In this episode of HR, We Have a Problem, Teri Zipper and guest David Noe, HR Manager with Payroll Partners and host of the SpeakEasy HR podcast, discuss the often-overlooked elements of employee experience that directly impact retention. The conversation examines why clarity and belonging can matter more than perks, how technology platforms can make or break trust, and why treating employee relationships as timelines instead of human connections creates retention problems. Key points covered include: ↪️ Employee experience gaps often stem from poor clarity and lack of belonging rather than insufficient benefits or perks. Small moments of recognition and genuine check-ins drive retention more than assumed cultural strengths. ↪️ Systems like payroll platforms directly affect trust levels within organizations. When basic functions fail, employees lose confidence in leadership regardless of other positive workplace factors. ↪️ Culture requires active maintenance through discipline, not accident. Leaders must establish clear non-negotiable values, implement simple reinforcement systems, and provide leadership development at every level to scale effectively. ↪️ Communication quality matters more than volume. Leaders need to explain the “why” behind decisions and use multiple channels to reach different employees rather than relying on single methods or assuming AI will solve communication problems. Don’t miss this exciting thought leader conversation! Follow the hosts and companies mentioned below: Sapient Insights Group Download the 2024-25 HR Systems Survey White Paper Instagram | Twitter | LinkedIn Teri Zipper Instagram |  Twitter |  LinkedIn  David Noe LinkedIn Payroll Partners, Inc LinkedIn