I had an exit interview recently where the employee said: "The job was not the problem." It was the team culture. That stayed with me. We spend a lot of time talking about pay, workload, recruitment and retention. Yet so many people leave because of how they felt every day at work. Have you ever left a role because of the culture rather than the job itself?

I once watched an employee get labeled “negative” simply because they consistently raised difficult but valid concerns. It made me realize how easily honesty can be mistaken for resistance in some workplaces. How do you separate constructive criticism from negativity?

"Wow us in 150 characters or less" I filled out the application, attached a resume and cover letter. At the end, of the process there was a box that asked me to WOW them in 150 characters or less. Did your company do something like this? What kind of responses were you looking for? I thought it was a little weird.

Hello — looking for guidance on a workplace issue. We hired a manager’s son because he was highly qualified and has done a great job. Recently, two employees raised concerns about perceived favoritism. In reality, he’s often taken on difficult tasks others declined, but we can’t share those details. The perception is now affecting morale and team dynamics. Global HR said upper management should handle instead of HR. Seems not right. Any advice on managing the perception and team dynamics?

I have been applying to so many job postings and only got one interview. I receive so many Thanks, but no thanks letters. Some of which are very good and very personal - not the typical we value your time and appreciate you applying to our organization. I have altered my resume and letter via AI to really try to get "that job", but am 1 of 100's of applicants. I don't have a degree, but am obtaining my SPHR, have 25 years of experience and have taken courses. What else should I do?