems run smoothly.

Use this Senior IT Administrator job description template to advertise open roles for your company. Be sure to modify requirements and duties based on the unique needs of the role you’re hiring for.

What is a Senior IT Administrator?

A Senior IT Administrator plays a crucial role in the technological backbone of a company, overseeing the operation, maintenance, and security of IT systems and services. This individual ensures that all components of the organization’s IT infrastructure, from hardware and software to network and cloud services, function efficiently and securely.

Their expertise enables them to manage complex IT environments, making strategic decisions to improve and optimize the company’s technological resources.

What does a Senior IT Administrator do?

A Senior IT Administrator is responsible for the smooth operation of an organization’s IT infrastructure. This includes configuring and managing cloud services, troubleshooting IT issues, and providing direct support to employees for any technology-related concerns.

They are also in charge of implementing IT system enhancements and modifications, managing the IT inventory, and ensuring the organization’s IT processes align with business goals.

Additionally, they play a key role in employee onboarding/offboarding, training users on new systems, and maintaining vendor relations and license management. Their work supports the overall productivity and efficiency of the company by ensuring that all team members have the IT resources they need to perform their duties effectively.

Senior IT Administrator responsibilities include:

  • Managing, configuring, and troubleshooting IT cloud services
  • Providing IT support and technical assistance
  • Managing the IT aspects of employee onboarding/offboarding
  • Maintaining IT documentation and inventory

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DOL’s Final Rule: what it entails and why employers must listen https://resources.workable.com/tutorial/dol-final-rule-contractors-vs-employees Thu, 29 Feb 2024 21:21:36 +0000 https://resources.workable.com/?p=93569 On January 10, 2024, the US Department of Labor (DOL) published the Final Rule. This is a revision of the DOL’s guidance on the proper standard for analyzing whether a worker is an employee or independent contractor under the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA). In a nutshell, this matters because employees are covered by the […]

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On January 10, 2024, the US Department of Labor (DOL) published the Final Rule. This is a revision of the DOL’s guidance on the proper standard for analyzing whether a worker is an employee or independent contractor under the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA).

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In a nutshell, this matters because employees are covered by the FLSA, while independent contractors are not. The FLSA itself does not define independent contractors and its definition of employee leaves significant room for interpretation.

Employers must pay attention to this new guidance to ensure they are properly paying workers. The consequence of not doing so can be potentially steep economic damages.

Note: Workable is not a law firm. This article is meant to provide general information and should be used as a reference. It’s not a legal document and doesn’t provide legal advice. Neither the author nor Workable will assume any legal liability that may arise from the use of this article. Always consult your attorney on matters of legal compliance.

A ‘final’ clarification

The Final Rule replaces the DOL’s 2021 Trump-era guidance. It clarifies that if, in economic terms, a worker relies on an employer for their work and is not in business for themselves, they cannot be considered an independent contractor.

The previous administration’s test aimed to evaluate if a worker operates as their own business, classifying them as an independent contractor, or relies on an employer for work, thus making them an employee.

With the introduction of the Final Rule, the DOL is rescinding the previous guidance and introducing a comprehensive, multi-faceted analysis that considers the entire scope of circumstances around the definition of an employee versus an independent contractor.

As such – companies who work with contractors especially need to pay attention.

Supplemental reading: Biden’s labor agenda: what you need to know as an employer

What does this change mean for employers?

The Final Rule takes effect on March 11, 2024. The DOL’s new guidance is highly politicized, and employers should expect to see legal challenges to the rule and the DOL’s efforts to implement it. Businesses – including Uber and DoorDash – are already pursuing legal action.

It remains to be seen as of February 2024 whether the courts will delay introduction of this rule. Nevertheless, employers, in consultation with legal counsel, should keep the new rule in mind as they audit their existing relationships and plan for future relationships with workers.

If the Final Rule survives, unless your business is entirely staffed by employees (who are paid as such), you should be taking a hard look at your contractors to assess whether they are properly classified under this new guidance.

The Final Rule: 6 factors to look at

In order to determine “economic dependence,” the Final Rule identifies six factors that “should guide an assessment of the economic realities of the working relationship”:

  • the opportunity for profit or loss depending on managerial skill
  • investments by the worker and the potential employer
  • the degree of permanence of the work relationship
  • the nature and degree of control
  • the extent to which the work performed is an integral part of the potential employer’s business
  • skill and initiative (i.e., whether the worker uses specialized skills to perform the work and whether those skills contributed to business-like initiative)

While the DOL emphasizes these six factors in its guidelines, it also notes that additional factors may be relevant to the overall question of economic dependence. No single factor (or set of factors) automatically determines a worker’s status as either an employee or an independent contractor. Employers are encouraged to review each of those factors for their contractors.

But it does not stop there.

Employers must navigate not only the DOL’s guidance under the FLSA, but also applicable state law, which may have different standards for classification under state wage and hour law.

For example, Massachusetts has adopted a form of the ABC test (or three questions) to help answer the employee vs. independent contractor question under the Massachusetts Wage Act.

What about misclassification?

What if an employer realizes they have misclassified a worker? That’s something you want to avoid entirely, but it does happen. The key is to minimize the risk when transitioning an independent contractor to an employee.

Generally, employers will likely find that it is better to properly classify their workers and assume some potential risk associated with that correction than attempt to whistle past the graveyard.

Employers should consult with their employment attorney with questions about classifying workers as employees or independent contractors, the efforts by the DOL to regulate these classifications, and the relevant state law approaches to classification.

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What is reboarding and how it can boost retention rates https://resources.workable.com/hr-terms/what-is-reboarding Thu, 29 Feb 2024 16:56:22 +0000 https://resources.workable.com/?p=93568 Reboarding or internal onboarding is the process of reintegrating employees into the workplace, whether they’re returning after a significant absence, transitioning within the company, or adapting to substantial organizational changes.  Unlike onboarding, which is designed for new employees, reboarding focuses on those who are already familiar with the company but need updates on policies, procedures, […]

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Reboarding or internal onboarding is the process of reintegrating employees into the workplace, whether they’re returning after a significant absence, transitioning within the company, or adapting to substantial organizational changes. 

Unlike onboarding, which is designed for new employees, reboarding focuses on those who are already familiar with the company but need updates on policies, procedures, or their roles due to changes during their absence.

Reboarding adapts to changes

The purpose of reboarding is multifaceted. It aims to ensure a smooth transition for employees back into their work environment, enhance engagement, and update them on any changes that have occurred. 

This process is crucial for maintaining continuity and ensuring that employees feel valued and informed, which, in turn, supports their productivity and the organization’s overall resilience.

Historically, reboarding was a less formalized process, often reserved for employees returning from extended leaves. 

However, the concept has evolved significantly, especially due to the pandemic’s impact on work models. 

The shift to remote and hybrid work environments has underscored the need for reboarding as a more structured and strategic approach, ensuring employees remain connected and engaged regardless of their physical workplace.

Why is reboarding important?

Reboarding plays a pivotal role in boosting employee engagement and morale. We already know that onboarding could lead to a 70% reduction in new hire turnover within the first year, so we can imagine how effective it could be for reboarding. 

Engaging employees through reboarding shows a commitment to their development and well-being, fostering a positive organizational culture.

Let’s see now other beneficial aspects of reboarding

Productivity and efficiency

The reintroduction of employees to the workplace through reboarding significantly enhances productivity and efficiency. 

By updating employees on new processes, technologies, and policies, organizations can minimize the learning curve and enable employees to contribute effectively in a shorter timeframe. 

Eddy’s insights on reboarding emphasize its benefits in terms of efficiency, consistency, and thoroughness, which are crucial for maintaining operational effectiveness.

Retention and turnover

Effective reboarding strategies are also linked to improved retention rates. The process helps mitigate feelings of disconnect or obsolescence that might occur during extended absences, addressing potential concerns proactively. 

When is reboarding necessary?

Reboarding is not a one-size-fits-all process, it’s beneficial in various scenarios beyond the return of employees from leaves of absence. These include:

Returning employees: Whether from parental leave, sabbaticals, or medical leave, reboarding helps reintegrate employees into their roles and the company culture.

Promotions or internal transfers: As employees take on new roles or responsibilities, reboarding ensures they are equipped with the necessary knowledge and skills.

Rehired employees: For individuals returning to the company after a stint elsewhere, reboarding can update them on changes that have occurred in their absence.

Significant organizational changes: Mergers, acquisitions, policy updates, or shifts in strategic direction all necessitate reboarding to align employees with the new organizational landscape.

Transitions to new work models: The move to remote or hybrid models is a prime example of a scenario requiring comprehensive reboarding to address the unique challenges and opportunities these models present.

Building a successful reboarding program

A well-structured reboarding program is essential for ensuring employees are effectively reintegrated into the workplace. The following components are crucial:

Welcome and re-Integration: Creating a welcoming environment for returning employees is vital. This includes formal welcome-back meetings and informal catch-ups with team members to rebuild connections.

Training and updates: Providing up-to-date training on new tools, technologies, and company policies ensures employees are prepared to resume their roles effectively. 

This training should be tailored to the individual’s needs and the extent of changes that have occurred during their absence.

Communication of changes: Clear and comprehensive communication about any organizational changes, including shifts in strategy, leadership, or operational processes, is essential for transparency and alignment.

Performance management and goal setting: Setting clear expectations and goals for returning employees helps them understand their role in the organization’s objectives and how they can contribute to success.

Regular check-ins and support: Ongoing support through regular check-ins allows for addressing any concerns or challenges that may arise, ensuring a smooth transition back into the workplace.

Best practices and strategies for reboarding

Implementing an effective reboarding program requires thoughtful planning and execution. Here are some best practices to consider:

Tailor the program to individual needs: Recognize that each employee’s reboarding experience will be unique. Customize the program based on the duration of their absence, the reason for their return, and any significant changes that have occurred.

Utilize a variety of methods: Incorporate different reboarding methods, such as one-on-one meetings, group training sessions, and digital resources, to accommodate diverse learning styles and needs.

Seek feedback: Encourage feedback from reboarded employees to continually refine and improve the reboarding process. This feedback can provide valuable insights into the effectiveness of the program and areas for enhancement.

Leverage technology: Use technology to facilitate aspects of the reboarding process, such as virtual reality for immersive training experiences or AI-powered platforms for personalized learning paths.

Focus on culture and connection: Emphasize the importance of reconnecting with the company culture and fostering relationships among team members. 

This can include team-building activities or social events designed to reintegrate employees into the organizational community.

Reboarding is a critical process that goes beyond merely updating employees on new policies or procedures. It’s about re-establishing connections, aligning with the company’s strategic direction, and ensuring employees feel valued and engaged. 

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Senior iOS Engineer job description https://resources.workable.com/senior-ios-engineer-job-description Thu, 29 Feb 2024 14:44:02 +0000 https://resources.workable.com/?p=93566 A Senior iOS Engineer is a skilled developer specializing in creating and maintaining iOS applications. They leverage the latest Swift features and iOS SDKs to build intuitive, efficient, and visually appealing mobile applications. What is a Senior iOS Engineer? A Senior iOS Engineer is an experienced developer focused on designing, implementing, and maintaining applications for […]

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A Senior iOS Engineer is a skilled developer specializing in creating and maintaining iOS applications. They leverage the latest Swift features and iOS SDKs to build intuitive, efficient, and visually appealing mobile applications.

What is a Senior iOS Engineer?

A Senior iOS Engineer is an experienced developer focused on designing, implementing, and maintaining applications for Apple’s iOS operating system. They possess a deep understanding of the iOS ecosystem, including frameworks like UIKit and SwiftUI, and the Swift programming language.

These engineers are adept at solving complex problems, optimizing app performance, and ensuring a seamless user experience. Their role is crucial in the mobile app development lifecycle, from conceptualization and design to deployment and updates.

What does a Senior iOS Engineer do?

A Senior iOS Engineer takes charge of developing high-quality iOS applications that meet the needs of users and the objectives of the business. They work with the latest technologies and tools provided by Apple, including the most recent Swift versions and development environments like Xcode on state-of-the-art hardware.

These engineers are involved in every stage of the app development process, including planning, coding, testing, and deployment.

They ensure that the applications are reliable, fast, and provide a great user experience. Beyond technical skills, they participate in agile development practices, collaborate with team members from different disciplines, and contribute to the continuous improvement of the development process.

They also mentor junior developers, lead development projects, and stay updated with the latest trends and technologies in iOS development.

Senior iOS Engineer responsibilities include:

  • Developing and enhancing iOS applications using the latest Swift version and iOS SDKs
  • Participating in code reviews, pair programming, and design meetings
  • Ensuring smooth UX, low memory footprint, and battery efficiency
  • Collaborating in a cross-functional agile team environment

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Senior Global Account Manager job description https://resources.workable.com/senior-global-account-manager-job-description Thu, 29 Feb 2024 14:33:14 +0000 https://resources.workable.com/?p=93565 A Senior Global Account Manager is a professional responsible for managing and nurturing relationships with key clients worldwide, driving sales growth, and ensuring customer satisfaction to build successful long-term business partnerships. Use this Senior Global Account Manager job description template to advertise open roles for your company. Be sure to modify requirements and duties based […]

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A Senior Global Account Manager is a professional responsible for managing and nurturing relationships with key clients worldwide, driving sales growth, and ensuring customer satisfaction to build successful long-term business partnerships.

Use this Senior Global Account Manager job description template to advertise open roles for your company. Be sure to modify requirements and duties based on the unique needs of the role you’re hiring for.

What is a Senior Global Account Manager?

A Senior Global Account Manager is a strategic role within a company, focusing on nurturing and expanding relationships with key business clients across the globe. This position involves understanding the needs and challenges of clients, offering solutions that align with their goals, and ensuring a high level of satisfaction with the company’s products or services.

The role requires a blend of sales acumen, customer service excellence, and the ability to influence and communicate effectively with stakeholders at all levels.

What does a Senior Global Account Manager do?

A Senior Global Account Manager oversees the company’s relationships with its most important clients worldwide. They are responsible for developing a deep understanding of each client’s business, identifying opportunities for growth, and ensuring that the company meets its sales targets and retention rates.

This involves strategic planning, coordination with sales and marketing teams, and direct communication with clients to address their needs and concerns. The role also entails reporting on sales results, staying updated on product developments, and leading training sessions for junior team members.

By effectively managing these responsibilities, a Senior Global Account Manager plays a crucial role in driving the company’s revenue growth and maintaining a strong, positive brand image among its global clientele.

Senior Global Account Manager responsibilities include:

  • Developing trusted advisor relationships with key accounts and stakeholders
  • Meeting and exceeding sales targets and performance metrics
  • Ensuring customer satisfaction and retention at an enterprise level
  • Generating new business through plan upgrades and referrals

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Senior Frontend Engineer job description https://resources.workable.com/senior-frontend-engineer-job-description Thu, 29 Feb 2024 14:15:10 +0000 https://resources.workable.com/?p=93564 A Senior Frontend Engineer is a skilled professional specializing in developing engaging and efficient user interfaces using modern web technologies, ensuring optimal performance and user experience across web and mobile platforms. Use this Senior Frontend Engineer job description template to advertise open roles for your company. Be sure to modify requirements and duties based on […]

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A Senior Frontend Engineer is a skilled professional specializing in developing engaging and efficient user interfaces using modern web technologies, ensuring optimal performance and user experience across web and mobile platforms.

Use this Senior Frontend Engineer job description template to advertise open roles for your company. Be sure to modify requirements and duties based on the unique needs of the role you’re hiring for.

What is a Senior Frontend Engineer?

A Senior Frontend Engineer is an experienced developer focused on crafting the client-side of web applications. They leverage advanced JavaScript, frameworks like React, and modern web technologies to create responsive and interactive user experiences.

Their expertise extends to understanding the nuances of web performance, accessibility, and cross-browser compatibility, ensuring that applications are fast, accessible, and engaging for all users.

What does a Senior Frontend Engineer do?

A Senior Frontend Engineer plays a crucial role in the web development team, focusing on the design and implementation of web application interfaces. They work closely with designers and backend engineers to ensure seamless integration and functionality from a user perspective.

Their responsibilities include developing responsive layouts, implementing complex features with JavaScript (using frameworks like React), and ensuring the application’s performance and scalability through optimization techniques.

They also contribute to the architectural decisions, advocate for best practices in frontend development, and stay updated with the latest web technologies and trends. Additionally, they may mentor junior developers, lead frontend projects, and collaborate with stakeholders to translate business requirements into technical solutions that enhance user satisfaction and engagement.

Senior Frontend Engineer responsibilities include:

  • Developing responsive, mobile-first web applications and PWAs
  • Participating in product design and feature development
  • Coding in TypeScript & ES10 using React and modern CSS frameworks
  • Optimizing applications for performance and scalability

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Senior database reliability engineer job description https://resources.workable.com/senior-database-reliability-engineer-job-description Thu, 29 Feb 2024 14:01:00 +0000 https://resources.workable.com/?p=93563 A Senior Database Reliability Engineer (SDBRE) is a professional who combines database engineering and administration with software development to ensure database systems are reliable, scalable, and performant, particularly focusing on PostgreSQL and other database technologies. Use this Senior Database Reliability Engineer job description template to advertise open roles for your company. Be sure to modify […]

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A Senior Database Reliability Engineer (SDBRE) is a professional who combines database engineering and administration with software development to ensure database systems are reliable, scalable, and performant, particularly focusing on PostgreSQL and other database technologies.

Use this Senior Database Reliability Engineer job description template to advertise open roles for your company. Be sure to modify requirements and duties based on the unique needs of the role you’re hiring for.

What is a Senior Database Reliability Engineer?

A Senior Database Reliability Engineer is an integral part of the SRE team, specializing in database technologies. They apply engineering principles, operational discipline, and mature software development practices to maintain and enhance database systems’ reliability. Their expertise in databases, particularly PostgreSQL, enables them to optimize data storage, retrieval, and processing to support user-facing services and production systems efficiently.

What does a Senior Database Reliability Engineer do?

A Senior Database Reliability Engineer ensures that all database systems supporting user-facing and backend services operate flawlessly. They are responsible for the entire lifecycle of database management, from design and implementation to maintenance and scaling.

This role involves analyzing and implementing best practices for database performance, reliability, and scalability. SDBREs develop and maintain infrastructure that supports thousands of concurrent users, manage database capacity, and work on the observability of database metrics to achieve operational objectives.

They also create tools and automation to simplify database operations, enabling engineering teams to focus on development. Collaborating closely with SREs and developers, they play a key role in rolling out changes to the production environment and mitigating database-related incidents.

Leading projects within their domain, they ensure timely delivery and contribute to the continuous improvement of database services.

Senior Database Reliability Engineer responsibilities include:

  • Ensuring the availability, scalability, and performance of database systems.
  • Designing, building, and maintaining core database infrastructure.
  • Developing tools and automation for database infrastructure management.
  • Providing database expertise to engineering and SRE teams.

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Evidence Action: utilizing archetypes in hiring for growth https://resources.workable.com/tutorial/evidence-action-archetypes-in-hiring Mon, 26 Feb 2024 14:10:11 +0000 https://resources.workable.com/?p=93523 After a decade of outsized impact, Evidence Action has experienced a remarkable journey of growth and transformation. As a global nonprofit scaling proven health and development solutions to reduce the burden of poverty for hundreds of millions of people, our team has recently grown exponentially, with more than 700 staff members now. Rapid scaling brings […]

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After a decade of outsized impact, Evidence Action has experienced a remarkable journey of growth and transformation. As a global nonprofit scaling proven health and development solutions to reduce the burden of poverty for hundreds of millions of people, our team has recently grown exponentially, with more than 700 staff members now.

Rapid scaling brings forward unique challenges, and as an evidence based organization, we wanted to make sure we were also using the best evidence based recruitment strategies to hire talented professionals, especially for critical senior roles to support our growth.  Utilizing archetypes in our process is the one of many tools we use in our recruitments to ensure this. 

Understanding archetypes in recruitment

Archetypes in recruitment are ideal candidate profiles – a blend of traits, skills, and experiences that we believe align closely with specific roles in our organization. 

These archetypes are more than just a list of qualifications; they are a holistic view of what an ideal candidate could look like, considering the nuances of our organizational culture and goals. 

They serve as a guide, a north star, for our recruitment efforts, ensuring we’re not just filling positions but advancing our mission with the right people. 

The archetype-based approach

Our archetype-based approach emerged from the need to navigate the complexities of hiring for an array of new positions. Previously, we often found ourselves sifting through a vast pool of candidates without a clear idea of who the ‘right’ candidate was. 

First, we identify the knowledge, skills, and abilities (KSAs) that align with the role. 

Second, we identify archetypes to align on the multiple types of ideal candidates we could hire for the role. This approach not only brings clarity to the recruitment process but also ensures we are consistent and fair in our evaluation.

For example, if we are hiring for a Program Director position, our KSAs for the role may include:

  • People leader
  • Building and maintaining global culture
  • Strategic thinking
  • Government & partner relationships
  • Growth Mindset

Then we apply our archetype-based approach and identify that an ideal candidate:

  1. Should have global experience; working with and across countries and in a matrix
  2. Should have a balance between global heath, International development, and management consulting; prioritizing someone who has run large scale health programs
  3. Has experience working at like-minded organizations that are ambitious, data-driven, and partner effectively with governments 
  4. Has delivered results with a team of 100+ employees 
  5. Can articulate their key achievements, and use data to highlight their results 

Lastly, we identify 3-5 ideal candidates on LinkedIn, in our talent pools, or silver medalists from previous recruitments that align with our archetype.

