The Connector: Edition 106
Oct 24th, 2024 | The Connector

Earlier this month, we gathered our amazing team for a Comfort Food Crockpot Lunch! Our crockpots were brimming with delicious soups, chili, macaroni and cheese, and savory dips, making everyone happy! There's nothing like good food to bring our team together, and our Crockpot lunches are perfect for that. A huge thank you to everyone who joined in the fun! This photo was taken before we indulged because afterward, we practically had to roll ourselves out of the office!
1. Employer health benefits costs soar in 2025
A recent Mercer report forecasts a significant 5.8% increase in healthcare benefit costs for employers in 2025, marking the third consecutive year of record-high rises. This is notably higher than the average 3% annual increase seen from 2012 to 2022. HR leaders are responding by raising employee contributions and adjusting benefits, balancing the need to offer affordable healthcare while managing rising costs. As organizations face this ongoing challenge, strategic cost management will be key to supporting both employee wellness and the company’s financial health. Read the full article here!
2. Elevate Your Hiring Strategy with a Talent Acquisition Assessment
Is your recruitment process attracting the best talent, or leaving positions vacant and candidates frustrated? With the job market tightening—unemployment is at a low of 4.1%—it’s more critical than ever to have an efficient, standout hiring process. A strong recruitment strategy not only fills roles quickly but also reduces costly turnover by ensuring the right hire from the start.
The O'Connor Group’s Talent Acquisition Assessment helps businesses of all sizes optimize their recruiting processes. By evaluating your talent team, systems, and candidate experience, we provide customized recommendations to elevate your strategy and set you apart from the competition. Let us help you build a winning recruitment process that supports your organization’s growth! Read the full blog here!
3. Make the most out of a small team
Jeff Bezos famously said, "If you can't feed a team with two pizzas, it's too large." While larger teams have their benefits, small teams offer agility, flexibility, and personal ownership. Small teams can achieve remarkable results with the right support.
The key is a coach approach to leadership. By empowering team members through active listening, curiosity, and problem-solving, leaders can unlock their team's full potential and drive success. Read the full article here!
4. HR After Dark Episode 7: Fractional HR
In this episode of HR After Dark, Marcia O'Connor and Meghan Popoleo break down the rising trend of fractional HR. They explore how companies can access high-level HR expertise without the need for a full-time hire.
Learn what fractional HR is, who benefits from it, and why it’s a game changer for startups, mid-sized companies, and growing businesses alike. From its flexibility to its cost-effectiveness, tune in to discover how fractional HR can offer tailored, strategic support on your terms!
Discover how The O'Connor Group's Fractional HR Services can transform your business today!
5. TOC Client Opportunities
We know that finding a meaningful and rewarding job can be a long journey. Our goal is to make that process as easy as possible for you and to create a satisfying work environment - one that you'll look forward to coming to every day. Explore our client opportunities here!
Take a look at a few of our opportunities:
1. Chief Financial Office –Sweet Street - Reading, PA.
2. Part Time Office Manager – Barsz Gowie Amon and Fultz - Berwyn, PA.
3. Human Resoures Manager – Hybrid - Bethlehem, PA.
6. Let's Get Local...
Whether by foot or by car, check out the 34 best spots for fall foilage in Greater Philadelphia. Visit Philadelphia shares iconic sites, leisurely strolls, and hikes and trails that will take your breath away!
7. Wednesday Wellness Tips...
We’re all about Halloween vibes here at TOC! Our recent Crockpot Luncheon got us in the mood for some tasty fall treats. We couldn’t settle on just one favorite fall recipe, so why not explore a few? Check out this list from EatingWell featuring soups, entrees, desserts, and even cocktails! Enjoy!