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  • As summer comes to an end, so do the seasonal hiring surges that many businesses rely on to keep up with demand. From retail and hospitality to tourism and event-based industries, the end of summer often signals a major shift in workforce demands. Employers need to adjust their staffing strategies, manage workforce transitions, and prepare for the fall and holiday seasons ahead, all while remaining compliant with employment laws. 

    Here’s what end-of-summer hiring shifts typically look like and how a professional employer organization (PEO) like Group Management Services (GMS) can support your business during this transition. 

    Reduced Seasonal Hiring 

    The back-to-school season and the end of vacation months bring a noticeable slowdown for many industries. Businesses that increased staffing during peak summer may no longer need extra workers. In response, some employers will greatly reduce or eliminate seasonal positions. Others might choose to keep top-performing seasonal workers through temporary or part-time roles, making retention strategies a smart move. A PEO can help by managing seasonal offboarding, ensuring compliance with wage and hour laws, and simplifying transitions to different types of employment. 

    Refocusing on Long-Term Staff 

    Once the seasonal rush ends, many employers turn their attention to building and strengthening their core team. This may involve recruiting for long-term roles to support upcoming seasonal operations or investing in current employees through training and upskilling initiatives. Partnering with a PEO gives you access to talent acquisition support, learning and development resources, and performance management tools that help you retain top talent and build a more stable workforce. 

    Adjusting Work Schedules 

    With reduced workloads, scheduling adjustments are common. You may need to scale back hours, shift work times, or consolidate job duties. These changes should be communicated clearly to employees and tracked accurately to avoid compliance issues with wage and hour regulations. A PEO provides workforce planning expertise and time-tracking solutions that make it easier to manage scheduling changes and compliance. 

    Potential for Layoffs 

    As demand slows, laying off seasonal employees might be necessary. However, employers must handle this process carefully. If a worker was promised a certain length of employment, early termination could carry legal risks. It’s important to understand notice requirements, severance obligations, and applicable state laws related to seasonal layoffs. With a PEO, you gain access to human resource (HR) professionals and legal experts who can guide you through these procedures while safeguarding your business from compliance issues. 

    Increased Demand in Specific Roles 

    While some positions wind down after summer, others start to ramp up. Many businesses experience increased demand in customer service, sales, shipping, and logistics as fall promotions and holiday preparations begin. Proactive hiring in these areas is crucial to make sure your business is prepared for the busy season ahead. GMS can support your efforts by helping you identify staffing needs, create effective job postings, manage onboarding, and ensure new hires are properly classified and receive the training they need to succeed. 

    Transitioning Seasonal Employees 

    If you have standout seasonal employees, this is a great time to consider offering them a more permanent role. Providing training and development opportunities helps these workers grow into new positions and boosts retention. It is also a smart way to fill open roles with individuals who already understand your company culture and operations. Our HR experts can help design clear pathways for seasonal-to-permanent transitions and handle onboarding tasks to ensure a smooth and compliant process.

    Legal Considerations During Transitions 

    Employment law doesn’t take a break, and end-of-season transitions can create legal challenges. From classification issues and wage compliance to benefits eligibility and layoff notices, it’s important to stay informed about changing regulations. Mistakes can result in penalties or harm employee relationships. GMS helps ensure your business stays compliant with all relevant laws, including federal, state, and local regulations. We keep your policies current and offer guidance to help you confidently handle complex employment situations.

    Partner with GMS for a Seamless Transition 

    As hiring needs evolve with the seasons, it’s important to have a trusted partner that can help you manage workforce changes smoothly and legally. GMS offers comprehensive HR outsourcing services designed to take the pressure off your internal team so you can focus on running your business. 

    We’ll help you: 

    • Onboard and offboard seasonal staff with proper classification, documentation, and legal compliance 
    • Provide expert HR guidance on scheduling, workforce planning, layoffs, and role transitions 
    • Support recruitment through job postings, applicant tracking, and hiring best practices 
    • Adjust payroll to reflect staffing changes and avoid costly errors 
    • Offer training tools to upskill employees ahead of the holiday season 
    • Enhance retention by offering competitive benefits  

    Let’s simplify your staffing strategy! Contact GMS today to learn how our HR solutions can support your business through every season. 

  • Creating a safe work environment isn’t just about limiting accidents or reducing workers’ compensation rates; it’s about protecting your workforce, your reputation, and your bottom line. Workplace accidents can lead to lost productivity, compliance issues, and decreased employee morale. Fortunately, with the right risk management strategies and safety policies, many injuries and accidents can be prevented. Continue reading to learn about a variety of risk management strategies that can help reduce accident and injury rates. 

