A PYMNTS Intelligence report reveals that 72% of workers prefer instant payroll to traditional payroll systems for its ability to alleviate financial strain. The report highlights the limitations of biweekly and monthly payroll, particularly for gig and freelance workers and suggests that instant payroll could improve employee-employer relationships by providing timely compensation.

Rust-out, a workplace issue stemming from under-stimulation, is gaining attention as organizations seek to maintain productivity and morale. Experts highlight the risks of disengagement and skills gaps, and explore how AI can help automate mundane tasks and personalize learning, potentially reinvigorating employee motivation.

Alaska Airlines will distribute $327 million in bonuses to its 23,000 employees, the largest payout in the company's history. The bonuses equal about six weeks of additional pay.

Workplace drama can be fodder for hurt feelings, but you can stay above the fray while not ignoring the underlying issues, writes Leah Meher, a communications specialist. "By setting boundaries, practicing empathy, and staying solutions-focused, you can avoid being pulled into negativity while staying connected to your team," Meher writes.

Female employees are less likely than their male counterparts to speak up and contribute when they're working in an uncivil workplace because they fear backlash, according to research published in the Journal of Business Ethics. "Left unaddressed, not only can incivility cause the organization to miss out on many valuable ideas, but they will disproportionately lose ideas from women," write the researchers, who recommend employers set expectations for respect, ensure leaders model respectful behavior and follow up on complaints involving incivility.