Women's History Month (March) is a powerful opportunity for workplaces to honor women's contributions, foster inclusion, and drive meaningful conversations around equity and empowerment. This year's official theme from the National Women's History Alliance is “Leading the Change: Women Shaping a Sustainable Future.” It celebrates women leading efforts in environmental, economic, educational, and social justice sustainability — addressing challenges like climate change, inequa

Employee Appreciation Day falls on Friday, March 6, 2026 — the first Friday in March each year. This dedicated observance is a perfect reminder for organizations to pause, reflect, and genuinely thank employees for their hard work, dedication, and contributions throughout the year. While appreciation should be ongoing, this day offers a focused opportunity to boost morale, strengthen culture, and reinforce belonging — especially amid ongoing challenges like hybrid work, burno

As we mark Black History Month in February 2026, organizations have a powerful opportunity to deepen DEI efforts and foster genuine learning. This year’s official theme from the Association for the Study of African American Life and History (ASALH) — A Century of Black History Commemorations — celebrates 100 years since Carter G. Woodson launched Negro History Week in 1926, which evolved into the month-long observance we know today. It invites reflection on how commemorations

With Super Bowl LX happening on February 8, 2026, many employees prefer to keep their evenings free for family, rest, or personal plans. The good news? You can still harness the excitement of the event for employee engagement without requiring anyone to watch the game. A short Lunch & Learn, afternoon break session, or themed potluck offers the perfect low-pressure way to build team spirit, encourage inclusion, and tie in professional development. These formats respect divers

In an era where artificial intelligence is reshaping the workplace, the spotlight is shifting from routine tasks to uniquely human capabilities. At McPherson Berry, we recognize that what were once called "soft skills" are now rebranded as "power skills" — essential competencies like emotional intelligence and creativity that AI can't replicate. These skills empower HR professionals to lead strategic initiatives, foster innovation, and build resilient teams. As we navigate 20

In the rapidly evolving landscape of 2026, artificial intelligence is no longer a futuristic concept — it's a core driver of business transformation across industries. This blog post outlines key considerations for companies and organizations, including critical questions to ask at each stage, to ensure your AI initiatives deliver real value without unintended pitfalls. 1. Defining Your AI Vision and Objectives Start by establishing a clear vision for AI's role in your organi

Several significant employment law changes take effect this month, requiring immediate action for compliance. Minimum Wage Increases: Many states are raising minimum wages on January 1, with rates reaching or exceeding $15/hour in places like Arizona, Colorado, Hawaii, Maine, Missouri, and Nebraska. California's statewide minimum rises to $16.90/hour. As of January 2026, 19 states have increased their minimum wage effective January 1, 2026. These increases are typically tied

As we step into 2026, the human resources landscape continues to evolve at a rapid pace, driven by technological advancements, shifting workforce expectations, and a complex global environment. At McPherson|Berry, we specialize in helping organizations navigate these changes to build resilient, high-performing teams. Drawing from insights across industry experts, this blog post explores the top HR trends for 2026 that every leader should prioritize. Whether you're focusing on