    1. Conduct a job site inspection

    The first step to cultivating a safer work environment is to carefully inspect and review your current workplace for potential hazards and identify high-risk areas. It may be beneficial to make a list of the hazards you’ve found, and then you can begin identifying potential solutions to eliminate them. Common hazards include unguarded machinery, chemicals, improper lifting techniques, proximity to flammable materials, lack of personal safety equipment or gear, and more. If you’re unsure about how to identify a safety hazard or implement measures to reduce those risks, there are third-party companies, like Group Management Services (GMS), that can assist with jobsite inspections and hazard identification.  

    2. Develop clear safety policies

    Another way to prevent potential accidents or injuries is by developing clear safety policies. These can include mandating employees to wear protective equipment on a specific machine, requiring eye protection, and providing continuous education and training on certain processes or machines. Create and maintain a written safety program that outlines workplace procedures, responsibilities, and expectations. It’s also important to communicate the details of your safety program to employees, ensure these policies are easy to understand and accessible, and keep your workforce up to date with any changes that are made. 

    3. Provide ongoing training

    Safety training shouldn’t be a one-time program or presentation. Training should be a continuous and conscious effort, especially for companies working in high-risk environments such as construction or manufacturing. Business owners should ensure their employees are trained and knowledgeable about the equipment they use, the processes they follow, and common hazards to watch out for. Offering regular sessions on topics like equipment use, emergency procedures, and hazard recognition is a great way to start. It is also best practice to tailor training to specific roles and update it as new risks or regulations emerge. 

    4. Use personal protective equipment

    Preparation is a proactive approach to ensuring a safe and healthy workplace. Business owners should ensure employees have access to essential personal protective equipment (PPE) items such as gloves, goggles, helmets, masks, and vests. These items aren’t just recommended, they’re often required, especially in high-risk industries like construction. But no matter what company or industry you operate in, wearing PPE adds an extra layer of protection and is an effective way to reduce risks and potential injuries from a workplace hazard.

    5. Work with safety experts

    To effectively build a safe and compliant workplace, consider working with risk management professionals who can provide on-site consulting, safety audits, and customized prevention plans. Additionally, a third party can assist with job training, carry out job hazard analyses, provide inspection support, and offer compliance support. Their expertise will help you identify potential issues early and streamline your safety policies and procedures. 

    Risk Management with a professional employer organization

    Creating a safer workplace doesn’t happen overnight. Accident prevention and workplace safety require ongoing commitment, communication, and collaboration. Establishing a safe and compliant environment can be challenging, especially with constantly changing laws and regulations. This is why many business owners choose to partner with a certified professional employer organization (CPEO) like GMS. 

    With the right resources, business owners can significantly reduce the risk of accidents and injuries. GMS’ safety experts can assist you in conducting thorough inspections, developing clear safety policies, leading ongoing training programs, and providing compliance support. Our team can also help reduce workers’ compensation rates and claims.

    By investing in safety, you’re protecting the future of your business. Explore all of the ways that GMS can help you create a safer workplace here! 

  • When it comes to running a business, time is money. And if your employees are still using spreadsheets, handwritten timesheets, or outdated punch clocks to track their hours, your business could be losing more than you think. Manual time tracking might seem simple, but it opens the door to costly errors, compliance risks, and administrative headaches. 

    Investing in time and attendance software isn’t just about making payroll easier. It’s about boosting accuracy, improving compliance, and uncovering the hidden costs that eat away at your bottom line. 

    Continue reading to explore why making the switch to an automated time and attendance system like the one available through GMS Connect is one of the smartest moves you can make for your business. 

    The Hidden Costs of Manual Time Tracking 

    Manual timekeeping methods are vulnerable to human error, whether it’s an employee forgetting to clock in, a supervisor misreading a timesheet, or a typo during data entry. These mistakes can lead to: 

    • Inaccurate paychecks 
    • Compliance issues with wage and hour laws 
    • Time theft or buddy punching 
    • Wasted hours fixing timesheet discrepancies 

    Even minor miscalculations can snowball into thousands of dollars in overpayments, back pay, or penalties. And if your business is ever audited by the Department of Labor or a state agency, inaccurate time records could expose you to serious fines, legal challenges, and reputational damage. 

    The Benefits of Automation with GMS Connect 

    GMS Connect offers a powerful time and attendance system that integrates directly with your payroll and HR software. This eliminates the need to juggle multiple systems or manually re-enter data. 

