Some companies are enthusiastic about the potential for in-person work to create stronger relationships and allow for more effective mentorship, but people who have returned to the office are also finding there are new distractions to overcome. Research has shown that distractions don't affect everyone equally, with one pre-pandemic study suggesting that women more so than men tend to handle more everyday tasks that don't lead to promotions.

An academic study estimates the US workforce would currently have 500,000 more workers were it not for the effects of the coronavirus pandemic. MIT's Evan Soltas, one of the authors of the study, said, "If we stay where we are with Covid infection rates going forward, we expect that 500,000-person loss to persist until either exposure goes down or severity goes down."

Understanding your body's hunger and thirst cues can help you properly nourish yourself, say registered dietitians, noting that if you're feeling irritated, fatigued, low-energy, light-headed or shaky, it may be time for a snack balancing healthful fat, fiber and protein. Some symptoms may apply to both thirst and hunger, and registered dietitian nutritionist Ginger Hultin says some people who need water may also experience a headache or feelings of low energy.

Workers earning low to moderate pay who had emergency savings accounts were 70% more likely to put money into a defined contribution plan, according to a study by Commonwealth and the Defined Contribution Institutional Investment Association. The report said these workers tend to prefer emergency savings options that offer immediate access and no fees or minimum balance requirements, and 90% of respondents said they were interested in incentives that would help them establish a savings account.

Building an ethical culture can improve a company's performance, writes Emily Miner, a director in LRN's Ethics & Compliance Advisory practice, who recommends that leaders begin with their own values to create a shared, equitable, accountable and transparent workplace. "Transparency is a two-way street between leadership and team so encourage those you guide to speak up, ask questions, share ideas and contribute to the overall discussion in a way they are comfortable with doing," Miner writes.

It’s going to be a busy week. Make sure you’re staying tuned in here so we can keep you updated on what’s important in the work world. If we’re missing an important storyline, let me know! And if you enjoy this brief, tell others so they can benefit also.