Bree Health Pod: Elevating Workplace Wellness through Innovation

We are proud to share that the Bree Health Relaxation Pod, an innovative project by Bree Health, an eni company, has been featured at the Worksite Health Awards by the Greater Providence Chamber of Commerce and Blue Cross & Blue Shield of Rhode Island. Lifespan’s exemplary use of our pod highlights its transformative impact on […]

Re-Engaging Today’s Workforce

Employee engagement is a critical factor in driving productivity, innovation, and overall organizational success- but in today’s fast-paced and ever-changing work environment, maintaining a high level of engagement can be challenging. As organizations seek to re-energize their workforce, it is essential to understand the factors that contribute to disengagement and implement strategies to reignite the flame. 
Implement an EAP: An Employee Assistance Program is a workplace benefit designed to support employees’ well-being and address personal challenges that may impact their work performance. EAPs typically provide confidential counseling, resources, and referral services for employees and their families. By offering an EAP, organizations demonstrate a commitment to their employees’ mental health, work-life balance, and overall well-being. EAPs help with employee retention by providing a supportive environment where employees can seek assistance for personal and work-related issues, reducing stress, improving resilience, and promoting overall job satisfaction. When employees feel supported and cared for, they are more likely to remain loyal to the organization, contributing to higher employee retention rates. Learn more about EAPs such as NexGen by visiting: https://www.eniweb.com/nexgen-eap/ 
Foster a Culture of Purpose: Employees are most likely to be engaged when they understand how their work contributes to the organization’s mission, leaders can help employees connect their individual roles to the bigger picture. Regularly remind employees of the impact their work has on customers, society, and the world at large, instilling a sense of purpose and pride.
Encourage Autonomy and Ownership: Empowering employees to make decisions and take ownership of their work enhances their sense of control and investment. Allow employees the freedom to use their skills and expertise to solve problems and make meaningful contributions. Providing autonomy demonstrates trust in their abilities and fosters a sense of ownership, which in turn fuels motivation and engagement. 
Prioritize Employee Development: Investing in employee development and growth opportunities is a powerful way to re-engage the workforce. Offer relevant training programs, workshops, and mentoring opportunities that align with employees’ career aspirations. Encourage the acquisition of new skills, promote professional advancement, and provide clear pathways for career progression. When employees feel supported in their development, they are more likely to feel valued and engaged.
Embrace Flexibility and Work-Life Balance: The modern workforce values work-life balance and flexibility. Organizations that offer flexible work arrangements, such as remote work options or flexible schedules, can boost employee satisfaction and engagement. Recognize that employees have responsibilities and interests outside of work, and provide the flexibility to accommodate them. Striking a healthy work-life balance enables employees to recharge, leading to increased focus and commitment when they are on the job.
Recognize and Appreciate Employee Contributions: Acknowledging and appreciating employee contributions is crucial in re-engaging the workforce. Implement a comprehensive recognition and rewards program that highlights exceptional performance, achievements, and milestones. Recognition can take various forms, including verbal praise, public appreciation, monetary incentives, or opportunities for increased responsibility. Regularly expressing gratitude and recognizing employees’ efforts fosters a positive work environment and boosts motivation.
Enhance Communication and Transparency: Transparent and effective communication is vital for re-engaging employees. Share relevant information, updates, and decisions that impact the workforce. Encourage open dialogue and create opportunities for employees to provide feedback and voice their concerns. Actively listen to their input and take action where appropriate. Transparent communication builds trust, fosters a sense of inclusion, and makes employees feel valued and connected.
Foster Collaboration and Team Building: Creating opportunities for collaboration and team building can reignite enthusiasm within the workforce. Encourage cross-functional projects, group problem-solving activities, and team-building exercises. Foster a supportive and inclusive environment where employees feel comfortable sharing ideas, collaborating, and learning from one another. Strong relationships and camaraderie among team members promote engagement and a sense of belonging.
Lead by Example: Leaders play a pivotal role in re-engaging the workforce. Lead by example, demonstrating enthusiasm, passion, and a commitment to excellence. Show genuine care for employees’ well-being and professional growth. Engage in regular one-on-one conversations to understand individual aspirations and concerns. Provide mentorship and coaching to support employees’ development journeys. When leaders embody engagement, it creates a ripple effect throughout the organization.
Re-engaging today’s workforce requires a multifaceted approach that addresses the unique needs and aspirations of employees. By prioritizing employee engagement, organizations create an environment where employees feel valued, motivated, and empowered to contribute their best work, ultimately driving organizational success. Learn more about the engagement of your workforce and support your employees by implementing a benefit like NexGen EAP.