    Key features include: 

    • Automated time capture using web, mobile, or physical time clocks 
    • Real-time visibility into employee attendance and hours worked 
    • Scheduling tools to reduce labor costs and avoid understaffing 
    • Built-in compliance tracking for wage and hour laws 
    • Seamless payroll integration to reduce processing time and errors 

    By streamlining your time and attendance processes, you save time each pay period, reduce payroll mistakes, and gain peace of mind with accurate, audit-ready records. 

    Benefits for Business Owners and Employees 

    Automated time tracking supports everyone in your organization. With GMS Connect, employees can clock in, view schedules, and request time off from one easy-to-use platform. 

    Business owners and HR teams benefit from: 

    • Less time spent on administrative tasks 
    • Faster and more accurate payroll 
    • Improved employee satisfaction 
    • Data-driven labor decisions based on real-time insights 

    All records are stored securely in the cloud, so you have reliable access to time data anytime you need it. 

    Stay Compliant, Cut Costs, and Focus on Growth 

    Inaccurate time tracking can lead to more than just payroll errors. It also increases your risk of non-compliance with federal, state, and local labor laws. Automated systems like GMS Connect help reduce that risk by improving accuracy and simplifying labor law compliance. 

    At GMS, we believe business owners should focus on growth, not chasing timesheets or fixing avoidable errors. Our software helps streamline your time and attendance operations so you can make confident, informed decisions. 

    Ready to Eliminate Time Tracking Errors? 

    Your time is valuable. Stop relying on manual processes that cost your business money and increase your risk of error. Group Management Services (GMS) can help you implement a smarter time and attendance solution through GMS Connect, backed by expert support and seamless payroll integration. 

    Let’s talk about how GMS can help you improve time tracking, reduce risk, and build a stronger workforce. Schedule a 15-minute conversation today and take the first step toward smarter workforce management! 

  • As a business owner, you didn’t start your company to get buried in paperwork, chase down timesheets, or spend your evenings decoding state employment laws. But those are the realities of running a business unless you partner with a professional employer organization (PEO). 

    A PEO like Group Management Services (GMS) becomes the back office of your business, managing time-consuming tasks so you can stay focused on growing your company. From payroll and human resources (HR) to risk management and employee benefits, GMS streamlines operations across the board through expert support, powerful tools, and a team of experts. 

    Here’s how GMS takes administrative burdens off your plate and helps you run a more efficient business. 

    Simplified Human Resources 

    Hiring. Onboarding. Employee handbooks. Compliance. Performance management. HR can get complicated quickly, especially for small to midsize businesses without a dedicated HR department. GMS simplifies HR by acting as an extension of your team or even your entire HR department. 

    We handle the heavy lifting by: 

    • Writing job descriptions and recruiting candidates 
    • Managing onboarding and offboarding 
    • Maintaining compliance with labor laws 
    • Creating HR policies and performance review processes 

    All of this is powered by GMS Connect, our all-in-one HR software platform that makes it easy to access employee data, approve paid time off (PTO), and stay organized. Whether you’re managing one employee or 100, our technology and support team streamlines your day-to-day HR functions. 

    Simplified Payroll Processing 

    Payroll is more than just cutting checks. It involves managing tax filings, direct deposits, deductions, garnishments, and compliance with federal, state, and local payroll regulations. That’s a lot of pressure and a lot of potential for costly errors. 

    GMS handles payroll processing with precision and efficiency. With GMS Connect, you can automate time tracking and payroll submission, generate reports, and ensure tax filings are accurate and on time. Plus, as a certified professional employer organization (CPEO), we assume liability for payroll taxes and ensure compliance with Internal Revenue Service (IRS) regulations. 

    No more late filings. No more payroll headaches. Just more time to focus on growing your business. 

    Simplified Risk Management and Compliance 

    Workplace injuries. Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) audits. Employment law changes. Business owners are exposed to various risks and managing them without expert guidance can result in fines or lawsuits. GMS helps simplify risk management by offering: 

    • Workers’ compensation coverage through our self-insured program 
    • Safety training and onsite audits 
    • Claims management and return-to-work programs
    • Ongoing guidance on changing regulations 

    As we are self-insured, our clients enjoy consistent and stable coverage, free from the volatility of the open market. And when incidents happen, our team is there to support both your business and your employees. 

    Simplified Employee Benefits 

    Offering competitive benefits is essential for attracting and retaining top talent, but managing those benefits can be complex and time-consuming. Through GMS, you gain access to high-quality, affordable benefits typically reserved for large corporations. 

    Thanks to our group buying power, we help small businesses offer: 

    • Retirement plans 
    • Comprehensive health insurance packages 
    • Dental, vision, and life insurance 
    • Flexible Spending Account and Health Savings Account options 

    Our team handles benefits administration from enrollment to renewal, ensuring your employees have the necessary coverage and your business remains compliant. 

