Gallup research shows that only about three in ten employees believe their opinions count at work, signaling open-door promises aren’t creating the space intended. Open-door policies came from the right place. They were designed to signal care, openness, and trust. But intent without structure no longer works.

"Dear Ellie" is an advice column from someone "who’s been there, and done that". Navigating tough workplace dynamics? Feeling like your company’s not aligned with your values? Exhausted, overwhelmed, and in need of a fresh perspective? Ask a seasoned HR pro, Ellie.

The Latest includes a brief update on federal and state level news including what happened, the effective date, and what the changes mean for HR.

Gallup research shows that only about three in ten employees believe their opinions count at work, signaling open-door promises aren’t creating the space intended. Open-door policies came from the right place. They were designed to signal care, openness, and trust. But intent without structure no longer works.

The Latest includes a brief update on federal and state level news.

"Dear Ellie" is an advice column from someone "who’s been there, and done that". Navigating tough workplace dynamics? Feeling like your company’s not aligned with your values? Exhausted, overwhelmed, and in need of a fresh perspective? Ask a seasoned HR pro, Ellie.

Engagement does not deteriorate slowly at the beginning of the year. It declines quickly and often quietly. By the end of February, HR teams are already seeing signs of disengagement that leadership did not anticipate. The issue is not that employees resist change or lack motivation. The problem is that January does not erase their memory. Employees carry the prior year with them, and they evaluate early leadership behavior through that lens. For HR, January is not a launching season. It is a credibility audit.

The Latest includes a brief update on federal and state level news including what happened, the effective date, and what the changes mean for HR.

Leadership visibility is about being seen. Leadership accessibility is about being reachable, responsive, and clear. Many organizations have visibility buttoned up: frequent communications, leadership updates, video messages, and open forums. But visibility alone doesn’t help when teams need timely decisions, clarification, or guidance.