The Impact of Personalized Mental Health Services on Employee Well-Being

In the modern work environment, employee wellbeing is more than just a trend—it’s a fundamental aspect of successful organizations. Employee wellbeing is a holistic concept that encompasses physical, mental, and emotional health. While traditional employee benefits have played a crucial role in promoting wellbeing, the evolving understanding of health demands a more personalized approach to benefits.

The Role of Mental Health Services in Promoting Wellbeing
Mental health services are a vital part of employee benefits packages. These services provide essential support for employees navigating stress, anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. However, traditional mental health services often adopt a generalized approach, offering the same resources to all employees. While this approach has its merits, it overlooks the unique needs and circumstances of each individual, highlighting the need for personalized mental health services.
How eni’s Hyper-Personalized Services Go Beyond Traditional Benefits
eni is pioneering a new approach to mental health services in the workplace. By leveraging cutting-edge technology, eni collects individual preferences and demographics, creating a personalized profile for each employee. This profile is then used to connect employees with solution paths tailored to their specific needs, taking workplace mental health support to a new level.
eni’s commitment to accessibility is another way they’re going beyond traditional benefits. They ensure barrier-free access to mental health professionals and coaches, eliminating traditional obstacles that can prevent employees from seeking help. This means employees can access the support they need, when they need it.
Furthermore, eni provides a wealth of vetted mental health content curated by clinical experts. But it’s not just about the volume of resources – it’s about how these resources are delivered to each employee. Using advanced AI systems, eni intelligently connects employees with the most relevant and beneficial resources based on their unique profiles and needs. This ensures that employees have access to reliable, high-quality information, further supporting their mental health journey.
To learn about eni’s NexGen EAP benefit services, visit https://www.eniweb.com/nexgen-eap/. 
The Broader Implications of These Services on Overall Employee Wellbeing
By offering hyper-personalized mental health services, eni is not just improving the mental health of employees; they’re enhancing overall employee wellbeing. When employees feel understood and supported in their mental health, they’re more likely to engage in other aspects of their health as well. This holistic approach to wellbeing can lead to improved physical health, better work-life balance, and a more positive work environment.
The Long-Term Benefits of Prioritizing Employee Wellbeing
eni’s approach to mental health services represents a significant shift in the way we think about employee benefits. By prioritizing hyper-personalization and accessibility, they’re going beyond traditional benefits and making a tangible impact on employee wellbeing. As we look to the future, it’s clear that this approach is not just beneficial—it’s essential for the health and success of our workforce.

The Role of Diversity in Our Lives

Diversity is the beautiful tapestry that weaves together individuals from various backgrounds, cultures, and perspectives. It encompasses the recognition and celebration of our unique characteristics, including but not limited to race, ethnicity, gender, age, religion, sexual-orientation, and socio-economic status. Diversity promotes inclusivity and ensures that everyone’s voice is heard and valued. In this blog, we explore the essence of diversity, its importance in our lives, and how we can actively incorporate it to create a more equitable and vibrant society.

Understanding Diversity
Diversity encompasses the rich array of identities and experiences that make each of us unique. It goes beyond visible differences and embraces the invisible threads that shape our perspectives and worldviews. It is the acknowledgment that there is strength in our differences, and together, we can create a harmonious society that benefits from the collective wisdom of diverse voices.
The Importance of Diversity
Embracing diversity is not just a moral imperative; it is also essential for social, economic, and cultural progress. Research has shown that diverse teams outperform homogeneous ones in problem-solving, innovation, and decision-making. By fostering diversity, we tap into a wealth of perspectives, experiences, and talents that drive creativity and spur innovation. Moreover, diverse and inclusive environments foster a sense of belonging and psychological safety, resulting in increased job satisfaction, productivity, and overall well-being.