    Run Your Business, Not the Back Office 

    At GMS, we simplify the complexity of business ownership. Our job is to manage the administrative work behind the scenes so you can focus on what you do best. Whether you need help hiring new employees, managing payroll, minimizing risk, or offering better benefits, we have the tools, technology, and team to make it easier. 

    “Over time, I was just really comfortable with what they were offering, and I don’t have to worry as much. They [GMS] handle it, and it’s all done through them. They have their own legal team and people who ensure things are done correctly. So, it takes a lot of that stress off me, and I don’t have to worry about inputting data and trying to ensure things are done correctly. It’s done and taken care of, and I can move on to other things.” 

    — Owner, Plumbing Company in Richfield, Ohio 

    Let us take care of the back office so you can move your business forward. Schedule a 15-minute chat to explore whether a PEO is right for your business.  

  • Knowledgeable and experienced employees are the foundation of a strong company and future business success. Effective training programs are essential for fostering a skilled, motivated, and productive workforce, helping your business in the long run. The more knowledgeable and motivated your employees are, the greater their creativity, productivity, and loyalty. Continue reading to learn why employee training is important and how it can contribute to future success. 

    Reduce employee turnover 

    Depending on the position and tenure of an employee, employee turnover can cost a company as much as one and a half to two times the employee’s annual salary. Therefore, from a financial standpoint, it’s more beneficial to focus on retaining employees. One effective strategy to improve retention rates is to offer employee training. Employees are more likely to stay at a company if they feel that they are being invested in by learning meaningful skills, gaining experience, and gaining industry knowledge. A strong training program can enhance the employee experience, develop the skills of your workforce, and retain top employees.   

    Enhance skills and knowledge  

    Effective employee training enhances the skills and knowledge of your workforce. By providing continuous education and development opportunities, employees can stay updated with the latest industry trends, technologies, and best practices. This not only improves their performance but also helps your organization maintain a competitive edge in the market. Training can take various forms, such as presentations, online courses, seminars, conferences, and mentorship programs, but it should be customized to suit your workforce and their preferred learning styles. 

    Reduce potential risks 

    Compliance is a crucial element of business success. When your workforce is well-educated, employees will have a better understanding of safety standards, industry practices, and company protocols, lowering the risk of errors and potential confusion. A compliance error or workers’ compensation claim can be damaging to your company’s reputation and expensive, which can quickly chip away at your bottom line.

    Foster creativity

    A well-trained workforce is more adaptable and open to change. Training encourages employees to think creatively and think outside the box of their previous experiences. With this newfound knowledge, employees can bolster their creativity and offer more innovative ideas to your company. This creativity can also give your company a competitive edge in your industry.  

    Strengthen Your Employee Training Program

    Employee training programs are beneficial for employers and employees. Organizations that invest in their employees tend to have a more dedicated workforce, higher productivity and creativity, and greater quality of work. While companies recognize the importance of employee training, implementing it can be a challenge. Unfortunately, companies often run into a myriad of problems implementing a training program, such as a lack of time to administer training, a lack of employee motivation, cost, and more. Luckily, a solution exists. 

    Group Management Services (GMS) is a professional employer organization (PEO) that helps businesses streamline their back-office tasks, assists with employee management, and more. Our online employee training software simplifies job training, enhances employee performance, and reduces learning costs for online platforms and in-person training. GMS also provides an online learning management system, making it easier for workers to access training courses on their laptops or mobile devices and gain the skills necessary to support your business. 

    Are you interested in learning more about our training services and how we can benefit your workforce? Click to learn more here! 

  • Auto repair shops keep America moving, one tune-up and tire rotation at a time. But running a successful shop requires more than mechanical expertise. Behind the bays and service counters, business owners face real human resources (HR) and administrative challenges that can slow operations, increase costs, and make it harder to compete. 

    That’s why more auto repair businesses are partnering with professional employer organizations (PEOs), such as Group Management Services (GMS), to handle the personnel and administrative aspects of the business. Here’s how PEO services help auto repair shops stay compliant, protect their teams, and focus on what they do best. 

    Addressing high turnover and staffing challenges 

    Finding and keeping skilled technicians is a constant struggle for auto repair shops. Turnover rates are often high, and the demand for experienced mechanics means competitors are always ready to hire your best people away. Seasonal fluctuations can also leave shops short-staffed during busy months. 

