Introduction to Employee Engagement Software
It is no secret that employee engagement is crucial for companies to thrive in the modern workplace. But how can you ensure engagement? What do you need to do to engage your employees? These questions might be hovering in your mind. In the tech-driven modern workplace, using technology to build employee engagement tools is rather a smart move.
These tools help you reach your engagement goals, automate processes, and keep everything organized. There are several tools available. Let's delve into a detailed understanding of the tools and their features.
What are Employee Engagement Tools?
Employee engagement tools are software platforms or applications designed and adopted by companies to enhance employee satisfaction and engagement.
These tools are crafted to create a positive and productive work environment. They contribute towards overall well-being and engagement levels by facilitating ease in communication, recognition, feedback, and other aspects.
Types of Employee Engagement Tools
There are five main types of Employee Engagement software. They include the following:
Employee Communications: These platforms provide software that facilitates Internal Communication Channels, Collaboration, Announcements and Updates, Mobile Accessibility, Multimedia Content, and Integration with Other Tools.
Employee Recognition: These platforms provide software that offers Peer-to-peer Recognition, On-spot Recognition, Social Feed, Nominations, Rewards Redemption, and Reward Management.
Employee Wellness: These platforms provide software that offers Health and Fitness Guides, Contests and Challenges, Tracking and Reporting, Leaderboards, Sync with Wearable Devices, and Personalized Goals.
Employee Feedback: These platforms provide software that offers Surveys, Anonymous Feedback, Actionable Insights, eNPS score, Benchmarking, Track Engagement, Negative Feedback Management, 360-degree Feedback, and Heatmaps.
Employee Advocacy: These platforms provide software that offers Social Media Integrations, Tracking and Measuring Engagement, Content Booster, Publishing Studio, Content Analytics, Content Sources, Brand Communications, and Social Selling.
List of 15 Best Employee Engagement Software in 2024
For Communications
Slack: Messaging platform for teams to collaborate and communicate in real-time
Google Meet: Video conferencing tool for online meetings and virtual gatherings
Zoom: Video conferencing software for remote meetings, webinars, and virtual events
For Recognition
Vantage Rewards: Employee rewards and recognition platform for enhancing workplace culture
Kudos: Employee recognition software to acknowledge and appreciate team members' efforts
Motivosity: Employee engagement platform fostering recognition, feedback, and motivation
For Wellness
Vantage Fit: Employee wellness platform promoting fitness and healthy habits in the workplace
Wellable: Corporate wellness program offering resources and challenges to improve employee health
Virgin Pulse: Employee well-being platform encouraging healthy habits and lifestyle choices
For Feedback
Vantage Pulse Employee feedback platform for gathering insights and improving organizational culture
15Five: Performance management software for continuous feedback and employee development
OfficeVibe: Employee engagement platform for measuring and improving workplace satisfaction
For Advocacy
DSMN8: Employee advocacy platform for empowering employees to share company content on social media
Hootsuite: Social media management tool for scheduling posts, analyzing performance, and engaging with audiences
EveryoneSocial: Employee advocacy platform to amplify brand reach through employee networks
Detailed Description - Best Employee Engagement Software in 2024
Slack
Why Slack
Slack is a renowned internal communications software. It works well on any device and can be customized to function alongside other business software. It helps you connect with your coworkers in real time, which aids in collaborating frequently and getting things done faster. This also makes it a valuable tool for remote and distributed teams.
Best For: Companies of All Sizes
Standout Features
Seamless Integrations
Organized Channels
In-app Calling
Customization
Intuitive Mobile App
Workflow Builder
Pros
- The platform is beginner-friendly and very easy to use.
- It offers users advanced search functions
Customer Reviews
“The best feature in Slack is searching for any update” (Source: G2)
Cons
- The platform is slow and takes time to load
- The mobile app quite frequently freezes
Customer Reviews
“I noticed that the mobile app version experienced lagging.” (Source: G2)
Clientele
- The New York Times
- NASA
- Uber
- Airbnb
- Vodafone
- Etsy
Pricing
Pro: ₹ 245.25/month
Business+: ₹ 422.10/month
Enterprise Grid: Price on request
Google Meet
Why Google Meet
Google Meet is an ideal meeting tool, especially for those who use Google for work. It is easier to access and reduces the task of extra software installation. Also, employees can jump onto any meeting link from their browser. Google Meet makes it simple for employees to stay connected across the globe.
