July
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HR InTouchThe Monthly Newsletter of the Greater Madison Area SHRM |
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In This EditionPresident's Message Professional Development Changes to the SHRM Certification Process Compensation & Benefits Are your unpaid breaks really paid breaks? Community Events GMA SHRM Social Media Our Member Directory is Now Mobile Friendly! GMA SHRM Upcoming Events
Wednesday, August 6, 2014
Tuesday, August 19, 2014
August 28, 2014 - GMA SHRM Networking Event GMA SHRM Announcements GMA SHRM Member News
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Greetings Fellow GMA SHRM Members,
Service. Sustainability. Transparency. Community. Leadership. Stewardship. Adaptability. Partnership.
These are just a few of the values that come to me as I think about the critical responsibilities and duties of the GMA SHRM Board of Directors. Those chapter members who have been elected by the membership to lead this chapter know these values well. Each month when we come together to make decisions about the programs and services, GMA SHRM provides its members these values deeply shape and influence our thinking.
As of July 1, I begin my fifth year on the board, previously serving three years as VP of Programming, the past year as President-Elect, and now as President of the Chapter. During the many board meetings over these years, I have seen board members bring a deep commitment to doing what is right for our 825+ chapter members. Every decision, every investment, and every initiative that this board has undertaken during my time on the board has been done with a profound understanding that the decisions we make are on behalf of you, our members – to enable you to make connections, grow your skills, share effective practices, and enhance the visibility and influence of the HR profession as a whole.
In each of my columns over the next twelve months, I will share with you what each of these values means to me and the board toward ensuring that GMA SHRM remains fiercely responsive to member needs. By sharing how we make decisions, pursue opportunities, and address challenges, I hope you will see that you have elected a terrific group of volunteer leaders who put your needs and the needs of the HR profession at the forefront.
My career in HR began more than 25 years ago working as an HR coordinator for a large state agency in Madison. Within a few years, however, I decided to pursue my passion for leadership, strategic thinking/planning, change management, and performance management elsewhere by forming Russell Consulting, Inc. with my life and business partner Linda. It has been a wonderful journey for us . . . we have clients throughout the U.S. and internationally and have authored nine books (most recently Fearless Performance Reviews, McGraw-Hill, 2014) in addition to our own newsletter, Workplace Enhancement Notes. Linda and I are also passionate about international travel, outdoor photography, biking, hiking, canoeing, and our 3 year old golden retriever Katie.
While I have been a GMA SHRM member for many years, it wasn’t until I became involved as an active volunteer with the chapter that I realized the true value of this great organization. It’s been an honor to serve the membership for the past four years and I look forwarding to continuing this service in my new role as president. To do this job to the best of my ability, however, I need to hear from you! Please tell me about your ideas, questions, issues, or challenges regarding GMA and its programs and services. I would love to hear from you. You can connect with me at Jeff@RussellConsultingInc.com or 608.274.4482. I look forward to beginning a conversation with you about GMA SHRM and its future!
Regards,
Jeff
Click here to view the full GMA SHRM Board of Directors
Changes to the SHRM Certification Process
Recently, we’ve all had a flurry of emails as it relates to the upcoming changes in the SHRM certification process. We also all know that, unfortunately, there is not much detail available, except that things will be changing. We have provided a very basic summary of the changes below as well as a link with some additional information. We will make every effort to provide our membership with up-to-date information as it becomes available.
Existing Certified Professionals
Current certified professionals will have a seamless path to transition their existing credential to the new global competency-based standard at no additional cost to you.
Future Certified Professionals
SHRM will continue to provide certification preparation material and support for the PHR® and SPHR® through the December 2014 – January 2015 exam window.
And here is where you will find additional information in the FAQ section:
Are your unpaid breaks really paid breaks?
Contributed by Jason Gault, Federal Industries
In a recent decision by the Wisconsin Court of Appeals handed down May 20, 2014, one employer found out the details of Wisconsin Administrative Code 274.02(3).
Husco, Int’l has been party to a Collective Bargaining Agreement with the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers since 1981. In their 1983 CBA, both the employer and union agreed to a paid 10 minute break and an unpaid 20 minute break, in addition to paid wash up periods. At the time, neither party knew that a 20 minute unpaid break was unlawful.