Incorporating Diversity into Our Lives
Incorporating diversity requires a commitment to openness, empathy, and continuous learning. We can start by actively seeking out diverse perspectives through engaging in conversations with individuals from different backgrounds, cultures, and beliefs. Embracing diverse literature, art, and media can broaden our understanding and challenge preconceived notions. Supporting organizations that prioritize diversity and inclusion, both as consumers and employees, can help create a more equitable society. Through corporate training services, eni provides education on diversity in the workplace. Visit https://www.eniweb.com/corporate-training/ to learn more about eni’s corporate training program. 
One notable example of the power of diversity is found in the business world. Companies that prioritize diversity and inclusion outperform their competitors. A study by McKinsey & Company revealed that ethnically diverse companies are 36% more likely to have above-average financial returns. Another example can be seen in educational institutions where diverse classrooms promote critical thinking, cultural competence, and empathy among students, preparing them for the complexities of the real world.
Embracing diversity is not just a buzzword; it is a vital component of a thriving and inclusive society. By valuing and celebrating our differences, we create a world where everyone feels seen, heard, and empowered. Let us actively incorporate diversity into our lives, challenge biases, and create spaces that foster innovation, equity, and belonging. Together, we can build a brighter future for generations to come. Visit https://www.eniweb.com/nexgen-eap/ to learn about how eni is creating a healthier, more diverse workforce by implementing NexGen EAP.

How HR Professionals Attract Top Talent

In today’s fiercely competitive job market, attracting and retaining top talent has become a crucial challenge for organizations. Human Resources professionals play a vital role in this process, acting as the bridge between potential candidates and the company. To ensure that the organization flourishes with the best individuals, HR professionals need to adopt effective strategies. Here are ten proven ways for HR professionals to attract top talent:

1. Develop a Strong Employer Brand: 
A strong employer brand is the foundation of attracting top talent. HR professionals must collaborate closely with marketing teams to build an authentic and compelling narrative that reflects the company’s mission, culture, and values. This involves understanding what sets the organization apart from competitors and communicating it effectively to potential candidates. HR can achieve this through:

Conducting employee surveys and feedback sessions to understand the perception of the company’s culture and work environment.

Showcasing success stories of employees who have grown within the organization, emphasizing career advancement opportunities.

Leveraging social media and the company website to share engaging content that highlights the unique aspects of the organization, such as employee testimonials and behind-the-scenes glimpses of company life.

2. Optimize Job Descriptions: 
Crafting effective job descriptions is essential to attract the right candidates. HR professionals should focus on clarity and transparency when outlining the responsibilities and qualifications for the role. This involves:

Using language that is easily understandable and avoiding jargon or corporate buzzwords.

Clearly stating the skills, qualifications, and experience required for the position without being overly restrictive.

Describing the company culture and the benefits of working for the organization.

Including information about growth opportunities, career paths, and potential benefits.

3. Embrace Employee Referral Programs: 
Employee referral programs can be a powerful tool for recruiting top talent. HR professionals can design and implement effective referral programs by:

Clearly communicating the program’s benefits and incentives to employees.

Setting clear guidelines for referrals to ensure that the recommended candidates meet the necessary qualifications.

Recognizing and rewarding employees who refer successful hires, thus encouraging continued participation.

Regularly promoting the referral program through internal communication channels and events.

4. Use Social Media Effectively: 
In today’s digital age, social media plays a vital role in recruitment efforts. HR professionals can use social media effectively by:

Maintaining an active and engaging presence on platforms such as LinkedIn, Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram.

Sharing compelling content that reflects the company’s culture, employee achievements, and community involvement.

Interacting with potential candidates, responding to inquiries, and showcasing the company’s commitment to employee well-being.

Utilizing targeted advertising to reach specific candidate demographics.

5. Participate in Industry Events: 
Competitive compensation and benefits packages are critical in attracting top talent. HR professionals can ensure their offerings are attractive by:

Conducting regular market research to understand industry salary standards and benefits trends.

Customizing benefits packages to cater to the diverse needs of employees, such as health insurance, retirement plans, paid time off, and flexible work arrangements.

Considering non-traditional perks, such as wellness programs, professional development allowances, and childcare assistance.

Communicating the total compensation package effectively to candidates, showcasing the overall value of working for the organization.

6. Prioritize Employee Development: 
Investing in employee development is key to attracting and retaining top talent. HR professionals can prioritize employee development by:

Providing access to training programs, workshops, and conferences that align with employees’ career goals.