At this stage, the goal is not to have 3-5 candidates we can source; rather the goal is that everyone has a very clear picture of the varying types of candidates we could hire for the role. 

By defining archetypes, we’ve created a framework that allows us to identify and agree on the qualities we value most for each role, streamlining the recruitment process significantly.

Balancing growth, diversity, and a global reach

One of the key advantages of this approach is its support for our growth and global expansion.

Instead of only using KSAs to identify candidates, by aligning on various types of candidates we could hire for the role we can identify diverse candidates across different geographies, aligning with the various needs of our operations worldwide.

This method also aids in maintaining diversity, not just in terms of background and experience, but also in thought and approach, which is crucial for an organization like ours that thrives on innovation and creativity.

Aligning expectations with reality

A significant part of our recruitment process is calibration – aligning the expectations of our hiring managers with the realities of the talent market.

By creating prospective candidate tables and utilizing a clearly articulated rating system, internally we foster a mutual understanding of what is desirable and achievable in a candidate. 

This calibration isn’t solely about skills and experience; it’s also about finding the right fit for Evidence Action’s ethos and values.

Working with hiring managers

One of our biggest hurdles has been engaging with hiring managers, especially those who do not hire regularly. Their vision of an ‘ideal’ candidate doesn’t always align with what talent is available or realistic. 

We tackle this by educating our teams about the market and guiding them through the archetype process. 

It’s a collaborative effort where we ensure that their needs are met while also setting realistic expectations about candidate capabilities and availability.

Saving time in the recruitment process 

A pivotal aspect of our hiring strategy is in streamlining the recruitment process. By implementing the archetype system, we’ve managed to front-load much of the assessment work. 

This means we’re not scrambling during the later stages of hiring – a common issue in many organizations.

We’ve found that taking time to align on candidate profiles before posting a job advertisement saves us invaluable time and resources down the line.

 Taking time to align on candidate profiles before posting a job ad saves us invaluable time.

Our structure as a matrixed organization adds another layer of complexity to our recruitment process.

We often find ourselves working to balance the opinions and needs of multiple stakeholders in hiring decisions. 

The archetype approach assists in this by providing a common ground for discussions.

It helps us bring different stakeholders to alignment, ensuring that the final candidate is not just a fit for the role, but fits the diverse perspectives within our organization.

Technology and pool navigation

Technology plays a crucial role in our recruitment strategy. Tools like Workable and LinkedIn are integral to our process, from sourcing candidates to managing their profiles. 

These platforms allow us to efficiently navigate through large pools of potential hires and keep track of our ‘silver medalists’. 

This technological integration ensures our recruitment is not only efficient but also wide-reaching.

In conclusion, we’ve been able to grow rapidly while maintaining the quality and diversity of our team – a critical factor in our success. As we continue on this journey, we aim to refine our strategies, embrace new technologies, and remain adaptable to the ever-evolving landscape of talent acquisition.

Kali Bell is a mom of two boys and Associate Director, Talent Strategy at Evidence Action. With recruitment experience spanning the United States, the African continent, and more recently in India, Kali thrives in streamlining People operations with the goal of creating more time for managers to focus on increasing their impact. Her passion lies in creating efficient systems that enhance the recruitment process and empower teams to excel in their roles.

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Senior Database Engineer job description https://resources.workable.com/senior-database-engineer-job-description Mon, 26 Feb 2024 13:06:14 +0000 https://resources.workable.com/?p=93521 A Senior Database Engineer is a key IT professional specializing in designing, implementing, and maintaining efficient, scalable, and secure database systems to support an organization’s data management needs. Use this Senior Database Engineer job description template to advertise open roles for your company. Be sure to modify requirements and duties based on the unique needs […]

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A Senior Database Engineer is a key IT professional specializing in designing, implementing, and maintaining efficient, scalable, and secure database systems to support an organization’s data management needs.

Use this Senior Database Engineer job description template to advertise open roles for your company. Be sure to modify requirements and duties based on the unique needs of the role you’re hiring for.

What is a Senior Database Engineer?

A Senior Database Engineer is an experienced professional in the field of database management systems. They possess a deep understanding of both relational and NoSQL databases, focusing on creating and maintaining scalable, high-performance database architectures. Their expertise includes data modeling, database design, and the implementation of robust data storage solutions that ensure data integrity and availability.

What does a Senior Database Engineer do?

A Senior Database Engineer plays a critical role in the management of an organization’s database systems.

They are responsible for the design, implementation, and maintenance of databases that store and process large volumes of data efficiently. This involves analyzing and optimizing database performance, ensuring data security, and developing strategies for data backup and recovery.

They work closely with software engineers and system administrators to integrate databases with other applications, contributing to the overall system architecture. Additionally, they lead projects to upgrade or replace database technologies, implement new features, and automate routine tasks to improve efficiency.

Their work is essential for enabling data-driven decision-making and supporting the operational and analytical applications that drive business processes.

Senior Database Engineer responsibilities include:

  • Ensuring database availability, scalability, and performance
  • Implementing best practices for database management
  • Designing and maintaining database infrastructure
  • Developing automation tools for database operations

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How to use ChatGPT & Workable to make better job descriptions https://resources.workable.com/tutorial/how-to-use-chatgpt-to-make-better-job-descriptions Thu, 22 Feb 2024 15:32:21 +0000 https://resources.workable.com/?p=93366 HR and recruiting is very human-centered work. It’s completely understandable why you might have doubts about using ChatGPT to do parts of your job. Generative AI is a very new technology and people are still learning about how it works. Trying to figure it out for yourself can be pretty intimidating, like any new tool. […]

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HR and recruiting is very human-centered work. It’s completely understandable why you might have doubts about using ChatGPT to do parts of your job.

Generative AI is a very new technology and people are still learning about how it works. Trying to figure it out for yourself can be pretty intimidating, like any new tool. If you know how to use it though, ChatGPT can automate parts of the recruitment process that frees up time for you to focus on dealing with people.

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Using ChatGPT to help you write job descriptions can help you save time and energy and ultimately find better candidates.

Together with the Workable’s AI-powered job description generator, you can quickly make job descriptions that are tailored to your brand and highlight what makes your company a great place to work.

Here’s the good news: using ChatGPT to create job descriptions isn’t very hard. You just need to know how to talk to it.

This post will show you how to use ChatGPT to write job descriptions along with the Workable AI job description generator, from the initial set-up to real-life examples.

Step-by-step guide: using ChatGPT for job descriptions

ChatGPT works by using a preset of data to draw from and drawing on that to give an output based on its input. What you get out of ChatGPT is quite literally what you put into it.

You can use ChatGPT and Workable to make the initial job description in a fraction of the time you could on your own. You can then refine it based on the role and your company’s needs, also using ChatGPT and Workable.

From there you can take what it gives you and breathe life into it based on your specialized knowledge as an HR and recruiting expert.

1. Setting up ChatGPT

For starters, you’ll need a ChatGPT account. This takes you just a few minutes – a half-hour at most.

Step 1: Navigate to the ChatGPT website, and sign up for an account.

Step 2: Create an account and fill in your details just like you would any other website. You can also use your Google, Microsoft, or Apple accounts to make things more simple.

Step 3: Once you verify your email, you should be able to access the ChatGPT website and start using the tool.

Before you start, you can configure ChatGPT and make custom instructions based on your needs. To do this, go to your name at the bottom of the left menu, click on it, and select ”Customize ChatGPT”.

While this feature isn’t necessary, typing a few lines into “What would you like ChatGPT to know about you to provide better responses?” might help ChatGPT align with your preferences.

Save it, and move to the next step.

Step 4: Now you can begin using ChatGPT. Start interacting with it, and try different things. Familiarize yourself with the interface.

The inputs you give ChatGPT are called ‘prompts’. ChatGPT will give roughly the same responses when given the same prompt, but you can guide ChatGPT’s responses by telling it what to do.

This part is important: the more specific you are in a prompt, the better the response will be. For instance, don’t ask ChatGPT to create “a few job requirements” – ask it to create “five requirements for a senior software engineer position.” Lots more on this below.

An example prompt you would use to make a job description might be:

Make me a job description for a software engineer role for a company in the consumer electronics space.

Again: a good prompt should be clear, specific, and include your desired outcome.

When ChatGPT makes you a job description, it should always be edited and reviewed by yourself or someone on your HR team before you publish it. Go through the job description and make sure it fits the expectations of the role and your company’s values. AI output always needs human oversight.

2. Generating initial drafts

Making your job descriptions with ChatGPT gives you a starting point you can build on to make a tailored and effective job description.

Give ChatGPT key details like the job title, responsibilities of the role, required qualifications, and desired skills.

Try something like:

“I need a job description for a Marketing Manager position. The role focuses on digital marketing, content creation, and market analysis. The candidate should have at least 5 years of experience in marketing, strong skills in SEO and social media marketing, and a bachelor’s degree in marketing or a related field.”

When you make your initial drafts with ChatGPT:

Provide specifics: Be as specific as possible about the role, responsibilities, etc. Include anything about the position that’s unique.

Give feedback: If the output ChatGPT gives you isn’t quite what you’re looking for, tell ChatGPT what you’d like to change or expand on.

For example:

Can you expand on the SEO and digital marketing strategy aspects of the role in the job description?

Review and customize: Have a look at the job description ChatGPT gives you for yourself. Make sure it matches your brand’s tone, and make any necessary adjustments or tweaks.

Customize language and tone

Once you have a basic draft, you can use your own expertise as a recruiter to make the job description reflect the tone of your company and the role you’re hiring for. ChatGPT can come in handy here too.

Use Workable’s job description generator to get the basics: the job title, industry, and tone.

Then, take the basic job description that Workable gives you and copy it to ChatGPT.

You can then have ChatGPT give it a little more nuance.

Example prompt: I need to rewrite the Marketing Manager job description to fit our startup culture. We value creativity, innovation, and a hands-on approach. The tone should be informal and engaging, appealing to young professionals.

Here’s the job description: {Insert job description}

Keep in mind that you may need ChatGPT to make adjustments as you go.

Example prompt: Can you tone it down just a little and make it a little bit more professional? Keep it friendly, though.

Make sure that the job description matches your company materials and you’re online brand voice to keep it consistent.

Ensuring non-discriminatory language

Your job descriptions must be neutral and non-discriminatory based on age, gender, ethnicity, and other protected characteristics. Keeping discriminatory language out of your job descriptions gives you access to a broader range of experiences and backgrounds and in turn more quality candidates. Besides, it’s the right thing to do.

Related: ChatGPT gender bias: how it affects HR & tips to avoid pitfalls

ChatGPT can help you scrub any unconscious bias from your job description and help keep it as inclusive as possible. Here’s how.

Make the initial job description with Workable: The Workable job description generator will give you the basic structure so that your job description aligns with standard HR practices. That gives you a place to start from.

Give the job description to ChatGPT: Specify your inclusivity goals and guidelines. If there’s anything specific you want to look for, tell it.

Example prompt: Please review this job description for a Senior Software Engineer and suggest changes to ensure the language is non-discriminatory and inclusive.

{Insert job description}

Review Suggestions: Read through the new job description and make sure it aligns with your organization’s values and inclusivity standards.

3. Updating and adapting descriptions

Sometimes the nature of a role may change and evolve as your company’s needs change. It happens all the time.

One of the great things about ChatGPT is its adaptability. It can take any changes you need for the role and adapt to them, making sure it remains accurate throughout.

Taking the same example from before, let’s say you want to adapt the Senior Software Engineer role to reflect your shift to a hybrid work environment.

Use ChatGPT to add the new changes. Make sure to specify any new requirements or responsibilities, as well as any other changes in the work environment.

Example prompt: I need to update the job description for a Senior Software Manager role. The role now requires more focus on remote team management and digital collaboration tools due to our shift to a hybrid work model.

Then, review the job description to make sure the new one is in line with your company’s changing situation.

4. Highlighting unique benefits and perks

Including the perks and benefits that come with working for your team is a great way to make your job description stand out.

Once again, ChatGPT can create a job description that celebrates what makes your company special and gives it a little more pizzazz.

Example prompt: I want to add a section to our Software Developer job description that highlights our unique company benefits and perks, especially our flexible work hours, annual tech conference trips, and in-house training programs.

 

Then review and personalize the job description yourself to make sure the benefits are accurate and the language fits your brand voice and company culture. Place the perks and benefits section in the job description where it fits best.

Consider emphasizing these same perks in your other recruitment materials like your social media job postings and careers page.

That’ll make it easier to consistently promote your unique offerings and attract more candidates to the role.

5. Expanding across languages

Is your company international? How many languages can you speak? In how many of those can you write a professional job description?

If your organization has a presence in multiple regions, then ChatGPT can take your job description and translate that into the languages you need, sparing you the three months to two years it takes to learn a language yourself.

Step 1: Make the initial job description using workable

Having the Workable job description generator make the initial draft will make sure the core requirements and roles are consistent throughout every language.

Quick tip: Many existing job description templates in Workable’s library already have versions in other languages, including Spanish, Brazilian Portuguese, German, French, and Greek. Just go to any job description and select the language in the drop-down menu to the right.

Step 2: Give ChatGPT the job description and specify target languages

Indicate what languages you want the job description to be translated to, along with the core requirements of the role. If you are targeting any specific regions, say so.

Example prompt: Can you translate our Graphic Designer job description into Spanish? The description focuses on creative design, teamwork, and proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite.

{Insert job description}

Step 3: Review with a native speaker

Have the translation reviewed by a native speaker, if possible. Check for any translation errors and adjustments for cultural appropriateness.

Writing your job descriptions in multiple languages gives you access to a global talent pool, and also shows your company values inclusivity and diversity.

Make your job descriptions better with ChatGPT and Workable

Learning how to use ChatGPT as a job description generator is challenging, just like learning to use any new tool. If you take the time to get used to it, though, you’ll find that using ChatGPT to help you make your job descriptions better than ever before.

If you’re curious about dipping your toes in the water and seeing how ChatGPT can make life as an HR professional easier, check out our ChatGPT HR tutorials.

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ChatGPT for remote hiring: using AI to recruit beyond borders https://resources.workable.com/tutorial/chatgpt-for-remote-hiring Tue, 30 Jan 2024 22:29:12 +0000 https://resources.workable.com/?p=93084 We live in the age of AI, and the age of remote work. The beauty of hiring a remote team is that it gives you access to a global talent pool where you have access to the skills you need anywhere around the world, regardless of geographic location. With that global access to talent though […]

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We live in the age of AI, and the age of remote work.

The beauty of hiring a remote team is that it gives you access to a global talent pool where you have access to the skills you need anywhere around the world, regardless of geographic location.

With that global access to talent though comes global competition. Remote and hybrid positions are in high demand. Remote work is becoming a preference for today’s workers, and more people are seeking remote roles than there are positions available.

Enhancing your remote hiring process with AI can make your hiring process easier, better, faster, and stronger, in a way that makes that remote talent come straight to you.

ChatGPT was barely a year old as of the end of 2023, and it has already begun to change the way companies build remote teams.

According to Workable’s AI in Hiring and Work 2024 survey report, 62.5% of hiring managers used some form of AI in the recruitment process over the past year – with a vast majority pointing to time and cost savings as a result of utilizing AI.

New report: AI in Hiring 2024

We asked 950 hiring managers how they're using AI in hiring and in the workplace. And now we have a new survey report packed with insights for you.

Get your free report now!

Likewise, using AI for hiring remote workers can save you time and build remote teams by identifying, engaging, and onboarding the perfect candidates.

Here, we’ll offer you guidance on how to use ChatGPT to build remote teams and find the right candidates for them.

1. Virtual interviews

When you’re sourcing and recruiting job candidates for remote roles who live in a different city or even a different country from your physical office, virtual interviews will be part of your remote hiring process by necessity.

One in five hiring managers in Workable’s survey say their video interviews utilized some form of AI. Tools like ChatGPT can assist you here and make your virtual interview process more efficient and more streamlined.

Automated pre-screening interviews

The moment you put a job posting online, you’ll soon have 100+ messages piling up in your inbox – more than you could ever address personally on your own. Of those, you’ll have maybe five who make it to the final round of interviews.

How can you possibly single out the best candidates on your own, and balance your other job responsibilities?

ChatGPT can help you identify the best people to talk to out of your hundreds of applications during the pre-screening process.

That way, you can save your time and attention for the most qualified candidates.

Say you want to single out the candidates who have had experience working in remote teams. You could have ChatGPT filter through the cover letters, look for keywords and phrases such as “remote work”, “self-discipline”, and “communication skills”, and analyze which candidate would function the best on a remote team.

Example prompt: Analyze these cover letters for key skills and experience related to remote project management. Which candidate would do best on our fully-remote team, and why?

Interview preparation

Virtual interviews lack the face-to-face interactions and body language cues that can give you insight into a candidate’s soft skills and inner character.

AI tools can help compensate for the lack of in-person interaction in the interview by helping you learn as much about them as you can during the time that you have.

Suppose you’re hiring for a remote software developer position in the real estate industry, and it’s a fully remote role that can be done from anywhere. You can have ChatGPT help you brainstorm a list of questions that are tailored for the role.

You could use the Workable AI-powered interview question generator (as part of our Free Tools for Managers package) as a starting point to brainstorm your initial questions.

Then, you can use ChatGPT to take that list, and further tailor them to make them specific to remote work, or to the position itself.

Example prompt: Generate a list of behavioral questions for this remote software developer position in the real estate industry. Below are some interview questions I’ve already made, and the job description.

{{Insert Interview Questions}}

{{Insert Job Description}}

2. Candidate engagement

Candidates can drop off during the interview process for all sorts of reasons. Poor timing, a more enticing offer elsewhere, or a bad candidate experience can drive remote workers away to find other opportunities.

With ChatGPT’s help, you can keep the lines of communication open and improve your candidate engagement, so that they stick with you until the end and stay excited about the opportunity you’re offering them.

Automated follow-ups

One of the first chokepoints where candidates are likely to drop off is after the initial screening. You can use ChatGPT to create follow-up emails to let them know they’ve made it through the first round of interviews, and even personalize it to their responses.

Let’s say you were drafting a follow-up email for a candidate who successfully made it through the pre-screening stage of the real estate software developer from before. You can use a prompt like the following:

Example prompt: Create a follow-up email for this candidate who has completed the initial screening. Include information from their interview responses.

FAQ chatbot

Having an FAQ chatbot on the application page can field common questions that candidates might have about the role, and learn more about you, your company, and your remote work policy before applying.

If that’s something you’ve considered, have ChatGPT think of common questions candidates might ask about the position given the company and the role you’re hiring for.

ChatGPT pro-tip: Having web-enabled ChatGPT browse the homepage and “About” page of your website can help it learn more about your company culture and make the FAQ questions more personalized.

For this, you’ll need to have ChatGPT-4 enabled with the ChatGPT Plus subscription and insert one or two links from your company’s website to give examples. You can also use the VoxScript plugin available from the ChatGPT plugin store.

Example prompt: I’m making an FAQ chatbot for this role. Can you come up with two or three common questions candidates might have for the chatbot, such as the company culture, benefits, and the remote work setup?

Engagement surveys

If remote team building is something that your company is new to, you can use ChatGPT to continually optimize your remote hiring process based on your candidate’s feedback with candidate experience surveys.

Example prompt: Please generate questions for a post-interview candidate experience survey based on this role.

3. Collaboration

It can be harder to gauge a candidate’s personality and character in a virtual interview on your own. For that reason, your whole hiring team must be aligned on what to look for as you build your remote team.

Here are a few ways ChatGPT can make collaboration easier as you put together your remote team.

Candidate scorecards

The hiring team for your remote positions can keep the process objective and fair with a candidate scorecard. ChatGPT can make standardized scorecards for you based on the job description. That way, the criteria for candidate selection can remain unbiased, consistent, and fair.

Documentation

About 16% of companies are fully remote and have no physical office, and 32.6 million Americans will be remote by 2025.

If your organization is transitioning to a remote work setting, there may be an adjustment period as your company catches up to the new realities of the remote workforce.

ChatGPT can help smooth that transition and draft your internal documentation outlining the new rules about remote work at your company. Try having it draft an internal Slack message or email about your remote work initiatives.

4. Additional use cases

ChatGPT does its best work when you get creative with it. The trend toward remote work will bring about many exciting opportunities, but it will also bring challenges you can’t anticipate.

Here are some more out-of-the-box ways ChatGPT can help you recruit and build your remote teams.

Onboarding guides

Remote work is very new territory for many people. Some candidates will be more used to working in remote work environments than others. You can use ChatGPT to make personalized onboarding guides to make sure that all of your candidates start their roles on the right foot, regardless of their prior experience with remote work.

Going back to our example for the software developer job at the real estate company, a prompt you could use might be:

Example prompt: Create an onboarding checklist for this new remote role position.

Training modules

It’s perfectly possible that of two candidates who are equally qualified for the same position, one may be more used to remote work tools and communication platforms than the other.

You can help get the new remote workers on your team to get up to speed with training modules that can show them how to use the tools they’ll need to collaborate with their teams.

