Credit checks during the hiring process can perpetuate a "poverty trap" for low-income job seekers, causing a 2.3% wage loss monthly over 10 years, according to a working paper. Some states and cities limit or ban such checks, but the paper says that helps only 43% of the population.

Microsoft has replaced traditional feedback with the Perspectives system, which lets employees gather constructive input from colleagues, to better engage and retain workers. The system creates productive dialogue, rather than intimidating review sessions, says Kristen Roby Dimlow, the HR executive leading Perspectives' rollout.

Tying pay to performance might be the most efficient way to motivate workers, writes Bruce Tulgan, founder and CEO of RainmakerThinking. Tulgan outlines elements of an effective pay-for-performance program, plus strategies for measuring and rewarding individual outcomes.

Economists have several theories on why wage growth remains low, including increased automation, labor unions' decline and companies' inability to raise prices because of low inflation overall. A notable exception is Costco, where "instead of minimizing wages, we know it's a lot more profitable in the long term to minimize employee turnover and maximize employee productivity, commitment and loyalty," said Patrick Callans, senior vice president for HR and risk management.

Voice, video and collaboration technologies, mentorship programs and employee resource groups are three ways employers can help people with disabilities adapt and thrive in the workplace. "Do some training around the wide range of disabilities out there and the corresponding wide range of abilities and experiences and professional level that comes with that," says Kris Foss, managing director at Disability Solutions.