    GMS helps auto repair shops improve retention and recruitment by giving them access to comprehensive employee benefits typically only available to larger companies. From health insurance and dental coverage to retirement plans and voluntary benefits, shop owners can offer competitive packages that attract and retain qualified technicians. GMS also helps streamline onboarding, so new hires are trained, onboarded, and ready to work more quickly and confidently. 

    Reducing workers’ compensation costs and risk 

    Auto repair work isn’t without risk. Technicians work with heavy equipment, lift vehicles, and handle chemicals daily. Even a minor accident can result in costly workers’ compensation claims and higher insurance premiums. 

    GMS helps mitigate these risks by providing affordable workers’ compensation coverage combined with proactive risk management strategies. We work with shop owners to develop safety manuals, deliver safety training, and implement best safety practices to reduce accidents. And when injuries do occur, GMS helps manage claims efficiently, which helps control costs and keeps teams focused on serving customers rather than dealing with paperwork. 

    Staying compliant with changing regulations 

    Auto repair shop owners must navigate a complex web of federal, state, and local regulations, including wage and hour laws, Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) safety standards, and tax requirements. Missing a deadline or misclassifying an employee can result in expensive penalties or even legal action. 

    GMS offers dedicated HR and compliance support to help auto repair shops stay current and compliant. We assist with employee classification, maintain employee handbooks, and provide guidance on new regulations, so owners don’t have to track every change themselves. This level of support helps protect businesses from unexpected fines and legal issues. 

    Simplifying payroll and administrative work 

    Between serving customers, ordering parts, and managing repairs, shop owners rarely have time for payroll and other administrative tasks. Yet mistakes or missed deadlines can cause major headaches for both employees and owners. 

    With GMS, payroll becomes simple and reliable. Our team and technology processes payroll accurately and on time, handles tax filings, and manages deductions so owners don’t have to spend evenings buried in spreadsheets. By taking payroll off their plate, GMS gives shop owners more time to focus on quality service and growing the business. 

    Turning HR from reactive to strategic 

    Many auto repair businesses operate reactively when it comes to HR, responding to issues only when they arise. GMS helps shift HR from a reactive burden to a proactive strategy. We offer tools and support for performance management, employee development, and long-term workforce planning, empowering shop owners to build stronger teams and a healthier business culture. 

    The road ahead can be smoother with the right partner 

    Running an auto repair shop takes more than mechanical expertise. Success depends on your people, your processes, and your ability to navigate complex HR, payroll, and compliance requirements while still delivering excellent service to every customer who walks through your doors. 

    That’s where partnering with a PEO like GMS makes a real difference. By handling payroll, benefits administration, risk management, and regulatory compliance, GMS helps auto repair businesses shift from reacting to daily challenges to planning for long-term growth. Our support empowers owners to focus on what truly matters: building loyal teams, serving customers, and growing a reputation for quality and trust. 

    In a competitive industry where every hour counts, freeing your time and energy from administrative tasks isn’t just convenient. It’s a strategic move that strengthens your business and helps you stay ahead of the competition.

    If you’re ready to see how GMS can help your shop work smarter, safer, and more efficiently, contact us today! 

  • Even the most organized payroll process can experience occasional hiccups. Whether it’s an underpayment, overpayment, or a tax withholding mistake, payroll errors can affect your employees’ trust and your business’s compliance if not handled quickly and correctly. 

    Here’s what to do when you discover a payroll error and how partnering with Group Management Services (GMS) can help prevent these issues from happening in the first place.

     

    Act quickly and communicate openly 

    Timing is everything. As soon as you discover an error, confirm who is affected and to what extent. Notify the impacted employees promptly, explaining what happened and the steps you’re taking to rectify the issue. Transparent communication helps maintain employee confidence and shows that you take their pay seriously. 

    At GMS, our Payroll Specialists and built-in audit tools in GMS Connect help clients catch discrepancies early, so most issues are resolved before payroll is finalized. 

    Find out why it happened 

    After you identify the mistake, dig into the root cause. Was it a simple data entry issue? A misclassified employee? An outdated pay rate? Understanding what went wrong helps you put safeguards in place to stop it from happening again. GMS guides clients through complex payroll compliance areas, such as employee classification and benefits deductions, so they can focus on running their business without worrying about hidden payroll pitfalls. 

    Correct the error carefully 

    Once you know the cause, fix the numbers promptly and accurately. For underpayments, issue an off-cycle payment as soon as possible. For overpayments, work with the employee to arrange repayment that follows federal and state wage laws. If the mistake involves taxes, adjust your payroll records and file any necessary amendments. 

    GMS handles these corrections on behalf of our clients, ensuring that payments and tax filings remain compliant and accurate. 

