The influence of Taylor Swift has hit the workplace.
Six percent of salaried U.S. employees — roughly 4 million workers — are taking paid time off (PTO) for the release of the pop star's latest album, "The Life of a Showgirl," on Oct. 3, according to new data from software company BambooHR. For self-described fans of the musician, that number jumps to 15%.
The findings not only indicate the power that Swift has on the workplace — BambooHR also noted the distraction that Swift's engagement to NFL star Travis Kelce had on workers when it was announced in late August — but also symbolize the influence that cultural events have on the workplace. Just as negative and stressful events often affect productivity and presenteeism at work, fun and positive events can also have an impact.
"When something big is happening in pop culture, people tend to want to be a part of it," said Wende Smith, head of people operations at BambooHR in Lindon, Utah. "Employees have always taken time off for things that are important to them. The idea of taking PTO to listen to Taylor's new album or to attend [the album's] release party in theaters isn't rare or surprising."
PTO for the release of Swift's album isn't the only trending topic in the total rewards space. Here's a look at other recent benefits and compensation news and trends.
Rules Finalized for Roth Catch-Up Contributions in 401(k) Plans
The IRS and the Treasury Department have finalized regulations — and a start date — for Roth (after-tax) catch-up contributions in 401(k)s and other retirement plans implemented by the SECURE Act 2.0. And employers should prepare now, experts said.
Beginning in 2027, traditional catch-up contributions must be treated as after-tax, rather than pretax, when they are made by employees ages 50 and older whose prior-year income from their existing employer exceeded $145,000. Learn what employers need to know.
Employees Often Regret Their Benefits Choices. HR Can Fix That.
Scores of employees have little confidence in their benefits choices. In fact, more than half of U.S. employees said they regretted their benefits choices in the previous year, according to 2024 data from Equitable, a financial services company.
That's a big problem that negatively impacts both employees and employers — and it could be even worse this year. Discover what one benefits expert said HR can do to remedy the situation.
The Big Beautiful Bill: Redefining Benefits and Employer Obligations
The One Big Beautiful Bill Act is reshaping how employers approach benefits, reporting, and compliance. While it stops short of mandating sweeping new programs, it introduces expanded tax incentives, updated eligibility criteria, and more complex payroll obligations.
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