• Upcoming updates to Pittsburgh’s Paid Sick Days Act will change how employers handle sick leave, payroll, and compliance. Businesses should review policies and train managers now to avoid costly mistakes. Continue reading to learn how these changes could impact your operations.

    The Pittsburgh Paid Sick Days Act (PSDA) requires most employers to provide paid sick leave to employees who perform work within the city. This law is designed to help employees care for their own health and the health of their families without risking their income. Beginning January 1, 2026, amendments will increase the rate at which employees earn paid sick time and raise the maximum amount of leave that can be accrued each year. Because these changes affect how employers track time, update policies, and manage payroll, it is important for businesses to understand what the act requires and how it impacts daily operations. 

    Key Requirements of the PSDA 

    Under the PSDA, employees must be allowed to accrue one hour of paid sick time for every 30 hours worked within Pittsburgh city limits. The amount of leave that can be earned each year depends on the employer’s size. Businesses with 15 or more employees must allow workers to accrue up to 72 hours of paid sick leave per year, while employers with 14 or fewer employees must provide up to 48 hours annually.  

    Employees can use paid sick time for their own medical needs, for a family member’s medical care, for preventive medical appointments, or to care for a child if school or childcare closes during a public health emergency. Sick time can also be carried over to the next year if the employer uses an accrual system. Employers who front-load the full required amount at the beginning of the year may follow separate carryover rules. 

    Implications for Employers 

    These changes mean many businesses will need to review their current paid time off policies to ensure compliance with both the current ordinance and the updates that take effect in 2026. Employers may need to adjust their payroll systems to calculate the new accrual rate and to track employees who work only part of their time within the city. It may also be necessary to modify employee handbooks, train managers on when sick leave can be used, and ensure that sick time is not denied or discouraged.  

    Businesses that operate across multiple municipalities may face additional challenges if different locations follow different sick leave laws, making clear policy language especially important. Noncompliance can lead to formal complaints, investigations, and potential penalties administered by the City of Pittsburgh. 

    Posting and Reporting Requirements 

    Employers must provide employees with clear written notice of their rights under the Pittsburgh PSDA. This notice must be posted in a visible location at the workplace and communicated to employees in a way that explains how sick time is earned, what it can be used for, and how to request it.  

    Employers are also required to document sick time accrual and usage to ensure accurate reporting if a complaint is filed. The City of Pittsburgh provides an online complaint process for employees who believe their rights have been violated, which makes proper documentation especially important for employers. 

    How GMS Can Help 

    Staying compliant with local labor laws can be complex, especially as legislation evolves. Group Management Services (GMS) helps employers manage compliance through human resources (HR) support, policy development, payroll administration, and risk management services. We can review your current sick leave policies, update your handbook language, configure payroll to track accruals, and provide accurate training for managers. Our compliance experts are here to ensure your business is prepared for changes to the Pittsburgh Paid Sick Days Act and other regulations affecting your workplace. With the right support, employers can protect their business, meet legal requirements, and provide meaningful benefits to their employees. 

    If you need support reviewing your policies or ensuring full compliance with PSDA, contact GMS today!  

  • In 2026, employee handbooks must evolve to keep businesses compliant and competitive. This guide highlights key updates across artificial intelligence (AI) usage policies and remote work standards, data privacy, social media rules, and wage law changes. Learn how to refresh your handbook to protect your company, support employees, and stay ahead of legal requirements. 

    A modern employee handbook should protect your business, support your employees, and comply with current legal requirements. As work environments and employment laws evolve, your policies must keep pace. Here are the top areas to update for 2026. 

    Update Workplace Policies and Conduct Standards 

    Artificial Intelligence and Automated Tools 

    Create clear guidelines for how AI can be used at work. Define approved tools, tasks, and who is responsible for oversight. If AI supports hiring, performance reviews, or disciplinary decisions, ensure there is a human to review and mitigate bias. 

    Remote and Hybrid Work 

    Formalize expectations around work hours, communication, security, and equipment. Clarify who is responsible for technology, how it should be maintained, and how employees must protect company data while working from home. 

    Social Media 

    Protect your company brand without restricting employee rights. Social media policies should not prevent employees from discussing pay or working conditions, which may be protected under labor laws. 