Offering mentorship and coaching opportunities to help employees grow and overcome challenges.

Collaborating with managers to create individualized development plans for employees, focusing on their strengths and areas for improvement.

Highlighting success stories of employees who have grown within the organization through learning and development opportunities.

7. Foster a Diverse and Inclusive Culture: 
A diverse and inclusive workplace attracts top talent and promotes innovation and creativity. HR professionals can foster such a culture by:

Implementing diverse recruitment strategies that reach underrepresented candidate pools.

Conducting regular diversity and inclusion training for all employees to promote awareness and sensitivity.

Supporting employee resource groups (ERGs) that provide a platform for marginalized groups to connect and share experiences.

Creating inclusive policies and benefits that cater to employees’ diverse needs and backgrounds.

8. Streamline the Hiring Process: 
A lengthy and complicated hiring process can deter talented candidates. HR professionals can streamline the process without compromising on quality by:

Clearly defining the hiring timeline and setting realistic expectations for candidates.

Simplifying the application process and using applicant tracking systems (ATS) to manage applications efficiently.

Involving key stakeholders in the hiring process to make informed decisions and avoid unnecessary delays.

Providing timely feedback and updates to candidates throughout the hiring journey.

9. Showcase Company Culture:
A positive and engaging company culture is a magnet for top talent. HR professionals can showcase the company culture by:

Encouraging employees to share their experiences and success stories through written testimonials or video interviews.

Creating workplace videos that offer virtual tours of the office and glimpses of team collaboration and company events.

Highlighting the company’s core values and how they are integrated into daily operations.

Sharing employee recognition programs that celebrate outstanding contributions and achievements.

10. Offer Competitive Compensation and Benefits:
Competitive compensation and benefits packages are critical in attracting top talent. HR professionals can ensure their offerings are attractive by:

Conducting regular market research to understand industry salary standards and benefits trends.

Customizing benefits packages to cater to the diverse needs of employees, such as health insurance, retirement plans, paid time off, and flexible work arrangements.

Considering non-traditional perks, such as wellness programs, professional development allowances, and childcare assistance.

Communicating the total compensation package effectively to candidates, showcasing the overall value of working for the organization.

NexGen EAP can equip HR professionals with the best benefits to offer employees. The team behind NexGen EAP is not only dedicated to saving employees time and money, but will fight for them when it comes to stressful situations such as insurance disputes. NexGen EAP offers Behavioral Health Counseling and Coaching, Mindfulness Training, Legal and Financial Consultations, a Virtual Coaching Platform, Health Advocacy, a Dedicated Care Team, Virtual Concierge, Employee Discounts, an e-Learning Platform, and Personalized Wellness Services. When the frustrations of life are eased, employees stay retentive and engaged in their work. Both efficient and reliable, for employees that have access to NexGen EAP, assistance is only a phone call away. Visit https://www.eniweb.com/nexgen-eap/ to learn about NexGen EAP’s applied experience of over 40 years. 
Attracting top talent is an ongoing effort that demands strategic planning and adaptability. HR professionals must be proactive in understanding the evolving needs and aspirations of potential candidates. By focusing on building a strong employer brand, optimizing job descriptions, utilizing social media, offering competitive compensation, fostering a diverse and inclusive culture, and prioritizing employee development, organizations can successfully attract and retain the best talent. With these ten proven strategies, HR professionals can unlock the potential for their organization’s enduring success.

Prioritizing Employee Health and Well-Being

As HR professionals, we hold a critical role in ensuring the holistic well-being of our company’s employees. Employee health and well-being encompass physical fitness, mental health, emotional resilience, and social connectedness. This multifaceted approach recognizes that healthy employees are happier, more engaged, and contribute positively to the organization’s success. Beyond offering competitive salaries and benefits, it is essential to prioritize initiatives that support the health and well-being of our employees to create a thriving workplace. Let’s explore why employee health and well-being are paramount and how HR professionals can effectively enhance these aspects.

