This week, the United States of America commemorates its creation and celebrates its 243rd birthday.  It will be filled with fireworks and family time as many Americans will be away from work on the holiday.  Those that will be working include restaurant workers, doctors, first responders and members of the U.S. military.  Topping our HR News Beat this week:  a new program to help spouses of military members build their careers.  Other headlines include new statistics around “ghosting” and Planet Fitness has a new chief people officer.

HR News

Johnson & Johnson Joins Military Spouse Employment Partnership

Johnson & Johnson has signed an agreement with the U.S. Department of Defense meant to help people “overcome career-building obstacles—such as frequent moves or gaps in employment history—that can arise” when married to a service member.  According to the DOD, military spouses face a 24% unemployment rate and a 25% wage gap compared to those spouses who do not have a partner in the military.  Under the partnership, called the Military Spouse Employment Partnership (MSEP), Johnson & Johnson has pledged to help increase employment opportunities for military spouses by posting job opportunities on the MSEP portal.  In addition, the company says it will “promote talent development; ensure pay equity for all military spouses; and support their unique professional needs, even if they need to relocate for their spouse’s assignment.”  Read more here.

Job Hunt Ghosting

According to a new study from Robert Half, about 28% of workers have backed out of a job after accepting an offer.  This practice is referred to as ghosting.  What is ghosting? Basically, it’s when a candidate or new hire will suddenly and without explanation end all communication with a prospective or new employer. This includes not showing up for scheduled interviews, accepting an offer but not arriving for the first day of employment, and disappearing from a current job without notification.  Why would a worker do this?  Half suggests workers prefer to just not show up for work rather than having to turn down multiple companies.  If you want to know more about ghosting and how to prevent it, download Digi-Me’s latest whitepaper – How Video Helps Prevent Ghosting for Recruitment Professionals.

Planet Fitness Appoints New Chief People Officer

One of the nation’s largest and fastest growing fitness centers has announced its ranks have increased by one.  Planet Fitness says it has chosen Kathy Gentilozzi as its new chief people officer. 

Courtesy:  Planet Fitness

She brings with her more than 30 years of HR leadership experience having worked at other recognizable brands including FULLBEAUTY brands, Macy’s and Aéropostale.  As the chief people officer, Gentilozzi will oversee the company’s human resources operations including talent acquisition, leadership and organizational development, business partner support, culture and employee engagement, benefits and compensation.