Grab your favorite mug—we’re asking what’s ✨brewing✨ in comp strategies for the year ahead.

In this episode of Comp and Coffee, host Ruth Thomas kicks off 2025 with guest Sarika Lamont, Vice President of People and Culture at Vidyard. The discussion revolves around the emerging trends and critical priorities in HR and compensation, focusing on the intersection of equity, AI, and employee empowerment. Sarika shares insights on fostering pay equity independently of DE&I trends and emphasizes the importance of sustainable pay practices. Tune in for a dynamic conversation about navigating HR challenges and strategies in the new year.

Key Highlights:

• The influence of political and economic changes on HR priorities in 2025.

• The ongoing debate and strategies around remote work versus return to office.

• The role of AI in shaping HR and compensation processes and policies.

• A deep dive into the importance of pay transparency and equity amid shifting DE&I focuses.

• Innovative approaches to integrating performance and pay within organizations.

• Emerging trends in personalized rewards and skills-based pay practices.

Quotes:

• "Compensation is an area of strategic focus for HR teams and leaders in 2025." – Sarika Lamont

• "Pay equity should happen systemically all the time, driven through inclusive processes." – Sarika Lamont

• "Performance is about growth; feedback is how action happens." – Sarika Lamont

• "The power of choice in total rewards is critical for fulfilling diverse employee needs." – Sarika Lamont

Resources:

• 2025 HR Predictions Guide: https://www.payscale.com/research-and-insights/2024-end-of-year-report/#module-19

• I Hate it Here Podcast Episode Compensation 101 - https://open.spotify.com/episode/54HavsXulnai0ORYK79D58?si=Y8THgieHSo-Sq_yE9vIkpA&nd=1&dlsi=6c587930609e460c