    Data Privacy and Cybersecurity 

    Update acceptable use, device management, and data handling expectations. Include password requirements, remote access rules, and incident reporting procedures that reflect current cybersecurity standards. 

    Anti-Harassment and Inclusion 

    Ensure policies follow current legal guidance and outline a simple, accessible reporting process. Reinforce your commitment to fair treatment and equal opportunity for all employees. 

    Review Legal and Compliance Requirements 

    Wage and Hour Laws 

    Update policies to reflect changes to overtime rules, exempt classifications, tip regulations, and minimum wage increases at the federal, state, or local levels. Pay transparency laws may also impact how you communicate compensation to current and potential employees. 

    Required Notices 

    Some jurisdictions now require standalone employee notices related to rights, safety, harassment reporting, or leave benefits. Ensure your handbook references these requirements, and that employees receive them separately when needed. 

    State and Local Rules 

    Paid sick leave, family leave, scheduling rules, privacy laws, and protected classes vary by state. If you operate in multiple locations, your handbook must outline state-specific differences or reference separate state supplements. 

    Noncompete and Training Repayment Policies 

    Restrictions on noncompete clauses and repayment agreements for training continue to grow at the state level. Review these policies carefully to avoid terms that are unenforceable or prohibited. 

    Update Benefits and Compensation Information 

    Paid Time Off 

    Clarify accrual rules, carryover limits, usage procedures, and payout terms. Ensure your handbook reflects any new state or local leave laws that expand employees’ rights. 

    New or Updated Benefits 

    If your organization offers telehealth benefits, student loan assistance, dependent care accounts, or other emerging benefit options, include them clearly in the handbook. Outline eligibility, enrollment, and deadlines. 

    Tip and Service Charge Policies 

    For businesses with tipped workers, document tip pooling rules, recordkeeping expectations, and wage make-up procedures. These must align with current state and federal laws. 

    Strengthen Cybersecurity and Privacy Expectations 

    As remote work grows and data risks increase, employees must understand how to protect company information. Update policies to address encryption requirements, personal device rules, storage limitations, and response steps in the event of a breach. 

    Why These Updates Matter and How GMS Can Help 

    A well-written handbook protects your organization, supports compliance, and gives employees confidence that policies are fair and transparent. Keeping it updated is essential, especially as new laws and workplace trends emerge. 

    For many employers, tracking rule changes, updating policies, and ensuring the language is legally accurate can feel overwhelming. Each year brings new regulations around leave laws, pay transparency, noncompetes, privacy, AI use, and workplace conduct. It is a lot to manage while also running a business. 

    That is where Group Management Services (GMS) comes in. We make human resources (HR) compliance easier by reviewing and refreshing your handbook, building policies that meet legal requirements, and tailoring them to your company culture. As your HR outsourcing partner, we support you with multi-state regulations, benefits updates, employee relations guidance, and training so you do not have to navigate compliance alone. 

    Contact us to explore how you can save time, avoid costly mistakes, and stay compliant with confidence. 

  • The janitorial industry keeps businesses, schools, and facilities running smoothly behind the scenes. Yet despite its importance, many cleaning companies face complex challenges that make it difficult to grow. From high employee turnover to rising compliance demands, owners often find themselves spending more time managing administrative headaches than managing their teams. That’s where partnering with a professional employer organization (PEO) like Group Management Services (GMS) can make all the difference. 

    The Challenges Janitorial Companies Face 

    High Turnover and Workforce Management 

    Employee retention remains one of the biggest struggles for janitorial businesses. With turnover rates exceeding 75 percent annually, owners are constantly recruiting, training, and replacing staff. This not only disrupts operations but also drives up costs and impacts service quality.

    Compliance and Safety Risks

    Janitorial businesses operate in environments with unique safety requirements and strict regulations. From chemical handling to Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) standards, staying compliant is critical but time-consuming. Many owners lack the in-house human resources (HR) or safety expertise to manage these complex requirements effectively. 

    Administrative Burden 

    Between managing payroll, taxes, workers’ compensation, and employee benefits, small and midsize cleaning companies often find themselves overwhelmed by administrative work. As a business grows, so does the need for HR support, yet building that team internally can be costly and inefficient. 

    How GMS Can Support 

    GMS partners with janitorial companies to simplify operations, reduce risk, and strengthen workforce management so owners can focus on growing their business. 

