The Connector: Edition 111
Jan 29th, 2025 | The Connector
Fly, Eagles, Fly! The excitement is electric as the Philadelphia Eagles are heading to the Super Bowl, and The O’Connor Group team couldn’t be prouder to cheer them on!
Just like the Eagles, we know the value of teamwork, strategy, and determination in achieving big wins. As we rally behind our Birds, this edition of The Connector is all about celebrating success, building momentum, and connecting with our amazing community.
Stay tuned for updates, insights, and some special Super Bowl spirit as we gear up for the big game—Go Birds!
1. Shaping Employee Experience in 2025
HR leaders face growing challenges in 2025, with just 23% of employees globally and 33% in the U.S. feeling engaged, according to Gallup. The Qualtrics 2025 Employee Experience Trends Report reveals employees seek stability and less chaos as they navigate rapid change and rising productivity demands.
Younger workers remain optimistic but need clear boundaries, input opportunities, and innovation support to thrive. AI adoption adds complexity, with employees citing insufficient training and ethical guidelines. Experts stress that prioritizing trust, flexibility, and streamlined processes will improve engagement while enhancing critical touchpoints like onboarding and application processes.
By addressing these needs, HR leaders can build a more supportive, engaged workforce. Read the full article here.
2. What is your AI persona?
At TOC, we’re embracing the future of HR and recruiting with the launch of our very own AI Taskforce! This initiative is dedicated to exploring how AI can enhance our services and help us better serve our clients, from streamlining processes to driving innovation.
But what about you? Have you ever wondered what your AI persona might look like?
Take this fun AI Persona Quiz to find out which AI personality best aligns with your approach to work, leadership, and collaboration! Take the quiz here!
3. The Importance of an AI Use Policy in the Workplace
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is revolutionizing workplaces, unlocking new levels of productivity, efficiency, and smarter decision-making. But with great opportunities come significant responsibilities. That’s why creating a clear and comprehensive AI Use Policy is more important than ever.
In our latest Hire Wire blog, “The Importance of an AI Use Policy in the Workplace,” TOC’s Human Resources Manager, Caitlin Cocchi, SPHR, SHRM-SCP, explains that an AI Use Policy isn’t just a list of rules—it’s a framework designed to empower your team to innovate responsibly while positioning your organization as a leader in AI-driven success. 🌟
Has your company started crafting its AI Use Policy? Let’s connect to explore how TOC can help! Read the full blog here!
4. HR After Dark Episode 11: Onboarding Best Practices
In this episode of HR After Dark, Marcia O'Connor and Meghan Popoleo dive into the best onboarding practices. Onboarding is the first impression you make and the tone you set with your new team members. What does your process look like?
Marcia and Meghan explore how effective onboarding sets the tone for employee success. From pre-boarding tips to long-term engagement strategies, they share actionable insights to help you boost retention, productivity, and culture alignment. Listen here!
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.
Take a look at a few of our opportunities:
1. Product Management Coordinator – Norristown
6. Let's Get Local...
Save the date for the Women's Resource Center's Breakthrough Breakfast! Celebrating 50 years of Empowering Women and Building Brighter Futures!
The Breakthrough Breakfast will be held on Friday, May 2, 2025, at the Philadelphia Country Club in Gladwyne, PA. Supporting women in the greater Philadelphia area, this breakfast event helps raise money for the Women’s Resource Center efforts throughout the year.
Our very own, Marcia Zaruba O’Connor will be featured in a fireside chat. Network with peers and enjoy breakfast all while giving to this incredible cause. Check out all of the sponsorship opportunities here!
7. Wednesday Wellness Tips...
Spread Kindness at Work: Building a Positive Workplace Culture
In today's fast-paced work environments, kindness can often be overlooked. Yet, small acts of kindness have the power to transform workplace culture, boosting morale and productivity. Whether it's offering a word of encouragement, lending a helping hand, or simply listening actively, every act of kindness contributes to a more supportive and inclusive workplace.
Research consistently shows that kindness at work not only enhances employee well-being but also improves team collaboration and customer satisfaction. By fostering a culture where kindness is celebrated, organizations can create a more resilient and happier workforce.
Let's make kindness a cornerstone of our workplace interactions. Together, we can create a workplace where everyone feels valued and supported. Learn more here!