Let’s say you want to include a section on how to use your company Slack.

Example prompt: Outline a training module for using Slack in this position.

Embrace the future of remote hiring

AI tools and remote work together represent a significant shift in how we recruit candidates. If you make use of ChatGPT in key areas of your remote team-building process, you can make it easier on yourself and save yourself considerable time, money, and wasted effort finding qualified candidates for remote roles.

Curious about transitioning to a remote work setting? Check out our Workable guides on remote work here.

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Νew hire struggling? Onboarding buddies can help you (+checklist) https://resources.workable.com/tutorial/what-is-onboarding-buddy-plus-checklist Thu, 22 Feb 2024 17:23:00 +0000 https://resources.workable.com/?p=93365 As the new employee, Jake stepped into the lively office on his first day, feeling a mix of excitement and uncertainty.  As he settled into his workstation, he wished he had a better onboarding experience and maybe a peer to help him navigate the intricacies of the company’s project management software.  A seasoned colleague could […]

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As the new employee, Jake stepped into the lively office on his first day, feeling a mix of excitement and uncertainty. 

As he settled into his workstation, he wished he had a better onboarding experience and maybe a peer to help him navigate the intricacies of the company’s project management software. 

A seasoned colleague could have easily stepped in, guiding him through the software, explaining the project workflows, and sharing tips on effective collaboration. 

Later in the day, when Jake tried to grab a cup of coffee from the high-tech espresso machine in the breakroom, he realized he was in for a challenge. 

A buddy could have been there to demonstrate the machine, highlight the preferences of the team when it came to coffee, and share the unwritten office rituals associated with the daily caffeine fix. 

Having a knowledgeable buddy by his side would be an opportunity for connection and camaraderie in the workplace.

And guess what? This buddy actually has a name.

Let’s get to know them better. 

What is an onboarding buddy

An onboarding buddy is essentially a current employee who volunteers or is selected to act as a guide and support system for a new hire during their initial period at the company. 

Unlike formal mentors, who are often involved in long-term professional development and career guidance, an onboarding buddy focuses on the immediate, practical aspects of settling into a new job. 

This includes understanding company culture, navigating the workplace, and integrating into new teams. 

The buddy system is designed to be informal and approachable, providing a safe space for new employees to ask questions and express concerns that they might hesitate to share with their managers or HR representatives.

The distinction between an onboarding buddy and a mentor is crucial. While both roles aim to support the new hire, their objectives and durations differ significantly. 

A mentorship relationship is typically more structured, with set goals and a longer timeline, often extending beyond the onboarding phase to focus on career growth and development within the organization. 

In contrast, an onboarding buddy is there to ease the immediate transition into the company, focusing on short-term goals like understanding job responsibilities, company policies, and workplace culture. 

This difference ensures that new employees have a comprehensive support system that addresses both their immediate and future needs.

Onboarding buddies can boost productivity

The implementation of an onboarding buddy system can have a profound impact on a new hire’s experience and their productivity. 

Having a robust onboarding process is proven to increase new hire retention by 82% and boost productivity by more than 70%.

One of the most significant benefits is the provision of context. 

New employees, regardless of their experience level, face a steep learning curve when joining a new company. 

An onboarding buddy can offer invaluable insights into the nuances of the workplace, from identifying key stakeholders to understanding the unspoken rules that govern office dynamics. This insider knowledge helps new hires navigate their early days with greater confidence and ease.

This insider knowledge helps new hires navigate their early days with greater confidence and ease.

By having a go-to person for questions and guidance, new hires can quickly learn the ropes and begin contributing to their teams more effectively. 

This not only benefits the new employee in terms of job satisfaction and engagement but also contributes to the overall productivity of the team and organization.

This emotional and professional support can make a significant difference in how new employees perceive their new workplace, influencing their decision to stay with the company in the long run.

The onboarding buddy’s responsibilities

The effectiveness of an onboarding buddy system hinges on the clear definition of the buddy’s responsibilities. 

These duties are designed to ensure the new hire feels supported, informed, and welcomed into the company. Here are some of the key responsibilities that an onboarding buddy typically undertakes:

Meet the new employee on their first day: Making a positive first impression is crucial. The onboarding buddy is often the first friendly face the new hire sees, offering a warm welcome and easing the natural anxieties of the first day.

Introduce the new hire to other employees: Integration into the social fabric of the company is as important as understanding the role itself. Buddies facilitate introductions to team members and other colleagues, helping to build the new hire’s internal network.

Answer questions about the job and the company: Buddies act as a knowledge resource, answering questions about day-to-day operations, company culture, and policies. This open line of communication helps to demystify aspects of the new role and the organization.

Take the new employee on a tour of the workplace: Familiarizing the new hire with the physical workspace helps them navigate their new environment and understand where key facilities are located.

Teach the new hire unfamiliar tasks: Buddies provide hands-on guidance for tasks and processes that are new to the hire, ensuring they have the practical skills needed to perform their job effectively.

Cover the company guidelines, culture, and unwritten rules: Beyond the employee handbook, buddies share insights into the company’s culture and the unwritten norms that guide behavior within the organization.

Allow the new hire to shadow on the job: Shadowing allows the new employee to see firsthand how tasks are performed, which is invaluable for learning the nuances of their new role.

Hold weekly check-in meetings: Regular meetings between the buddy and the new hire help to address any ongoing questions or concerns, ensuring the new employee’s smooth transition into the company.

The 4-step onboarding process with a buddy system

A structured onboarding process, complemented by a buddy system, can significantly enhance the new hire’s integration and productivity. Here’s a breakdown of a 4-step onboarding process that incorporates the use of an onboarding buddy:

Preparation: Before the new hire’s first day, select an appropriate onboarding buddy and brief them on their responsibilities. Ensure the buddy has the resources and time needed to support the new employee effectively.

Integration: The buddy plays a key role in helping the new hire integrate into the company culture and team. This phase focuses on making introductions, explaining company norms, and answering any immediate questions the new hire may have.

Development: As the new hire becomes more comfortable in their role, the buddy assists with more in-depth learning and development opportunities, such as shadowing on projects or guiding them through more complex tasks.

Transition: Eventually, the new hire should feel confident and integrated enough to navigate their role independently. The buddy system can be phased out, with the buddy remaining a friendly and familiar face for any future questions or support.

The checklist

To ensure consistency and cover all necessary aspects of the onboarding process, creating a buddy checklist can be incredibly helpful. This checklist might include:

  • Schedule a welcome meeting on the first day.
  • Arrange introductions to team members and key personnel.
  • Provide a tour of the office, highlighting important areas.
  • Share insights on company culture and unwritten rules.
  • Offer guidance on specific tasks and processes.
  • Set up regular check-in meetings to discuss progress and address questions.
  • Provide resources for professional development within the company.
  • Facilitate the transition to independence while remaining available for future support.

This checklist serves as a roadmap for the buddy, ensuring that they provide comprehensive support to the new hire throughout their onboarding journey. 

It also helps in standardizing the onboarding experience, ensuring every new employee receives the same level of support and information.

An onboarding buddy system is more than just a mechanism for welcoming new employees; it’s a strategic investment in the long-term success and integration of new hires into the company. 

By providing immediate support, facilitating cultural integration, and enhancing job satisfaction, onboarding buddies play a crucial role in the overall employee experience.

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HR Recruiter job description https://resources.workable.com/hr-recruiter-job-description Fri, 08 Sep 2017 08:08:33 +0000 https://resources.workable.com/?p=23273 Use this HR Recruiter job description template to attract and hire qualified candidates for your Human Resources department. HR Recruiter responsibilities include: Designing and updating job descriptions Sourcing potential candidates from various online channels (e.g. social media and professional platforms like StackOverflow and Behance) Crafting recruiting emails to attract passive candidates

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Use this HR Recruiter job description template to attract and hire qualified candidates for your Human Resources department.

HR Recruiter responsibilities include:

  • Designing and updating job descriptions
  • Sourcing potential candidates from various online channels (e.g. social media and professional platforms like StackOverflow and Behance)
  • Crafting recruiting emails to attract passive candidates

HR Recruiter job description

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Senior Data Scientist job description https://resources.workable.com/senior-data-scientist-job-description Thu, 22 Feb 2024 13:34:39 +0000 https://resources.workable.com/?p=93363 A Senior Data Scientist is an expert in statistical analysis, machine learning, and data mining techniques, leveraging these skills to extract insights and knowledge from data to drive decision-making and develop predictive models for business applications. Use this Senior Data Scientist job description template to advertise open roles for your company. Be sure to modify […]

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A Senior Data Scientist is an expert in statistical analysis, machine learning, and data mining techniques, leveraging these skills to extract insights and knowledge from data to drive decision-making and develop predictive models for business applications.

Use this Senior Data Scientist job description template to advertise open roles for your company. Be sure to modify requirements and duties based on the unique needs of the role you’re hiring for.

What is a Senior Data Scientist?

A Senior Data Scientist is a professional with extensive experience in the field of data science, specializing in turning complex data into actionable insights. They possess a deep understanding of statistical models, machine learning algorithms, and big data technologies. Their expertise enables them to solve complex problems, predict trends, and inform strategic decisions through data analysis.

What does a Senior Data Scientist do?

A Senior Data Scientist designs and implements models that can analyze large datasets to solve various problems and predict future outcomes. They work closely with business stakeholders to understand their challenges and goals, translating complex data into actionable insights.

This role involves not only technical skills in programming and data analysis but also the ability to communicate findings effectively and mentor junior team members. They play a crucial role in guiding data-driven decision-making processes within an organization.

Senior Data Scientist responsibilities include:

  • Developing and implementing advanced analytics models
  • Leading data-driven decision-making processes
  • Managing data science projects from conception to deployment
  • Mentoring junior data scientists

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Senior Data Engineer job description https://resources.workable.com/senior-data-engineer-job-description Thu, 22 Feb 2024 13:01:23 +0000 https://resources.workable.com/?p=93362 A Senior Data Engineer is a key role in technology and data-driven organizations, responsible for designing, building, and managing the infrastructure and tools that allow for the efficient processing and analysis of large data sets. Use this Senior Data Engineer job description template to advertise open roles for your company. Be sure to modify requirements […]

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A Senior Data Engineer is a key role in technology and data-driven organizations, responsible for designing, building, and managing the infrastructure and tools that allow for the efficient processing and analysis of large data sets.

Use this Senior Data Engineer job description template to advertise open roles for your company. Be sure to modify requirements and duties based on the unique needs of the role you’re hiring for.

What is a Senior Data Engineer?

A Senior Data Engineer is a professional who specializes in preparing big data infrastructure for analytical or operational uses. They are responsible for designing and creating systems that collect, manage, and convert raw data into usable information for data scientists and business analysts to interpret. Their work enables companies to make smarter decisions and optimize their operations.

What does a Senior Data Engineer do?

A Senior Data Engineer develops and maintains scalable data pipelines and builds out new API integrations to support continuing increases in data volume and complexity. They collaborate with data scientists and business teams to improve data models that feed business intelligence tools, increasing data accessibility and fostering data-driven decision making across the organization.

They play a crucial role in implementing software and methodologies for data correction, reconciliation, and quality checking.

Responsibilities of a Senior Data Engineer include:

  • Designing and implementing ETL processes
  • Managing data warehousing solutions
  • Exposing and deploying machine learning models to production
  • Ensuring data quality and consistency across various sources

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Senior Backend Engineer job description https://resources.workable.com/senior-backend-engineer-job-description Wed, 21 Feb 2024 14:34:31 +0000 https://resources.workable.com/?p=93354 A Senior Backend Engineer is a highly skilled software developer focused on the server-side logic and architecture of software applications. They are responsible for developing and maintaining the technology that powers the backend of web and mobile applications, ensuring scalability, performance, and security. Use this Senior Backend Engineer job description template to advertise open roles […]

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A Senior Backend Engineer is a highly skilled software developer focused on the server-side logic and architecture of software applications. They are responsible for developing and maintaining the technology that powers the backend of web and mobile applications, ensuring scalability, performance, and security.

Use this Senior Backend Engineer job description template to advertise open roles for your company. Be sure to modify requirements and duties based on the unique needs of the role you’re hiring for.

What is a Senior Backend Engineer?

A Senior Backend Engineer is an experienced software developer specializing in the server-side development of applications. They work on creating robust, scalable, and secure backend systems that support web and mobile platforms, manage data flow between servers and users, and integrate with other services and databases.

What does a Senior Backend Engineer do?

A Senior Backend Engineer designs and implements the core logic and databases that power applications, ensuring they can handle high volumes of traffic and data efficiently. They work closely with front-end developers to integrate user-facing elements, maintain and improve system architecture, and develop APIs that allow different applications to communicate.

Their role is crucial in creating seamless, efficient, and secure digital experiences.

Responsibilities of a Senior Backend Engineer include:

  • Designing and implementing server-side logic and database architecture
  • Ensuring application performance, scalability, and security
  • Integrating user-facing elements with server-side logic
  • Developing and maintaining APIs for web and mobile applications

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Senior Backend Developer job description https://resources.workable.com/senior-backend-developer-job-description Wed, 21 Feb 2024 14:20:55 +0000 https://resources.workable.com/?p=93351 A Senior Backend Developer is a skilled professional specializing in the server-side development of web applications. They focus on creating the logic, database interactions, server configuration, and integration with frontend components, ensuring high performance and responsiveness to requests from the front-end. Use this Senior Backend Developer job description template to advertise open roles for your […]

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A Senior Backend Developer is a skilled professional specializing in the server-side development of web applications. They focus on creating the logic, database interactions, server configuration, and integration with frontend components, ensuring high performance and responsiveness to requests from the front-end.

Use this Senior Backend Developer job description template to advertise open roles for your company. Be sure to modify requirements and duties based on the unique needs of the role you’re hiring for.

What is a Senior Backend Developer?

A Senior Backend Developer is an experienced programmer who specializes in the development of the server-side logic of web applications. They work on databases, application integration, API development, and creating the backbone that allows web applications to function efficiently and effectively.

What does a Senior Backend Developer do?

A Senior Backend Developer designs, codes, and enhances the server-side components of web applications. They are responsible for developing complex systems and databases, ensuring application scalability, working on API integration, and collaborating with front-end developers to create a seamless user experience.

Their work is crucial for processing and managing data, implementing security measures, and optimizing server performance.

Responsibilities of a Senior Backend Developer include:

  • Developing and maintaining the server-side logic of web applications
  • Designing and implementing database structures and interactions
  • Ensuring the performance, quality, and responsiveness of applications
  • Integrating user-facing elements developed by front-end developers with server-side logic

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Security Engineer job description https://resources.workable.com/security-engineer-job-description Wed, 21 Feb 2024 14:11:18 +0000 https://resources.workable.com/?p=93350 A Security Engineer is a professional responsible for protecting computer and networking systems from potential hackers and cyber-attacks. They ensure the security of data and infrastructure by implementing various technologies and processes to prevent, detect, and manage cyber threats. Use this Security Engineer job description template to advertise open roles for your company. Be sure […]

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A Security Engineer is a professional responsible for protecting computer and networking systems from potential hackers and cyber-attacks. They ensure the security of data and infrastructure by implementing various technologies and processes to prevent, detect, and manage cyber threats.

Use this Security Engineer job description template to advertise open roles for your company. Be sure to modify requirements and duties based on the unique needs of the role you’re hiring for.

What is a Security Engineer?

A Security Engineer is a specialist focused on safeguarding an organization’s computer systems and networks from security breaches, cyber threats, and vulnerabilities.

They employ a variety of technologies, protocols, and practices to secure data and infrastructure, ensuring that the organization’s and its users’ information remains confidential, integral, and available.

What does a Security Engineer do?

Security Engineers play a critical role in designing, implementing, and maintaining the security framework and policies within an organization. They conduct risk assessments, develop secure network solutions, monitor for security breaches, respond to incidents, and educate staff on security best practices.

Their work involves a mix of technical skills, from system and network security to application and data encryption, aimed at protecting the organization from all forms of cyber threats.

Responsibilities include:

  • Conducting security assessments and prioritizing findings for remediation
  • Designing and maintaining application and infrastructure security controls
  • Enhancing security monitoring to detect abnormal behavior
  • Promoting security awareness and training within the company

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Salesforce Developer job description https://resources.workable.com/salesforce-developer-job-description Wed, 21 Feb 2024 13:06:08 +0000 https://resources.workable.com/?p=93349 A Salesforce Developer is a technical expert who designs, codes, and implements Salesforce applications to meet business needs, enhancing CRM functionality and improving user experience within the Salesforce platform. Use this Salesforce Developer job description template to advertise open roles for your company. Be sure to modify requirements and duties based on the unique needs […]

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A Salesforce Developer is a technical expert who designs, codes, and implements Salesforce applications to meet business needs, enhancing CRM functionality and improving user experience within the Salesforce platform.

Use this Salesforce Developer job description template to advertise open roles for your company. Be sure to modify requirements and duties based on the unique needs of the role you’re hiring for.

What is a Salesforce Developer?

A Salesforce Developer is a professional specialized in developing and customizing Salesforce applications and platforms. They use Salesforce’s suite of tools, including Apex and VisualForce, to create tailored solutions that improve business processes, enhance customer relationship management, and drive efficiency.

Their role involves understanding business requirements, designing technical solutions, coding, and maintaining Salesforce systems to meet organizational needs.

What does a Salesforce Developer do?

A Salesforce Developer plays a crucial role in customizing and optimizing the Salesforce CRM platform according to specific business requirements. They write custom code, develop integrations, troubleshoot issues, and ensure the platform runs smoothly.

By creating custom applications, automations, and enhancements, they enable businesses to maximize the utility of Salesforce, improving sales processes, customer engagement, and overall operational efficiency.

Responsibilities include:

  • Transforming business needs into Salesforce implementations
  • Optimizing and developing new features/enhancements in Salesforce
  • Analyzing and troubleshooting Salesforce issues
  • Providing recommendations for Salesforce process improvements

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What is at-will employment? Examples and HR actions https://resources.workable.com/hr-terms/what-is-at-will-employment Tue, 20 Feb 2024 16:20:44 +0000 https://resources.workable.com/?p=93346 Understanding at-will employment is crucial not only for employers navigating the legal landscape of hiring and firing but also for employees seeking to understand their rights and protections under this doctrine.  This article delves into the intricacies of at-will employment, shedding light on its definition, historical context, legal boundaries, and practical implications in the modern […]

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Understanding at-will employment is crucial not only for employers navigating the legal landscape of hiring and firing but also for employees seeking to understand their rights and protections under this doctrine. 

This article delves into the intricacies of at-will employment, shedding light on its definition, historical context, legal boundaries, and practical implications in the modern workplace.

Defining at-will employment

At its core, at-will employment refers to an employment agreement that can be terminated at any time, by either the employer or the employee, for any reason that is not illegal, or for no reason at all. 

This definition encapsulates the essence of the doctrine, emphasizing the unilateral flexibility it provides in the employment relationship. 

However, this flexibility is not absolute and is bounded by a framework of legal exceptions designed to prevent wrongful terminations.

Historically, the concept of at-will employment in the United States was not the result of formal legislation but rather evolved through legal precedents over the years. 

It is widely attributed to Horace Gray Wood’s 1871 treatise, which articulated the principle that employment could be terminated by either party without notice. 

This doctrine starkly contrasts with employment practices in other countries, where employment contracts and indefinite employment terms are more common, reflecting a different approach to labor relations and worker protections.

Misconceptions and legal boundaries

Despite its widespread application, at-will employment is often misunderstood, with many assuming it grants employers carte blanche to dismiss employees arbitrarily. 

This misconception overlooks the legal boundaries that have been established to protect workers from unjust termination. 

Key exceptions to the at-will doctrine include:

Public policy exception: This exception prevents employers from terminating employees for reasons that violate state or national public policy, such as firing an employee for filing a workers’ compensation claim or for refusing to engage in illegal activities at the request of the employer.

Implied contract exception: An employee may argue that an implied contract was formed, suggesting a guarantee of continued employment, based on the employer’s statements, policies, or practices.

Good faith and fair dealing: Some states recognize this exception, which bars employers from terminating employees in bad faith or for malicious reasons, aiming to ensure that termination decisions are not made out of spite or for reasons unrelated to job performance or business needs.

These exceptions illustrate the legal complexities surrounding at-will employment, highlighting the need for both employers and employees to navigate this doctrine with a clear understanding of its limitations and protections.

Advantages and disadvantages

The at-will employment doctrine offers distinct advantages and disadvantages, influencing the operational strategies of businesses and the career decisions of employees. 

For employers, the primary benefit lies in the flexibility to adapt their workforce to changing business needs without the constraints of fixed-term contracts. 

This flexibility allows for the swift reallocation of resources, adjustments to staffing levels, and modifications to employment terms in response to market dynamics. 

Additionally, at-will employment supports a meritocratic work environment, where promotions and rewards can be based on performance rather than seniority, fostering a culture of achievement and motivation.

Conversely, the disadvantages of at-will employment primarily affect employees, who may face job insecurity and limited protections against arbitrary dismissal. 

The lack of guaranteed employment tenure can lead to a precarious work situation, where employees are vulnerable to sudden termination without cause. 

This vulnerability underscores the importance of understanding the legal exceptions and protections available under the at-will doctrine, as well as the potential benefits of union representation or negotiated employment contracts that offer greater job security.