    Streamlined HR and Payroll 

    GMS handles payroll processing, tax administration, and benefits management. This eliminates hours of manual work each week and helps ensure compliance with state and federal labor laws. 

    Safety and Risk Management 

    Our risk management experts help develop safety programs, provide on-site training, and assist with claims management. These proactive measures protect employees while reducing the likelihood of costly workplace injuries and insurance claims. 

    Better Benefits and Employee Retention 

    Through a PEO partnership, janitorial companies gain access to large-group employee benefits that are often out of reach for smaller businesses. Offering better benefits helps attract and retain dependable workers, which improves consistency and service quality across job sites. 

    Compliance Support 

    From wage and hour regulations to employee documentation and training, GMS ensures that businesses stay compliant and protected. With a dedicated HR partner, janitorial owners can operate with confidence knowing their business is backed by expertise and structure. 

    The Impact of Partnering with a PEO 

    When janitorial business owners partner with a PEO, they gain more than administrative support; they gain time and control. With GMS managing the behind-the-scenes operations, owners can focus on client relationships, employee engagement, and strategic growth. They can scale more efficiently, maintain compliance, and build a workplace where employees feel valued and supported. 

    Learn how GMS can address your janitorial business’s unique needs and schedule a 15-minute conversation

  • The Michigan Earned Sick Time Act (ESTA) expands employee sick leave rights, replacing the Paid Medical Leave Act. Under ESTA, nearly all Michigan workers accrue one hour of sick time for every 30 hours worked, with up to 72 hours available annually. Learn how ESTA impacts employers, compliance requirements, and best practices for managing sick leave policies.

    Michigan’s Earned Sick Time Act (ESTA) is now fully in effect, replacing the former Paid Medical Leave Act and expanding sick leave rights for nearly all Michigan employees. Under ESTA, workers accrue one hour of sick time for every 30 hours worked. Employees may use up to 72 hours per year, with larger employers providing all 72 hours as paid leave. Small employers with nine or fewer employees must offer 40 paid hours and may designate the remaining 32 hours as unpaid. 

    Sick time may be used for an employee’s personal medical needs or those of a family member, for preventive care and routine appointments, for school or workplace closures related to public health emergencies, for issues related to domestic violence or sexual assault, and for school meetings concerning a child’s health or disability. Employees must provide notice as soon as possible for unplanned absences or up to seven days in advance for foreseeable ones.

    Employers may request reasonable documentation for absences lasting three or more consecutive days and are responsible for any associated costs. ESTA also prohibits retaliation, and any adverse action taken within ninety days of an employee using or requesting leave may be presumed retaliatory. While unused hours can carry over without limit, employees are still limited to using no more than 72 hours per year. 

    Implications for Employers 

    The enactment of ESTA has brought operational changes for Michigan businesses. Most notably, coverage now extends to almost every employer with at least one employee. This requires companies to re-evaluate whether their current paid time off (PTO) or sick leave policies meet ESTA standards, especially regarding accrual, eligibility, and permitted uses. 

    Employers must ensure their payroll and human resources (HR) systems can track accruals at a 1-to-30 ratio, manage unlimited rollover, and correctly distinguish between paid and unpaid sick time depending on employer size. Policies and handbooks may require updates, and managers must be trained to apply the new rules consistently to avoid compliance issues and potential retaliation claims. 

    Businesses also face greater administrative responsibility. They must maintain accurate records of hours worked, leave earned, and leave used for at least three years, and ensure managers understand how to respond to leave requests, documentation needs, and notice requirements. 

    Reporting Requirements 

    While ESTA does not require businesses to file routine usage reports with the state, it does establish several important administrative obligations. Employers must: 

    1. Display the official ESTA employee rights poster in a visible location. 
    1. Provide written notice to employees about their sick leave rights and how leave is accrued and used. 
    1. Maintain three years of records documenting hours worked, sick time earned, and sick time used. 
    1. Ensure records are accessible for inspection by the Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity. 

    Employers with pre-existing contracts signed before December 31, 2024, that provide less leave than ESTA requires must notify the department, provided the contract falls within the law’s criteria. 