Best For: Companies of All Sizes
Standout Features
Seamless Integrations with G-Suite
HD Video Resolution
Screensharing and Recording Capabilities
Live Chat Feature
Collab with Jamboard
Live Streaming
Pros
- Users can directly use the app from the browser without the hassle of downloading the app
- The UI is sleek and extremely easy to navigate.
Customer Reviews
“One thing that has impressed me the most is its ease of use, especially since the time it was directly integrated with Gmail application” (Source: G2)
Cons
- The free version has limits for longer discussions
- The platform provides limited features without a premium access
Customer Reviews
“The only downside of Google Meet is that it charges you for premium features and has moderate access in the free version.” (Source: G2)
Clientele
- L&T Finance
- Nykaa
- TCS
- Jindal Steel & Power
- Zerodha
- Vodafone
Pricing
Business Starter: ₹136.90/user/month
Business Standard: ₹736/user/month
Business Plus: ₹1,380/user/month
Enterprise: Price on Request
Zoom
Why Zoom
Zoom, an AI powered collaboration platform, allows individuals and large companies to host team meetings and live webinars. It streamlines communication, increases employee engagement, optimizes in-person time, and improves productivity across flexible work.
Best For: Companies of All Sizes
Standout Features
Secure Video Conferencing
Integrations
Live Events and Webinars
Zoom Rooms
Whiteboard
Enterprise Phone System
Pros
- Easy organization of bulk participants in video conferencing
- The AI companion feature makes notes from the meeting
Customer Reviews
“The new feature that got added recently, AI companion, where it makes notes of the meeting is so cool and useful” (Source: G2)
Cons
- The time allotted for meetings without a premium subscription is too limited
- There could be added features for better convenience of users
Customer Reviews
“One thing I dislike about Zoom is that while screen sharing, there should be an option for me to share my zoom chats as well.” (Source: G2)
Clientele
- Walmart
- WWF
- Capital One
- Nasdaq
- Moffitt Cancer Center
- The New York Times
Pricing
Pro: $15.99/user/month
Business: $21.99/user/month
Business Plus: $26.99/user/month
Vantage Rewards
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Why Vantage Rewards
Vantage Circle, a SaaS-based employee engagement platform, allows companies to cover the recognition needs of a global workforce with flexible monetary and non-monetary rewards. It enables employees to acknowledge each other’s achievements and contributions, making everyone feel valued and appreciated, therefore enhancing the efforts to increase productivity and overall performance.
Best For: Medium to Large Enterprises
Standout Features
Peer-to-Peer Monetary & Non-Monetary Recognition
Custom Awards & Badges, Team Awards, & Panel Awards
Automated Birthday & Anniversary Wish with Award Points
Gift Cards, Merchandise, and Experiences
Discounts, Exclusive Offers for Employees
Wellness Programs
Pros
- It is available as a website, as an iOS & Android App, and within MS Teams and Slack.
- It offers an all-in-One platform for Rewards, Pulse Surveys & Corporate Wellness.
Customer Reviews
“By providing a comprehensive platform for these purposes, it streamlines processes, boosts morale, fosters a positive work culture, and enhances employee satisfaction.” (Source: G2)
Cons
- Sometimes some gift cards are not available for redemption.
- There are some clarity issues with the offers available at times.
Customer Reviews
“I don't dislike but need to add gift cards for small amount like 5 or 10” (Source: G2)
Clientele
- Tata Communications
- Capgemini
- Novartis
- Wipro
- Cognizant
- PWC
Pricing
Grow: Price on Request
Transform: Price on Request
Enterprise: Price on Request
Kudos
Why Kudos
As an employee engagement platform, Kudos takes pride in building positive cultures and prioritizing open communication. Recognition is a primary aspect of engagement, so Kudos offers a smooth peer-to-peer recognition feature. In addition, Kudos is a step ahead in providing actionable insights into employee performance and workplace culture.
Best For: SMEs
Standout Features
Value-Based Recognition & Flexible Rewards
Custom Awards, Badges, & Certificates
Team Wall
Record Video Recognition
Global & Local Rewards
Digital Gift Cards
Pros
- It provides a channel for open communication where employees can publicly or privately recognize their colleagues.
