Despite stereotypes about cost and lack of flexibility, research shows midlifers excel in critical skills like leadership, problem-solving and communication. They also demonstrate strong loyalty, with a higher likelihood of staying with employers compared to younger colleagues. Employers are encouraged to leverage models such as "silver internships" to benefit from their expertise while fostering a multigenerational workforce. Full Story: Observer (7/4)
Recruiting & Retention
How to boost retention amid ongoing turnover Employee turnover remains a significant challenge despite a decline in resignation rates since the Great Resignation, according to PwC research. Companies can improve retention by actively listening to employees through frequent feedback, redefining success with people-centric performance indicators and learning from frontline employees, writes Gaelle Devins of The Alliance. Full Story: Fast Company (tiered subscription model) (7/3)
Strategies for Clever Workforce Onboarding Achieve hiring excellence beyond the offer. This SmartPulse on Employee Hiring offers fresh perspectives on onboarding's role in retention success. Learn why "You're hired!" is just the start. Download the SmartPulse »
Do you have the right benefits package to draw talent? Employee benefits are crucial for attracting and retaining talent, enhancing employee satisfaction, productivity and profitability. Companies can improve their benefits packages by offering unlimited paid time off, flexible hours, wellness programs and tuition reimbursement. Communicating these benefits effectively and focusing on long-term support, such as retirement planning and parental leave, can set a company apart from competitors. Full Story: Training magazine (7/7)
Benefits & Compensation
Health policy changes won't take effect until 2026 The newly signed tax and spending bill includes close to $1 trillion in Medicaid cuts and other changes in health policy, but most of the effects will be delayed until after the 2026 midterm elections. Medicaid work requirements and eligibility checks will begin in late 2026, but enhanced premium subsidies for Affordable Care Act enrollees will expire in early 2026, potentially raising premiums by more than 75%. Full Story: Axios (7/6)
The HR Leader
Gen Z anxiety over layoffs intensifies Gen Z workers are increasingly concerned about potential layoffs, with 64% fearing job loss in the next year, according to a report from Allianz Life. While the labor market remains stable, with low unemployment and increasing job growth, younger workers feel vulnerable, especially in industries such as tech and media, which have seen significant job cuts. Full Story: Newsweek (tiered subscription model) (7/6)
SmartBreak: Question of the Day
When JFK was in office, he was the quarterback of the "nuclear football," a case with the plans for launching nuclear warheads. The term "football" may have originated from which newspaper?
