“Peanut butter raises” are making a comeback in 2026, but are they helping or hurting employee motivation?

In this HR Chat, Rob and Jason discuss why more employers are moving toward standardized raises instead of performance-based increases, along with the impact these compensation strategies can have on morale, retention, and top performers.

Contact hr@employco.com to discuss compensation planning, employee retention strategies, or other HR support needs.

Schedule a 15-minute call with Griffen Wilson for more information on our services.

COBRA just turned 40, so happy birthday to one of the most overlooked (until it’s urgent) compliance requirements employers deal with. In this HR Chat, Rob and Jason discuss when COBRA applies, employer size thresholds, required benefits coverage, premium calculations, federal vs. state mini-COBRA differences, and common compliance pitfalls.

COBRA compliance can be easy to overlook, but the consequences can be costly if handled incorrectly. Contact hr@employco.com to discuss COBRA administration, benefits compliance, or other HR support needs.

Schedule a 15-minute call with Griffen Wilson for more information on our services.

In this HR Chat, Rob and Jason discuss the growing issue of employee burnout and why it goes beyond just long hours. They explore common causes like lack of engagement, limited growth opportunities, job insecurity, and feeling undervalued, along with how employers can help by creating more meaningful and engaging work experiences.

Contact hr@employco.com to discuss employee engagement strategies, retention challenges, or other HR support needs.

Schedule a 15-minute call with Griffen Wilson for more information on our services.

In this HR Chat, Rob and Jason discuss an unusual payroll situation employers may face in 2026 — the possibility of 27 pay periods for organizations running biweekly payroll schedules. They explain why this occurs based on the calendar, how it can affect employee pay and salary calculations, and what employers should consider when planning payroll adjustments.

Contact hr@employco.com to discuss payroll planning, compliance questions, or other HR support needs.

Schedule a 15-minute call with Griffen Wilson for more information on our services.

In this HR Chat, Rob and Jason break down recent labor market trends affecting entry-level hiring and what employers should be paying attention to right now. They cover what’s behind the changing outlook for recent graduates, how this is showing up in recruiting efforts, and what organizations can do to stay competitive in a tighter talent market.

Contact hr@employco.com to discuss hiring strategies and workforce planning.

Schedule a 15-minute call with Griffen Wilson for more information on our services.