The Importance of Employee Health and Well-Being
Employee health and well-being are foundational elements of a high-performing organization. A healthy workforce leads to reduced absenteeism, greater productivity, and higher levels of job satisfaction. When employees are physically healthy, they are less prone to illness and are more energetic, focused, and present at work. Additionally, mental health plays a crucial role in employee performance. Prioritizing mental well-being reduces stress and burnout, fostering creativity, problem-solving, and resilience in challenging situations. Moreover, employees who feel supported in their personal well-being are more likely to stay loyal to the company, contributing to lower turnover rates and reduced recruitment costs.
Impact on the Company
The health and well-being of employees directly influence the company’s overall success and performance. Improved employee well-being results in a positive and inclusive work culture, which enhances employee engagement and collaboration. When employees feel valued and cared for, they are more likely to invest their time and effort in their roles, leading to increased productivity and better business outcomes. Moreover, a healthy workforce translates into reduced healthcare costs and fewer workplace injuries, ultimately positively impacting the company’s financial bottom line. Furthermore, a reputation as an employer that prioritizes employee health and well-being attracts top talent and boosts the organization’s employer brand.
Improving Employee Health and Well-Being
HR professionals play a central role in driving initiatives to improve employee health and well-being. Here are some strategies to consider implementing:

Employee Wellness Programs: Develop comprehensive wellness programs that address physical, mental, and emotional well-being. These programs may include fitness challenges, mental health workshops, nutrition counseling, and stress management seminars. Offer incentives, rewards, and recognition to encourage active participation and sustained engagement.

Flexible Work Arrangements: Embrace flexible work options, such as remote work or compressed workweeks, to support work-life balance. Employees who can manage their personal commitments more effectively are likely to experience reduced stress and increased job satisfaction.

Mental Health Support: Offer barrier-free access to confidential coaching, counseling, and mental health resources. Employees are able to flourish in a stigma-free environment that encourages employees to seek help when needed. In order to do so, HR professionals are implementing NexGen EAP, which equips the modern workforce with Behavioral Health Counseling and Coaching, Mindfulness Training, Virtual Coaching, Health Advocacy, a Dedicated Care Team, and Personalized Wellness Services. Click here to learn the ways that NexGen EAP empowers employees to enrich their mental health and supports them through every stage of life. 

Comprehensive Health Insurance Benefits: Offer a robust health insurance plan that covers preventive care, mental health services, and access to a network of healthcare providers. Regular health check-ups can identify health issues early and promote proactive care.

Telehealth Services: Offering Telehealth Services are an efficient way to provide employees with 24/7 medical help with simple access through the NexGen EAP app. When implemented, employees can request visits with board certified medical providers via MeMD for abrasions, bruises, colds, flu, fever, allergies, infections, bites, stings, headaches and arthritic pains. Click here to learn more. 

Employee Recognition and Appreciation: Regularly recognize and celebrate employee achievements to foster a positive and appreciative work environment. Feeling valued boosts morale and contributes to a sense of belonging. 

As HR professionals, our commitment to prioritizing employee health and well-being goes beyond mere compliance; it is the cornerstone of a thriving and successful organization. By understanding the significance of employee well-being and its impact on the company, we can design and implement effective strategies to support our workforce. Investing in employee health and well-being is an investment in the company’s future, as it nurtures a highly engaged, resilient, and motivated workforce that contributes to sustained growth and prosperity. Together, let us embrace the role of advocates for employee health and well-being and create workplaces where employees can thrive both personally and professionally.

A Comprehensive Guide for Navigating Disciplinary Actions

As HR professionals, one of the most challenging aspects of our role is handling disciplinary actions effectively and fairly. Disciplinary actions are essential for maintaining a productive and respectful work environment, but they must be conducted with care and in adherence to company policies and employment laws. In this blog, we’ll explore a step-by-step guide to conducting disciplinary actions with professionalism and empathy.

