Minimum wage and overtime are critical components of compensation and benefits strategies within organizations. For SHRM Certified Professionals, understanding and effectively managing these elements is essential to ensure compliance with labor laws and to foster fair and competitive workplaces. Minimum wage refers to the lowest hourly pay that employers can legally provide to employees, as mandated by federal, state, and sometimes local laws. It serves as a baseline to prevent exploitation and ensure workers receive fair compensation for their labor. SHRM professionals must stay abreast of varying minimum wage rates across different jurisdictions and adjust organizational policies accordingly to maintain compliance and mitigate legal risks. Overtime regulations, primarily governed by the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) in the United States, require that non-exempt employees receive time and a half pay for hours worked beyond 40 in a workweek. Compliance with overtime laws is crucial to prevent potential lawsuits and financial penalties. Beyond legal compliance, effectively managing overtime can also impact employee satisfaction and retention. Excessive overtime may lead to burnout, whereas fair overtime compensation can enhance employee morale. In the broader context of compensation and benefits, minimum wage and overtime policies influence overall compensation structures and can affect an organization's ability to attract and retain talent. SHRM Certified Professionals play a pivotal role in designing compensation packages that balance organizational budgets with competitive pay practices. This includes conducting regular compensation analyses, benchmarking against industry standards, and ensuring transparency and equity in pay structures. Moreover, SHRM professionals must engage in strategic planning to anticipate and adapt to changes in minimum wage laws and overtime regulations, advocating for policies that align with the organization's goals and values. By effectively managing minimum wage and overtime aspects, SHRM Certified Professionals contribute to creating a fair, compliant, and motivating work environment, ultimately supporting the organization's success and sustainability.