Legal Rulings, Employee Benefits, and Retention Strategies

The Fifth District Judge in Mexico City declared ArcelorMittal's strike unlawful, emphasizing the need for legal compliance. Betterfly urges companies to adopt personalized benefits to combat widespread employee disengagement. Robert Half’s survey highlights workers’ demand for transparency in job ads, while Dayforce reveals a troubling disconnect between executives and front-line employees. McLean & Co. underscores the importance of trauma-informed HR practices for creating safer workplaces. IAC recommends enhancing retention strategies in the post-Great Resignation era. Lastly, Bath & Body Works' new benefits program sets a high bar for employee growth and satisfaction.

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Mexico

New Ruling Confirms Illegality of Strike at ArcelorMittal

The Fifth District Judge in Labor Matters in Mexico City dismissed the amparo requested by the SNTMMSRM union regarding the strike at ArcelorMittal, citing an unlawful work stoppage. ArcelorMittal clarified that, in an attempt to justify the strike, the union submitted a notice to the labor authority. However, following an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the occupation of the facilities and confirming the failure to comply with judicial rulings, the judge of the Federal Labor Tribunal of Collective Affairs in Mexico City ordered the termination of the strike proceedings. 
 

Industry Developments 

Role of Personalized Benefits in Improving Employee Engagement

Betterfly stresses that one-size-fits-all wellness solutions fail to meet employees' individual needs, causing dissatisfaction and disengagement. They advocate for personalized benefits to improve employee satisfaction and engagement, addressing the US$8.8 trillion cost of low engagement globally. Their approach includes enhancing communication between employers and employees to better address overall wellbeing.

Workers Pass on Offers Lacking Salary Range, Remote Work Options

A Robert Half survey reveals over 40% of workers lose interest in job ads that lack salary ranges or remote work options, underscoring the need for transparency and flexibility. Key deal-breakers also include poor company culture and lengthy interviews. Employers must adapt to these demands to attract top talent. The emphasis on salary transparency benefits women and people of color, while remote work options remain crucial for work-life balance. 

Disconnect Between Executives and Front-Line Workers: Dayforce

A Dayforce report highlights the disconnect between executives and front-line workers, with only 62% of the latter feeling understood despite 83% of executives believing otherwise. With 70%-80% of the workforce being non-desk-based, the report stresses the need for better managerial support to address high turnover, scheduling issues, and career development. Building strong connections between managers and front-line workers, improving training, and addressing mental health needs are crucial for enhancing performance and retention.

HR Leaders Must Be Trauma-Informed: McLean & Co.

McLean & Co. reports that HR leaders must adopt trauma-informed practices to ensure psychologically safe workplaces, which enhance productivity and reduce turnover. Psychological safety fosters motivation and retention, especially for marginalized groups. Key practices include fostering choice, building awareness, and providing support, though trauma interventions should be handled by professionals. Trauma exposure varies by industry, but neglecting these practices can harm organizational outcomes.

Navigating Turnover: HR Strategies for Retention and Growth

As labor markets stabilize post-Great Resignation, companies must focus on employee retention. IAC advises using this quieter period to enhance succession planning and value propositions. The company emphasizes evaluating employee benefits, particularly mental health and retirement savings, and fostering an environment that supports learning and growth. This approach helps retain employees and prepares for future market fluctuations.

Bath & Body Works’ Benefits Program Boosts Education, Healthcare

Bath & Body Works' new Investing in You program offers extensive employee benefits, including tuition-free education, up to $3,000 in annual reimbursement, and Daily Pay. The initiative also provides access to a full-service healthcare facility and scholarships worth US$5,000 each for further education. The program aims to boost career development and retention by supporting employees' personal and professional growth. This move sets a new benchmark for retail benefits, reflecting a broader trend of employee retention and engagement.