Rights under at-will employment

Despite the seemingly broad powers that at-will employment grants employers, it’s crucial to recognize the substantial rights and protections that employees retain under this doctrine. 

These safeguards are designed to prevent discrimination, retaliation, and other forms of wrongful termination, ensuring a fair and equitable workplace.

Anti-discrimination laws

Federal and state laws prohibit employers from terminating employees based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age (40 or older), disability, or genetic information. 

These protections ensure that all employees have equal opportunities and are judged solely on their merits and job performance.

Retaliation protections

Employees are protected from being fired as a form of retaliation for engaging in legally protected activities, such as filing a complaint about workplace discrimination or harassment, participating in an investigation, or whistleblowing on illegal activities within the organization.

Unions and collective bargaining

In at-will states, unions still play a significant role in negotiating terms of employment that can offer additional job security and protections for workers. 

These agreements may include clauses that limit the reasons for which an employee can be terminated, typically requiring “just cause” for termination.

Understanding these rights is essential for employees to navigate their employment securely and for employers to manage their workforce responsibly. 

At-will employment in practice

In practice, at-will employment encompasses a wide range of scenarios, from straightforward terminations due to business downturns to complex legal disputes over alleged wrongful terminations. 

Here are examples illustrating the application of at-will employment:

Performance-based termination

An employee consistently underperforms despite receiving feedback and resources for improvement. The employer decides to terminate the employment based on documented performance issues, aligning with at-will employment principles while ensuring the decision is justified and documented.

Disputed termination 

An employee claims their termination was due to discriminatory reasons, challenging the at-will termination. This scenario underscores the importance of employers maintaining clear, documented reasons for termination that comply with legal protections against discrimination and retaliation.

Communicating at-will employment terms effectively involves clear language in job postings, offer letters, and employee handbooks, ensuring employees understand the nature of their employment relationship from the start.

Tips for HR professionals on managing at-will employment

Navigating at-will employment requires HR professionals to balance legal compliance, ethical considerations, and organizational objectives. Here’s a concise guide to managing at-will employment effectively:

Stay informed: Keep abreast of changes in employment laws and educate management on the legalities surrounding at-will employment to prevent wrongful termination claims.

Clear communication: Ensure at-will employment policies are transparently communicated through employee handbooks and offer letters, and that employees understand these policies.

Document rigorously: Maintain detailed records of all employment decisions, including performance evaluations and disciplinary actions, to support these decisions if challenged.

Promote fairness: Foster a workplace culture that values fairness and equality, implementing regular training on diversity, inclusion, and anti-discrimination policies.

Handle terminations with care: Approach terminations sensitively, providing clear reasons for the decision and avoiding discriminatory or retaliatory language.

Ethical decision-making: Prioritize ethical considerations in employment decisions, exploring alternatives to termination such as performance improvement plans or reassignment.

Continuous learning: Engage in ongoing professional development to stay current on best practices in employment law and HR management.

Build trust: Cultivate an organizational culture of open communication, where employees feel comfortable discussing concerns and career goals.

By fostering a workplace culture that values fair treatment, transparency, and respect for legal protections, companies can leverage the benefits of at-will employment while minimizing its drawbacks.

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Sales Operations Specialist job description https://resources.workable.com/sales-operations-specialist-job-description Tue, 20 Feb 2024 14:15:03 +0000 https://resources.workable.com/?p=93345 A Sales Operations Specialist is a key role focused on optimizing sales processes and managing the sales tech stack to support a company’s growth and efficiency in its sales operations. Use this Sales Operations Specialist job description template to advertise open roles for your company. Be sure to modify requirements and duties based on the […]

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A Sales Operations Specialist is a key role focused on optimizing sales processes and managing the sales tech stack to support a company’s growth and efficiency in its sales operations.

Use this Sales Operations Specialist job description template to advertise open roles for your company. Be sure to modify requirements and duties based on the unique needs of the role you’re hiring for.

What is a Sales Operations Specialist?

A Sales Operations Specialist is a professional dedicated to enhancing the efficiency and effectiveness of a company’s sales operations. They play a crucial role in managing sales tools, refining sales processes, ensuring data quality, and training sales teams to maximize productivity and achieve sales targets.

What does a Sales Operations Specialist do?

A Sales Operations Specialist works behind the scenes to ensure that the sales team has the tools and processes needed to succeed. They manage the sales tech stack, troubleshoot process issues, maintain data integrity, and provide training to ensure that sales operations run smoothly.

Their work supports the sales team in achieving their goals and contributes to the overall success of the company.

Sales Operations Specialist responsibilities include:

  • Administering and managing key sales tools like Salesforce and Outreach
  • Troubleshooting and refining sales processes and systems
  • Maintaining high levels of process efficiency and data quality
  • Training team members on sales processes and systems

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Sales Operations Manager job description https://resources.workable.com/sales-operations-manager-job-description Tue, 20 Feb 2024 13:35:42 +0000 https://resources.workable.com/?p=93338 A Sales Operations Manager is a strategic role responsible for optimizing sales processes, implementing sales technologies, and ensuring the sales team operates efficiently to support business growth and customer satisfaction. Use this Sales Operations Manager job description template to advertise open roles for your company. Be sure to modify requirements and duties based on the […]

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A Sales Operations Manager is a strategic role responsible for optimizing sales processes, implementing sales technologies, and ensuring the sales team operates efficiently to support business growth and customer satisfaction.

Use this Sales Operations Manager job description template to advertise open roles for your company. Be sure to modify requirements and duties based on the unique needs of the role you’re hiring for.

What is a Sales Operations Manager?

A Sales Operations Manager is a key figure within an organization, tasked with enhancing the efficiency and effectiveness of the sales team. They oversee the sales operations team, ensuring that sales processes are streamlined, data-driven decisions are made, and the sales tech stack is fully utilized to achieve business targets.

What does a Sales Operations Manager do?

A Sales Operations Manager plays a pivotal role in aligning sales strategies with business objectives. They manage sales processes, data analysis, and technology tools to support sales goals. By analyzing sales data, they identify trends, forecast sales, and implement strategies to improve sales performance.

They also work closely with various departments to ensure seamless operations and drive sales growth.

Sales Operations Manager responsibilities include:

  • Partnering with Sales, Marketing, Finance, and Operations to implement new processes
  • Optimizing existing sales processes and policies
  • Maintaining data quality and consistency in sales and marketing systems
  • Analyzing sales data to support decision-making and measure impact

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Sales Operations Associate job description https://resources.workable.com/sales-operations-associate-job-description Tue, 20 Feb 2024 13:25:52 +0000 https://resources.workable.com/?p=93337 A Sales Operations Associate is a professional focused on optimizing sales processes and resources, managing CRM systems, and analyzing sales data to support strategic sales initiatives and improve overall sales efficiency. Use this Sales Operations Associate job description template to advertise open roles for your company. Be sure to modify requirements and duties based on […]

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A Sales Operations Associate is a professional focused on optimizing sales processes and resources, managing CRM systems, and analyzing sales data to support strategic sales initiatives and improve overall sales efficiency.

Use this Sales Operations Associate job description template to advertise open roles for your company. Be sure to modify requirements and duties based on the unique needs of the role you’re hiring for.

What is a Sales Operations Associate?

A Sales Operations Associate is a key member of the sales team, dedicated to streamlining sales processes, managing the sales CRM system, and providing analytical support to enhance sales performance. They play a crucial role in ensuring the sales team has the tools and data needed to achieve their goals efficiently.

What does a Sales Operations Associate do?

A Sales Operations Associate works behind the scenes to support the sales team’s success. They manage and optimize the CRM system, create reports and dashboards for sales tracking, ensure data accuracy within the CRM, and assist with sales strategy implementation.

Their work involves a mix of technical, analytical, and communication skills to improve sales operations and contribute to the company’s growth.

Sales Operations Associate responsibilities include:

  • Enhancing and supporting the CRM system, particularly Salesforce.com
  • Developing reports and dashboards for sales analysis
  • Monitoring and cleansing CRM data to maintain data integrity
  • Supporting the sales team with regular and ad hoc reporting

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Sales Operations Assistant job description https://resources.workable.com/sales-operations-assistant-job-description Tue, 20 Feb 2024 13:03:15 +0000 https://resources.workable.com/?p=93336 A Sales Operations Assistant is a key role focused on enhancing the efficiency and effectiveness of a sales organization through the management of sales tools, coordination of training programs, and maintenance of data integrity within sales systems. What is a Sales Operations Assistant? A Sales Operations Assistant is an integral member of the sales team, […]

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A Sales Operations Assistant is a key role focused on enhancing the efficiency and effectiveness of a sales organization through the management of sales tools, coordination of training programs, and maintenance of data integrity within sales systems.

What is a Sales Operations Assistant?

A Sales Operations Assistant is an integral member of the sales team, dedicated to optimizing sales processes and tools. They ensure that sales data is accurate and accessible, coordinate training programs to enhance sales skills, and manage technologies that support sales activities. Their work directly contributes to the sales team’s ability to achieve targets efficiently.

What does a Sales Operations Assistant do?

A Sales Operations Assistant plays a crucial role in supporting the sales team by managing sales CRM systems, coordinating sales training, maintaining sales enablement content, and ensuring the sales team has access to the necessary tools and technologies.

They work closely with sales leadership to implement strategies that improve sales performance, streamline sales processes, and enhance overall sales productivity.

Sales Operations Assistant responsibilities include:

  • Managing and maintaining data integrity in Salesforce.com
  • Coordinating and scheduling sales training and events
  • Managing sales enabling tools and technologies
  • Establishing communication with sales teams to gather feedback and ensure they have the necessary tools

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What are the new KPIs for HR in this new AI-driven world? https://resources.workable.com/tutorial/ai-driven-hr-kpis Mon, 19 Feb 2024 16:27:26 +0000 https://resources.workable.com/?p=93329 This article delves into the new KPIs for an AI-driven HR world, offering insights into how organizations can navigate this transformation to enhance talent acquisition, employee engagement, and ethical governance. Consider this as a potential AI scorecard for the HR department with tangible goals and specific metrics. For the purposes of this article, we divide […]

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This article delves into the new KPIs for an AI-driven HR world, offering insights into how organizations can navigate this transformation to enhance talent acquisition, employee engagement, and ethical governance. Consider this as a potential AI scorecard for the HR department with tangible goals and specific metrics.

For the purposes of this article, we divide these goals into General AI-driven HR KPIs and predictive models in HR KPIs.

General AI-driven HR KPIs

The adoption and integration of AI within HR functions mark a pivotal shift towards more strategic and data-driven human resource management. This section explores the extent of AI implementation across HR processes, emphasizing the importance of measuring automation efficiency and the overall effectiveness of AI technologies in transforming HR practices.

AI implementation rate

A significant indicator of progress in HR’s digital transformation is the AI implementation rate. According to Eightfold AI’s report “The Future of Work: Intelligent by Design,” a majority of HR leaders across 250 organizations are already leveraging AI for employee records management (78%), payroll processing (77%), and recruitment (73%). 

This widespread adoption underscores the critical role of AI in enhancing HR functions and the need for KPIs that accurately reflect the extent and effectiveness of AI integration.

The efficiency gains from automating HR processes are substantial. Organizations that have embraced AI report not only time savings but also improvements in decision-making accuracy. 

For instance, IDC’s Future of Work 2022 research predicts that by 2024, 80% of the global 2000 organizations will use AI/ML-enabled “managers” for comprehensive HR tasks, highlighting the growing reliance on AI for operational efficiency and strategic HR management.

AI-assisted hiring success rate

AI’s role in revolutionizing talent acquisition and retention is undeniable. By automating and enhancing various aspects of the recruitment process, AI tools are setting new standards for hiring success rates, reducing biases, and improving overall employee satisfaction and retention.

The integration of AI in recruitment processes has significantly improved the quality of hires. 

AI’s ability to parse vast amounts of data and identify the most suitable candidates has led to a more efficient and effective hiring process. 

According to Eightfold’s report, 73% of HR leaders are using AI for recruitment and hiring, with a notable shift towards AI-driven platforms that streamline the screening and selection process, thereby enhancing the hiring success rate.

Bias detection and correction rate

One of the most promising aspects of AI in HR is its potential to reduce biases in the hiring process. 

New York City’s recent legislation requiring companies to audit their AI-powered recruitment software for biases is a testament to the growing awareness and efforts to leverage AI for fairer hiring practices. 

This move towards more ethical AI use in HR underscores the importance of developing KPIs that measure the effectiveness of AI systems in identifying and mitigating biases.

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Personalized employee experience

Personalizing the employee experience has become a key objective for HR departments. 

AI technologies offer unprecedented opportunities to tailor HR services and communications to individual needs, enhancing employee engagement and satisfaction.

Personalization Index

AI’s capability to analyze individual employee data and preferences enables HR departments to offer personalized career development paths, learning opportunities, and benefits. 

This level of personalization not only improves employee satisfaction but also drives engagement and productivity. 

The Personalization Index, therefore, becomes a crucial KPI, reflecting the extent to which HR services are customized to meet the unique needs of each employee.

Digital employee engagement score

The digital transformation of the workplace has made employee engagement through digital platforms and tools more important than ever. 

AI-driven tools are at the forefront of this transformation, offering new ways to engage and motivate employees.

With the majority of HR leaders planning to increase their use of AI across various functions, including employee engagement, the Digital Employee Engagement Score emerges as a vital KPI. 

This metric assesses how effectively digital and AI-driven tools are used to engage employees, fostering a connected and productive workforce.

Ethical AI and bias reduction

As AI becomes more integrated into HR processes, ensuring these technologies are used ethically and without bias is paramount. This section highlights the importance of monitoring and improving the rate at which AI systems detect and correct biases in HR practices.

Bias detection and correction rate

The push for legislation to audit AI-powered recruitment software for biases, as seen in New York City, underscores the critical need for transparent and fair AI applications in HR. 

KPIs focused on the bias detection and correction rate are essential for ensuring AI tools are contributing to a more equitable workplace.

AI ethics compliance rate

Adhering to ethical guidelines and regulations governing AI use in HR is crucial for maintaining trust and integrity within organizations. This subsection explores the AI ethics compliance rate as a KPI, measuring organizations’ commitment to ethical AI practices.

As organizations navigate the complexities of integrating AI into HR, establishing KPIs that track compliance with ethical standards is essential. 

This not only ensures responsible use of AI but also reinforces the organization’s commitment to fairness and transparency in its HR practices.

Employee well-being and mental health

The mental health and well-being of employees have taken center stage in HR priorities, especially in the wake of global shifts towards remote and hybrid work models. AI-driven tools offer innovative solutions to support employee well-being, making the utilization of these tools a key performance indicator.

AI-enhanced well-being support utilization rate

The deployment of AI in supporting employee well-being, through personalized mental health resources and interventions, marks a significant advancement in HR’s approach to workplace wellness. 

The AI-enhanced well-being support utilization rate measures how actively employees engage with these tools, reflecting the effectiveness of AI in addressing mental health needs in the workplace.

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Innovation and continuous improvement

Innovation in HR processes and employee services is crucial for adapting to the changing workforce dynamics and maintaining a competitive edge. 

AI technologies play a pivotal role in driving HR innovation, making the AI-Driven Innovation Rate a key metric for assessing progress.

Rate of innovation enabled by AI

The integration of AI into HR functions not only enhances existing processes but also opens up new avenues for innovation in employee engagement, talent management, and organizational efficiency. 

Tracking the AI-driven innovation rate allows organizations to quantify the impact of AI on HR’s ability to innovate and improve continuously.

Employee feedback on AI tools

Employee perceptions and feedback on the use of AI tools in their work experience are invaluable for assessing the effectiveness and acceptance of these technologies. 

Satisfaction and feedback regarding AI tools 

The success of AI in HR is not just measured by efficiency gains or cost savings but also by how well these tools meet employee needs and expectations. 

The employee feedback on AI tools metric provides insights into the user experience, highlighting areas for enhancement and ensuring that AI implementations are both effective and well-received.

Predictive models in HR KPIs

The ability to forecast HR outcomes, such as turnover rates and recruitment success, using predictive analytics, is transforming HR into a strategic partner in organizational success. 

Accuracy and impact of predictive models 

Leveraging AI for predictive analytics allows HR to anticipate future trends and challenges, enabling proactive strategies for talent management and organizational planning. 

The Predictive Analytics Effectiveness rate measures the accuracy of these models in forecasting critical HR metrics, ensuring that HR strategies are informed by reliable, data-driven insights.

Data quality score

The foundation of effective AI and predictive analytics in HR is high-quality data. This subsection discusses the importance of the Data Quality Score as a KPI, assessing the accuracy, completeness, and reliability of HR data used in AI models and analytics.

Ensuring high-quality data for AI applications 

The integrity of AI-driven HR decisions is directly tied to the quality of the underlying data. A high Data Quality Score indicates that the data feeding into AI models is accurate and comprehensive, enabling more precise predictions and insights for strategic HR management.

Learning and development adaptation

As the workplace continues to evolve, identifying and addressing skill gaps is crucial for organizational resilience and competitiveness. 

AI-driven learning and development (L&D) programs offer personalized training pathways, making the Skill Gap Reduction rate an essential KPI for HR departments.

Effectiveness of AI in closing skill gaps

AI’s ability to analyze individual learning patterns and performance data enables the creation of customized L&D programs that precisely target identified skill gaps. 

By measuring the Skill Gap Reduction rate, organizations can assess the effectiveness of these AI-driven initiatives in enhancing workforce capabilities and meeting future challenges.

AI-driven workforce analytics

Gaining insights into future workforce trends and needs is invaluable. AI-driven workforce analytics provide these predictive insights, enabling strategic workforce planning and decision-making.

Effectiveness of AI in predicting workforce trends 

The Workforce Predictive Insights metric evaluates how effectively AI tools can forecast changes in workforce dynamics, talent needs, and potential skill shortages. 

This KPI is crucial for proactive planning and ensuring the organization is prepared to meet future challenges head-on.

AI contribution to workforce planning

Strategic workforce planning is essential for aligning talent management with long-term business objectives. 

AI’s contribution to this process transforms how organizations approach talent acquisition, development, and retention.

The AI contribution to workforce planning KPI measures the extent to which AI-driven insights influence strategic decisions regarding the workforce. 

This includes optimizing talent allocation, identifying emerging leadership potential, and forecasting hiring needs, ensuring that the organization’s talent strategy supports its overall goals.

Employee lifetime value (ELTV)

Understanding the total value an employee brings to the organization throughout their tenure can inform more strategic HR practices and investment in talent development. 

AI models that predict ELTV offer a comprehensive view of an employee’s contribution, potential for growth, and impact on organizational success.

Incorporating performance data, engagement levels, and potential for growth, AI-driven ELTV models provide a nuanced assessment of an employee’s value. This KPI helps organizations identify high-potential talent and tailor development programs to maximize individual and organizational growth.

The scorecard

Here is the scorecard you can use to set rails for your AI-driven HR KPIs. It doesn’t mean that you have to employ each goal. 

Depending on your organization’s needs, you can customize the scorecard and include only the goals that can assist you in achieving better results. 

AI-driven HR KPI KPI Target Current Status Action Plan
AI Adoption and Integration AI Implementation Rate X% of HR functions with AI
Automation Efficiency Reduce manual process time by X%
Talent Acquisition and Retention through AI AI-Assisted Hiring Success Rate Increase quality of hires by X%
Bias Detection and Correction Rate < X% variance in hiring diversity
Personalized Employee Experience Personalization Index Score of X (1-10 scale)
Digital Employee Engagement Score Engagement score of X%
Ethical AI and Bias Reduction Bias Detection and Correction Rate Detect and correct X% of biases
AI Ethics Compliance Rate 100% compliance
Employee Well-being and Mental Health AI-Enhanced Well-being Support Utilization X% monthly engagement
Innovation and Continuous Improvement AI-Driven Innovation Rate X new innovations per year
Employee Feedback on AI Tools Feedback score of X (1-10 scale)
Predictive Models in HR KPIs Predictive Analytics Effectiveness X% accuracy in predictions
Data Quality Score Score of X (1-10 scale)
Learning and Development Adaptation Skill Gap Reduction Reduce skill gaps by X% annually
AI-Driven Workforce Analytics Workforce Predictive Insights X% of decisions informed by AI insights
AI Contribution to Workforce Planning X% improvement in planning effectiveness
Employee Lifetime Value (ELTV) Predictive models estimating ELTV Increase ELTV by X%
Mental Health Prediction Accuracy Accuracy of AI Models in Predicting Mental Health Issues X% prediction accuracy for at-risk employees

As AI technologies evolve, so too will the AI-driven HR KPIs that guide the department’s strategic direction, ensuring that human resource management remains at the forefront of organizational success and employee satisfaction.

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Sales Enablement Coordinator job description https://resources.workable.com/sales-enablement-coordinator-job-description Mon, 19 Feb 2024 14:50:02 +0000 https://resources.workable.com/?p=93328 A Sales Enablement Coordinator is a professional focused on enhancing the effectiveness of a sales team through the management of sales tools, coordination of training programs, and development of sales content and resources. Use this Sales Enablement Coordinator job description template to advertise open roles for your company. Be sure to modify requirements and duties […]

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A Sales Enablement Coordinator is a professional focused on enhancing the effectiveness of a sales team through the management of sales tools, coordination of training programs, and development of sales content and resources.

