Kent Burns Blog

  • March 1, 2024

    Gone are the days when employee wellness programs were seen as mere perks. Today, they stand at the forefront of strategic business planning, debunking the myth that they're just about making employees feel good. Prioritizing the well-being of your workforce isn't just a nod to corporate social responsibility—it's a critical lever for enhancing performance and [...]

  • February 22, 2024

    Our work arrangements are more diverse than ever: approximately 12.7% of us are fully remote, embracing the freedom and flexibility that comes with working from home.

  • February 15, 2024

    Let's dive deep and debunk some myths about employee retention strategies, particularly the evolving role of compensation in the art of keeping your best players on board. The business landscape is shifting beneath our feet, and with it, the very fabric of what motivates our workforce is transforming. The focus? A decisive pivot from the almighty dollar to a more nuanced blend of time off and non-monetary incentives. This isn't just about keeping up with the Joneses; it's about redefining what it means to be truly competitive in the talent market.

  • February 8, 2024

    Let's cut to the chase: the game of employee compensation is undergoing a radical transformation, and it's time we faced the music. Gone are the days when a hefty bonus was the be-all and end-all of employee rewards. Enter the era of valuing time off – a paradigm shift that demands our attention.

  • February 1, 2024

    The shift to hybrid work models has revolutionized the modern workplace, presenting both opportunities and challenges in team dynamics. Hybrid work affects collaboration, communication, and productivity, and offers opportunities for leaders to foster cohesive and effective teams in this new setting.

  • January 25, 2024

    In an age where the infusion of artificial intelligence and technological advancements has leveled the playing field of technical skills, the focus in hiring practices is shifting.

  • January 18, 2024

    The traditional model of equal pay for all has long been a cornerstone of organizational salary structures. But is this approach still relevant in today's dynamic and highly competitive market? This post delves into the concept of compensating top performers at a higher level, challenging the traditional norms and highlighting why this strategy makes business sense.

  • December 21, 2023

    A paradigm shift is needed in the hiring process. It's time to move from a transactional to a relational approach in hiring. The traditional view of hiring as merely filling a position or completing a task is outdated and overlooks the human element that is crucial to a thriving workplace.

  • December 14, 2023

    In the bustling corridors of corporate leadership, there's a silent epidemic that's often overlooked: the scarcity of questions. Yes, you read that right. Leaders, renowned for their vision and decisiveness, are falling short in a simple yet pivotal area – asking questions. It’s a crucial facet of leadership that, when neglected, can stifle innovation, hinder understanding, and create a disconnect with teams.

  • December 7, 2023

    Think diversity in the workplace is just a nice-to-have? Think again. It's a must-have. In the competitive business landscape, inclusive hiring isn't just about ticking boxes for corporate social responsibility – it's a strategic powerhouse driving business success.

  • November 30, 2023

    It's high time we acknowledge that these worn-out tactics might just be the culprits behind missing out on exceptional talent. It's not just about finding someone who checks all the boxes; it's about uncovering those hidden gems, the kind of talent that can propel a company to new heights.

  • November 23, 2023

    Performance reviews have become a staple. They are often seen as a critical time for reflection and assessment of an employee's contributions over the year.

  • November 16, 2023

    'A-Players' are the high-performers, the ones who not only excel in their roles but also propel the company forward. But how significant is their impact compared to the rest of the team? Understanding this distinction is crucial for any organization striving for excellence.

  • November 9, 2023

    Navigating the complex world of business leadership requires continuous learning, and one of the best sources of wisdom is often found between the pages of a well-written book.

  • November 4, 2023

    In the busy world of hiring, we often focus on the "what" and the "how." But there's a crucial question we sometimes overlook: "Why?"

  • October 26, 2023

    In the rush to streamline and automate, many have lost sight of the fact that at the heart of every application is a person, eager and hopeful to forge a connection and find a place where they can contribute and grow. Don't lose out on an exceptional candidate.

  • October 19, 2023

    The absence of face-to-face interactions can erode the sense of community and teamwork, cornerstones for any successful career. Without these meaningful connections, opportunities for collaboration, mentorship, or promotion might become scarcer.

  • October 12, 2023

    Every organization, whether a fledgling startup or a Fortune 500 giant, aspires to have its ranks filled with these high-caliber professionals. Yet, the irony is palpable. While everyone desires an A-Player, many companies consistently fall short in securing them.

  • September 25, 2023

    For some companies, internal equity is stopping them from making a change and improving their team. 

  • August 4, 2020

    How are you enjoying living behind the mask?  Life has turned into a big masquerade party, hasn’t it?  At first it was…strange.  Now it’s been normalized.  It’s added a new dimension to people watching.  Some have chosen to use masks as yet another opportunity to make a fashion statement.  It’s changed communication and interpersonal dynamics.  [...]