The Connector: Edition 102

As summer comes to a close and the school year begins, we find ourselves adjusting to busier roads and the return of routine. While we’ll miss the summer season, we're eagerly anticipating a significant milestone—TOC's 17th anniversary on September 1!

To commemorate this occasion, we'll be celebrating during our annual SPIRIT Week starting on September 9, with each day featuring a unique theme. Stay tuned for updates as we share our festivities!

1. The latest on the FTC's noncompete ban

Lexology shares Federal Judge Ada Brown recently overturned the FTC's sweeping noncompetition agreement ban, deeming it 'arbitrary and capricious.' This decision halts the Rule nationwide, relieving employers of imminent compliance pressures. However, uncertainty looms as the FTC may appeal or revise its approach. Learn what employers should do to review current practices with restrictive covenants and the five steps to take now. Read the full article here !

2. 59% of vacationers checked in at work?while away from the office

How do you effectively manage the expectations of your team when it comes to feeling guilty about taking PTO or checking in while on PTO?

LinkedIn’s latest Workforce Confidence survey found that over half (59%) of employees who reported taking a vacation this past summer still checked in at work while still on PTO. Additionally, over a third (35%) of employees said they felt guilty about taking time off in the first place. Read the full article here !

3. A better way to get ahead

Ambitious workers often receive plenty of advice early in their careers about how to advance. A popular suggestion is to be the first to arrive and the last to leave the office, signaling to your boss that you're dedicated to the job.

Instead of simply clocking extra hours to appear diligent, there are more effective ways to demonstrate your enthusiasm for your job and your desire to grow.

“Build relationships, seek out a mentor, and engage with your team,” advises Haller. “Observe how successful colleagues operate, learn from them, and seek their guidance.” Read the full article here !

4. Keep your HR leaders from exodus

According to an Aug. 20 report by Blu Ivy Group, around 57% of CHROs and 75% of people leaders are contemplating leaving their roles within the next 8-12 months, posing a significant risk to business continuity and growth.

The report warns that substantial HR attrition could destabilize organizations by eroding institutional knowledge, reducing productivity, and weakening company culture.

HRDIVE shares how business leaders should focus on building a strategic partnership with HR leaders, investing in employee feedback, creating strong leadership value propositions, and dedicating resources to work-life balance initiatives in 2025. Read the full article here !

5. HR After Dark Episode 5: The Interview Gap

On this episode of HR After Dark, Marcia Zaruba O'Connor and Meghan Popoleo (Sherry) welcome guest, Anna Papalia , CEO & Author of Interviewology . Anna shares her passion for discovering interview styles and why she left her corporate job to teach and write her book Interviewology . Are you a Charmer, Challenger, Examiner, or Harmonizer? Whether you are a hiring manager or a job seeker, this episode will break down the importance of your interview style and profile. Listen here !

6. Let's Get Local...

The Greater Knead provides delicious, safe, and convenient food options for individuals with food allergies, sensitivities, and intolerances.

Michelle Carfagno’s passion for baking began at 8 years old. After spending most of her free time in college baking for others she knew that creating recipes and sharing them with others was her passion.

In 2012, after her sister and grandfather were diagnosed with Celiac Disease, Michelle saw how much they struggled to find safe food.? She knew other families were suffering like hers, so she set out on a mission to change that and decided to turn her hobby into a business. Learn more about The Greater Knead here !

7. Weekly Wellness Tips...

Here are some things to think about when summer is ending, and we are getting back into the swing of school:

• Diet – A healthy diet plays a HUGE role in boosting the immune system. It’s tough with the little picky eaters, but trying to get some colorful fruits and veggies in is helpful!
• Physical Activity – Get in a family walk, or a family dance party to get moving!?
• Adequate Sleep – Getting back into a good bedtime routine will help tremendously!
• Stay Hydrated – Hopefully, everyone has been doing this with how hot this summer has been, but pay extra attention to your hydration and getting good fluids in your body throughout the day.?