23% of SMB CEOs anticipate handing out smaller pay raises than they did in 2023, and 4% don't plan to give any raises this year.

Discouraging trends in a new Aquent talent study provides opportunities for companies to examine how to build high-performing teams and fairly compensate them.

About one-third (38%) of people in pain report feeling depressed; nearly half (44%) report anxiety.

Most (88%) employees said it is more important for them to have a job they find personally fulfilling.

"Many employers are unaware — or are surprised to learn — the realities of what their employees experience when it comes to workplace safety and mental health," Mike Dahir, Traliant's CEO, said.

The report indicates slumps might last for months, although employee compensation increases can help.

The numbers contrast sharply with increases as high as 35% in 2021.

Nearly 1 in 5 U.S. adults who have had COVID-19 are still experiencing persistent symptoms three or more months after their initial COVID-19 diagnosis.