    Advice for Employers 

    Now that ESTA is fully in effect, the best step employers can take is to review their leave policies, assess their payroll and HR systems, and ensure processes align with the law’s requirements. Consistency is crucial; businesses should train staff on how to handle leave requests, employee communication, documentation, and potential retaliation risks. Employers should also confirm that their existing PTO bank, if they use a combined system, meets or exceeds ESTA’s minimum requirements. 

    Many Michigan businesses are finding that partnering with a professional employer organization (PEO) like Group Management Services (GMS) offers significant value in navigating these changes. Our experts stay on top of Michigan labor regulations, manage the complexity of accrual tracking and recordkeeping, and support employers through employee-related issues. This allows small and midsize business owners to focus on running their companies while entrusting critical HR responsibilities to a reliable partner. 

    If you need support reviewing your policies or ensuring full compliance with ESTA, contact GMS today

  • As the year comes to a close, business owners are setting their sights on growth in 2026. Whether your goals include expanding your team, increasing revenue, or improving efficiency, success starts with having the right foundation in place. Many small and midsize businesses find themselves stretched thin trying to manage daily operations while also planning for growth. That is where partnering with a professional employer organization (PEO) can make all the difference. 

    A PEO provides a comprehensive suite of human resources (HR) services, including payroll processingbenefits administration, and compliance expertise, that growing businesses need to scale with confidence. With the right partnership, your business can enter the new year fully equipped to handle the challenges and opportunities that come with growth. 

    Why Scaling Matters in 2026 

    As your company expands, so does the need for structured HR systems, reliable payroll processing, strong benefits offerings, and ongoing compliance with ever-changing employment laws. Many small businesses try to build these capabilities internally, but that often diverts time and resources away from what fuels innovation, customer relationships, and sales. 

    By working with a PEO, you can put the right systems in place without sacrificing focus on your core mission. A PEO acts as your strategic partner, giving your business access to enterprise-level HR support and technology without the overhead of building a full in-house team. This allows your company to grow more efficiently and sustainably. 

    The Proven Value of a PEO Partnership 

    Research from the National Association of Professional Employer Organizations (NAPEO) highlights the measurable impact of partnering with a PEO. Businesses that work with a PEO grow twice as fast as those that do not. They also experience 12 percent lower employee turnover and are 50 percent less likely to go out of business. These statistics show that co-employment is more than just a convenience, it is a strategic advantage for long-term growth and stability. 

    When experts handle your HR and administrative functions, you can devote more time to leading your team, improving your services, and pursuing new business opportunities. The result is a stronger organization that is built to adapt and scale. 

    Simplify Your Back Office to Focus on Growth 

    At Group Management Services (GMS), we understand that the key to sustainable growth lies in simplifying your back office. Our PEO solutions are designed to take on the administrative burdens that slow you down. We handle payroll processing, tax filing, benefits administration, and HR compliance, allowing you to focus on expansion. 

    Our HR software gives you clear visibility into your workforce, making it easier to manage performance, track costs, and make informed decisions. We also provide dedicated HR and compliance support to help you stay ahead of changing laws and regulations. With GMS as your partner, you can spend less time on paperwork and more time building your business. 

    Prepare for a Successful 2026 

    To succeed in the new year, start building a strong foundation for growth today. Take time to evaluate your current processes and determine where administrative work is holding you back. Consider how a PEO partnership can help you regain that time and focus on growth. 

    With GMS, you can simplify operations and accelerate your path to success. We are here to provide the support and guidance you need to grow confidently in 2026 and beyond. Click here and get custom pricing that fits your needs! 

  • What is a Human Capital Management (HCM) System? 

    A HCM system is an integrated suite of tools that helps organizations manage their workforce more efficiently. It combines core human resources (HR) functions such as payroll, benefits administration, time tracking, and compliance management with strategic tools for talent acquisition and performance management. By centralizing employee data and automating processes, an HCM system enables businesses to make data-driven decisions and focus on growth. 

    However, as technology and workplace needs evolve, many businesses still depend on outdated HR systems that can’t keep up. While these older systems may appear to “get the job done,” the truth is that they cost much more than most business owners realize. 

    The Hidden Financial Costs 

    Increased labor and error expenses 

    Older systems often require heavy manual input, from data entry to reporting. This not only consumes valuable staff time but also increases the likelihood of mistakes in payroll, benefits, or compliance reporting. These errors can be expensive to correct and create inefficiencies that add up quickly. 

