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State of the Contingent Worker Experience [Research Report]
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The cost of overworking teams: Balancing productivity and well-being
When business demands increase, asking employees to work harder can seem like the fastest way to keep productivity on track. Longer hours, additional shifts and heavier workloads may help organizations meet short-term goals. But consistently relying on an overextended workforce can create costs that are much harder to see. Burnout, absenteeism, turnover, safety issues and […]
Wage competitiveness + how to stay attractive in a tight labor market
When labor markets tighten, employers often hear the same advice: raise wages. Sometimes, that is exactly what is needed. But wage competitiveness is more complicated than simply offering a higher hourly rate. The workers of today are evaluating jobs based on the full experience an employer provides, from pay and scheduling to flexibility, benefits, advancement […]
Staff Management | SMX Recruiting & Wages Report
The labor market remained stable throughout the second quarter of 2026, but employers continued to adjust hiring strategies in response to slower economic growth and ongoing cost pressures. Rather than aggressively expanding headcount, many organizations focused on improving productivity, reducing turnover and filling only their highest-priority positions. Hiring hasn’t stopped. Instead, businesses have become far […]
Micro-Incentives: The secret to motivating teams in manufacturing facilities [Quick Guide]
Micro-incentives give manufacturers a practical way to recognize the right behaviors before small issues become larger workforce challenges. Facilities can build recognition into the everyday rhythm of the operation and create a workplace where employees feel motivated.
2026 recruiting trends: What’s shaping the year ahead?
If the last few years have taught us anything, it’s that the labor market can shift quickly and dramatically. Now in 2026, the recruiting landscape is being reshaped once again.
How to build an exceptional contingent worker hiring experience
If you want a skilled team, hiring the right contingent workers and providing an exceptional experience is key. Here's a detailed list of how to create such an experience.
Cost of Open Positions: the True Expenses
The cost of open positions directly correlates to the time it takes to fill vacancies; seeing impacts in both the short and long term. Here's what you need to know.
5 lesser-known skills veterans possess that are essential for success in light industrial companies
Light industrial companies require employees with specific knowledge and skills, and veterans are well-suited for these roles due to their unique experiences. Explore their lesser-known skills here!
Veteran transition programs: What they are and benefits they offer
Transitioning from military life to civilian life can be an adjustment. Veteran transition programs assist with this process, helping service members who are leaving active duty as they re-acclimate.
Staff Management | SMX Recruiting & Wages Report
This year’s economy has felt like a wild ride, full of twists, turns and plenty of uncertainty. So while the road ahead is a little foggy, there are still reasons to stay optimistic. Here is a quick Q2 2025 recap and how you can turn these takeaways into forward momentum.
Top 4 Recruiting Trends for 2025 [Infographic]
As leaders in the staffing industry, we’ve truly seen it all and we want to share that knowledge with you. Here are the top 4 emerging trends for recruitment in 2025.
Recruiting Tips: Hiring for the Future [Guide]
In the past few years, there have been drastic changes to the recruitment and hiring process. This guide offers practical strategies to streamline your recruiting process, from initial job posting to using data to inform your next move.
A Guide to Keeping Your Associates Safe on the Job [Guide]
At Staff Management | SMX, safety is a part of our daily operations and we work with each client to ensure their safety program is tailored to their operation.
5 steps to building a disability-friendly workplace
The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) was created to ensure that people with disabilities can participate in life equally. Here’s how to create a disability-friendly workplace.
4 ways employers can better support a multilingual workforce
Trying to support a multilingual workforce can be a bit more complex than supporting workers who only speak one language. Here are a few strategies that can help.