Do you remember the first paycheck you ever received? If yours was anything like mine, it was small and quickly spent on urgent priorities, like gas or groceries. 

Yet as we have become more established in our careers, other priorities have muscled in. Cash is still king, but we are increasingly placing more value on time with our families, reliable healthcare coverage or the ability to work remotely. What’s more, this shift has trickled across all generations. 

“People are looking at more than money when it comes to compensation,” says Craig Johnson, SIA’s senior editorial director and author of our cover feature, “The pay puzzle: Staffing’s new reality.” 

Fortunately, organizations are responding, Johnson says. Across the staffing industry, companies are reimagining what it means to be an employer of choice. In his article, Johnson examines the strategies they’re deploying to stay ahead — and why it’s no longer just about salary. Transparency plays a big role, too, he says. 

“One thing that stuck out was that compensation packages should be easily understandable, including with commissions,” Johnson tells me. “People should be able to say how they are being compensated.” 
Given the focus on shifting values, it’s little surprise that our annual feature on the Best Staffing Firms to Work For has been widely anticipated. This year’s list is more compelling than ever. We profile organizations that are setting new standards for workplace culture, career development and well-being. You can also read about the Best Staffing Firm to Temp For.  What stands out most is how these companies have embraced change, listening carefully to what their employees value most and responding with meaningful action. And yes, they are also taking a nuanced look at compensation. It’s a puzzle — but one that is well worth solving. 

We welcome your thoughts and suggestions to make our coverage more meaningful to you. Please reach out to me anytime.