Description: In this second part of a powerful two-part conversation, Jessica Tietjen sits down with Jeff Ilko, VP of People + Performance at Switch, go beyond the numbers to explore how compensation, culture, and flexibility are reshaping the modern workplace.

It’s no longer just about salaries and benefits—today's workforce is demanding meaningful work, autonomy, and alignment with personal values.

In this episode, we explore:

• Why compensation is only part of the retention equation

• How generational shifts are changing expectations around work and life

• The impact of flexible work, gig roles, and outcome-based compensation models

• The hidden costs of transactional workplace relationships

• How culture, development, and well-being factor into what people truly value

• The critical role of leadership in creating people-first environments

From rethinking time-based work to reimagining benefits through the lens of human needs, Jessica and Jeff unpack how organizations can adapt to meet employees where they are—and where they’re headed.

Whether you're an HR leader, business owner, or simply curious about how the world of work is evolving, this episode offers fresh perspectives for building workplaces people want to stay in.

Missed Part 1? Listen here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/rethinking-compensation-what-todays-workforce-really/id1601921759?i=1000714338029

Jeff's Bio: My name is Jeff Ilko and I’m the Vice President, People & Performance at Switch, a nationally recognized leader in experiential marketing and event production. I hold a dual MA in Human Resource Management and Human Resource Development and hold PHR and SHRM-CP certifications. I have over 26 years of experience in Human Resources, from small local companies to large, global organizations in multiple industries. I’ve had the opportunity to be a MQA Examiner for the Excellence in Missouri Foundation; design and teach Human Resource courses; and lead process improvement initiatives, influence change, and strategically support organizations for success. Some of my proudest accomplishments have been helping managers navigate the chaos that COVID brought to the workforce; implementing processes to take full advantage of the technology at our disposal; and navigating (what seems to be the ever changing) regulatory landscape around employment law.

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