Use this Sales Enablement Coordinator job description template to advertise open roles for your company. Be sure to modify requirements and duties based on the unique needs of the role you’re hiring for.

What is a Sales Enablement Coordinator?

A Sales Enablement Coordinator is a key role within the sales organization, dedicated to providing the sales team with the resources, tools, and training they need to be successful. This role involves a mix of project management, content creation, and technology management to ensure sales representatives have access to the most up-to-date and effective sales materials and strategies.

What does a Sales Enablement Coordinator do?

A Sales Enablement Coordinator works to streamline the sales process by managing sales tools, coordinating training sessions, and developing sales content. They play a crucial role in onboarding new sales hires, rolling out sales playbooks, and ensuring that the sales team is equipped with the knowledge and tools needed to meet their targets.

This role requires close collaboration with product marketing, sales leadership, and other departments to create compelling sales materials and implement strategies that enhance sales performance.

Sales Enablement Coordinator responsibilities include:

  • Managing sales enabling tools and technologies
  • Coordinating sales training and certification programs
  • Developing and maintaining the sales enablement content repository
  • Implementing the sales enablement program, including onboarding

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Sales Enablement Associate job description https://resources.workable.com/sales-enablement-associate-job-description Mon, 19 Feb 2024 14:23:12 +0000 https://resources.workable.com/?p=93327 A Sales Enablement Associate is a professional dedicated to empowering sales teams through training, technology, and content management, ensuring they have the necessary tools and knowledge to effectively engage with prospects and customers. Use this Sales Enablement Associate job description template to advertise open roles for your company. Be sure to modify requirements and duties […]

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A Sales Enablement Associate is a professional dedicated to empowering sales teams through training, technology, and content management, ensuring they have the necessary tools and knowledge to effectively engage with prospects and customers.

Use this Sales Enablement Associate job description template to advertise open roles for your company. Be sure to modify requirements and duties based on the unique needs of the role you’re hiring for.

What is a Sales Enablement Associate?

A Sales Enablement Associate is a vital member of the sales operations team, focused on enhancing the efficiency and effectiveness of the sales force. By providing comprehensive support through training, content management, and technology optimization, they play a crucial role in preparing sales teams to achieve their targets and contribute to the company’s growth.

What does a Sales Enablement Associate do?

A Sales Enablement Associate works closely with sales teams to ensure they are well-equipped with the necessary skills, knowledge, and tools to succeed. This involves coordinating and facilitating onboarding and training programs, managing sales content and technology, and optimizing sales processes.

They act as a bridge between sales and other departments, ensuring sales representatives are up-to-date with the latest product information, sales strategies, and best practices.

Sales Enablement Associate responsibilities include:

  • Implementing the Workable Sales Playbook in collaboration with Sales Development Leaders
  • Coordinating onboarding and certification for Sales Development Representatives
  • Scheduling and facilitating sales training and ongoing education
  • Managing sales content repositories and sales enabling technologies

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Sales Operations Analyst job description https://resources.workable.com/sales-operations-analyst-job-description Mon, 19 Feb 2024 14:10:11 +0000 https://resources.workable.com/?p=93326 A Sales Operations Analyst is a key role focused on optimizing sales processes and systems, maintaining CRM data integrity, and providing actionable insights through sales analytics to drive sales efficiency and effectiveness. Use this Sales Operations Analyst job description template to advertise open roles for your company. Be sure to modify requirements and duties based […]

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A Sales Operations Analyst is a key role focused on optimizing sales processes and systems, maintaining CRM data integrity, and providing actionable insights through sales analytics to drive sales efficiency and effectiveness.

Use this Sales Operations Analyst job description template to advertise open roles for your company. Be sure to modify requirements and duties based on the unique needs of the role you’re hiring for.

What is a Sales Operations Analyst?

A Sales Operations Analyst plays a critical role in supporting a company’s sales team by managing the CRM system, analyzing sales data, and improving sales processes. This position requires a blend of technical and analytical skills to ensure the sales organization operates efficiently and effectively, leveraging data to make informed decisions.

What does a Sales Operations Analyst do?

A Sales Operations Analyst is responsible for the overall efficiency and effectiveness of the sales team. They maintain the CRM system to ensure data accuracy, develop reports and dashboards to provide insights into sales performance, and identify opportunities for process improvements.

They work closely with sales leadership to support strategic planning and goal setting, assist with sales forecasting, and contribute to the development of sales strategies through data-driven insights.

Sales Operations Analyst responsibilities include:

  • Maintaining Salesforce CRM, including workflow, reporting, and data integrity
  • Developing and maintaining sales analytics reports and dashboards
  • Optimizing sales and operational efficiency through process improvement
  • Supporting sales teams with planning and operational tasks

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Sales Enablement Specialist job description https://resources.workable.com/sales-enablement-specialist-job-description Mon, 19 Feb 2024 13:36:10 +0000 https://resources.workable.com/?p=93325 A Sales Enablement Specialist is a professional dedicated to equipping sales teams with the tools, resources, and training they need to effectively sell a product or service, thereby enhancing sales performance and productivity within an organization. Use this Sales Enablement Specialist job description template to advertise open roles for your company. Be sure to modify […]

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A Sales Enablement Specialist is a professional dedicated to equipping sales teams with the tools, resources, and training they need to effectively sell a product or service, thereby enhancing sales performance and productivity within an organization.

Use this Sales Enablement Specialist job description template to advertise open roles for your company. Be sure to modify requirements and duties based on the unique needs of the role you’re hiring for.

What is a Sales Enablement Specialist?

A Sales Enablement Specialist is a key figure within a sales organization, focused on empowering sales teams with the necessary knowledge, materials, and tools to enhance their selling abilities. This role involves creating comprehensive training programs, sales playbooks, and educational content to ensure sales representatives are well-equipped to engage with prospects and customers effectively.

What does a Sales Enablement Specialist do?

A Sales Enablement Specialist plays a pivotal role in bridging the gap between sales strategy and execution. They are responsible for identifying the training needs of the sales team, developing onboarding and continuous learning programs, and providing sales teams with up-to-date product information and sales techniques.

Additionally, they create and maintain a repository of sales resources, collaborate with product marketing for consistent messaging, and measure the effectiveness of sales enablement initiatives to continuously adapt and improve sales strategies.

Sales Enablement Specialist responsibilities include:

  • Developing and implementing training strategies, programs, and curricula for the sales organization
  • Creating and rolling out the sales playbook to improve sales performance
  • Developing sales success stories, case studies, and sales guides
  • Managing the sales enablement content repository and ensuring accessibility

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Manager of Sales Enablement job description https://resources.workable.com/manager-of-sales-enablement-job-description Mon, 05 Feb 2024 13:36:46 +0000 https://resources.workable.com/?p=93181 A Manager of Sales Enablement is a strategic role focused on enhancing sales team productivity through training, resources, and tools, ensuring alignment with sales, marketing, and product strategies for effective customer interactions. Use this Manager of Sales Enablement job description template to advertise open roles for your company. Be sure to modify requirements and duties […]

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A Manager of Sales Enablement is a strategic role focused on enhancing sales team productivity through training, resources, and tools, ensuring alignment with sales, marketing, and product strategies for effective customer interactions.

Use this Manager of Sales Enablement job description template to advertise open roles for your company. Be sure to modify requirements and duties based on the unique needs of the role you’re hiring for.

What is a Manager of Sales Enablement?

A Manager of Sales Enablement is a key figure in bridging the gap between sales strategy and execution. This role involves crafting a comprehensive approach to equip sales teams with the necessary skills, knowledge, tools, and resources to increase efficiency and effectiveness in their roles. The focus is on improving sales performance through strategic enablement initiatives, including training, content management, and process optimization.

What does a Manager of Sales Enablement do?

A Manager of Sales Enablement plays a pivotal role in driving sales team success by developing and executing strategies that enhance their productivity and effectiveness.

This includes creating a sales playbook that outlines best practices, managing an engaging onboarding program for new hires, and ensuring ongoing education through training and certification programs. They also manage sales content, collaborate with product marketing for external content creation, and optimize sales tools and processes.

By fostering a deep understanding of the product, market, and sales methodologies, they empower sales teams to achieve their targets and contribute to the company’s growth.

Manager of Sales Enablement responsibilities include:

  • Developing and implementing a sales enablement strategy
  • Creating and rolling out the Sales Playbook
  • Managing onboarding and training programs for sales staff
  • Optimizing sales tools and processes

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QA Automation Engineer job description https://resources.workable.com/qa-automation-engineer-job-description Fri, 16 Feb 2024 14:06:07 +0000 https://resources.workable.com/?p=93310 A QA Automation Engineer is a specialized role focused on designing, developing, and executing automated tests to ensure software quality and efficiency in the development lifecycle. Use this QA Automation Engineer job description template to advertise open roles for your company. Be sure to modify requirements and duties based on the unique needs of the […]

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A QA Automation Engineer is a specialized role focused on designing, developing, and executing automated tests to ensure software quality and efficiency in the development lifecycle.

Use this QA Automation Engineer job description template to advertise open roles for your company. Be sure to modify requirements and duties based on the unique needs of the role you’re hiring for.

What is a QA Automation Engineer?

A QA Automation Engineer is a professional who applies engineering principles to the design and development of software tests. Their primary goal is to automate the testing process to identify bugs and issues before the software reaches end-users, ensuring the product’s quality and reliability.

What does a QA Automation Engineer do?

A QA Automation Engineer plays a crucial role in the software development process, focusing on automating the testing of software applications to identify defects quickly and efficiently.

They work closely with development and product teams to establish testing strategies, design and implement test plans, and develop automated tests that cover various aspects of the application, including UI and functionality.

By integrating tests into the CI/CD pipeline, they ensure that software releases are reliable and of high quality. Additionally, they troubleshoot and diagnose issues in systems under test, contributing to the continuous improvement of the software development process.

QA Automation Engineer responsibilities include:

  • Driving the software quality assurance lifecycle within an Agile process
  • Establishing test strategies and designing test plans and cases
  • Developing and executing automated UI and functional tests
  • Enhancing and maintaining automated Continuous Integration (CI) flows

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What is an employee incentive program: ideas and outcomes https://resources.workable.com/hr-term/what-is-an-employee-incentive-program Fri, 16 Feb 2024 13:48:49 +0000 https://resources.workable.com/?p=93313 At their core, employee incentive programs are designed to recognize and reward employees’ contributions, thereby fostering a culture of appreciation, motivation, and loyalty. According to Employee Benefits (UK) 69% of employees say a better benefits package would make them choose one company over another while 60% of employees in a report of Harvard Business Review […]

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At their core, employee incentive programs are designed to recognize and reward employees’ contributions, thereby fostering a culture of appreciation, motivation, and loyalty.

According to Employee Benefits (UK) 69% of employees say a better benefits package would make them choose one company over another while 60% of employees in a report of Harvard Business Review support that benefits and perks are a major factor in considering whether to accept a job offer. 

What are employee incentives?

Employee incentives are rewards or benefits offered to employees to encourage specific behaviors or achievements that contribute to the organizational goals. 

These incentives can be broadly categorized into two types: monetary and non-monetary. 

Monetary incentives include direct financial rewards such as bonuses, salary increases, and stock options. 

Non-monetary incentives, on the other hand, might encompass recognition programs, professional development opportunities, and enhanced work-life balance options.

The rationale behind employee incentives extends beyond simple reward mechanisms; they are rooted in the understanding of behavioral economics and social psychology. 

Concepts like intrinsic and extrinsic motivation play a pivotal role here. Intrinsic motivation refers to performing an activity for its inherent satisfaction, whereas extrinsic motivation involves performing an activity to earn a reward or avoid punishment. 

Effective incentive programs tap into both types of motivation, creating a balanced approach that acknowledges the complex drivers of human behavior at work.

Related: Unlocking global talent: your borderless hiring playbook – Get the ebook

The meaning and purpose of incentive programs

Incentive programs in the realm of human resources (HR) are strategic tools designed to align employee actions with the company’s objectives. 

Their primary aim is to motivate employees to perform at their best by offering rewards that are meaningful to them. 

These programs are multifaceted, not only aiming to boost performance but also to enhance job satisfaction, employee retention, and organizational culture.

A Gartner HR report revealed that 82% of employees consider recognition critical to their job satisfaction, yet a surprising 81% of executives admit their organizations do not prioritize recognition programs adequately​​. 

These findings point to the untapped potential of incentive programs in bridging the gap between employee expectations and organizational practices.

Incentive programs in HR

The role of HR in developing, implementing, and managing incentive programs is central to their success. These programs must be thoughtfully designed to reflect the organization’s culture, values, and strategic objectives. 

Moreover, they should be flexible enough to adapt to changing organizational needs and diverse employee demographics.

A strategic approach to incentive programs involves clear goal setting, choosing the right mix of incentives, effective communication, and ongoing evaluation. 

The Incentive Research Foundation has highlighted the importance of data in guiding program design and measuring effectiveness​​. 

This involves not only tracking the immediate impact on performance and engagement but also understanding long-term trends in employee behavior and organizational culture.

One of the challenges in implementing effective incentive programs is ensuring they are perceived as fair and meaningful by employees. 

This requires a deep understanding of the workforce’s diverse needs and preferences, which can be achieved through regular feedback mechanisms and personalization of rewards.

Related: Top employee engagement ideas to achieve success

15 examples of effective employee incentive programs

Employee incentive programs come in various forms, each designed to meet different organizational goals and employee needs. 

Here is a compilation of 15 examples, categorized by their nature and objectives:

Monetary Incentive Programs

Performance bonuses: These are financial rewards given to employees for achieving or surpassing specific performance benchmarks. Performance bonuses not only reward individual achievements but also encourage the continuation of high performance. To ensure fairness and effectiveness, benchmarks should be clearly defined, achievable, and aligned with the company’s strategic objectives.

Profit-sharing plans: This approach involves distributing a portion of the company’s profits among employees, typically on an annual basis. Profit-sharing plans can enhance the sense of ownership and belonging among employees, as they directly benefit from the company’s success. This incentive fosters a collective effort towards organizational profitability and success.

Stock options: Offering employees the option to purchase company stock at a preferential rate can be a powerful incentive. This method aligns employees’ interests with those of the company and its shareholders, promoting long-term commitment and providing a tangible stake in the company’s growth and success.

Sales commissions: Specifically designed for sales roles, commissions are a percentage of the sales an employee generates. This direct correlation between performance and reward makes commissions a highly effective motivator for sales personnel, driving sales growth and individual performance.

Spot bonuses: These are immediate rewards for exceptional work or achievements beyond the usual responsibilities. Spot bonuses are a great way to instantly recognize and reward outstanding contributions, offering a surprise element that can boost morale and motivation.

Non-Monetary Incentive Programs

Employee recognition programs: Formal recognition programs, such as “Employee of the Month” awards, spotlight individuals for their hard work and dedication. Recognition programs not only provide public acknowledgment but also reinforce the behaviors and values that are crucial to the company’s success.

Professional development opportunities: Investing in employees’ growth through training, workshops, or courses signals the company’s commitment to their career development. This incentive can lead to increased job satisfaction, improved skill sets, and higher levels of engagement.

Extra vacation days: Rewarding employees with additional paid time off is a significant incentive that values their need for work-life balance. It recognizes their hard work and provides an opportunity to recharge, leading to improved well-being and productivity.

Flexible working hours: Offering flexibility in work schedules or the option to work from home addresses the diverse needs and preferences of employees. This autonomy can lead to higher job satisfaction, reduced stress levels, and a more engaged workforce. Actually, flexible schedules are becoming more of a long term setup now, with 46.5% saying in Workable’s The Great Discontent report that they’ve been working on a flexible schedule for more than two years in 2023, and they like it. 

Wellness programs: Providing benefits such as gym memberships or wellness days off focuses on the physical and mental health of employees. Wellness programs demonstrate the company’s care for its employees’ well-being, potentially reducing healthcare costs and increasing overall productivity.

Team and company-wide incentives

Team performance bonuses: Rewards given to teams for achieving specific goals promote collaboration and collective effort. These bonuses can strengthen team bonds and drive collective success, aligning team efforts with organizational objectives.

Company trips or retreats: Organized trips for high-performing teams or individuals serve as a reward and a team-building opportunity. These experiences can foster stronger relationships, boost morale, and provide a memorable reward for achievements.

Corporate events and team-building activities: Activities designed to improve team cohesion and morale can also serve as incentives. Whether it’s a day out for team-building exercises or a dinner celebrating team achievements, these events can enhance team dynamics and employee engagement.

Employee referral bonuses: Incentives for employees who refer successful new hires leverage the existing workforce to find quality candidates. This program not only aids in recruitment but also rewards employees for contributing to the team’s growth.

Special project opportunities: Assigning high-performing employees to prestigious projects or roles is a form of recognition that offers professional growth opportunities. This incentive acknowledges their contributions and trusts them with significant responsibilities, leading to increased engagement and job satisfaction.

These detailed examples of incentive programs illustrate the diversity and potential impact of well-designed incentives in fostering a motivated, engaged, and productive workforce.

Implementing an effective incentive program

The implementation of an effective incentive program is a critical phase that determines its success and impact. It involves several strategic steps, each designed to ensure the program’s alignment with organizational goals and its receptiveness to employee needs.

Identifying goals: The first step in implementing an incentive program is to clearly identify its objectives. Whether it’s to boost sales, enhance productivity, improve employee retention, or foster a positive work culture, the goals of the program should be specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART).

Selecting the right incentives: Based on the goals and the understanding of what motivates the workforce, select incentives that will resonate best with the employees. This selection process should consider the diversity of the workforce, including their preferences, job roles, and what they value most in their professional lives.

Effective communication: For an incentive program to be successful, it’s crucial that all employees understand how it works, how they can qualify for rewards, and what benefits are at stake. Transparent and ongoing communication through meetings, emails, and internal platforms ensures that the program’s details are clearly conveyed and understood.

Evaluation and feedback: Implementing a system for regular evaluation and feedback is vital for the program’s long-term success. This involves tracking participation rates, measuring the program’s impact on performance metrics, and soliciting employee feedback to identify areas for improvement. Adjustments should be made as necessary to keep the program relevant and effective.

As companies navigate the complexities of the modern workplace, those that master the art of effective incentive programs will undoubtedly stand out as employers of choice, achieving sustained organizational excellence and growth.

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Sales Development Manager job description https://resources.workable.com/sales-development-manager-job-description Fri, 16 Feb 2024 14:47:09 +0000 https://resources.workable.com/?p=93312 A Sales Development Manager is a leadership role responsible for guiding and managing a team of Sales Development Representatives (SDRs) to generate leads and build sales pipelines, ensuring the team meets its targets through effective coaching, performance management, and strategic planning. Use this Sales Development Manager job description template to advertise open roles for your […]

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A Sales Development Manager is a leadership role responsible for guiding and managing a team of Sales Development Representatives (SDRs) to generate leads and build sales pipelines, ensuring the team meets its targets through effective coaching, performance management, and strategic planning.

Use this Sales Development Manager job description template to advertise open roles for your company. Be sure to modify requirements and duties based on the unique needs of the role you’re hiring for.

What is a Sales Development Manager?

A Sales Development Manager is a key figure in the sales department, tasked with overseeing the Sales Development Representatives team. Their role focuses on driving sales pipeline growth, managing team performance, and ensuring the achievement of sales targets.

They play a crucial part in strategizing outbound and inbound sales initiatives, coaching team members, and fostering a high-performance sales culture.

What does a Sales Development Manager do?

A Sales Development Manager leads a team responsible for identifying and creating new qualified sales opportunities. They manage daily operations, set performance standards, and align the team’s efforts with the company’s sales goals. This involves training and mentoring SDRs, monitoring their performance, and optimizing sales strategies.

The manager also collaborates with sales and marketing teams to ensure a cohesive approach to lead generation and nurturing, ultimately contributing to the company’s revenue growth.

Sales Development Manager responsibilities include:

  • Delivering on outbound and inbound growth initiative goals
  • Managing, coaching, and developing a team of SDRs
  • Participating in the recruiting process and making hiring decisions
  • Driving SDR activity metrics and growing pipeline in specific territories

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Rails Developer job description https://resources.workable.com/rails-developer-job-description Fri, 16 Feb 2024 14:30:38 +0000 https://resources.workable.com/?p=93311 A Rails Developer is a digital marketing professional responsible for developing, implementing, and optimizing digital marketing campaigns across various channels to drive demand and engagement for a company’s products or services. Use this Rails Developer job description template to advertise open roles for your company. Be sure to modify requirements and duties based on the […]

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A Rails Developer is a digital marketing professional responsible for developing, implementing, and optimizing digital marketing campaigns across various channels to drive demand and engagement for a company’s products or services.

Use this Rails Developer job description template to advertise open roles for your company. Be sure to modify requirements and duties based on the unique needs of the role you’re hiring for.

What is a Rails Developer?

A Rails Developer is a software professional skilled in using the Ruby on Rails framework to build web applications. They leverage Rails’ conventions to write less code while accomplishing more than many other languages and frameworks.

Rails Developers focus on creating clean, efficient, and maintainable code to develop scalable web applications that meet user needs and business requirements.

What does a Rails Developer do?