- The platform is intuitive and easy to use
Customer Reviews
“It's structured like a social feed and very easy to use. Minimal training is required, and implementation and customization was very simple.” (Source:Capterra)
Cons
- The platform could incorporate more options for redeeming points.
- It offers limited customization options for varied recognition programs.
Customer Reviews
“I believe a bit more flexibility in terms of design and formatting would enhance the overall user experience for my colleagues.” (Source: G2)
Clientele
- Atko
- MU Healthcare
- Veritone
- Arch Insurance
- Fortis BC
- DHL Global Forwarding
Pricing
Kudos Plus: $5/user/month
Kudos Enterprise: $7/user/month
Motivosity
Why Motivosity
Motivosity uses the power of social recognition to drive engagement and satisfaction. The platform facilitates real-time recognition and enables team members to attach points/cash when they appreciate their peers. Moreover, its intuitive interface feels less like a software tool and more like a trusted colleague, nudging employees to celebrate each other's wins, big or small.
Best For: Medium-sized Companies
Standout Features
Social Feed
Influence Currency
Customizable Rewards
Spot Bonus, Awards & Badges
Milestone Tracker
Performance Management & Tracking
Pros
- The platform provides a robust knowledge base for user support, ensuring that users can find answers to their queries efficiently
- It offers appreciation prizes for driving a culture of belonging
Customer Reviews
“Motivosity has helped bring our remote workforce together in a positive and engaging way.” (Source: G2)
Cons
- The interface and features are somewhat complex and require time to understand and utilize effectively
- There are integration limits that make it challenging to integrate Motivosity with other HR systems
Customer Reviews
"I don't like the integration and customization of it. There are certain buttons that are hardwired into the system that we are unable to change to fit our internal language.” (Source: G2)
Clientele
- SalesRabbit
- Fujifilm
- Smoothie King
- Adobe WorkFront
- Handco*ck Health
- KPMG
Pricing
Rewards & Recognition: $4/user/month
Manager Development: $6/user/month
Employee Insights: $8/user/month
Vantage Fit
Why Vantage Fit
Vantage Fit is a corporate wellness platform that prioritizes and addresses employee wellness needs. It aims to create a happier and healthier workforce by offering comprehensive solutions. Employees can get involved in various multi-activity and theme-based health challenges to suit their needs.
Best For: Medium to Large Enterprises
Standout Features
The platform connects with various fitness trackers, devices, and wearables to monitor challenge progress.
Employees earn points by participating in wellness challenges, which can be redeemed for various gift cards, merchandise, and experiences.
Provision of contests, social feeds, and leaderboards to foster friendly competition.
It has a step counter, calorie tracker, activity tracker, health risk assessment, and contest creation.
Participants earn non-monetary badges, which they can display on their profiles.
Real-time analytics helps gauge program traction.
Pros
- The platform provides comprehensive fitness programs.
- It offers a user-friendly interface.
Customer Reviews
"I've tried my fair share of fitness apps, but none have left me as impressed and motivated as Vantage Fit. From its user-friendly interface to its comprehensive workout plans, this app has truly elevated my fitness journey.” (Source: G2)
Cons
- There is room for more customization.
- Number of food options could be increased.
Customer Reviews
“The food journal needs to be able to search for more options. I'm vegan, so I had difficulty tracking vegan food items.” (Source: G2)
Clientele
- Accenture
- FirstSource
- MI
- Citi
- Bajaj Allianz
- Group M Nexus
Pricing
One-time: $1,000/user/year (Includes setup cost $500)
Standard: $3,500/user/year (Includes setup cost $500)
Enterprise: $4,000/user/year (Includes setup cost $500)
Wellable
Why Wellable
Wellable helps organizations create engaging employee wellness programs, elevate employee experience, and transform cultures. Through wellness challenges and health monitoring activities, the platform aims to drive a culture of wellness and enhance employee productivity. With an employer-friendly approach, it offers customizable programs that allow you to seamlessly integrate your unique requirements with the culture of your workforce.
Best For: Companies of All Sizes
Standout Features
Integrations with Wellness Apps and Wearable Devices
Articles on Health Reminders
Automated Activity Tracking
Holistic Wellness Challenges
On-Demand Classes
On-Site and Virtual Services
Pros
- It offers a holistic approach to health including mental health.