    Compliance penalties 

    Regulations on data privacy, wages, and employee classification constantly evolve. Outdated systems may not adapt to new laws, risking fines or audits. Non-compliance with regulations such as the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA), the Affordable Care Act (ACA), or data protection standards can lead to costly penalties.

    Maintenance costs 

    Outdated HR systems often rely on on-premises hardware or outdated software licenses that need ongoing maintenance, power, and information technology (IT) support. These hidden costs can exceed the cost of a modern, cloud-based solution, especially when considering downtime or lost productivity due to system failures. 

    Operational Setbacks 

    Lost productivity 

    Manual processes slow everything down, from onboarding new hires to approving time-off requests. Employees and HR teams waste hours navigating interfaces, searching for information, or entering data across disconnected systems.  

    Limited insights and poor decision-making 

    When HR, payroll, and benefits data are kept in different systems, analyzing workforce trends and making strategic decisions become challenging. Without access to real-time workforce metrics, leaders may rely on outdated or incomplete information, increasing the risk of poor decision-making. 

    Cybersecurity risks 

    Older HR systems often lack advanced security features and encryption, making them more vulnerable to breaches or ransomware attacks that could expose sensitive employee information. These incidents can be costly for businesses both financially and in terms of reputation. 

    Talent and Culture Impacts 

    Damaged employer brand 

    An outdated HR system impacts internal operations and candidate perception. Long applications, old portals, and slow responses frustrate candidates, who may then prefer more modern, tech-savvy organizations. 

    Lower employee engagement and retention 

    When employees experience repeated frustration with HR systems, such as requesting time off, accessing pay stubs, or enrolling in benefits, it can cause dissatisfaction and increased turnover. The modern workforce expects digital tools that simplify their experience rather than complicate it. 

    Weakened talent strategy 

    Without automation, analytics, or mobile features, businesses miss chances to engage, develop, and retain talent. Outdated technology hinders performance tracking, career development, and recognition, all of which are essential for creating a strong, competitive workforce. 

    Preparing for the Future with GMS 

    As businesses plan for 2026 and beyond, modernizing HR technology is crucial. The right system saves time, reduces risk, and lets teams focus on strategic growth instead of manual tasks. 

    GMS Connect, our all-in-one HR platform, provides business owners with the tools they need to confidently manage their workforce. Featuring payroll, benefits administration, HR compliance, and performance management, all integrated into one secure platform. GMS Connect eliminates the inefficiencies and risks associated with outdated systems. 

    Partnering with Group Management Services (GMS) gives you access to modern technology, expert HR support, and a system built to grow with your business. The expense of maintaining an outdated HR system is high, but the benefits of upgrading with GMS are even greater. Request a demo of GMS Connect today!  

  • As we head into 2026, small businesses continue to navigate a competitive hiring landscape. Talent is in high demand, and larger companies often have the resources to offer higher salaries, more benefits, and stronger name recognition. But that doesn’t mean small businesses are at a disadvantage.  

    With the right strategy, small businesses can stand out, attract top candidates, and create workplaces where employees want to stay. Understanding hiring trends, offering a strong employee experience, and partnering with a professional employer organization (PEO) like Group Management Services (GMS) can make all the difference. 

    Understanding the 2026 Talent Landscape 

    Hiring in 2026 continues to evolve as employees want more flexibility, meaningful work, and better benefits. Several trends are influencing how candidates choose employers. 

    1. Artificial intelligence (AI) is increasingly used for sourcing, screening, and onboarding, making hiring faster and more data-driven. 
      1. Skills-based hiring is replacing traditional degree requirements as employers prioritize proven abilities and adaptability. 
      1. Candidates are finding jobs through social media, professional networks, and personal recommendations instead of just job boards. 
      1. Employer reputation and employee experience are major factors in how candidates compare job offers. 
      1. Remote and hybrid work options are widely expected, and talent competition is no longer limited by location. 

      For small businesses, this means the playing field is larger and more competitive. To stand out, you need more than a job description. You need a clear mission, flexible work options, and benefits that make employees feel valued. 

      How Small Businesses Can Compete 

      Create a strong employee value proposition 

      Candidates want to know what makes your business a meaningful place to work. Highlight opportunities for growth, impactful work, supportive leadership, and flexible work-life balance. A clear and genuine message helps candidates connect with your company on a personal level. 