    Document everything 

    Keep a clear paper trail of what happened, when the mistake was discovered, how it was fixed, and any communication with employees. Documentation protects your business during audits and helps resolve any future questions that may arise. With GMS, all payroll changes, adjustments, and reports are securely stored, ensuring you always have the necessary records. 

    Strengthen your payroll process moving forward 

    Transform mistakes into learning opportunities by reviewing payroll workflows and incorporating checks, such as approval processes or automated alerts. Investing in modern payroll software or working with a payroll partner can significantly reduce human error. 

    At GMS, we combine advanced payroll technology with experienced payroll professionals to give businesses confidence in every payroll run. We’re not just processing payroll; we’re building proactive strategies that keep your business compliant, and your employees paid accurately and on time. 

    Payroll errors don’t have to define your business 

    By acting quickly, remaining transparent, and learning from past mistakes, you can rectify errors and safeguard your team’s trust. But the best strategy is prevention. Partnering with GMS means more than handing off payroll tasks. It means gaining a team dedicated to accuracy, compliance, and continuous improvement, so your business can focus on growth instead of payroll headaches. 

    Our online payroll software, GMS Connect, gives you the ability to complete payroll in minutes as well as manage and access payroll information anywhere there’s an internet connection. Additionally, our payroll software integrates with other platforms, enabling us to calculate and apply deductions for health insurance and other employee benefits seamlessly. Ready to see how GMS can make payroll simpler and more reliable? Contact us today to learn more. 

  • As health care costs keep rising, both employees and employers are looking for ways to manage these expenses and make coverage more affordable. However, balancing these growing costs while ensuring employee satisfaction can be challenging for employers. To achieve this balance, employers can implement a variety of strategies to effectively lower health care costs while keeping employees happy, healthy, and productive. 

    What Do Health Care Costs Include

    Health care costs include all expenses related to maintaining or improving an individual’s health. While many services can fall under the umbrella of “health care”, these costs typically include accessing and utilizing health care services such as prescriptions, health insurance, doctors’ visits, deductibles, copayments, premiums, and more. While offering health care and health benefits can be expensive, they are essential to attract and retain top talent. Continue reading to learn a few ways you can reduce your health care costs.  

    Invest In Prevention

    Prevention is the best medicine, especially when it comes to health. By encouraging employees to focus on their health, either through developing healthy habits or scheduling regular check-ups, you help them focus on their current health and avoid future health issues. Regular check-ups, screenings, vaccinations, and telehealth appointments can significantly reduce long-term health care costs and prevent more serious and expensive conditions down the line. 

    Implement Wellness Programs

    Wellness programs are designed to enhance the health and wellness of individuals. They can focus on physical activity, nutrition, stress management, and mental health. According to a recent study, 91% of companies reported that their health care costs decreased because of their well-being program. These programs can include fitness challenges, stress management workshops, financial wellness resources, nutrition assistance, and more.  

    By fostering a culture of wellness, employers can reduce absenteeism, improve productivity, and increase morale. When employees feel supported, they are more likely to take better care of themselves and adopt healthier behaviors, which can lead to reduced use of health care benefits and ultimately lower health care costs. 

    Offer Telemedicine Services

    Telemedicine has expanded in the past decade, effectively transforming the health care landscape. Telemedicine provides employees with the ability to have a doctor’s appointment online. It provides greater efficiency and flexibility for physicians and patients alike. Employees are able to receive help for minor ailments and follow-up appointments, and receive faster care than going in person, reducing employee absenteeism and improving productivity. The convenience of telemedicine saves employees time by eliminating travel and waiting periods, and also reduces the need for time off work and costly co-payments. 

    Implement Additional Savings Accounts

    Another effective way to lower health care costs is by offering a Health Savings Account (HSA). An HSA is a special type of account that allows individuals to save money specifically for qualified health care expenses. With an HSA, contributions can be made tax-free as long as the funds are used for eligible medical expenses, which include deductibles and copayments. However, insurance premiums are generally not considered qualified medical expenses. To be eligible to contribute to an HSA, one must be enrolled in a high-deductible health plan (HDHP). These accounts can lower premium costs for employers and allow employees to save pre-tax dollars for medical expenses, giving them more control over their health care spending. 

    How CPEOs Lower Health Care Costs

    Reducing health care costs is a growing priority among business owners. While many business owners are reducing their coverage options to save money, this can leave employees vulnerable to higher health care-related expenses. Managing employee health plans isn’t an easy task, especially if you’re managing it alone. Luckily, Group Management Services (GMS), a certified professional employer organization (CPEO), can help you manage your employee benefits and the associated costs. 