Establish Clear Policies and Guidelines
HR professionals should collaborate with management and legal experts to develop comprehensive policies that cover a wide range of potential violations. Communicate these policies effectively to employees through multiple channels, such as employee handbooks, company intranet, and regular training sessions. Ensure that employees acknowledge receipt and understanding of the policies through signed acknowledgment forms. Regularly review and update these policies to address evolving workplace challenges and legal requirements.
Gather All Relevant Information
Thoroughly investigating the alleged misconduct is essential to ensure a fair and fact-based disciplinary process. HR professionals should approach investigations with impartiality and confidentiality, avoiding any preconceived notions. Gather all relevant information, including witness statements, documents, emails, and any other evidence related to the incident. Conduct interviews with involved parties and any witnesses, recording the details of the discussions accurately. Avoid making assumptions based on incomplete information and focus on objective evidence.
Hold a Private Meeting
Conduct disciplinary discussions in a private and secure setting to protect the employee’s dignity and privacy. Choose a neutral location where interruptions are unlikely. Involve only necessary individuals, such as HR representatives and immediate supervisors, in the meeting to maintain confidentiality. The private setting fosters open communication and allows the employee to express their thoughts and feelings without fear of judgment or embarrassment.
Use Active Listening and Empathy
Active listening is a crucial skill in disciplinary conversations. HR professionals should provide their full attention to the employee, avoiding distractions and interruptions. Practice empathetic listening, acknowledging the employee’s feelings and perspective without making judgments. Demonstrating empathy shows that you value the employee’s voice and are willing to understand their perspective, even if the situation requires disciplinary action.
Communicate Expectations Clearly
During the disciplinary meeting, communicate clear expectations for improvement. Be specific about the areas that need improvement and set measurable goals for the employee to achieve. Ensure the employee understands the consequences of failing to meet these expectations. Establish a timeline for improvement, allowing the employee a reasonable opportunity to make the necessary changes. Follow up in writing to document the expectations and agreed-upon action plan for both parties’ reference.
Document the Discussion
Accurate documentation is critical in the disciplinary process. HR professionals should carefully record the details of the discussion, including the issues discussed, the employee’s responses, the agreed-upon actions, and the timeline for improvement. Document the steps taken during the investigation and the evidence gathered. Proper documentation serves as a record of the disciplinary process and can be essential in case of future inquiries or legal proceedings.
Follow Through and Monitor Progress
Disciplinary actions should not be one-time events. HR professionals should follow through on the action plan and regularly monitor the employee’s progress. Provide feedback and support to help the employee succeed in meeting the established expectations. Document the progress at each check-in to maintain a comprehensive record of the employee’s improvement journey. Celebrate positive changes and offer guidance if further improvements are necessary.
Be Consistent and Fair
Consistency is a hallmark of a fair disciplinary process. HR professionals must ensure that similar violations receive similar consequences regardless of an employee’s position, tenure, or personal relationships. Treat all employees with fairness and impartiality, avoiding any appearance of favoritism. Consistency fosters a culture of trust and respect, where employees feel confident that disciplinary actions are based on objective criteria.
Consider Progressive Discipline
Progressive discipline involves a series of escalating consequences for repeated violations. HR professionals should communicate the steps involved in the progressive discipline process to employees during the initial disciplinary meeting. Offer employees an opportunity to improve their behavior through coaching, feedback, and additional support before implementing more severe consequences. Progressive discipline allows employees to understand the seriousness of their actions and provides a clear path for improvement.
Offer Resources for ImprovementDisciplinary actions should be an opportunity for growth and improvement. Depending on the situation, consider offering training, educational or mental health services. HR Professionals are implementing NexGen EAP in order to foster a supportive environment for their employees by offering an e-Learning Platform, a Virtual Coaching Platform, Behavioral Health Coaching, Mindfulness Training, and Personalized Wellness Services. Visit https://www.eniweb.com/nexgen-eap/ to learn about what NexGen EAP has to offer, and click here to read about eni’s extensive corporate training. 
Maintain Confidentiality
Maintaining strict confidentiality throughout the disciplinary process is essential to protect the privacy of all parties involved. Avoid discussing disciplinary matters with individuals who are not directly involved in the process. HR professionals should adhere to company policies and legal regulations regarding the confidentiality of employee information. Respecting confidentiality fosters trust and ensures a fair and respectful disciplinary process.
Review and Reflect on the Process
After each disciplinary action, HR professionals should conduct a thorough review of the entire process. Assess the effectiveness of the disciplinary action in addressing the issue and achieving the desired outcomes. Identify any areas for improvement in handling future disciplinary cases. Regularly reflect on the success and challenges of the disciplinary process to enhance its efficiency and effectiveness. Seek feedback from involved parties and relevant stakeholders to continuously improve the disciplinary process.
Conducting disciplinary actions is an essential responsibility of HR professionals, but it requires tact, empathy, and adherence to established policies. By following these guidelines and maintaining open communication with employees, HR professionals can navigate disciplinary actions in a way that promotes a healthy and respectful work environment while fostering opportunities for growth and improvement.