In 2006 it was discovered that the provision was unlawful; Husco asked the IAM to join it in petitioning the Dept. of Workforce Development for a retroactive waiver for compensation of the 20 minute breaks. The bargaining unit declined to join the waiver and a complaint was filed with the Dept. of Workforce Development for back pay. Throughout the course of the complaint, a class action suit was filed by Husco employees; the employees were ultimately successful in their class action suit in recouping pay for the breaks already taken.
A brief overview of the main points discussed:
The crux of the employees’ argument is their contention that Husco violated Wis. Stat. § 109.03(1) and Wis. Admin. Code § DWD 274.02(3) when it did not pay them for the unpaid 20-minute breaks. The employees argue that, absent a waiver from the DWD, Husco cannot circumvent its statutory obligation to compensate the employees for breaks less than 30 minutes. So, the employees contend that they are entitled to pay for the unlawful unpaid breaks already taken and that all of Husco’s defenses are preempted by federal law.
Wis. Admin. Code § DWD 274.02(3), requires employers to pay for any break “where the employer does not provide at least 30 minutes free from work.”
Wisconsin Stat. § 109.03(1) requires an employer to timely pay all required wages. Additionally, Wis. Stat. § 109.03(5) prohibits the employer from contracting away that obligation.
Husco argued that since the provision was agreed to in the CBA, the employees had agreed to the unpaid breaks in exchange for other benefits provided by the CBA.
Because Wisconsin law unambiguously requires payment for the 20-minute breaks and does not allow the employer to contract away that obligation, Husco’s defenses are not permitted under Wisconsin law.
This ruling is an eye opener for all Wisconsin employers, especially those with collectively bargained agreements; it is a straight-forward decision that employees cannot agree to give up their statutory rights. With the additional emphasis the Federal government is putting on investigating FLSA claims, employers should review their policies and CBA’s for compliance with existing labor laws.
The Literacy Network offers a variety of courses, tutoring and other services to Dane County community adults to further reading, writing and speaking skills. Specifically the Literacy Network offers customized language instruction to improve employees' English communication skills both on and off the job. Literacy Network excels at developing programs tailor-designed to meet your company's specific workplace needs. If you are interested in learning more please visit us at: http://litnetwork.org/programs/index.php?category_id=4493
GMA SHRM Social Media
Wish you could stay connected with GMA SHRM members? Now you can search for a member, call, e-mail or find directions to their listed location and be confident that it’s up to date. Check it out today, you can now stay better connected to GMA SHRM members and it’s just a click away at http://www.gmashrm.org/mobile
Forward HR Want to know what’s going on in HR for the other areas of Wisconsin? WI SHRM has a new blog, Forward HR. Click here to take a look. 
Topic: Cutting Edge (Controversial) Recruitment Strategies
Location: Olbrich Botanical Gardens
In this innovative program we will explore some new approaches to recruitment and interviewing. We’ll also learn from participants what creative approaches you are using. We’ve invited two different highly experienced practitioners to "shake us up" and get the discussion started. They each are employing cutting edge, even controversial methods for identifying best candidates to hire. After hearing from them, we’ll explore collectively what we think we "know" about best practices, and together weigh the pros and cons of these new approaches. In addition you will hear from your colleagues about what they are doing that is new and outside the box.
Our two guests are: Ane Ohm, who is President and COO of HarQen in Milwaukee. Her company provides software and consulting that enables candidates to be screened using voice recordings. Mike McKay is an experienced operations executive, and now partner in ActionCOACH Madison. He helps his clients employ an innovative group interviewing process that includes elements of "stress interviewing". Come join us for what will undoubtedly be a lively and insightful discussion!
To learn more about the event, click here!
Topic: Roundtable: Mindfulness at Work
Location: M3 Insurance
Are you bombarded by emails, phone calls and social media? Do you feel overwhelmed and distracted more often than you feel calm and productive? Cultivating a formal, personal mindfulness practice has been well documented to increase mental focus and concentration, promote clarity of thinking, increase learning capacity and memory and enhance a sense of overall well-being. Mindfulness programs at companies as diverse as General Mills, Apple and Google have received praise for helping employees manage stress more effectively and for promoting better communication in the workplace.
