Cat Food

A friend of mine told me that she buys cat food at the grocery store. She buys whatever is on sale. Yes, her cat is barfy. She is not sure what to do. She asked, “What do you feed your cats?” That’s a complicated question. I have a cat who cannot tolerate grain. He loves…

Summer Travel Recommendations for All Generations

Do you want summer travel recommendations from a woman who always has a great summer? That’s me. I’ve got recommendations for you based on generational stereotypes that are bandied about in your local HR department. All travel scenarios involve a lot of laughs, decent champagne, and a good group of travel friends. If you have those, you…

Worker Protection and the Buffer Zone

Years ago, I hired chemists and engineers for Monsanto. Back in the day, Monsanto was a different company and had a diverse portfolio that included hardcore chemicals products, food additives and pharmaceuticals. And it employed many different types of workers — from hippies to lobbyists to lawyers — who honestly dreamed of saving humanity and…

A Culture of Appreciation #shrm14

I am am here at SHRM speaking at the Globoforce booth. We will be discussing ways to be smarter when it comes to employee recognition and appreciation. When it comes to recognition, HR professionals want to offer something more than emotion to CEOs. And business leaders are often reluctant to focus on recognition for myriad reasons. I am no…

Addiction, Alcoholism and HR Conferences #shrm14

Business travel, under the best of circumstances, is disorienting. You relinquish control when you travel. You can plan and prepare for diversions, but your destiny isn’t in your own hands. Someone is always pushing alcohol. Whether it’s a business dinner or a cocktail party, there is always an opportunity to have an extra beer or a…