As companies grapple with a tight job market and resigning employees, some are turning to former workers who might be interested in returning -- boomerang employees, as they are frequently called. These workers might have gained skills in the interim and are familiar enough with the company to start without much onboarding.

The consumer packaged goods industry is contending with 143,000 unfilled jobs, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. "As we head into the busy holiday season, we need to find ways to grow the workforce to keep shelves stocked with essential goods," said Geoff Freeman, Consumer Brands Association president and CEO.

The number of freelance and contract workers has increased during the COVID-19 pandemic, but only 22% of gig workers responding to a Pew Charitable Trusts survey said they took part in a defined contribution plan through a current employer in the previous year. The survey also found that only a quarter of respondents had retirement benefits through a spouse or relationship partner.

A Lattice survey found HR departments are understaffed and overworked as they try to meet the needs of employees during the pandemic, which has created more projects and responsibilities for HR. "Although the worst of the pandemic is behind us, there's no reason to believe HR's job will get any easier, especially with a supercharged demand for talent," says Russell Lobsenz, Lattice Advisory Services' principal and talent management practice lead.

ESPN NFL reporter Dianna Russini is returning to work this month after maternity leave, and she shares her anxiety about whether time away was bad for her career, the person who accused her of "milking this thing" and what's changed since she became a mother. "There are a gazillion people who can do what I do, probably better too, but there is only one person who is the mother to Michael," Russini writes.

I love my work here at SmartBrief. It’s satisfying, challenging and exhilarating.

But it’s nowhere near as meaningful as my job being mother to Kawai and Kiaha -- my Lalas and my Duckling. They’re both grown, married and out of the house, but they remain my No. 1 priority. They give purpose to the work I do each day.

Just like little Michael does for his mother, ESPN television reporter Dianna Russini, spotlighted in today’s Workplace Chatter story. Russini, who has been out on maternity leave, returns to television Nov. 14. Hats off to you, Russini, for prioritizing your family and knowing that’s the best way to be the best you, professionally and personally.

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