- Wellable is easy to use and navigate.
Customer Reviews
“Wellable is very easy to navigate and use.” (Source: G2)
Cons
- There is room for more features to be added.
- At times the app freezes and causes disruption.
Customer Reviews
“There are sometimes lags when switching between areas of the app.” (Source: G2)
Clientele
- P&G
- BCG
- Teach for America
- Colby
- Dignity Health
- BioNTech
Pricing
Self-Directed: $75/month/25 users
Full-Service: $1000/month/500 users
Virgin Pulse
Why Virgin Pulse
Virgin Pulse is a powerful online employee survey tool that lets you collect, measure, and act on real-time employee feedback. It helps organizations understand and evaluate employee needs and behavior, contributing to improved engagement and satisfaction within the workplace.
Best For: Companies of All Sizes
Standout Features
Tailored Solutions
Customized Fitness Solutions
Wealth of Educational Materials
AI-Powered Personalization
Comprehensive Platform
Motivating Fitness Challenges
Pros
- The app is user-friendly and has clean features.
- It motivates users to keep up with the fitness journey with the help of Challenges.
Customer Reviews
“Extremely useful to create habits for the users” (Source: G2)
Cons
- There is room for better integration capabilities.
- The app lags at times.
Customer Reviews
“Some technical faults were identified, as an example when we enter the number of steps, it automatically erases and is not saved” (Source: G2)
Clientele
- Medtronic
- Corteva
- Accenture
- DTE Energy
- Zoetis
- Visa
Pricing
Kick-Start: Price on Request
GO: Price on Request
Ignite Global: Price on Request
Engage Global: Price on Request
Vantage Pulse
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Why Vantage Pulse
A powerful employee pulse survey and feedback tool, Vantage Pulse allows you to collect, measure, and act on real-time employee feedback. You can design surveys that employees find easy to use and unveil analyzed insights that are simple to work on.
These engagement surveys are created while maintaining anonymity. Vantage Pulse helps you analyze trends, predict behaviors, and uncover reasons for absenteeism patterns, employee turnover, skill gaps, workforce productivity, etc. This understanding is resourceful for you to take measures for boosting employee engagement and retention.
Best For: Medium to Large Enterprises
Standout Features
Analyzed insights offer a comprehensive overview of employees' experiences.
Effortless management of survey structure and configurations.
From scores to follow-ups, everything is anonymous.
A comprehensive library of 25+ pre-built survey templates
Customize the survey according to the desired length, short or long.
Filter, download, and analyze the survey reports
Pros
- Vantage Pulse supports CSV and Excel formats
- The platform provides real-time feedback
Customer Reviews
“Vantage Pulse provides a real-time anonymous feedback mechanism, enabling organizations to gather valuable insights into employee satisfaction and engagement.” (Source: G2)
Cons
- The effectiveness of the surveys is dependent on active employee participation
- Vantage Pulse may not cover all aspects of customization abilities
Customer Reviews
“Additional custom survey templates would be useful” (Source: G2)
Clientele
- ITC Hotels
- BGIS
- Axonics
- Access One
- YNV Group
- Lightstorm
Pricing
Grow: Price on Request
Transform: Price on Request
Enterprise: Price on Request
15Five
Why 15Five
15Five is a platform of action aimed at measuring and delivering higher performance, retention, and engagement through managers. 15Five helps keep the lines of communication open between managers, direct reports, and peers. The tool provides engagement insights to see where your company is flourishing and where there are opportunities.
Best For: SMEs
Standout Features
One-on-One Meetings
Company-wide OKRs
Regular Real-Time Feedback
Performance Reviews
Individual Career Paths
Engagement Surveys
Pros
- 15Five provides real-time engaging surveys with actionable insights
- The platform is easy to use and keeps users engaged
Customer Reviews
“It's so easy to use that anyone can use it” (Source: G2)
Cons
- At times, the platform sends too many emails and notifications
- There can be confusion in setting and tracking career goals
Customer Reviews
“The setting and tracking of career goals seems a bit jumbled. There is sometimes overlap in terms of the objectives and peer review process.” (Source: G2)
Clientele
- Hubspot
- Credit Karma
- Pendo
- WP Engine
- Auror
- Spotify
Pricing
Engage: $4/user/month
Perform: $10/user/month
Total Perform: $16/user/month
Officevibe
Why Officevibe
A comprehensive employee engagement tool, Officevibe provides real-time insights into your employees' engagement and productivity levels. You can attain these insights through engaging surveys and anonymous feedback. It allows you to gauge engagement score, which helps you find and work on areas for improvement with the assistance of powerful analytics.