      Use flexibility as an advantage 

      Small businesses can often make decisions faster than larger organizations. Offer hybrid schedules when possible, encourage employee contributions, and give them room to grow into new responsibilities. This freedom is something many employees seek but may not find at larger corporations. 

      Improve benefits and growth opportunities 

      Even with limited budgets, employees still expect solid health care plans, retirement options, mental health support, and learning opportunities. Providing mentorship, training, and clear career paths shows employees that your business invests in their future. 

      Strengthen hiring and retention systems 

      Professional recruiting practices matter. Use applicant-tracking tools, streamline your interview process, respond quickly to candidates, and ensure new hires feel welcome from day one. A positive candidate and employee experience helps reduce turnover and builds a strong reputation. 

      The Role of a PEO in Competing for Talent 

      A PEO gives small businesses the power to offer the benefits and human resources (HR) support usually reserved for large companies. Here is how a PEO helps: 

      Access to high-quality benefits 

      A PEO groups many small businesses together, allowing them to offer health insurance, retirement plans, life and disability coverage, and employee perks at competitive rates. This helps smaller employers present benefit packages that impress candidates.

      Less administrative pressure  

      Payroll tax filing, workers’ compensation, benefits administration, and HR compliance take time away from business growth and hiring efforts. A PEO handles those responsibilities so owners and managers can focus on strengthening their workplace and building strong teams. 

      Support for recruiting and HR technology 

      Many PEOs offer tools for posting jobs, tracking applicants, and managing onboarding. This gives small businesses a more professional and streamlined hiring process and improved access to qualified candidates. 

      Confidence to grow and scale 

      When compliance benefits and HR systems are handled by a PEO, owners can hire faster, expand into new locations, and confidently take on new opportunities. Ambitious employees are more likely to join a company that is ready to grow. 

      How GMS Helps Businesses Win Top Talent 

      Small businesses do not need to fall behind in the competition for talent. By embracing new hiring trends, being intentional about company culture, and partnering with a PEO like GMS, small businesses can offer strong benefits, meaningful work, and long-term growth.  

      Ready to elevate your hiring strategy and attract top talent in 2026? Contact us today

    1. Keeping employees safe isn’t a one-time initiative. It’s an ongoing responsibility that evolves with the seasons. From icy sidewalks in winter to heat exposure in summer, every time of year brings unique workplace hazards and compliance deadlines to manage. 

      For business owners, staying ahead of these risks while handling daily operations can be challenging. That’s where Group Management Services (GMS) comes in. As a professional employer organization (PEO), we help protect your team and your business throughout the year with proactive safety programs, Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) compliance support, and continuous employee training. Our goal is to make sure your company remains safe, compliant, and productive, no matter the season. 

      Safety Risks Change Every Season 

      Each season presents its own safety challenges, and staying compliant requires awareness and preparation. 

      Spring: As operations ramp up and new projects begin, many businesses bring on seasonal or temporary workers. GMS provides safety onboarding programs and tailored training to ensure every new team member understands workplace procedures and hazard awareness. 

      Summer: Rising temperatures increase the risk of heat-related illnesses and outdoor work hazards. GMS provides heat safety training, risk assessments, and guidance to help you comply with OSHA’s Heat Illness Prevention standards. We also help manage travel safety protocols during this busy season. 

      Fall: This is the perfect time for safety audits and preparation for the winter months ahead. GMS helps conduct risk assessments, update your safety policies, and schedule refresher trainings to ensure your workplace remains safe as conditions change. 

      Winter: Cold weather often leads to slippery surfaces, increasing the risk of slips, trips, and falls. Businesses must also ensure OSHA recordkeeping requirements are filed by March 2. GMS helps you prevent injuries through seasonal safety plans, walkway maintenance strategies, and compliance management. 

      With GMS’ support, your business stays proactive instead of reactive. We help you prevent accidents, stay compliant with safety regulations, and protect your employees year-round. 

      Comprehensive Risk Management and Compliance Support 

      Managing safety is more than avoiding accidents. It’s about maintaining compliance and reducing liability exposure. GMS provides expert support to help your business stay current with changing federal, state, and industry-specific regulations. 

