The 10 biggest employment-related class-action lawsuits last year ended in settlements totaling $2.72 billion, and workplace litigators are riding the wave before more business-friendly leadership takes over in the Labor Department, Equal Employment Opportunity Commission and other agencies. Paul DeCamp, a lawyer at Epstein Becker & Green who represents employers, said, "Cases that plaintiffs' counsel felt very strongly about and seemed more bullish and willing to go to trial, since the election they were more eager to settle those cases."

The best business teams include not only top performers, but also people who act as the "glue" that holds everyone together during tough times, writes Mareo McCracken. These employees "might not be the best at any one thing, but they are resilient and love helping others," he writes.

The role of HR managers has evolved from focusing exclusively on benefits, payroll and hiring to providing talent support that helps organizations maintain a competitive edge, writes Mika Nash of Champlain College. HR leaders know organizations stay competitive only if they hire the right people with the right skills at the right time.

An OfficeTeam survey found 66% of human resources managers said their companies have increased health and wellness programs in the past five years and 89% believe their company supports employee health and wellness goals. The survey showed 30% of respondents said food provided at office parties was the biggest obstacle to attaining their health goals, while 44% said they had healthier eating habits when they worked from home.

Putting culture at the heart of your business is essential if you want success, writes Eric Bauer. He offers 10 ways to strengthen culture, including sharing stories that demonstrate values, celebrating milestones and connecting each employee's daily job to the big picture.