Paula Lee, an employee who previously had melanoma, took advantage of meeting with a Colonial Life benefits counselor, Cathy. Little did she realize how soon she'd need help from those benefits.

As a small employer, you might feel lost in the sea of larger competition with benefits you think you can’t match. But, don’t forget: you can use your company’s size to your advantage.

Many employers will assume poor results, absenteeism and missed deadlines are indicators that an employee isn’t right for the job or is a bad fit for the company. While’s it’s challenging to diagnose the cause of performance issues, it’s critical for employers to consider a factor that has, until recently, been overlooked: employee wellbeing.

Paid time off is one of the single most important benefits an employer can offer. It impacts recruiting, retention, morale, employee wellness and productivity in innumerable ways.

Of all the different expenses a business must pay, employee health care continues to be one of the highest. While there’s the direct cost of contributions toward employee health care coverage that most employers make, there’s also the indirect cost of sick workers.

Most organizations offer similar types of employee benefits: health care insurance, vacation and sick time. Often what differentiates a benefits package are the perks. An example might be giving an employee a company car but not every employer can offer premium perks.

Every company sets its own benchmarks for growth and success. Your goals may not require disrupting entire industries. Here are some ideas for driving your own innovations.

Many of us know social media as a way to maintain connections with old friends and colleagues. According to the Pew Research Center, 69 percent of American adults use some form of social media.  It can also work wonders for companies, when utilized effectively. 

Uncomfortable, yes. Often necessary, also yes. Asking these interview questions might make your skin crawl, but they'll also provide you with crucial information from a potential candidate. Check out our advice before your next interview.

Knowing the ins and outs of the social media world are crucial to any business that wants to be heard and get noticed. Size doesn't matter on the social-scape, just style. See how this ever-growing field impacts your business, and how you can use it to your advantage.