Increased pay and fewer skill requirements are boosting labor-force participation as employers struggle to fill positions, according to a report from the Labor Department. Employers have also increased hiring of people with disabilities, those enrolled in school and retirees, a Goldman Sachs analysis has found.

Uber Technologies is using a coding game to find talent among riders. "Code on the Road," available in areas known for tech jobs, offers riders a chance to solve three coding problems. If they are successful, riders are prompted to apply for a position at the company.

Consider that too many stringent rules can lead to less productivity among good employees who chafe at being micromanaged, Derek Irvine writes. He cites research that suggests "good attendance" award-winners become less productive and punctual. "The leverage they have at their disposal is the withdrawal of some of their effort, leading to poorer firm performance when the precise opposite is desired," he argues.

A study by Glassdoor finds that female computer programmers are paid 72 cents for every dollar paid to male programmers. That's one of the widest gender pay gaps in the tech sector.

Labor Secretary Thomas Perez is blasting states that let employers opt out of workers' compensation, calling the trend disturbing and a "pathway to poverty." Perez has been speaking out against privatization of workers' compensation and is heading an investigation into opt-out.

Leaders often say they wish employees would communicate with them more, but they seldom make that task easier, writes Dianna Booher. "Some people try to communicate upward once or twice and then give up because they never get a response on their idea," Booher warns.