      Our services include: 

      1. Workplace safety program development. We create and implement custom safety programs designed for your industry’s unique risks. 
      1. Employee safety training. We provide on-site and virtual training sessions covering topics such as hazard communication, emergency procedures, and equipment safety. 
      1. OSHA compliance and reporting. Our team tracks deadlines and ensures your workplace meets all regulatory standards. 
      1. Risk assessments and loss control. We identify potential hazards and provide recommendations to prevent injuries and improve safety culture. 
      1. Workers’ compensation administration. GMS manages claims, supports investigations, and offers options to improve cash flow and reduce surprises during audits. 

      When you partner with GMS, you gain access to a team of experienced underwriters, loss control specialists, and claims managers who are dedicated to protecting your people and your business. 

      A Safer Workplace Builds a Stronger Team 

      Workplace safety not only prevents injuries but also promotes trust, morale, and retention. When employees know their well-being is a top priority, they feel more confident and engaged. 

      GMS helps foster a positive culture by implementing programs that prioritize employee safety. Our proactive approach reduces workplace injuries and creates a better environment for everyone on your team. Whether you’re managing office staff, field employees, or both, GMS gives you the tools and resources to keep your team safe, healthy, and motivated in every season. 

      Partner with GMS to Simplify Compliance 

      From OSHA deadlines to seasonal safety risks, there’s a lot to keep track of. You don’t have to do it alone. Let GMS handle the complexities of workplace safety so you can focus on growing your business and supporting your team. 

      Contact GMS today and keep your workplace safe, compliant, and protected all year long. 

    2. Running a small business requires managing multiple responsibilities simultaneously. Beyond sales, operations, and customer service, small business owners often find themselves acting as the human resources (HR) department as well. While it may not be your primary focus, understanding core HR principles can make a significant difference in how effectively your business attracts, manages, and retains talent. 

      The following HR skills are essential for establishing a strong foundation and fostering a positive workplace culture as your business expands. 

      Effective Communication 

      Clear and consistent communication is essential for successful leadership. Whether you’re writing job descriptions, explaining policies, conducting performance reviews, or addressing workplace concerns, it’s important to communicate with transparency and respect. Strong communication builds trust and aligns everyone across your organization. 

      Talent Acquisition and Hiring 

      Recruiting and selecting the right employees is one of the most vital HR functions. A deliberate hiring process ensures that new team members not only have the necessary skills but also align with your company’s mission and values. Implementing structured hiring practices helps reduce turnover and foster a strong, dependable team. 

      Onboarding and Offboarding 

      The employee experience begins and ends with HR processes. A well-designed onboarding program helps new hires feel welcomed, informed, and confident in their roles, which boosts engagement and productivity. Similarly, professional and compliant offboarding practices protect your company’s reputation and provide valuable insights through exit interviews and the collection of feedback. 

      Legal Compliance and Payroll Accuracy 

      Compliance is one of the most complex areas of HR. Small business owners must stay informed about labor laws, wage regulations, benefits administration, and tax reporting. Mistakes in payroll or compliance can lead to costly penalties and employee dissatisfaction. Establishing reliable systems and keeping policies up to date are essential for managing these risks. 

      Conflict Resolution and Employee Relations 

      Workplace conflict is inevitable, but how it is managed determines its effect on team morale and productivity. Developing skills in mediation and problem-solving helps you address issues objectively and steer employees toward fair and effective outcomes. Staying professional and empathetic during these situations builds trust and maintains a positive workplace environment. 

      Process Management and Organization 

      Effective HR management relies on consistent processes and organization. From tracking employee records and certifications to maintaining performance review schedules, structured systems ensure accuracy and efficiency. Establishing clear workflows and documentation supports compliance and helps your HR operations grow as your business expands. 

      Employee Engagement and Wellbeing 

      Your employees are your most valuable asset. Supporting their physical, mental, and emotional well-being is crucial for maintaining motivation and reducing turnover. Developing programs that promote wellness, recognition, and career growth demonstrates that your organization values its people, leading to increased engagement and retention. 

      Emotional Intelligence and Leadership 

      Emotional intelligence is an essential skill for any leader. The ability to understand and respond to the needs and emotions of others helps foster a respectful and supportive workplace culture. Showing empathy and fairness builds credibility and encourages open communication among employees. 

