The Connector: Edition 120
Jun 18th, 2025 | The Connector
At The O'Connor Group, fostering team engagement is not just a goal, it's a cornerstone of our culture. This past month, we embarked on an invigorating journey together with our Step into Summer Challenge, a dynamic initiative designed to keep us active and connected.
Every day, our dedicated teams diligently tracked their steps and converted various exercises into points, fueling a friendly competition that has energized our entire organization. As the challenge draws to a close today, anticipation is in the air. We are thrilled to soon reveal which team has triumphed, showcasing their commitment to health, wellness, and camaraderie.
Stay tuned for the exciting announcement!
1. Unlock Your Inner Athlete: Train Your Mind for Peak Professional Performance
Adopt an athlete’s mindset for career success by visualizing goals, tracking progress, and using affirmations to overcome mental barriers. Boost energy and creativity by incorporating physical activity, taking strategic breaks, and adopting energy-boosting habits. Embrace professional cross-training by stepping outside your comfort zone, trying new things daily, and organizing your workspace for growth. Read the full article here!
2. Survey Reveals Nearly 70% of Companies Are Now Using AI at Work
A recent survey by OwlLabs and Pulse reveals that nearly 67% of companies are using AI for work-related tasks. Of the 1,000 full-time knowledge workers surveyed, 46% reported heavy or moderate reliance on AI, with most using it for administrative tasks like scheduling (35%), data analysis (33%), and content creation (30%).
Additionally, 24% of workers said their employers are providing strong support, including tools, training, and clear guidelines for AI use. Read the full article here!
3. Shadow Her- Virtual Resource Session
Shadow Her is offering a virtual resource session on July 16, 2025 with speaker, Dr. Kimble Green, Founder of Cataylist Enterprises Worldwide LLC.
Dr. Kimble Green will address the topic, Rewiring Your Brain for Success: The science and strategies for moving forward with conviction. Learn more and register here!
4. Eliminating degree requirements
Udemy is championing skills-based hiring by emphasizing online courses in data science, IT, and leadership to help workers develop crucial skills. According to Fascenda, this shift began last year when her team prioritized 300 open roles by removing degree requirements from most positions. The transition wasn’t without challenges; Udemy’s engineering leaders initially struggled to envision hiring without traditional qualifications.
To address these concerns, Fascenda's team posed questions like, “What does that degree signify?” and “Which specific skills are essential for the role, and how can we assess candidates based on those skills rather than formal education?” Read the full article here.
5. HR After Dark Episode 18: Wellness Integration in the Workplace
In this episode of HR After Dark, Marcia O'Connor and Meghan Popoleo are joined by Colleen Bertrand, a Wellness Professional, Collaborative Consultant, and Facilitator who helps leaders better engage their employees and create the conditions for sustainable effectiveness and innovation.
They discuss how purposeful meetings, especially in-person ones, help build a strong team culture and foster sustainable effectiveness and innovation. The conversation delves into the role of integration in workplace practices, strategies to prevent burnout at all levels, and the ways disconnection can manifest within teams. Watch the episode here!
Rooted: The Power of Listening
Colleen is hosting a one-day retreat on Saturday, July 12, 2025 that is designed to help you explore how listening- as a mindset and as a practice- can ground, build connection, and strengthen our capacity to navigate change. Learn more about the retreat here!
6. Let's Get Local...
Attention, all coffee enthusiasts! Are you on the hunt for the perfect brew to kickstart your day or a cozy spot to savor your favorite cup of joe? Look no further! Here is an exclusive list of 15 must-visit coffee havens in the vibrant Philadelphia area. Each location offers a unique blend of flavors and atmospheres, ensuring that every sip is an experience to remember. Whether you're a fan of bold espressos, creamy lattes, or exotic blends, this guide will lead you to the finest caffeine fixes the city has to offer. Get ready to embark on a delightful coffee journey that will awaken your senses and elevate your coffee game to new heights! Learn more here!
7. Wednesday Wellness Tips...
As we eagerly anticipate the arrival of the first day of summer this Friday, it's the perfect time to embrace the warmth and sunshine that the season brings. However, amidst the excitement, it's crucial to prioritize the well-being of yourself and your loved ones by taking proactive steps to safeguard against the sun's powerful rays.
Whether you're planning a day at the beach, a picnic in the park, or simply enjoying the outdoors, remember to equip yourself with the essentials for sun protection. From applying a broad-spectrum sunscreen to wearing protective clothing and seeking shade during peak hours, these simple yet effective measures can ensure that your summer is not only enjoyable but also safe.
Let's make this summer a season of health and happiness for everyone! Learn more here!
The summer solstice is right around the corner! Did you know that it officially starts this Friday, June 20, at 10:42 PM. It's a great reminder that, as we reach this midpoint of the year, just like the sun reaches its peak, it's the perfect time to assess your progress and realign your goals for the second half of 2025. You can do it!