    Our benefits experts can help you make the most of your benefits while saving you money. We provide expert guidance on health plan design and ensure compliance with the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). With our HSA and Federal Spending Account (FSA) administration services, we can simplify your account management. 

    We also provide comprehensive group health insurance plans that can reduce your premiums and deductibles. GMS represents more than 50,000 employees, which allows us to help businesses purchase group health insurance at rates up to 24% lower for employee premiums and up to 15% lower for family premiums compared to the U.S. average. 

    Employee health care and benefits are not easy to manage. That’s why having a knowledgeable partner to walk you through your options is essential. Contact us to learn how GMS can help simplify your health care and benefits today.  

  • The Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) defines company culture as the shared values, attitudes, and practices that characterize an organization and influence how things are done. Essentially, it’s the “how” of an organization, encompassing both the written and unwritten rules that guide employee behavior. 

    Culture is evident in the way employees interact, how leaders communicate, and the overall experience people have when they walk through your doors. In 2025, culture goes beyond creating a positive work environment; it is a critical component of how successful companies operate, grow, and retain talent. 

    From hiring and onboarding to performance reviews and daily interactions, culture impacts every aspect of your business. Companies cannot afford to treat culture as a background element. It is a competitive advantage, a retention tool, and a blueprint for long-term success.

    What Makes a Strong Company Culture? 

    A strong culture is more than a mission statement on the wall. It is built on consistency, clarity, and trust. Employees should understand the values that guide decision-making and feel like those values are reflected in the way the company operates. 

    Key traits of a healthy culture include: 

    • Clear communication and transparency from leadership 
    • Respect, trust, and psychological safety 
    • Opportunities for growth and recognition 
    • Inclusive practices that make everyone feel welcome 
    • A sense of purpose that connects work to a larger mission 

    When these elements are in place, employees are more likely to feel engaged and motivated. When employees feel their work is meaningful, they are 2.7 times more likely to stay with a company.  And when people feel good about where they work, they are more productive and more likely to stick around.

    Culture Drives Retention and Performance 

    Employees are not just looking for a paycheck; they are seeking purpose, connection, and alignment with their work. A significant majority, 92%, of employees across all generations say that company culture impacts their decision to stay with an employer. A thriving culture fosters engagement and reduces turnover, which is critical as hiring costs and labor shortages continue to rise. 

    A Strong Culture Builds Resilience

    In the face of economic uncertainty and ongoing workplace disruption, a positive culture provides stability. Teams that trust their leadership and feel supported are more adaptable during times of change. Companies with a clear identity and shared values are better equipped to handle challenges without losing momentum. 

    Culture Should Be a Core Part of Your HR Strategy 

    The most successful organizations recognize that culture is integral to strategy. It forms the foundation of your HR practices and drives long-term business success. 

    Workplace culture influences every aspect of the employee lifecycle, from onboarding and performance management to benefits and communication. An effective HR strategy intentionally weaves culture into its policies, programs, and people practices. This involves establishing clear values, investing in leadership development, offering competitive benefits, and promoting inclusion. Companies that align HR decisions with cultural goals are more likely to build loyal, high-performing teams. 

    Culture is something you actively design and maintain throughout the employee’s journey. This includes: 

    • Defining core values and integrating them into company policies 
    • Creating structured onboarding processes that reinforce expectations 
    • Developing leadership that models and supports the culture 
    • Offering benefits and perks that align with employee needs 
    • Implementing performance management systems that reward the right behaviors 

    When culture and HR strategy are misaligned, your business will feel the disconnect. High turnover, lack of engagement, and poor team cohesion often indicate that culture is not being supported at the operational level. 

    How PEOs Support Company Culture 

    Partnering with a professional employer organization (PEO) like GMS provides businesses with the tools and support necessary to cultivate a strong, people-first culture. A PEO helps shape culture in several key ways: 

    • HR expertise: GMS helps you build and maintain policies that reflect your values while staying compliant with ever-changing employment laws. 
    • Employee engagement: From performance review systems to recognition programs, GMS offers tools that create consistent and meaningful employee experiences. 
    • Leadership support: We provide guidance and resources to help managers lead with clarity and consistency—two essential ingredients for a healthy culture. 
    • Comprehensive benefits: Offering competitive benefits shows your team that you care. Through GMS, small and midsize businesses can access Fortune 500-level benefits that support employee well-being and satisfaction. 
    • Scalable HR infrastructure: As your company grows, so do the cultural challenges. A PEO helps you maintain alignment across departments, locations, and leadership levels. 

    Your culture is what employees say about your company when you are not in the room, and job seekers are listening. A report from Randstad USA shows that 77% of workers consider a company’s culture before applying. Culture is now a critical part of your employer brand, influencing who wants to work for you and who stays once they are hired.