The roundtable will include:
· What is Mindfulness Training, and where does it come from?
· The science behind Mindfulness Training
· Instruction in Mindfulness Practices
· Mindfulness and Communication
To learn more about the event, click here!
Topic: GMA SHRM HR Toolbox – Legal Update
Location: City Center West
SUMMER IS SIZZLING! HOT HR LEGAL TOPICS
This presentation will educate and update you on some of the most challenging issues in the HR world. Three experienced Madison attorneys will share and legal and practical expertise on:
This presentation will update you on key areas of the law and you will leave with practical knowledge that will help you improve your HR practices and reduce legal risk!
Speakers are Attorney Jennifer Mirus, Boardman & Clark LLP, Attorney Troy Thompson, Axley Brynelson, LLP and Attorney Meg Vergeront, Stafford Rosenbaum LLP.
To learn more about the event, click here!
August 28, 2014 - GMA SHRM Networking Event - MEMBERS ONLY The GMA SHRM Membership Committee invites you to our Summer Networking Event!
Are you looking to make some new GMA SHRM connections? Or maybe just looking to reconnect with some members you haven’t seen in a while. Come to our semi-annual networking event! GMA SHRM members have always indicated that networking is a key component to their membership with our chapter. Our semi-annual networking event is always a great opportunity to take advantage of this benefit! The event will be held from 4:30-6:30. Appetizers provided along with a cash bar. Don’t forget to bring your business cards!
Registration begins at 4:30 and networking activities will begin at 5:00.
Registration is free, but we do request an RSVP to better plan for the event. This is a FREE MEMBER ONLY event.
To learn more about the event, click here!
UW Madison wins Case Competition!
Contributed by Matt Nechodom
The 2014 North Central Regional Student Conference was held April 25-26 in Milwaukee. The first day of the event was a case competition, where 16 teams (combination of graduate and undergraduate programs) from seven different states competed in a case competition format. Teams had four hours to review a case study and prepare a 15-minute PowerPoint presentation, as well as a two-page written executive summary using sound HR principles. At the conclusion of the preliminary rounds, three finalist teams were announced for the undergraduate level and two teams for the graduate level. I'm very happy to report that the team from UW-Madison was named one of the finalists and went on to win the undergraduate level. They did a fantastic job and were issued a check to assist with registration at the 2014 National SHRM Conference held in Orlando, Fl. The team from Michigan State University won the graduate level. The second day of the conference included speakers on topics such as "Campus to Career", "How to succeed as a young professional" and a keynote speaker from the HR Manager of the Chicago Cubs.
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Do you remember Kickball? Well it remembers you!
Our philanthropic partner, REACH-a-Child, is hosting a fun and fabulous tournament this fall! “Kickin’ It For Kids” is a Co-Ed kickball tournament being held to benefit REACH-a-Child. This all day event is scheduled for Saturday September 20th at Warner Park and Mallards Stadium!
Be one of the 16 adult teams that will take part in this fun event raising money for charity! Each team will consist of 9-12 players with at least 3 women on each team. Get your company team together and show us what you got! Who will take home some hardware? FIRST COME FIRST SERVE!
Contact Marketing and Development Coordinator for REACH-a-Child, Eric Salzwedel, at eric.salzwedel@reachachild.org for more information!
Congratulations to Dana Denny, this year’s recipient of our $1,000 professional award. Dana plans on using the award to further her knowledge in compensation and attend World at Work courses focused in compensation. Congratulations, Dana!
GMA SHRM Member Spotlight
Name: Amanda Day
Where do you currently work?
Aprilaire, a division of Research Products Corporation
What is the focus of your position?
I am responsible for a variety of duties within the HR department at Aprilaire. I have an established, trusting relationship with employees and continue to build upon that to deliver support services. I am also responsible for managing the recruitment of our Madison plant production facility, onboarding of all new employees, orientating new employees about the company and its benefits, ensuring company policy and guidelines are maintained and adhered by, and communicating and executing special company events.