      Partnering with GMS for HR Outsourcing 

      Managing all of these HR responsibilities while also running a business can be overwhelming. Staying compliant, maintaining accurate payroll, managing employee relations, and keeping up with new regulations require time, expertise, and attention to detail.

      Group Management Services (GMS) offers a comprehensive HR back office solution for your business. We handle the administrative and compliance burdens associated with HR management, allowing you to focus on growing your business. Our team ensures your job descriptions are compliant, onboarding programs are seamless, and employee management systems are efficient and effective. 

      With GMS, you gain the expertise of an experienced HR team without the expense of building one in-house. We help you remain compliant, manage your employees, and maintain a healthy workplace culture, allowing you to concentrate on driving your business forward. 

    3. As the year comes to a close, many business owners and managers are preparing for year-end performance reviews, one of the most important and sometimes most dreaded tasks on the human resources (HR) calendar. 

      When done right, performance reviews can do more than assess past results. They can boost engagement, strengthen company culture, and set the tone for growth in the year ahead. But when they’re rushed or unclear, they can leave employees disengaged and managers frustrated. 

      Continue reading to learn how to make your year-end performance reviews more efficient and impactful for both your team and your business. 

      1. Start With Clear Goals  

      Before you begin the review process, revisit the goals and expectations you set at the beginning of the year. Were they measurable? Realistic? Still aligned with your company’s priorities? 

      Managers should assess both individual and organizational performance to ensure reviews focus on results, development, and contribution to the company’s mission. 

      If you haven’t documented goals throughout the year, now is the time to establish a more structured approach for next year. Setting clear, trackable objectives from the start makes year-end evaluations far more effective. 

      2. Gather Data Throughout the Year 

      Effective reviews rely on evidence, not memory. Pull together data from across the year, such as project outcomes, client feedback, attendance, sales metrics, and peer input. 

      Encourage managers to consistently track performance, rather than waiting until the end of the year. Whether it’s through weekly check-ins, one-on-one meetings, or monthly touchpoints, choose what works best for your team. Doing so ensures fairness and helps identify patterns and opportunities for coaching long before the year-end meeting. 

      HR software or performance tracking tools, such as GMS Connect, can make this process far more manageable by centralizing employee data and documentation. 

      3. Focus on Two-Way Communication 

      Performance reviews shouldn’t feel like a lecture. Create space for open, two-way dialogue. Encourage employees to share their own reflections on what they’re proud of, where they’ve faced challenges, and what support they need to grow. 

      This not only builds trust but also helps managers uncover valuable insights into team dynamics, training needs, and potential leadership development. 

      Consider asking open-ended questions such as: 

      1. What accomplishments are you most proud of this year? 
      2. What obstacles stood in your way? 
      3. What skills or projects do you want to explore next year? 

      4. Balance Accountability  

      Recognizing achievements while addressing areas for improvement is key to a meaningful performance review. Feedback should be framed as an opportunity for growth, not as criticism. 

      For example, instead of saying, “You didn’t meet deadlines,” try, “Let’s explore what caused delays and how we can set you up for success next quarter.” 

      The key to a strong review is balancing accountability for results with support for professional development. 

      5. Set Clear Next Steps 

      Every performance review should end with actionable next steps. Define goals for the coming year, identify any training needs, and clarify how success will be measured. 

      This creates alignment between the employee’s growth and the company’s strategic objectives. It also ensures both parties leave the conversation with clarity and motivation for the following year. 

      6. Support Managers With the Right Tools  

      Even experienced managers can struggle to conduct consistent, unbiased reviews. Providing training and templates, or partnering with an HR expert, can help create a fair and standardized process across your organization. 

      Performance management is not just about once-a-year conversations. It is an ongoing commitment to employee development, engagement, and retention. 

      Simplify Year-End Reviews With GMS 

      At Group Management Services (GMS), we help business owners take the stress out of HR management, including performance reviews. Our employee performance management services provide structure and support for conducting effective evaluations, developing employees, and maintaining compliance. 

      GMS supports your performance review process from beginning to end by helping you set clear goals, monitor progress, coach employees, and maintain thorough documentation. This structured approach drives performance, enhances engagement, and ensures alignment with your company’s mission. 

      You don’t have to manage employees and compliance alone. Partner with GMS to streamline your HR operations so you can focus on growing your business with confidence.