Best For: SMEs
Standout Features
Engaging and Colorful Pulse Surveys
One- on-One Meeting Templates
Tracking Goals and OKRs
Science-Backed Surveys
Seamless Integration
Customization
Pros
- Ensures privacy by keeping responses anonymous.
- Officevibe provides good customer support.
Customer Reviews
“The customer support is really amazing!” (Source: G2)
Cons
- Sometimes, the survey questions are repetitive
- There is room for additional robust features
Customer Reviews
“I would like Officevibe to have more features, e.g. supporting an entire performance review cycle.” (Source: G2)
Clientele
- Dyson
- Ikea
- Trivago
- Siemens
- Mont Blanc
- One Signal
Pricing
Essential: $3.50/user/month
Pro: $5/user/month
DSMN8
Why DSMN8
DSMN8 is an all-in-one employee advocacy platform. It provides an app to companies that want their employees to share company-related content on social media platforms like LinkedIn, Twitter, Facebook, and others. The platform centralizes company content, making it easy for employees to share and engage with their networks.
Best For: Medium to Large Enterprises
Standout Features
Real-time Analytics
Content Segmentation
Smart Scheduling
Integrations
White Label Solution
DSMN8 App
Pros
- DSMN8 is a user-friendly platform
- It offers great customer service
Customer Reviews
“Provides great level of customer support.” (Source: G2)
Cons
- Users can only tag those people in social media posts when they are active members too
- There are technical glitches at times with the platform
Customer Reviews
“Sometimes i get notifications but then when I log in it is not available” (Source: G2)
Clientele
- Abbott
- Huawei
- Dulux
- Nokia
- Dropbox
- AkzoNobel
Pricing
Growth: $699/month
Scale: $1750/month
Enterprise: $2920/month
Global: Price on Request
Hootsuite
Why Hootsuite
Hootsuite is an employee advocacy platform that allows users to schedule and post content to the proper channels and track them effectively. Hootsuite provides a solution for communicating with people on social media platforms. The social media engagement solutions offered by Hootsuite help you connect with the audience and grow your brand.
Best For: SMEs
Standout Features
Report Templates
Community Engagement Capabilities
Data-driven Analytics
Customization
Multi-Profile Scheduling
Integrations
Pros
- Hootsuite offers a 30-day free trial for new users
- It offers robust features like publishing, engagement tools, etc.
Customer Reviews
“Scheduling all our posts has never been easier with Hootsuite! I have been using Hootsuite since 2015, and it has only gotten better since” (Source: G2)
Cons
- Customer support is slow with their responses
- Changes in the pricing structure with higher starting prices
Customer Reviews
“Sudden change in pricing plans with limited use and collaboration with user” (Source: G2)
Clientele
- Ikea
- Adobe
- Allianz
- The University of Chicago
- JetBlue
- UHaul
Pricing
Professional: $22.94/user/month
Team: $90.25/3 users/month
Enterprise: Price on Request
EveryoneSocial
Why EveryoneSocial
EveryoneSocial is a social selling and employee advocacy software designed for marketing, sales, and HR. The platform curates organizational news and content at one central location, allowing employees to share relevant content with their social media networks. It increases viral reach, bringing more traffic and new business to the company.
Best For: Medium to Large Companies
Standout Features
Content Management
Customization
Gamification
Push Notifications
Internal-Only Posts
Social Selling
Pros
- It allows for comprehensive reporting
- Posting is made easier with the platform’s seamless integrations
Customer Reviews
“The best thing I like about EveryoneSocial is that I can easily just hit share for a particular post, and it goes out to my linked social networks.” (Source: G2)
Cons
- The questions, at times, are repetitive
- There are technical glitches at times, and users need to log in to resolve the same
Customer Reviews
“Sometimes it disconnects from your linked social media platforms, and you must reconnect.” (Source: G2)
Clientele
- Amazon
- Okta
- Standard Chartered
- Infosys
- Workday
- Meta
Pricing
Flat-Rate Pricing: Price on Request
Benefits of Employee Engagement Tools
The main benefits of incorporating Employee Engagement Tools in your organization are:
Employee Emotional Wellbeing: Engagement tools ease your process of ensuring sound mental and emotional health in the organization. As a result, they showcase agility in delivering better and faster results.
