Performance reviews are a key tool for assessing where employees stand in regard to employer expectations, yet they can often be a rushed, unhelpful process that serves to alienate workers without providing any real insight to managers about employee performance.

With that in mind, here are some steps you can take to make the most of a rare opportunity to assess performance and foster positive change.

First, keep in mind that reviews may be a stressful time for employees, who are essentially being asked to highlight their value to the company. Note that there should be no big surprises during a review. If a manager is unhappy about an employee’s attitude or performance, the manager shouldn’t wait until review time to let the employee know. Read More

Open enrollment can be a hectic time for both employers and employees. Between budgeting and anticipating needs, both sides can become overwhelmed when choosing a benefits package that balances cost and value. Amidst the stress of research and deadlines, communication is the critical component that will help both parties reach a satisfactory conclusion.

With that in mind, here are some helpful suggestions to use employee communication to your maximum advantage: Read More

Heart disease is a concern for many Americans and is the leading killer of women in the U.S. Along with a healthy diet and exercise, those at risk of a heart attack or stroke can take another precaution to reduce their risks – a daily dose of aspirin.

According to the Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research, taking an aspirin daily can actually lower the risk of heart attack and stroke, as it interferes with the body’s blood clotting action.

As blood clots within the vessels that supply blood to your heart and brain, it can block arteries that are already narrowed due to the buildup of fatty deposits. When this occurs, blood cannot flow to the heart and brain successfully, which can lead to a heart attack or stroke. However, by taking aspirin on a regular basis, you can reduce clotting and potentially prevent a heart attack or stroke.

Is Aspirin Therapy Right for Me? Read More

The health benefits of reducing sodium in your diet

Monitoring your daily sodium intake can have major health benefits – from reducing your risk of a heart attack and stroke to lowering your blood pressure. And cutting salt from your diet doesn’t have to be extremely limiting.

Whether your blood pressure is within the healthy range or not, eating a healthy diet with low salt intake can be very beneficial to your health. The American Heart Association recommends no more than 1,500 milligrams of sodium per day. This means maintaining a balance of sodium, calcium, potassium and magnesium in your diet. A good way to reach adequate daily amounts of these minerals is to increase your consumption of fresh fruits and vegetables, low-fat dairy products and whole grains.  Read More