A Rails Developer designs, builds, and maintains web applications using the Ruby on Rails framework. They work on server-side logic, define and maintain databases, and ensure high performance and responsiveness to requests from the front-end.

Rails Developers integrate data from various back-end services and databases, create and maintain APIs, and work closely with front-end developers to match visual design intent. They also focus on optimizing applications for speed and efficiency, implementing security measures, and ensuring application scalability.

Rails Developer responsibilities include:

  • Designing and developing web applications using Ruby on Rails
  • Integrating web services and APIs for enhanced functionality
  • Implementing database designs and ensuring data integrity with SQL
  • Collaborating with UI/UX designers for user-centered interaction design

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Proposal Manager job description https://resources.workable.com/proposal-manager-job-description Fri, 16 Feb 2024 13:19:12 +0000 https://resources.workable.com/?p=93309 A Proposal Manager is a professional responsible for coordinating and producing proposals (RFI, RFP, ITT) in response to client requests, ensuring they meet company standards and client requirements, and are delivered within deadlines. Use this Proposal Manager job description template to advertise open roles for your company. Be sure to modify requirements and duties based […]

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A Proposal Manager is a professional responsible for coordinating and producing proposals (RFI, RFP, ITT) in response to client requests, ensuring they meet company standards and client requirements, and are delivered within deadlines.

Use this Proposal Manager job description template to advertise open roles for your company. Be sure to modify requirements and duties based on the unique needs of the role you’re hiring for.

What is a Proposal Manager?

A Proposal Manager oversees the creation and submission of business proposals, playing a crucial role in the sales process. They ensure that proposals are compelling, compliant, and aligned with both the client’s needs and the company’s offerings. This role involves strategic planning, project management, and collaboration with various teams to gather necessary information and craft persuasive proposals.

What does a Proposal Manager do?

A Proposal Manager leads the development and delivery of business proposals, working closely with sales, marketing, product management, and other departments. They initiate proposal kick-off meetings, lead storyboarding sessions, and oversee the review and finalization process.

By managing the proposal’s content, structure, and delivery, they aim to create winning proposals that effectively communicate the value of the company’s products or services. Additionally, they are responsible for improving the proposal process through best practices, automation tools, and maintaining a comprehensive content library.

Proposal Manager responsibilities include:

  • Owning the proposal process for sales, including coordination and production
  • Managing proposal timelines, ensuring timely completion
  • Coordinating with subject matter experts across departments for proposal content
  • Maintaining and updating a Content Management System for proposal documentation

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Programs Marketing Associate job description https://resources.workable.com/programs-marketing-associate-job-description Thu, 15 Feb 2024 14:09:29 +0000 https://resources.workable.com/?p=93294 A Programs Marketing Associate is a digital marketing professional responsible for developing, implementing, and optimizing digital marketing campaigns across various channels to drive demand and engagement for a company’s products or services. Use this Programs Marketing Associate job description template to advertise open roles for your company. Be sure to modify requirements and duties based […]

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A Programs Marketing Associate is a digital marketing professional responsible for developing, implementing, and optimizing digital marketing campaigns across various channels to drive demand and engagement for a company’s products or services.

Use this Programs Marketing Associate job description template to advertise open roles for your company. Be sure to modify requirements and duties based on the unique needs of the role you’re hiring for.

What is a Programs Marketing Associate?

A Programs Marketing Associate is a key player in the marketing team, specializing in crafting and executing digital marketing strategies to attract and nurture leads through the sales funnel. They leverage a mix of marketing tools and strategies to create integrated campaigns that resonate with target audiences, aiming to convert interest into actionable sales leads.

What does a Programs Marketing Associate do?

A Programs Marketing Associate oversees the creation and management of digital marketing campaigns designed to generate demand and enhance brand visibility. They work closely with sales teams to ensure messaging alignment and lead quality.

By analyzing campaign performance and market trends, they continuously refine strategies to maximize ROI. Their role involves creative brainstorming for growth, optimizing the customer journey across digital touchpoints, and staying ahead of digital marketing trends to implement innovative and effective marketing solutions.

Programs Marketing Associate responsibilities include:

  • Planning and executing marketing programs for the top and middle of the funnel
  • Measuring and reporting on the performance of digital marketing campaigns
  • Identifying trends and insights to optimize spend and performance
  • Collaborating with agencies and vendor partners

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Professional Services Manager job description https://resources.workable.com/professional-services-manager-job-description Thu, 15 Feb 2024 14:25:15 +0000 https://resources.workable.com/?p=93293 A Professional Services Manager leads a team to deliver customized technical solutions, ensuring clients successfully integrate and utilize a company’s product within their existing tech ecosystems and processes. Use this Professional Services Manager job description template to advertise open roles for your company. Be sure to modify requirements and duties based on the unique needs […]

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A Professional Services Manager leads a team to deliver customized technical solutions, ensuring clients successfully integrate and utilize a company’s product within their existing tech ecosystems and processes.

Use this Professional Services Manager job description template to advertise open roles for your company. Be sure to modify requirements and duties based on the unique needs of the role you’re hiring for.

What is a Professional Services Manager?

A Professional Services Manager oversees a team dedicated to customizing and implementing solutions that allow clients to seamlessly integrate a product into their operations. This role involves understanding client needs, designing appropriate solutions, and ensuring these solutions are implemented effectively.

The manager ensures projects meet client expectations and are delivered on time, enhancing customer satisfaction and product value.

What does a Professional Services Manager do?

A Professional Services Manager plays a pivotal role in bridging the gap between a product and its users. They lead projects from conception to completion, involving requirements gathering, solution design, and team management. By working closely with clients and internal teams, they ensure custom solutions are effectively integrated, addressing specific client needs.

This role requires a mix of technical expertise, leadership, and communication skills to manage diverse teams, maintain project timelines, and support sales efforts with in-depth product knowledge and service offerings.

Professional Services Manager responsibilities include:

  • Conducting requirements gathering, analysis, and design for projects
  • Managing and coaching the implementation team
  • Project managing technical projects for timely delivery
  • Communicating the team’s value internally and externally

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Professional Services Engineer job description https://resources.workable.com/professional-services-engineer-job-description Thu, 15 Feb 2024 13:44:08 +0000 https://resources.workable.com/?p=93292 A Professional Services Engineer is a technical expert responsible for developing and implementing customized software solutions, including integrations and data migrations, to enhance clients’ use of a company’s product within their IT environments. Use this Professional Services Engineer job description template to advertise open roles for your company. Be sure to modify requirements and duties […]

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A Professional Services Engineer is a technical expert responsible for developing and implementing customized software solutions, including integrations and data migrations, to enhance clients’ use of a company’s product within their IT environments.

Use this Professional Services Engineer job description template to advertise open roles for your company. Be sure to modify requirements and duties based on the unique needs of the role you’re hiring for.

What is a Professional Services Engineer?

A Professional Services Engineer is a specialized role focused on tailoring a company’s product to meet the unique needs of its clients through technical solutions. This involves analyzing requirements, developing custom integrations, migrating data, and ensuring the product fits seamlessly into the client’s IT infrastructure.

The role requires a blend of technical expertise, problem-solving skills, and the ability to communicate complex information clearly.

What does a Professional Services Engineer do?

A Professional Services Engineer works closely with clients to understand their technical requirements and delivers solutions that integrate the company’s product into their existing systems. This includes writing custom code, configuring accounts, and troubleshooting issues like SSO problems.

They play a crucial role in the implementation phase, ensuring a smooth transition for clients migrating to the product. Additionally, they contribute to the improvement of the product’s infrastructure and participate in customer calls to provide technical guidance and support.

Professional Services Engineer responsibilities include:

  • Developing customized integrations based on client requests
  • Conducting data migrations and creating custom reports
  • Implementing new internal tools and technical account configurations
  • Providing SSO and API consultations to clients

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Product Partner Manager job description https://resources.workable.com/product-partner-manager-job-description Thu, 15 Feb 2024 13:28:36 +0000 https://resources.workable.com/?p=93291 A Product Partner Manager is a strategic role focused on managing and expanding partnerships with HR technology providers, ensuring seamless integration and collaboration to enhance a product’s value and market presence. Use this Product Partner Manager job description template to advertise open roles for your company. Be sure to modify requirements and duties based on […]

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A Product Partner Manager is a strategic role focused on managing and expanding partnerships with HR technology providers, ensuring seamless integration and collaboration to enhance a product’s value and market presence.

Use this Product Partner Manager job description template to advertise open roles for your company. Be sure to modify requirements and duties based on the unique needs of the role you’re hiring for.

What is a Product Partner Manager?

A Product Partner Manager is a professional responsible for cultivating and managing relationships with external partners, specifically within the HR technology space. This role involves evaluating potential partnerships, negotiating agreements, and overseeing the integration of partner technologies into the company’s product ecosystem.

The goal is to enhance the product’s functionality and market reach through strategic collaborations.

What does a Product Partner Manager do?

A Product Partner Manager plays a crucial role in expanding a company’s product capabilities and market reach through partnerships.

They identify and assess potential HRTech partners, negotiate and finalize agreements, and manage the integration process to ensure timely and successful launches. Additionally, they work closely with partners to set and achieve lead generation goals, provide sales enablement support, and maintain productive relationships.

This role requires a blend of strategic thinking, project management, and communication skills to foster partnerships that drive business growth and enhance the product offering.

Product Partner Manager responsibilities include:

  • Processing and prioritizing inbound inquiries from potential HRTech partners
  • Finalizing commercial agreements and managing partner onboarding
  • Setting lead generation goals and incentives with partners
  • Training partner sales teams and supporting ongoing sales enablement

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Personal Assistant to CEO job description https://resources.workable.com/personal-assistant-to-ceo-job-description Wed, 14 Feb 2024 13:35:51 +0000 https://resources.workable.com/?p=93278 A Personal Assistant to the CEO provides personalized administrative support in a professional manner, handling tasks related to the executive’s agenda, communications, and daily operations, ensuring efficiency and confidentiality. Use this Personal Assistant to the CEO job description template to advertise open roles for your company. Be sure to modify requirements and duties based on […]

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A Personal Assistant to the CEO provides personalized administrative support in a professional manner, handling tasks related to the executive’s agenda, communications, and daily operations, ensuring efficiency and confidentiality.

Use this Personal Assistant to the CEO job description template to advertise open roles for your company. Be sure to modify requirements and duties based on the unique needs of the role you’re hiring for.

What is a Personal Assistant to the CEO?

A Personal Assistant to the CEO is a highly trusted professional who supports the CEO with administrative tasks, manages communications, and organizes the CEO’s schedule to enhance their efficiency. This role requires discretion, excellent organizational skills, and the ability to manage complex tasks and communications effectively.

What does a Personal Assistant to the CEO do?

A Personal Assistant to the CEO undertakes a variety of administrative tasks to support the CEO’s daily activities and long-term agenda. They manage correspondence, schedule meetings, arrange travel, and ensure that all inquiries and requests are handled appropriately.

They also prepare reports, presentations, and briefs to assist the CEO in decision-making processes. This role is pivotal in ensuring that the CEO’s time is optimized, and the executive office runs smoothly.

Personal Assistant to CEO responsibilities include:

  • Acting as the first point of contact for the CEO with internal/external clients
  • Managing the CEO’s diary, meetings, and appointments
  • Booking and managing travel arrangements
  • Developing efficient documentation and filing systems

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Product Marketing Director job description https://resources.workable.com/product-marketing-director-job-description Wed, 14 Feb 2024 14:26:53 +0000 https://resources.workable.com/?p=93280 A Product Marketing Director is a strategic leadership role responsible for driving the go-to-market strategy, messaging, and positioning of a company’s products globally, ensuring the product’s market competitiveness and alignment with customer needs. Use this Product Marketing Director job description template to advertise open roles for your company. Be sure to modify requirements and duties […]

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A Product Marketing Director is a strategic leadership role responsible for driving the go-to-market strategy, messaging, and positioning of a company’s products globally, ensuring the product’s market competitiveness and alignment with customer needs.

Use this Product Marketing Director job description template to advertise open roles for your company. Be sure to modify requirements and duties based on the unique needs of the role you’re hiring for.

What is a Product Marketing Director?

A Product Marketing Director is a senior-level executive who oversees the marketing of a company’s products. They play a crucial role in understanding the market, defining the product’s position within that market, and communicating its value to both internal teams and potential customers.

This role involves strategic planning, team leadership, and close collaboration with sales, marketing, and product development teams to ensure the product’s success in the market.

What does a Product Marketing Director do?

A Product Marketing Director leads the strategy behind how a product is brought to market, positioned, and sold. They are responsible for crafting compelling messaging, identifying target customer segments, and developing marketing plans that drive demand and adoption of the product.

This includes overseeing market research, competitive analysis, product launches, and the creation of marketing and sales collateral. They work closely with cross-functional teams to ensure that marketing strategies are aligned with product capabilities and sales objectives.

The ultimate goal is to establish the product as a market leader, drive revenue growth, and enhance customer satisfaction.

Product Marketing Director responsibilities include:

  • Leading global go-to-market plans and messaging strategies
  • Developing positioning that differentiates the product in the market
  • Managing product launches and releases
  • Creating sales and marketing materials to support internal teams and promote the product externally

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Product Marketing Associate job description https://resources.workable.com/product-marketing-associate-job-description Wed, 14 Feb 2024 13:59:07 +0000 https://resources.workable.com/?p=93279 A Product Marketing Associate is a professional role focused on understanding market needs and ensuring that the product messaging aligns with customer challenges and company goals, thereby enabling sales teams and supporting product growth. Use this Product Marketing Associate job description template to advertise open roles for your company. Be sure to modify requirements and […]

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A Product Marketing Associate is a professional role focused on understanding market needs and ensuring that the product messaging aligns with customer challenges and company goals, thereby enabling sales teams and supporting product growth.

Use this Product Marketing Associate job description template to advertise open roles for your company. Be sure to modify requirements and duties based on the unique needs of the role you’re hiring for.

What is a Product Marketing Associate?

A Product Marketing Associate is a key player within a marketing team, dedicated to deeply understanding the market, customers, and how the company’s products serve their needs. This role involves gathering insights through research, shaping product messaging, and ensuring that internal teams are aligned with market demands.

The associate plays a crucial role in bridging the gap between product development and customer expectations, facilitating effective marketing strategies that drive product adoption and customer satisfaction.

What does a Product Marketing Associate do?

A Product Marketing Associate undertakes market research, customer interviews, and competitive analysis to gain a comprehensive understanding of the industry landscape. They use these insights to inform product positioning and messaging, ensuring it resonates with target audiences.

By collaborating with sales, product, and creative teams, they develop materials and strategies that effectively communicate the product’s value.

Additionally, they manage the launch of new products and features, coordinating across departments to ensure a cohesive and impactful go-to-market strategy. Their work directly influences the company’s ability to attract and retain customers, ultimately contributing to its growth and success.

Product Marketing Associate responsibilities include:

  • Conducting research and interviews to understand the industry and customer needs
  • Educating internal teams about customer challenges and solutions
  • Enabling the Sales team with effective communication tools
  • Managing new product and feature release campaigns

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People Operations Specialist job description https://resources.workable.com/people-operations-specialist-job-description Wed, 14 Feb 2024 13:12:33 +0000 https://resources.workable.com/?p=93276 A People Operations Specialist is a key HR role focused on enhancing employee experience, implementing HR policies, and supporting the day-to-day operations of the HR department with a tech-savvy approach. Use this People Operations Specialist job description template to advertise open roles for your company. Be sure to modify requirements and duties based on the […]

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A People Operations Specialist is a key HR role focused on enhancing employee experience, implementing HR policies, and supporting the day-to-day operations of the HR department with a tech-savvy approach.

Use this People Operations Specialist job description template to advertise open roles for your company. Be sure to modify requirements and duties based on the unique needs of the role you’re hiring for.

What is a People Operations Specialist?

A People Operations Specialist is an integral part of the HR team, dedicated to ensuring that HR processes run smoothly and efficiently. They play a crucial role in enhancing the employee experience from onboarding to offboarding, implementing human resource policies, and maintaining HR data and systems.

This role requires a blend of administrative skills, HR knowledge, and a tech-savvy mindset to leverage HR technologies effectively.

What does a People Operations Specialist do?

A People Operations Specialist ensures the smooth operation of HR functions, focusing on providing support across various HR areas such as recruitment, onboarding, payroll, and employee relations. They handle HR documentation, prepare reports, and assist in payroll preparation.

By analyzing HR metrics, they contribute to strategic HR planning and decision-making. This role demands excellent communication skills, the ability to multitask in a fast-paced environment, and a proactive approach to problem-solving. Working closely with HR and other departments, they help create a positive work environment and culture.

People Operations Specialist responsibilities include:

  • Onboarding new hires smoothly
  • Supporting employees in HR-related topics like leaves and compensation
  • Assisting in the development and implementation of HR policies
  • Gathering and analyzing HR metrics

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What is PTO in business? Benefits, differences, and tools https://resources.workable.com/hr-terms/what-is-pto-in-business-benefits-differences-and-tools Tue, 13 Feb 2024 16:14:14 +0000 https://resources.workable.com/?p=93256 PTO plays a crucial role in promoting work-life balance, reducing burnout, and enhancing overall job satisfaction.  This article aims to provide a comprehensive overview of PTO, delving into its meaning, operation, and comparison with traditional vacation policies.  What is PTO? Paid time off (PTO) refers to the labor law concept of paid leave or, more […]

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PTO plays a crucial role in promoting work-life balance, reducing burnout, and enhancing overall job satisfaction. 

This article aims to provide a comprehensive overview of PTO, delving into its meaning, operation, and comparison with traditional vacation policies. 

What is PTO?

Paid time off (PTO) refers to the labor law concept of paid leave or, more formally, a leave of absence authorized by an employer. 

This arrangement allows employees to take time off from work for various reasons—such as personal matters, illness, or vacation—while still receiving compensation. 

In contrast to European workers who are usually entitled to 20 to 30 paid days off annually, the United States does not have a mandatory provision for paid holidays, vacation days, or paid sick leave at the national level. 

Instead, companies establish their own policies regarding paid time off (PTO). 

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, 76% of American employees have access to PTO, with many receiving between 5 and 10 days per year. PTO policies are designed to offer employees flexibility and autonomy over their time off, as opposed to traditional leave systems that segregate time off into specific categories like sick leave, personal days, and vacation time.

The concept of PTO is rooted in the understanding that employees benefit from having a balance between their professional and personal lives, contributing to a more satisfied and productive workforce.

How does it work?

The operation of PTO systems varies among organizations but generally involves the accrual of time off based on the length of employment and the number of hours worked. 

Employees typically earn a certain amount of PTO hours for each pay period, which they can then use at their discretion for vacations, personal time, or illness. 

This accrual system encourages employees to remain with the company longer, as the amount of PTO available often increases with tenure.

Employers set up PTO policies that outline how and when employees can use their accrued time off. These policies might include provisions for rollover of unused PTO to the next year, caps on the amount of PTO that can be accrued, and procedures for requesting and approving PTO. 

It’s crucial for these policies to be clearly communicated to all employees to ensure a mutual understanding of how PTO can be utilized effectively.

Labor laws in various jurisdictions also play a significant role in determining the minimum requirements for PTO, including the accrual rate, usage, and payout upon termination of employment. 

For example, some countries mandate a minimum number of paid vacation days per year, while others leave it to the discretion of the employer and employee to negotiate PTO terms. 

Regardless of the specific regulations, the overarching goal of PTO policies is to provide employees with the flexibility to manage their work and personal life, fostering a healthier, more engaged, and productive workforce.

PTO vs.vacation: understanding the difference

The distinction between paid time off (PTO) and vacation time is a common source of confusion in workplace terminology. 

While both concepts allow employees to take time away from work, they operate under different principles and policies. 

PTO is a more modern, flexible approach that combines various types of leave into one comprehensive benefit. This includes vacation, sick leave, personal days, and sometimes even holidays, giving employees the autonomy to use their time off as they see fit without having to specify the reason to their employer.

In contrast, traditional vacation policies segregate time off into specific categories, each with its own set of rules and accrual rates. 

Vacation time is specifically allocated for leisure and rest, separate from sick leave or personal days. 

This traditional system often requires employees to plan and use their vacation time distinctly from other types of leave, which can be less flexible and more complicated to manage both for employees and HR departments.

The PTO model’s primary advantage is its simplicity and flexibility, allowing employees to make decisions about their time off based on their individual needs without the need to categorize the absence. 

This approach can lead to increased employee satisfaction and morale, as it respects and acknowledges the diverse needs of the workforce. 

However, it also requires clear communication and robust tracking systems to ensure that PTO is used appropriately and does not impact the organization’s operational needs negatively.

Related: What is a floating holiday? Is it considered PTO?

The benefits for employees and employers

The implementation of PTO policies offers a range of benefits for both employees and employers, contributing to a positive workplace culture and improved organizational performance. 

For employees, PTO provides greater flexibility and control over their time off, allowing them to balance work with personal life, family needs, and leisure activities more effectively. 

This flexibility can lead to increased job satisfaction, reduced stress levels, and improved mental and physical health, which are crucial for maintaining a productive and engaged workforce.

From an employer’s perspective, PTO policies can enhance the company’s attractiveness as a place to work, aiding in talent acquisition and retention. 

A flexible and comprehensive PTO policy demonstrates an organization’s commitment to employee well-being and work-life balance, which can differentiate it from competitors in the job market. 