Instant Recognition of Employee Efforts: Employee Engagement tools like the reward and recognition platform allow you to immediately recognize and reward employees' efforts.
Tracking Personal and Professional Growth: Engagement tools such as employee engagement surveys, career path planning tools, and mentoring facilitate gaining a holistic understanding of individual aspirations.
Employee Productivity and Business Performance: The right tools have the potential to streamline workflows, enhance communication across the team, and offer resources to employees to excel in their respective roles.
In summary, employee engagement tools will help you create a thriving workplace that attracts and retains talent.
Challenges of Employee Engagement Tools
Implementing employee engagement tools can be both rewarding and challenging. Here are some common challenges organizations face when adopting such tools:
Resistance to Change: Employees may resist using new tools due to unfamiliarity or fear of disruption. Overcoming this resistance requires effective communication, training, and emphasizing the benefits.
Measuring ROI: Quantifying the impact of engagement tools can be challenging. Metrics like participation rates, productivity improvements, and employee satisfaction surveys help evaluate ROI.
Sustaining Engagement: Maintaining long-term engagement is essential. Regular updates, gamification, and personalized content can help sustain interest.
Customization: One-size-fits-all solutions may not work. Customizing tools to fit an organization’s unique culture and needs is vital.
Leadership Buy-In: Without support from leadership, adoption can falter. Leaders should champion the tools and actively participate.
Addressing these challenges requires proactive and continuous refinement of the approach to maximize employee engagement.
How to Choose the Right Employee Engagement Tool?
Out of the many employee engagement tools available at your disposal, it can be challenging to choose the right one. Irrespective of the challenges, you must opt for the right tool that aligns with your organizational goals and serves its true purpose.
Given the significance of the right tool, you must be vigilant about the factors that will help you choose the appropriate tool. Let us take you through some factors that will ease your process of choosing the right tool.
Assess Pain Points and Current Needs: Identify the pain points of your organization related to employee engagement. These could range from communication gaps, low morale, and lack of motivation to lack of recognition.
Ensure User-Friendliness: The most common factor determining the success of employee engagement tools is how user-friendly they are for employees and administrators.
Scalability and Flexibility: Opt for a tool to measure or scale your organization’s growth. Also, a flexible tool to adapt to changing needs can accommodate the increasing number of users and expand its functions.
Customization: Opt for tools that offer customization options. Customization will allow you to tailor the tools to your organization’s unique culture, values, and processes.
Feedback and Analytics: You should look for tools offering feedback and analytics features. Feedback helps you gather insights and data on employee engagement.
In summary, when assessing all your requirements, you must opt for a tool that aligns with your organizational goals. Choosing the best tool will fetch you the best results.
FAQs
Q. How do employee engagement tools work?
A: These tools basically use surveys, feedback loops, and data analytics to collect information on employee motivation, satisfaction, and overall engagement. The collected data is further analyzed to give insights and recommendations for improvement.
Q. How can employee engagement tools benefit organizations?
A: Employee engagement tools help organizations identify areas for improvement, boost morale, enhance communication, and create a positive work environment. These factors lead to higher employee satisfaction and an increase in productivity.
Q. Are employee engagement tools only for large enterprises?
A: No, these tools cater to organizations of all sizes. Many tools offer scalable solutions that can further be customized to meet the needs of small, medium, and large businesses.
Q. How can organizations improve employee engagement?
A: To improve employee engagement, organizations should invest in effective communication, involve all employees in providing recognition and rewards, and create a supportive work environment that encourages collaboration and development. They should also focus on promoting work-life balance, providing opportunities for skill development, and fostering a positive company culture that aligns with employees’ values and aspirations.
This article is written by Shabana Shahnaz, a Product Research Analyst at Vantage Circle. Shabana is passionately interested in people dynamics as a post-graduate in Applied Sociology. She writes everything in and around human resources to help professionals find what they're looking for in the HR domain. To get in touch, reach out to editor@vantagecircle.com
