The Connector: Edition 154
Nov 4th, 2026 | The Connector
AI Use Is Rising but the Benefits Are Uneven
Nearly two-thirds of employees now use AI at work, but access to training, tools and opportunities remains uneven. PwC found that a small group of AI-enabled employees is moving ahead while much of the core workforce feels less prepared and supported. For leaders, successful AI adoption will require more than providing technology, it will mean redesigning work, building skills and ensuring employees at every level can benefit.
Explore PwC’s Global Workforce Hopes and Fears Survey
TOC's 2026 Executive Summit
We are ONE week away from our 2026 Executive Summit.
Join us on Thursday, November 12, at Union League Liberty Hill for a day of timely insights and valuable connections with fellow business leaders. Our speakers will explore the economic outlook, the future of management and how leaders can move beyond chasing AI to begin leading with it.
Here’s a look at the conversations ahead:
Anirban Basu: Economic Outlook
Peter Cappelli: Redefining Management
Patrick Laughlin: Stop Chasing AI. Start Leading With It
Eric Keiles: Leveraging The Six Key Components of Your Business
Plus, panel discussions from Duane Morris LLP and Conner Strong & Buckelew exploring the challenges facing today’s leaders.
Step away from the day-to-day and make time for the conversations that can move your business forward.
We're proud to be partnering with our Happy Hour Sponsor, Birch Benefits, Platinum Sponsors, Conner Strong & Buckelew, Duane Morris LLP, EOS Worldwide, and ProCFO Partners, Gold Sponsor, M&T Bank, Silver Sponsors, ProLiant and 20/20 Benefits Consulting, as well as our Bronze Sponsor, CAC.
Tickets are $295. Reserve your seat today and join us for a day designed to inform, connect and inspire.
Hiring Shows Signs of Life, but Caution Remains
Job postings are beginning to trend upward, with 68% of occupational sectors reporting more postings than one year ago. Engineering, healthcare and manufacturing are showing particular strength, while new postings and hiring activity remain subdued. The latest data suggests the labor market is improving gradually, but employers are continuing to hire selectively and prioritize critical skills.
Read the October U.S. Labor Market Snapshot from Indeed Hiring Lab
HR After Dark: Episode 31- 5 HR Horror Stories Every Business Owner Should Fear
Some HR horror stories start quietly and become costly before leaders realize something is wrong.
In this episode, Marcia Zaruba O'Connor and Meghan Popoleo uncover five risks that could be haunting your workplace:
💠Outdated employee handbooks
💠Missing or inconsistent documentation
💠Ignored workplace complaints
💠Compliance blind spots
💠Toxic workplace cultures
Through real-world examples and practical strategies, they explore how to recognize the warning signs and address issues before they become workplace nightmares.
Whether you’re a business owner, HR professional, or people leader, this Halloween episode offers plenty of reasons to take a closer look at what’s lurking in your organization.
The U.S. Economy Accelerated in the Third Quarter
The U.S. economy grew at an annual rate of 3.4% during the third quarter, up from 2.2% in the previous quarter. Increased business investment, consumer spending and government spending helped drive the expansion. While the latest estimate signals continued economic resilience, leaders should continue watching inflation, borrowing costs and shifting consumer demand as they plan for 2027.
View the latest GDP update from the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis
Let's Get Local
Art & Community at Historic Yellow Springs 🎨
Explore local arts this November! Historic Yellow Springs is offering a free Veterans Art Day wheel-throwing workshop for active service members. Learn more and register.
The Yellow Springs Ceramics National, running November 6–December 13, features artwork to admire and purchase, with free admission. Visit weekdays, 10 AM–4 PM, or weekends, noon–4 PM. Opening festivities on November 6 include a free lecture at 6 PM and a reception from 7–9 PM.
📍 Lincoln Building, 1685 Art School Road, Historic Yellow Springs
Explore the exhibition
Wellness Wednesday
Take a Five-Minute Reset
When your day feels nonstop, a short pause can make a meaningful difference. Step away from your screen, stretch, take a few slow breaths or walk outside for five minutes. Brief mental breaks can help reduce stress, restore focus and give you a little more energy for whatever comes next.
Consider adding one five-minute reset to your calendar today, your mind and body will thank you.