Moreover, by consolidating various types of leave into a single PTO system, employers can simplify administrative processes, reduce complexity in tracking and managing leave, and potentially decrease unscheduled absences.

Furthermore, PTO can encourage a more responsible use of time off, as employees tend to plan their absences more thoughtfully when given the autonomy to decide how to use their leave. 

This can lead to better coverage planning and less disruption to business operations, benefiting the overall productivity and efficiency of the organization.

Related: Top companies with unlimited PTO – they do exist and thrive

Challenges and considerations in implementing PTO policies

While PTO policies offer numerous benefits, their implementation comes with its own set of challenges and considerations. 

One of the primary concerns for employers is the potential for abuse, where employees might take excessive time off, impacting productivity and operational efficiency. 

To mitigate this, organizations must establish clear guidelines and processes for requesting and approving PTO, ensuring fairness and transparency while maintaining the necessary workforce to meet business demands.

Another consideration is the cultural shift required to move from traditional leave systems to a PTO model. 

This transition can be met with resistance from employees accustomed to separate vacation, sick, and personal leave balances. 

Effective communication and education about the benefits and operation of the new PTO policy are crucial for gaining employee buy-in and facilitating a smooth transition.

Employers must also navigate the legal landscape of labor laws in their jurisdiction, which may dictate minimum leave entitlements, accrual rates, and payout obligations for unused PTO. 

Compliance with these laws while designing a PTO policy that meets the organization’s and employees’ needs requires careful planning and consultation with legal and HR professionals.

PTO tracking and HRIS tools

In the era of digital transformation, Human Resource Information System (HRIS) tools like Workable have become indispensable for efficiently managing PTO policies and time-off scheduling

These systems offer a range of features to streamline the administration of PTO, including automated accrual tracking, leave request workflows, and real-time visibility into leave balances for both employees and managers.

Automated accrual calculations eliminate manual tracking errors and ensure that PTO balances are always up-to-date, reflecting earned and used leave accurately. 

The adoption of HRIS tools for PTO management not only enhances operational efficiency but also improves the employee experience by offering transparency and ease of use in managing their leave. 

This technology investment can lead to significant long-term benefits, including increased compliance, reduced administrative burden, and a more engaged and satisfied workforce.

As the workplace continues to evolve, PTO policies will remain a critical component of employee benefits packages, reflecting an organization’s commitment to supporting its employees’ health, happiness, and overall success.

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Partnership Manager job description https://resources.workable.com/partnership-manager-job-description Tue, 13 Feb 2024 14:18:13 +0000 https://resources.workable.com/?p=93255 A Partnership Manager is a strategic role focused on developing and managing relationships with key partners to enhance business growth, product offerings, and customer satisfaction through collaborative and mutually beneficial partnerships. Use this Partnership Manager job description template to advertise open roles for your company. Be sure to modify requirements and duties based on the […]

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A Partnership Manager is a strategic role focused on developing and managing relationships with key partners to enhance business growth, product offerings, and customer satisfaction through collaborative and mutually beneficial partnerships.

Use this Partnership Manager job description template to advertise open roles for your company. Be sure to modify requirements and duties based on the unique needs of the role you’re hiring for.

What is a Partnership Manager?

A Partnership Manager is a professional responsible for cultivating and maintaining relationships with a company’s strategic partners. This role involves strategizing to grow and leverage partnerships that enhance the company’s product offerings and market presence.

The manager works to ensure that these collaborations are effective, sustainable, and aligned with the company’s objectives, ultimately driving mutual benefits for both parties.

What does a Partnership Manager do?

A Partnership Manager plays a crucial role in expanding a company’s reach and enhancing its offerings through strategic partnerships. They manage existing partner relationships, identifying opportunities for further collaboration and integration.

Additionally, they scout and secure new partnerships, negotiating terms that align with the company’s strategic goals. This role requires continuous monitoring and analysis of partnership performance, adapting strategies to maximize benefits.

The Partnership Manager acts as a liaison between partners and internal teams, facilitating communication and project execution to ensure the success of the partnership.

Partnership Manager responsibilities include:

  • Managing and enhancing relationships with existing partners
  • Developing strategies for partnership growth and integration
  • Identifying and negotiating deals with new partners
  • Overseeing partnership performance and ensuring alignment with business goals

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Outbound Program Specialist job description https://resources.workable.com/outbound-program-specialist-job-description Tue, 13 Feb 2024 13:59:42 +0000 https://resources.workable.com/?p=93254 An Outbound Program Specialist is a key role focused on supporting and optimizing outbound sales efforts, including reporting, workflow, process, and data integrity for sales territories, campaigns, accounts, and representatives. Use this Outbound Program Specialist job description template to advertise open roles for your company. Be sure to modify requirements and duties based on the […]

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An Outbound Program Specialist is a key role focused on supporting and optimizing outbound sales efforts, including reporting, workflow, process, and data integrity for sales territories, campaigns, accounts, and representatives.

Use this Outbound Program Specialist job description template to advertise open roles for your company. Be sure to modify requirements and duties based on the unique needs of the role you’re hiring for.

What is an Outbound Program Specialist?

An Outbound Program Specialist is a professional dedicated to enhancing the efficiency and effectiveness of outbound sales programs. They play a crucial role in ensuring the sales team is equipped with the necessary tools and data, managing the operational aspects of sales campaigns, and maintaining the integrity of sales data.

This role involves a blend of analytical and strategic skills to support sales objectives and drive performance improvements.

What does an Outbound Program Specialist do?

An Outbound Program Specialist oversees the operational and analytical aspects of outbound sales programs. They are responsible for onboarding new sales hires, ensuring they have access to sales technology, and managing the offboarding process.

They track and report on sales KPIs, optimizing performance and facilitating communication between sales and other departments.

Additionally, they manage territories, campaigns, and sequences, collaborating with marketing and sales development managers to ensure targeted and effective outreach. By owning outbound reporting and analytics, they provide insights that guide data-driven decisions, supporting sales and executive leadership in achieving sales targets.

Outbound Program Specialist responsibilities include:

  • Onboarding and offboarding sales team members.
  • Managing individual performance reporting and optimization.
  • Supporting outbound program strategy, including territory and campaign management.
  • Maintaining outbound program performance metrics and reporting.

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Operations Engineer job description https://resources.workable.com/operations-engineer-job-description Tue, 13 Feb 2024 13:29:01 +0000 https://resources.workable.com/?p=93253 An Operations Engineer is a technical professional responsible for automating operational processes, providing product support, and implementing customer-requested integrations and automations to enhance user experience and system efficiency. Use this Operations Engineer job description template to advertise open roles for your company. Be sure to modify requirements and duties based on the unique needs of […]

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An Operations Engineer is a technical professional responsible for automating operational processes, providing product support, and implementing customer-requested integrations and automations to enhance user experience and system efficiency.

Use this Operations Engineer job description template to advertise open roles for your company. Be sure to modify requirements and duties based on the unique needs of the role you’re hiring for.

What is an Operations Engineer?

An Operations Engineer is a vital member of the engineering team, focusing on streamlining and automating operational tasks to improve efficiency and reliability. They tackle technical challenges, support product functionality, and enhance the system’s performance through innovative solutions.

Their role bridges the gap between engineering, customer support, and internal stakeholders by developing tools and processes that optimize the product’s operational aspects.

What does an Operations Engineer do?

An Operations Engineer plays a crucial role in maintaining and improving the technical infrastructure of a product. They investigate technical issues escalated by customer support, perform root cause analyses on production errors, and develop software to automate operational procedures.

Additionally, they work on integrating systems for various internal departments and design solutions to meet customer needs as part of professional services. This role requires a deep understanding of software engineering, databases, and the ability to work collaboratively across teams to ensure a seamless user experience and operational excellence.

Operations Engineer responsibilities include:

  • Executing and automating operational processes
  • Providing second-level support for the product
  • Developing software for internal and customer-facing integrations
  • Performing root cause analysis for production issues

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Multimedia Intern job description https://resources.workable.com/multimedia-intern-job-description Tue, 13 Feb 2024 13:17:36 +0000 https://resources.workable.com/?p=93252 A Multimedia Intern is a dynamic, creative role focused on producing and editing video content, supporting brand design teams with multimedia projects, and enhancing digital content in line with brand guidelines. Use this Multimedia Intern job description template to advertise open roles for your company. Be sure to modify requirements and duties based on the […]

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A Multimedia Intern is a dynamic, creative role focused on producing and editing video content, supporting brand design teams with multimedia projects, and enhancing digital content in line with brand guidelines.

Use this Multimedia Intern job description template to advertise open roles for your company. Be sure to modify requirements and duties based on the unique needs of the role you’re hiring for.

What is a Multimedia Intern?

A Multimedia Intern is an essential contributor to a creative team, primarily focused on video production and multimedia content creation. This role involves collaborating with various teams to capture and edit video series, brainstorming creative ideas, and performing technical tasks related to audio/visual equipment. The intern gains hands-on experience in multimedia design, contributing to marketing and support initiatives through engaging visual storytelling and content production.

What does a Multimedia Intern do?

A Multimedia Intern plays a crucial role in creating compelling video and multimedia content for marketing and support needs. They work closely with the brand design team to capture new footage, edit existing video series, and assist in all stages of production, from brainstorming to storyboard development and scriptwriting.

Additionally, they handle technical aspects of audio/visual equipment setup and operation, ensuring high-quality production values. The intern also updates digital content and produces collateral in alignment with brand guidelines, utilizing advanced editing skills to enhance the visual and auditory appeal of multimedia projects.

This role requires balancing multiple priorities, collaborating across departments, and continuously learning new skills to contribute effectively to the team’s creative output.

Multimedia Intern responsibilities include:

  • Capturing and editing video content
  • Assisting in the development of storyboards and voice-over scripts
  • Operating audio/visual equipment and software
  • Producing collateral and updating digital content to reflect brand guidelines

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Mid-Market Account Executive job description https://resources.workable.com/mid-market-account-executive-job-description Mon, 12 Feb 2024 13:52:24 +0000 https://resources.workable.com/?p=93241 A Mid-Market Account Executive is a sales professional specializing in identifying, pursuing, and closing deals with mid-sized businesses, utilizing a consultative approach to meet and exceed sales targets. Use this Mid-Market Account Executive job description template to advertise open roles for your company. Be sure to modify requirements and duties based on the unique needs […]

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A Mid-Market Account Executive is a sales professional specializing in identifying, pursuing, and closing deals with mid-sized businesses, utilizing a consultative approach to meet and exceed sales targets.

Use this Mid-Market Account Executive job description template to advertise open roles for your company. Be sure to modify requirements and duties based on the unique needs of the role you’re hiring for.

What is a Mid-Market Account Executive?

A Mid-Market Account Executive is a key sales role focused on generating new business within the mid-market segment. This role demands a strategic approach to identify potential clients, understand their needs, and propose solutions that align with their goals.

The executive must navigate complex sales cycles, engage with multiple stakeholders, and leverage a consultative selling style to close deals effectively.

What does a Mid-Market Account Executive do?

A Mid-Market Account Executive drives growth by securing new clients in the mid-market space, managing a comprehensive sales process. They conduct market research, engage with prospects through discovery calls, and demonstrate product value through presentations and demos.

By addressing customer challenges with tailored solutions, they close deals that contribute significantly to revenue. This role requires collaboration with internal teams, such as Business Development and Solution Consultants, to ensure a seamless transition from sales to implementation.

The executive maintains a detailed record of sales activities in Salesforce, ensuring accurate forecasting and strategic planning.

Mid-Market Account Executive responsibilities include:

  • Acquiring new business and selling solutions to companies with more than 200 employees
  • Managing the full sales cycle from prospecting to closing
  • Responding to qualified inbound lead requests
  • Maintaining an accurate sales pipeline in Salesforce

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Marketing Operations Specialist job description https://resources.workable.com/marketing-operations-specialist-job-description Mon, 12 Feb 2024 13:02:55 +0000 https://resources.workable.com/?p=93240 A Marketing Operations Specialist is a professional responsible for executing marketing campaigns, managing marketing automation systems like HubSpot, ensuring database accuracy, and analyzing campaign performance to optimize marketing strategies. Use this Marketing Operations Specialist job description template to advertise open roles for your company. Be sure to modify requirements and duties based on the unique […]

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A Marketing Operations Specialist is a professional responsible for executing marketing campaigns, managing marketing automation systems like HubSpot, ensuring database accuracy, and analyzing campaign performance to optimize marketing strategies.

Use this Marketing Operations Specialist job description template to advertise open roles for your company. Be sure to modify requirements and duties based on the unique needs of the role you’re hiring for.

What is a Marketing Operations Specialist?

A Marketing Operations Specialist is an integral member of the marketing team, focusing on the technical and analytical aspects of marketing campaign execution. This role involves managing the marketing automation platform, ensuring data accuracy, and leveraging data to drive marketing decisions.

Specialists in this field are adept at navigating marketing technologies to streamline operations, enhance campaign effectiveness, and measure results against defined metrics.

What does a Marketing Operations Specialist do?

A Marketing Operations Specialist orchestrates the backend of marketing campaigns, from building and testing to execution. They manage the marketing automation system, creating workflows, emails, and landing pages to support various teams. By maintaining the marketing database, they ensure data integrity and segmentation for targeted campaigns.

This role requires close collaboration with sales to align on campaign follow-ups and reporting on campaign performance to inform future strategies.

Additionally, they are responsible for maintaining compliance with legal standards in marketing communications. Their analytical skills are crucial for defining success metrics and optimizing marketing efforts based on data-driven insights.

Marketing Operations Specialist responsibilities include:

  • Executing and managing marketing campaigns across various channels
  • Administering marketing automation systems and ensuring database hygiene
  • Defining goals, success metrics, and reporting on marketing program results
  • Ensuring compliance with privacy and communication regulations

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What is a statutory employee? Definition and examples https://resources.workable.com/hr-terms/what-is-a-statutory-employee Fri, 09 Feb 2024 15:54:39 +0000 https://resources.workable.com/?p=93238 This classification not only affects payroll and tax reporting but also influences employment rights and benefits.  Understanding who qualifies as a statutory employee in the U.S. and the implications of this classification is crucial for ensuring compliance with tax laws and for the strategic management of human resources. What is a statutory employee? The Internal […]

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This classification not only affects payroll and tax reporting but also influences employment rights and benefits. 

Understanding who qualifies as a statutory employee in the U.S. and the implications of this classification is crucial for ensuring compliance with tax laws and for the strategic management of human resources.

What is a statutory employee?

The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) defines a statutory employee as an individual who falls under a specific classification that straddles the line between an independent contractor and a traditional employee. 

This classification arises from the statutory provisions that exist within federal tax law, specifically outlined in the IRS guidelines. 

Statutory employees are unique because, although they may perform services for a business in a manner similar to employees, they are treated differently for employment tax purposes.

Statutory employees are subject to Social Security and Medicare taxes, but unlike regular employees, they are exempt from federal income tax withholding. 

This classification allows them to deduct work-related expenses on Schedule C (Form 1040), which is not typically available to regular employees. 

The criteria for being considered a statutory employee include performing services according to a contract that explicitly states the individual will not be treated as an independent contractor for federal tax purposes.

Key characteristics that differentiate statutory employees from regular employees include:

  • The manner in which they are paid: Statutory employees receive a W-2 form but are responsible for paying their own income taxes.
  • Their ability to deduct business expenses directly against their income.
  • The specific nature of their work, which often includes services performed outside of the usual course of the business’s trade.

Statutory employees examples

Determining whether an individual is a statutory employee involves assessing the nature of the work performed and the relationship between the worker and the employer. 

The IRS specifies four categories of workers who can be considered statutory employees if they meet certain conditions:

Driver-salespersons: Those who deliver food, beverages (excluding milk), laundry, or dry cleaning for their employer.

Full-time life insurance sales agents: Primarily selling life insurance or annuity contracts for a single life insurance company.

Home workers: Individuals who work at home on materials or goods supplied by their employer, which must be returned to the employer or a designated person upon completion.

Traveling or city salespersons: Salespersons who work full-time and submit orders from wholesalers, restaurants, or similar establishments on behalf of their employer.

To be classified as a statutory employee, a worker must meet the guidelines set forth by the IRS, including the condition that the contract of service contemplates or states that the individual will not be treated as an independent contractor for federal tax purposes.

Tax implications for statutory employees

The tax treatment of statutory employees presents a unique blend of independence and employee status, setting them apart from both regular employees and independent contractors. 

One of the most significant aspects of being a statutory employee is the handling of taxes, particularly concerning Social Security and Medicare.

W-2 reporting and schedule C deductions

Statutory employees receive a W-2 form from their employers, but with a critical difference—the box for “statutory employee” is checked. This classification allows them to report their income and expenses differently. 

Unlike regular employees, statutory employees can file Schedule C (Form 1040) to report their wages and business-related expenses. 

This ability to deduct business expenses directly from their W-2 income can significantly lower taxable income, providing a tax advantage not available to most employees.

Social security and medicare taxes 

Despite their unique status, statutory employees are still subject to Social Security and Medicare taxes. 

These taxes are typically withheld by the employer, similar to regular employment. However, the responsibility for income tax payments lies with the statutory employees themselves, requiring them to make estimated tax payments throughout the year or face penalties for underpayment.

California provisions about statutory employees

California’s approach to employment classification includes specific considerations that can affect statutory employees. 

The state’s labor laws are known for their stringent criteria for classifying workers, primarily aimed at protecting employee rights and ensuring fair labor practices. 

For statutory employees, this means navigating both federal guidelines and California’s specific requirements.

In California, the definition and treatment of statutory employees extend beyond the federal guidelines set by the IRS, incorporating a wider array of worker categories and specific state-level provisions.

This includes not only the traditional categories recognized by the IRS, such as driver-salespersons and home workers, but also encompasses corporate officers, members of Limited Liability Companies (LLCs) treated as corporations for tax purposes, artists, authors in the entertainment industry under certain conditions, and individuals in the construction industry lacking a valid contractor’s license. 

These inclusions reflect California’s approach to offering broader labor protections and ensuring a comprehensive coverage under unemployment insurance (UI), employment training tax (ETT), and state disability insurance (SDI), aiming to accommodate the diverse nature of work within the state.

Furthermore, California’s regulations detail distinct requirements for personal income tax (PIT) withholding for statutory employees, differentiating based on the worker’s specific classification. 

For example, corporate officers and members of an LLC treated as a corporation, along with workers in the construction industry, are subject to specific withholding requirements. 

Differences between statutory and regular employees

Understanding the differences between statutory and regular employees is crucial for employers, especially when it comes to employment rights, benefits, and tax implications.

Employment rights and benefits

Regular employees typically enjoy a broader range of employment rights and benefits, including unemployment insurance, workers’ compensation, and employer-provided health insurance. 

In contrast, statutory employees, while still covered under Social Security and Medicare, may not be eligible for the same breadth of benefits and protections. 

This distinction underscores the importance of accurately classifying employees to ensure they receive the appropriate rights and benefits.

Employer obligations

Employers have distinct obligations depending on whether their workers are classified as statutory or regular employees. 

For statutory employees, employers are required to withhold Social Security and Medicare taxes but are not required to withhold federal income tax. 

This contrasts with regular employees, for whom employers must withhold federal income tax, Social Security, and Medicare taxes. 

Additionally, the requirement to provide certain benefits may differ, affecting the employer’s financial and administrative responsibilities.

Identifying as a statutory employee

For individuals and employers alike, accurately identifying statutory employee status is essential for compliance with tax laws and labor regulations. The determination hinges on several factors:

  1. Contractual agreement: The presence of a contract specifying that the worker is treated as a statutory employee for federal tax purposes is a primary indicator.
  2. IRS guidelines: Meeting the IRS’s specific criteria for statutory employees, as outlined in the categories of eligible workers, is crucial for this classification.
  3. Employer control: The degree of control the employer has over the worker and the work performed can also influence classification. Statutory employees typically have more autonomy than regular employees but less than independent contractors.

Understanding these factors and consulting with legal or tax professionals can help clarify an individual’s employment status and ensure that both parties meet their respective obligations.

For HR professionals and business owners, understanding the nuances of this classification is essential for compliance, effective workforce management, and strategic planning. 

By accurately identifying statutory employees, adhering to tax and labor laws, and recognizing the specific rights and obligations involved, businesses can navigate the complexities of employment classifications with confidence.

Note: Before taking any action, make sure to consult with your local law counselors as laws and regulations can be modified.

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Marketing Operations Manager job description https://resources.workable.com/marketing-operations-manager-job-description Thu, 08 Feb 2024 13:40:49 +0000 https://resources.workable.com/?p=93228 A Marketing Operations Manager is a strategic role focused on optimizing marketing processes and technologies, managing lead flow, and analyzing marketing performance to drive conversions and enhance customer experience. Use this Marketing Operations Manager job description template to advertise open roles for your company. Be sure to modify requirements and duties based on the unique […]

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A Marketing Operations Manager is a strategic role focused on optimizing marketing processes and technologies, managing lead flow, and analyzing marketing performance to drive conversions and enhance customer experience.

Use this Marketing Operations Manager job description template to advertise open roles for your company. Be sure to modify requirements and duties based on the unique needs of the role you’re hiring for.

What is a Marketing Operations Manager?

