March 2025 Newsletter

Resilient like spring!

March 3, 2025

Hello, and welcome to the month that can feel like the longest one on the calendar – at least for those of us [raises hand] who are impatient for spring to arrive. Nature will not be rushed, however in the workplace, change is coming at us at breakneck speed. Here’s what we’re seeing and anticipating right now.

Demographics are at an inflection point, as the youngest baby boomers are set to retire in the next 5 years. In fact, we expect that 2025 will see a record number of retirements, depleting organizations of expertise and skills developed over the course of full careers. Unless organizations prioritize succession planning, knowledge sharing across all levels of teams, and providing opportunities for junior employees to learn from more senior ones, the upward trend in retirements could be a major area of human resources risk.

The age of AI is also having a critical impact on businesses – whether we’re ready for it or not. Many leaders I’ve talked to are optimistic about the potential for AI to enhance productivity, reduce rote tasks, and enable workers to function at their highest proficiency. But there is anxiety, too, in how to deploy AI fairly and ethically while taking a human first approach. Now is the time for leadership – and HR – to focus on AI governance efforts, while ensuring that technology enables human productivity and innovation.

We’re also seeing a shift in how companies approach engagement, prioritizing belonging and fair processes over mere representation. And in an era where loneliness is not just a mental health challenge, but a growing business risk, companies can have a positive impact on this epidemic by implementing programs that foster meaningful connections, and keep employees engaged and thriving.

These aren’t just trends – they’re opportunities to build more thoughtful, human-centered workplaces. As we step into spring (or at least start thinking about spring), the team at KMA is here to help you and your people stay strong, resilient, and ready for the future.

I’d love to hear what risks or challenges you’re seeing and contending with. How can we support you?

Cheers,

Kim Anania

PSA: Don’t forget to set your clocks ahead on Saturday, March 8^th, and enjoy that extra hour of daylight. Even at the expense of an hour of sleep, that’s a tradeoff I can embrace!

Upcoming Webinars:

Managing Employment Law Through Times of Change – March 12

With shifting regulations, polarized views on social and cultural issues, and a new administration reshaping the legal landscape, I’m pleased to invite you to register for our webinar on March 12, with Katy Rand, Partner at Pierce Atwood, and Leora Kirk from KMA. Please join us for an essential conversation on managing employment law through times of change.

Register here.

From Seed to Success: HR Strategies for Cannabis Businesses – March 19

The cannabis industry is evolving fast, and as markets mature across New England, small businesses are facing new challenges – especially when it comes to hiring and retaining employees, and staying compliant. Yet only 44% of cannabis companies report having an HR function.

If you’re navigating these growing pains, join the conversation with Jill Osborn, KMA Recruiting Consultant, who brings more than 10 years of experience in cannabis-specific recruiting and HR. We’ll discuss how outsourced HR can be a true partnership, helping you build strong hiring practices, reduce turnover, and ensure your policies support your long-term success.

Register here