Beyond Compliance: Supporting Employees Before, During, and After Leave of Absence

This session is designed for HR practitioners who support leaves of absence and regularly sit at the intersection of policy, people, and organizational pressure—often all at once.

Participants can expect real-world stories, candid discussion, and a clear exploration of how leave is experienced beyond forms, timelines, and compliance requirements. Even when policies are followed correctly, the way leaders communicate—or go quiet—before, during, and after leave can shape trust, connection, and long-term engagement in lasting ways.

This presentation introduces a leadership-centered lens for extended leaves of absence, focusing on communication, continuity, and leadership presence rather than process alone. The session is reflective, practical, and intentionally thought-provoking—designed to help HR leaders reexamine how leadership shows up during leave and why supporting leaders through these moments plays a critical role in the overall employee experience.