A Marketing Operations Manager is a pivotal figure within a marketing team, responsible for overseeing the operational aspects of the marketing department. This includes the implementation and management of marketing technologies, streamlining lead management processes, and optimizing marketing strategies to improve conversion rates.

The role demands a blend of technical and analytical skills to evaluate and enhance the efficiency of marketing activities, ensuring that the marketing efforts are aligned with the company’s growth objectives.

What does a Marketing Operations Manager do?

A Marketing Operations Manager plays a crucial role in enhancing the effectiveness of marketing efforts through the strategic use of technology, data analysis, and process optimization. They are responsible for identifying technology needs, leading the implementation of marketing automation and CRM integrations, and managing incoming leads.

Additionally, they execute email campaigns, in-app messaging, and other strategies to improve conversion rates. By designing and maintaining reports on e-commerce activity, they provide insights that drive decision-making. Collaborating with various departments, they ensure a cohesive approach to creating campaigns that boost e-commerce bookings.

Their work involves evaluating new technologies, optimizing user funnels, and conducting experiments to enhance the customer experience across multiple channels.

Marketing Operations Manager responsibilities include:

  • Identifying and implementing new marketing technologies.
  • Managing lead flow and coordinating with sales.
  • Planning and executing conversion optimization strategies.
  • Designing, building, and maintaining marketing performance reporting.

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Marketing Events Coordinator job description https://resources.workable.com/marketing-events-coordinator-job-description Thu, 08 Feb 2024 12:42:44 +0000 https://resources.workable.com/?p=93227 A Marketing Events Coordinator is a dynamic professional responsible for planning, organizing, and executing marketing events that promote a company’s brand, products, and services to its target audience. Use this Marketing Events Coordinator job description template to advertise open roles for your company. Be sure to modify requirements and duties based on the unique needs […]

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A Marketing Events Coordinator is a dynamic professional responsible for planning, organizing, and executing marketing events that promote a company’s brand, products, and services to its target audience.

Use this Marketing Events Coordinator job description template to advertise open roles for your company. Be sure to modify requirements and duties based on the unique needs of the role you’re hiring for.

What is a Marketing Events Coordinator?

A Marketing Events Coordinator is a key player in the marketing team, specializing in the creation and execution of events that engage customers and prospects. This role involves meticulous planning, coordination with multiple stakeholders, and the ability to manage logistics to ensure events run smoothly and achieve their intended goals.

The coordinator ensures that each event is a reflection of the company’s brand and values, designed to enhance customer relationships and drive business objectives.

What does a Marketing Events Coordinator do?

A Marketing Events Coordinator oversees the end-to-end process of marketing events, from initial concept to post-event analysis. This includes developing detailed project plans, selecting and managing vendors, creating event agendas, inviting and scheduling speakers, and promoting events through various channels to maximize attendance.

Onsite, they are the go-to person for setup, troubleshooting, and breakdown, ensuring everything aligns with the company’s standards. They also track registration numbers, gather feedback through surveys, and report on the event’s success to inform future strategies.

This role requires a blend of creativity, organizational skills, and the ability to work under pressure.

Marketing Events Coordinator responsibilities include:

  • Developing and driving marketing event project plans.
  • Working with vendors to align resources and pricing.
  • Promoting events via social media channels.
  • Tracking event attendance and generating post-event satisfaction surveys.

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Marketing Analytics Associate job description https://resources.workable.com/marketing-analytics-associate-job-description Mon, 05 Feb 2024 14:09:29 +0000 https://resources.workable.com/?p=93182 A Marketing Analytics Associate is a professional responsible for analyzing marketing performance across channels, utilizing data to optimize strategies, and ensuring the effective allocation of resources to maximize campaign results. Use this Marketing Analytics Associate job description template to advertise open roles for your company. Be sure to modify requirements and duties based on the […]

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A Marketing Analytics Associate is a professional responsible for analyzing marketing performance across channels, utilizing data to optimize strategies, and ensuring the effective allocation of resources to maximize campaign results.

Use this Marketing Analytics Associate job description template to advertise open roles for your company. Be sure to modify requirements and duties based on the unique needs of the role you’re hiring for.

What is a Marketing Analytics Associate?

A Marketing Analytics Associate is a key player in the marketing team, focusing on the collection, analysis, and interpretation of marketing data to inform strategies and decisions. They leverage analytics tools and platforms to provide actionable insights on campaign performance, customer engagement, and overall marketing effectiveness.

This role is crucial for understanding how marketing efforts contribute to the company’s objectives and for guiding future marketing initiatives.

What does a Marketing Analytics Associate do?

A Marketing Analytics Associate plays a pivotal role in enhancing marketing strategies through data-driven insights. They set up and manage data tracking tools, create reports that highlight key results, and conduct additional data modeling and analysis as needed. Working closely with marketing, sales, and product teams, they ensure accurate data collection and analysis to inform strategic decisions.

Their work includes developing innovative analytical approaches, being the point person for analytics platforms, producing recurring insight reports, and optimizing digital experiences. By analyzing data from various sources, they help the marketing team understand performance, identify trends, and allocate resources effectively to drive growth and improve ROI.

Marketing Analytics Associate responsibilities include:

  • Developing measurement and analytical approaches for marketing initiatives
  • Managing analytics platforms and reports (GTM, GA, Tableau)
  • Producing insight reports for marketing leadership
  • Applying expertise to optimize digital customer experiences

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How to make a business case for recruiting software https://resources.workable.com/tutorial/business-case-recruiting-software Thu, 16 Aug 2018 10:01:36 +0000 https://resources.workable.com/?p=72141 It sounds like we’d be employing vastly different arguments, but trust me, all compelling business cases have the same basic elements. To help you make your own case, I’m going to walk you through my process of building a business case for recruiting software — or applicant tracking software (ATS) as an example. 1. Prepare […]

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It sounds like we’d be employing vastly different arguments, but trust me, all compelling business cases have the same basic elements. To help you make your own case, I’m going to walk you through my process of building a business case for recruiting software — or applicant tracking software (ATS) as an example.

1. Prepare and plan (1 – 2 hours)

Business plans are formulaic, but they take time. You should anticipate putting aside dedicated time on your calendar to hold yourself to deadlines. To help you plan, I’ve put rough time estimations next to each step of this checklist. However, it all depends on what you’d like to spend on the system, how complex your needs are and how many people are involved in your procurement process.

At this stage, ask your manager or someone on your procurement team what their process is for bringing on a new tool and what requirements they have for submissions. You may find unexpected red-tape or allies. Additionally, see if they will give you an idea of a budget so you can keep your evaluation reasonable. Successful business cases can overcome many budget objections, but knowing the potential issue from the start is crucial.

2. Identify business goals and pain points by reflecting on your team (1 – 2 hours)

Business cases become tactical by bringing in pain. Consider your daily workflow, what an hour of your time is worth and how much time you spend on tasks that can be automated with an ATS. Now extrapolate: How much time and money is invested on these tasks by your team or department? You may find that in hiring for a single role with your current process, you spend as much (or more) than the annual cost of an ATS.

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3. Research and combine the power of software review websites with your network’s feedback ( ~1 week)

Now that you know the resources that are under-utilized with your current process, it’s time to research three to five potential solutions that can solve this pain. You can do this solely through Google and rely on websites like Capterra, Trustpilot and G2Crowd. However, management will also want to see feedback from people in your network who actually use these systems. I’m a member of a local Sales Operations group and about a dozen similar ones on LinkedIn. Any time I’m evaluating a tool, I turn to my network first to get a sense of the landscape. Rave reviews about specific software might have been accurate a few months ago, but current customers will tell you that support is lacking or key features have yet to be released. Or there could be tool you’ve never considered that people swear by. After combining feedback from your peers with review sites, you’re well on your way to making your business case for recruiting software.

4. Evaluate your shortlist and distill your findings (1 – 2 weeks)

One of my favorite aspects of software evaluations is that they follow the same process: Discovery Call, Demo, Pilot/Trial (if applicable), Negotiation, Signature and Implementation. When you go to your boss, having a list of feedback isn’t enough. They’re going to want to know what you think of the tools and how it will help their team. To do that, solicit your ATS shortlist for demos, explain your pain, watch a quick demo, compile notes alongside peer feedback and, if possible, pilot the software.

Believe it or not, sales reps are there to help you make your business case and can offer additional competitive intelligence for tools on your list. I’ve gone into plenty of calls in the name of due diligence thinking I would eventually rule out the software, only to have the sales rep show another feature that put them at the top.

After you’ve gone through demos and received initial pricing, you should have a decent number of notes in a spreadsheet or notebook. Take these thoughts and condense them into a succinct pro-con sheet so when your manager asks for details, they can see their business pain and how each software would address those issues.

Your condensed pro-con sheet should outline:

  1. Software you evaluated
  2. Features that will solve your team’s pain – If there’s anything particularly exciting your team wants, highlight it.
  3. Implementation & Training Timeline – Describes how to make the switch from your current process and/or tool.
  4. Price – Remember that SaaS pricing is negotiable to ward off any “sticker shock”, but your business case is going to assuage any concern.
  5. Notes – This column is key as many software have similar features and prices making it tricky to determine competitive differences. Use this section to be specific about why you think a tool is a strong fit for your team. If you noticed any “red flags” when speaking to the sales rep, put them here too. The procurement process is a strong indication of what your implementation and support experience will be like.
  6. Present your findings in a thoughtful and compelling format (2 hours to create, 1 hour to present)

Through your evaluations, you learned the ATS landscape and you understood which tool(s) can solve your pain. To make your work truly digestible for your audience, it’s time to present. Do so in whichever manner makes sense for your team. Personally, I opt for short, concise slide decks and have my pro-con sheet ready should I be prompted for details.

Whatever you choose, remember that this is your chance to present return on investment (ROI) – make it count. You’ve made yourself a subject matter expert in the ATS space with this project, so carry yourself accordingly. The combination of team pain, network feedback, and software capabilities come together to make ROI. Start by reminding your team how painful the current hiring process is and what you lose by spending time on tasks that can be automated. Feedback from your network lends additional credibility to potential vendors and shows others have successfully solved the pain you described. Outlining key features shows how time and money are saved so your team can tackle more meaningful projects you’ve had to put on hold. Long story short, your business case for an ATS shouldn’t have to “spell out” ROI, it should be evident from your thoughtful work.

All business cases follow the same rough framework: Prepare to invest time in the evaluation, find pain in your existing process, research by engaging your network, run careful evaluations of top contenders, and distill your findings into a presentation for your team. Good luck and may you get the ATS of your dreams!

This post was written by Samantha Thompson, Senior Sales Enablement Specialist at Workable.

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Pay transparency: the pros, the cons, and best practices https://resources.workable.com/tutorial/pay-transparency-the-pros-the-cons-and-best-practices Wed, 07 Feb 2024 17:56:25 +0000 https://resources.workable.com/?p=93206 Pay transparency – or salary transparency – is a setup in a company (or industry) where companies provide information on pay and compensation to employees. There are three different types of salary transparency according to Harvard Business Review: Process transparency refers to openly communicating the methodology and criteria used by an organization to determine salaries, […]

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Pay transparency – or salary transparency – is a setup in a company (or industry) where companies provide information on pay and compensation to employees.

There are three different types of salary transparency according to Harvard Business Review:

Process transparency refers to openly communicating the methodology and criteria used by an organization to determine salaries, including how compensation levels are set, how raises and bonuses are awarded, and how performance is evaluated in relation to pay adjustments.

Outcome transparency involves disclosing the actual compensation figures, such as specific salary ranges or benchmarks for different roles and levels within the organization, allowing employees and candidates to see where their pay stands relative to those benchmarks.

Communications transparency refers to the openness and ease with which employees can discuss and share information about their own salaries with each other, without fear of retribution or policy violations, fostering an environment of open dialogue about compensation. It is illegal to prohibit conversations about salary in the workplace (in the US, especially) – here, it’s the explicit openness that’s emphasized in communications transparency.

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The pros and cons of salary transparency

What are the pros and cons of pay transparency? There are many – while holistically it makes sense to be transparent about the compensation that one may receive if they were to get a specific job, or the pay that your colleague receives for the same job that you do, it does get more complicated than that.

In other words – it makes perfect sense in theory; in practice, it’s more nuanced.

Let’s first have a look at the main reasons why salary transparency is a good thing.

Arguments for pay transparency

1. Fairness and equity

This is probably one of the most resounding arguments in support of pay transparency – the assurance of equal pay across gender, race, and other demographics.

As ZipJob career consultant Amanda Augustine told us:

“We know that salary transparency […] shines a spotlight on any major wage gaps that may occur across various sectors of your population, of your workforce, whether that’s ethnicity or race, whether that’s gender,” she says.

“Those things tend to be more apparent and there’s a greater need to then address them.”

Related: Can’t afford to pay more? Be radically transparent with candidates

Economist AnnElizabeth McMahon of Indeed Hiring Lab also highlighted this benefit of pay transparency in an interview with Bankrate:

“Salary transparency does help eliminate those asymmetric information problems that can contribute to the gender wage gap, racial wage issues and the labor market,” says AnnElizabeth.

Linkage’s Chief Product Officer Kristen Howe agrees.

“Women can leverage this pay transparency to negotiate better salaries and start to level the playing field toward pay parity,” she told SHRM.

“Women can leverage this pay transparency to negotiate better salaries and start to level the playing field toward pay parity.”

2. Employee satisfaction

Employees will appreciate knowing exactly how much their peers are making – and being allowed and even encouraged to talk openly about it at work.

According to Bankrate, more than two out of five Gen Z workers (42%) and two out of five millennials (40%) have shared their salary with a colleague or another person in their network. According to ZipJob, 65% are all for salary transparency.

Employers would do well to support that openness.

Also, when salaries are demystified, this not only helps in setting realistic expectations but also empowers employees to navigate their career progression within the organization more effectively.

It’s not just about the pay itself. Workers feel respected when employers are transparent about salary strategy.

A PayScale study finds workers are five times as likely to be satisfied with their employer when they understand the reasoning behind their salary versus getting the compensation they want and need from a job. That speaks loudly to the value of openness and communication about pay structures in your company.

Moreover, the knowledge that their compensation is in line with market rates and organizational standards can motivate employees to enhance their performance, knowing that their efforts and contributions are recognized and rewarded appropriately.

This trend towards openness not only boosts individual morale but also cultivates a culture of accountability and fairness within organizations. Everyone wins.

3. Candidate motivation

There’s a huge benefit at the entry point into a company as well. SHRM finds that 70% of organizations saw more applicants as a result of listing pay ranges in their job descriptions.

“These results highlight that many organizations who provide salary ranges in job postings find doing so helpful to applicant quality and quantity,” says Derrick Scheetz, a senior researcher with SHRM.

“These results highlight that many organizations who provide salary ranges in job postings find doing so helpful to applicant quality and quantity.”

Interestingly, it’s not just about pay. Transparency in compensation can even lead to a richer applicant pool; SHRM’s research also highlights that 66% of employers found the inclusion of pay ranges in job postings increased the quality of applicants.

A broader pool of applicants, and higher quality at that. Employers get more of what they’re looking for when hiring for an open role – that’s a huge benefit.

4. Improved business outcomes

It’s not just a good thing in the eyes of employees and candidates. There are positive business outcomes for businesses as well.

For instance, a NBER study authored by Harvard Business School assistant professor Zoë Cullen finds a link between clear and understandable compensation structures and improved hiring processes and employee retention. Hiring can be an expensive business, so any way you can improve that process – and couple it with decreased need for backfill – it will reflect on the bottom line.

Also, openness about the salary range for a job ensures that those applying are better aligned with the role’s compensation expectations. Your candidates know right away what they stand to make if they get the job – and less time is wasted on evaluating job applicants only to find out later in the recruitment process that you’re not aligned at all on compensation expectations.

Salary transparency can also significantly impact employee retention rates at the onset – organizations who are transparent about pay can mitigate common causes of employee turnover related to pay dissatisfaction or perceived inequities.

Arguments against pay transparency

OK, it’s not all roses and cream. There are some drawbacks to pay transparency to consider.

1. Increased competition and envy

One undesirable consequence of opening up about salary across a company is increased turnover as a result of angst and disillusion when employees realize they should be making more for what they do.

Envy and competition can also be stirred up – not always a healthy thing for company culture, especially when others are making more than you do for the same job in the same company.

The good news is that this is only when you manage it poorly. It can be preempted if you go about it the right way.

Zoë in her NBER paper discusses how transparency can lead comparisons with peers in a counterproductive way – if Jer learns that he’s making $10K less per year for the exact same role as Maria, he’s naturally not going to be happy.

Transparency can have that complex impact on overall workplace dynamics.

2. Demotivation and turnover

Just as full transparency of salaries give employees a boost knowing their real worth and what they can do to move up the next salary band, it also can have a negative impact on engagement and motivation. Following on the point above, your employees can become more disengaged and turnover will spike as they hit the bricks looking for new, better-paying roles.

The aforementioned ZipJob survey found that 34% of professionals left their jobs in 2023 for better pay – and Workable’s Great Discontent 2023 survey found that 68.9% of workers say they’ll move jobs for a higher salary, up from 62.2% in 2021.

And 58.5% of those currently open to new work say money is a huge driver of that.

So be careful when you open things up like that. If you haven’t established fair and equitable pay in your organization, you might want to do that before opening up the coffers.

3. Challenges with implementation

Introducing pay transparency into your company isn’t a cut-and-dried process. There are numerous standards, variables, and even intangibles that go into the determination of one’s salary (or the salary band of an open position) – that reality is more so for companies with a complex range of roles and responsibilities.

Also what we discussed at the top about the different kinds of transparency – process, outcome, and communications. Which one do you establish (first)?

You can avoid these challenges by first sitting down and looking at the structure as it is, and ensuring that there’s a full structure, plan, playbook, set of rules, career pathing strategy, and so on before you open the information vault.

Skillsoft Chief People Officer Ciara Harrington discussed this with SHRM.

“The challenge this presents for companies is that many are simply not ready for this level of transparency.”

“The challenge this presents for companies is that many are simply not ready for this level of transparency.”

4. Loss of employer bargaining power

Pay transparency will bring a more standardized structure – ultimately eliminating a crucial negotiation point in the job offer and acceptance dance. And leverage usually rests with the employer since they’re the ones with the money – if you don’t accept their offer, they can bring in the next candidate who will agree to that arrangement.

Then again, there’s leverage on the side of employees as well. They can point to the market’s standards for similar roles to their own – and employers will have to adapt accordingly.

Another nuanced drawback is pointed out by Harvard Business Review: pay compression.

In other words, when performance-laden incentives (and base pay, in general) are made public, a common denominator is determined. That often leads to lower compensation across the board.

This isn’t theory. HBR described a study where when the government of California made city managers’ pay transparent in 2010, average compensation actually dropped by about 7% in 2012.

Pay transparency best practices

So, do you want to implement pay transparency in your business? If yes, then there are clear best practices. Here are a few to get you started:

1. Define your goals

Start with clear objectives. Do you want to address pay gaps? Improve employee confidence in compensation? Attract and retain top talent? Defining your goals helps tailor your approach.

2. Consider the scope

Will you disclose individual salaries, ranges for specific roles, or a combination? Align this with your goals and organizational culture.

3. Establish clear guidelines and policies

Be clear about what information will be disclosed, how, and to whom. Ensure it complies with relevant laws and regulations.

4. Define fair comparisons

Outline factors used to determine pay, such as experience, qualifications, and performance, to avoid confusion and potential inequities.

5. Communicate the policy effectively

Explain the rationale, goals, and expectations to employees clearly and transparently through multiple channels.

6. Address employee concerns proactively

Anticipate questions and concerns. Prepare for how you’ll address worries about unfairness, competition, or potential discrimination.

7. Offer training and support

Equip managers and employees with resources to understand the policy, answer questions, and navigate discussions constructively.

8. Establish open communication channels

Create safe spaces for employees to voice concerns and seek clarification without fear of retaliation.

9. Implement gradually

Start with a pilot program. Implement transparency in a smaller department or group first to test its effectiveness and address any initial challenges that come up.

10. Gather feedback and iterate

Conduct surveys, focus groups, and discussions to gauge employee sentiment and refine your approach based on their feedback.

11. Monitor and evaluate

Track key metrics like employee satisfaction, turnover, and recruitment success to assess the impact of transparency and make adjustments as needed.

Pay transparency: decide what’s right for you

The debate on pay transparency remains nuanced, with potential benefits and drawbacks to consider. While the ZipJob study highlights employee openness to discussing salaries and the desire for higher pay as a motivator for job changes, concerns about competition, demotivation, and implementation challenges persist.

Careful implementation, addressing employee concerns, and clear communication are crucial for success in pay transparency in your organization.

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How to implement talent mapping in your organization https://resources.workable.com/tutorial/talent-mapping Wed, 07 Feb 2024 17:21:15 +0000 https://resources.workable.com/?p=93199 This article delves into the essence of talent mapping, its strategic benefits, and a practical guide for implementation, aiming to equip HR professionals with the knowledge to execute this powerful strategy. Given the fact that, according to PwC, only 40% of employees said their company is upskilling, there is room for improvement in terms of […]

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This article delves into the essence of talent mapping, its strategic benefits, and a practical guide for implementation, aiming to equip HR professionals with the knowledge to execute this powerful