How long have you been in the Human Resource field?
9 ½ years
Which of your career accomplishments makes you proudest?
I was involved and took lead on updating and making current our Employee Reference Guide. This elaborate project included research to ensure the company was in compliance with employment laws.
What is the best advice you've ever received?
Complaints are a gift! Early in my HR experience, I participated in a training program about appreciating when a person, whether an employee or customer, complains about a situation or issue. I have found that listening to the person and thanking them for bringing whatever situation/issue to my attention brings down the givers' tension/frustration. Thinking and acting positively toward a potential negative situation/issue has helped me grow professionally in addition to gaining the respect and confidence from others that I will act upon and follow up with their concern.
Why did you decide to join GMA SHRM?
I began my career at Aprilaire in 2006 and expressed interest in joining GMA SHRM in 2010 after having a few years of HR experience with the company. I felt a membership with GMA SHRM would be beneficial to me and to Aprilaire in many aspects such as being able to obtain professional resources and references for various human resources related projects and to network and collaborate with other GMA SHRM members about ideas and concepts involving topics in our field.
GMA SHRM Volunteer Spotlight
GMA SHRM Volunteer Spotlight Profile
 Name: Kathy Wright, PHR
How long have you been volunteering with GMA SHRM?
I think it’s been about 5 years or so. Time flies when you’re having fun!
What committee are you volunteering with? Have you volunteered on other committees? If yes, which one?
I am currently on the Workforce Readiness & Diversity committee as well as the Education & Professional Development committee.
What do you enjoy about volunteering?
I enjoy meeting and working with other professionals in the community and getting to know the folks and the organization I’m volunteering with.
What would you say to others who are considering volunteering with GMA SHRM?
Try it! Find a committee that resonates with you and get involved in whatever capacity you can. It’s great meeting new people from all walks of life.
What have you gotten back from volunteering with GMA SHRM?
It’s very rewarding in so many ways, I get to meet new people and I also learn from others. I hope I’ve made an impact to the people I’ve encountered along the way!
Welcome New Members!GMA SHRM welcomes the following members who joined our chapter in May 2014!
Movin' Up
Have you started with a new company? Has your organization recently promoted you to a new position? Or do you want to recognize a new person or promotion within your department? If so, we want to hear about it. Send us an e-mail, and we’ll publish your good news in the next HR InTouch!
In TransitionIf you are a member who is in between jobs, or who is currently employed but seeking new positions or career paths, write us a brief description of your skill set, areas of expertise, what you’re looking for, etc. Send us an e-mail. We’ll publish your information in the next HR InTouch.
HR InTouch GuidelinesArticle Writing: Do you have an interest in writing for the HR InTouch? We have an interest in learning more about your area of expertise! Why should you volunteer? Top three reasons: 1) to share your knowledge and experiences to educate others; 2) to become more connected in the HR and Dane County communities; and 3) to contribute towards the advancement of GMA SHRM and the HR profession. The first step is for you to choose a submission option: you can pre-submit an article to GMA SHRM at any time for us to use in any of the upcoming newsletters, you can sign up to write for a particular month, or we can put you on a list of people to contact in future months whenever we need articles. Article length: Because the HR InTouch is now in an online format, the size is flexible. The article should be engaging and hold readers’ attention. Include the core information in your article, and we will advise if it is too lengthy. Solicitation: GMA SHRM is conscious not to allow solicitation through the articles, in an effort to protect the interests of our partners and members. The nature of the article should be educational (i.e., what are the business advantages of having a product like yours) or informational. Otherwise, if you truly are interested in advertising through the HR InTouch, you can work with our Marketing Committee. As a rule of thumb for article writing, if the submission relates to a for-profit event, or specifically markets your company (vs. your industry), it is an advertisement, and should be purchased. If it is a not-for-profit event that your company is hosting, or an announcement (i.e., a SHRM member recently joined your company), it is an acceptable addition to the HR InTouch content. If you have any questions related to the appropriateness of your submission, please contact us. If you have questions, or to submit an article, contact GMA SHRM at chapteradmin@gmashrm.org .
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