     

    At GMS, we understand that culture is not created overnight; it is built through intentional HR strategies and strong leadership. Our team collaborates closely with you to develop effective policies, enhance communication, enhance your benefits offerings, and foster a workplace that aligns with your mission and values. When culture is aligned with business goals, your team is more engaged, your brand is stronger, and your business is better positioned to succeed.

  • The hospitality industry operates on customer satisfaction, attention to detail, and delivering exceptional service every day. Whether you’re operating a hotel, restaurant, resort, or event venue, your business thrives on the strength of your people. And managing those people effectively is no small task. 

    From unpredictable staffing needs and high turnover rates to strict compliance requirements and competitive employee benefits, hospitality businesses face mounting human resources (HR), payroll, and risk management challenges. Fortunately, a Professional Employer Organization (PEO) can help take those administrative burdens off your plate. 

    Continue reading to explore how PEO services are helping hospitality business owners regain control of their operations, improve employee satisfaction, and focus more on what they do best: creating memorable guest experiences. 

    Staying Compliant in a High-Risk, High-Turnover Industry 

    Hospitality is a fast-paced industry, and with that pace comes complexity, especially when it comes to HR compliance. From wage and hour laws to workplace safety and anti-discrimination policies, hospitality employers must stay up-to-date with constantly shifting regulations. 

    Whether you manage a small boutique hotel or a national restaurant chain, compliance missteps can result in hefty fines, lawsuits, and damage to your brand reputation. A PEO like GMS provides access to a team of HR experts who stay up-to-date on federal, state, and local regulations, so you don’t have to. That includes: 

    • Ensuring compliance with labor laws such as the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) 
    • Helping navigate tip reporting and minimum wage rules 
    • Assisting with Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) workplace safety requirements 
    • Providing support during audits or legal issues 

    With GMS as your partner, you can feel confident knowing your business is protected from costly compliance errors. 

    Solving the Hospitality Hiring and Retention Problem 

    Hiring in the hospitality sector is notoriously challenging. High turnover, seasonal demands, and competition for top talent often leave HR teams overwhelmed with recruiting and onboarding tasks. 

    A PEO can take the pressure off your internal team by providing: 

    • Streamlined recruitment and applicant tracking tools 
    • Onboarding support to get new hires up to speed quickly 
    • Access to competitive benefits packages that help attract and retain staff 
    • Guidance on workforce planning to help you scale up or down during peak seasons 
    • Integration of Human Resources Information Systems (HRIS) to centralize and automate HR processes 

    GMS also offers employee handbooks, performance management tools, and HR consulting services to help build a positive culture and reduce turnover.  

    Offering Big-Business Benefits on a Small-Business Budget 

    Hospitality businesses often struggle to offer the same benefits that larger companies use to attract top talent. But partnering with a PEO levels the playing field. 

    Through a PEO, you gain access to cost-effective, Fortune 500-level benefits such as: 

    GMS represents more than 50,000 employees, which allows us to help businesses purchase group health insurance at rates up to 24% lower for employee premiums and up to 15% lower for family premiums compared to the U.S. average. By offering better benefits, you’ll not only improve retention but also attract top-tier talent in a competitive industry.  

    Reducing Risk and Protecting Your Brand 

    Hospitality is about service, and your team is often the face of your brand. Unfortunately, that also means you’re exposed to potential legal and workplace risks. From employee injuries and harassment claims to workers’ compensation disputes and liability issues, even one incident can harm your reputation. 

    GMS provides comprehensive risk management services, including: 

    When your employees feel safe and supported, and your business is protected from unnecessary legal exposure, it creates a positive and productive work environment for everyone. 

    Simplifying Payroll and Time Tracking 

    From hourly workers to salaried staff, managing payroll in the hospitality industry can be a complex task. Factor in shift differentials, tips, overtime, and varying state tax laws, and you’ve got a recipe for errors and inefficiencies. 

    A PEO can automate and streamline your payroll process, including: 

    By letting GMS handle the back-office burden, you can focus more on guest satisfaction and business growth. 

    Transform Your Hospitality Business with GMS 

    Whether you manage a hotel, restaurant, or entertainment venue, your people are your greatest asset and your biggest challenge. That’s where GMS comes into the picture. 

    By partnering with a PEO, you gain the HR support, compliance guidance, benefits access, and payroll expertise you need to thrive in today’s competitive market. 

    Let GMS help you simplify your business so you can focus on what matters most: growing your business. Book a 15-minute chat to learn how GMS can help you grow and succeed.