Managing Perception: What People See Isn’t Always What You Mean

dark field but can see color when looked through glasses

In today’s fast-paced work environment, perception isn’t just about image; it’s about how others interpret your actions, tone, and presence. Whether you’re interviewing for a role or managing a team, how you’re perceived can make or break the outcome. The good news? If you’re intentional, you have more influence over perception than you might think.…

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How to Build an Onboarding Experience That Actually Works

team

Effective onboarding plays a critical role in employee retention, engagement, and productivity. According to a study for Glassdoor by the Brandon Hal Group, companies with structured onboarding processes experience 82% better new hire retention and over 70% higher productivity. A thoughtful onboarding experience helps new hires feel valued, supported, and equipped to succeed. Here are…

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Luck Favors the Brave (and the Well-Informed)

You might recall from my New Years musings that, while the January Magic 8-ball was still pretty uncommitted as we rolled into 2025, things were trending up… CPI and employment numbers were looking good, new grads were getting more interviews, and one could be forgiven if he or she put some money on this employment…

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Giving Back: How Businesses Can Build Lasting Volunteer Partnerships

pic of High Country volunteering

Volunteering goes beyond just writing a check. It’s about building long-term relationships with organizations in your community that need support, whether through time, resources, or financial contributions. Companies that engage in regular community service see a boost in their company culture, higher employee engagement, and deeper connections with their communities. As the volunteer coordinator at…

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Beyond Salary – What Job Seekers and Employers Should Consider in Compensation Packages

employee benefits picture

When negotiating job offers, salary is often the first (and sometimes only) number people focus on. But compensation is about more than just a paycheck. A well-rounded compensation package can make or break job satisfaction, retention, and overall career growth. So, what truly matters when evaluating compensation? And how can job seekers and employers maximize…

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Hybrid Work Success: Best Practices for Productivity

picture showing remote and in-office settings

As hybrid work becomes the new norm, it is essential for employers and employees to work together to establish best practices for both remote and in-office settings. Striking the right balance can be challenging, but building and maintaining clear expectations from the start will help build strong relationships, cultivate trust, and enable productivity to thrive.…

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New Year, Fresh Insights

All of a sudden, CPI is good, employment numbers are good, and new grads are getting interviews. High Country billings have stair stepped up over the past four months, and job orders are picking up dramatically. As much as we were hurt a little bit in 2024, maybe it’s time to embrace that this is a…

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Fresh Starts: Resolutions to Elevate Your Career in 2025

2025 goals on clipboard

It’s that time of year again… a season filled with motivation, refreshed energy, and the promise of fresh starts. While most new year resolutions are abandoned within a few weeks (or a few days), approaching yours with the right mindset and a realistic plan can turn January into the launchpad for meaningful career growth. The…

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The Importance of Performance Reviews: Reflecting on 2024 to Build a Stronger Team

As the year winds down, many managers see performance reviews as just another task to check off their list. But what if these reviews could be more than a formality? When done thoughtfully, performance reviews are powerful tools for recognizing team achievements, tackling challenges head-on, and setting a clear course for an even stronger 2025.…

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Holiday Networking: How to Make Connections that Last

desk showing it is holiday season

As the holiday season approaches, many professionals think it is time to take their foot off the gas when it comes to networking. However, if you learn to capitalize on holiday parties, volunteering events, and end of year conferences, this period offers opportunities to make lasting connections in a more relaxed, enjoyable setting. Whether you’re…

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