DIY HR
Arlene VernonI recently presented at the Minnesota Council of Nonprofits’ Leadership Conference on two topics: (1) DIY Human Resource Strategies and Practices and (2) Reviving Your Employee Handbook. So I thought I’d share some highlights from each program in the next two HRxaminer newsletters.
Many of my consulting clients are performing HR responsibilities as an HR Department of One and some are also responsible for performing accounting, administrative, and management tasks in addition to their HR responsibilities. Either way, in our busy organizations there’s little time to learn everything there is to know about HR and to implement all the HR strategies and administrative responsibilities required today.
So, one of the things I outlined in my DIY HR program was to identify various outsourcing and partnering resources. This will help you make your HR services more robust without having to do it all yourself. It also allows you to focus on the strategic side of HR and move away from the administration-only approach to HR. The goal, of course, is to broaden HR’s organizational impact and benefit.
Typical outsourced activities include:
- Payroll – Find a vendor who can automate as much of your pay process as possible. If the vendor has an HRIS (human resource information system) to help automate HR data so you can evaluate your HR metrics, that’s even better.
- COBRA – The financial risk of making a COBRA administrative error can be costly. Use a vendor to make sure you have the latest versions of your required written communication and who will effectively handle all the post-termination or post-eligibility administration.
- Background Checks – Vendors can simplify this process by having all the correct releases and automated on-line processes to save you precious time.
How to keep up-to-date on the latest greatest HR news:
- Associations – Check out associations in your industry to see what they offer from an HR perspective. Also join local HR associations to network with your peers and learn from their educational programs.
- Newsletters – Well, you’re already getting this one. I also recommend that you subscribe for multiple online Employment Law newsletters that are provided at no cost by local and national law firms. You’ll receive information on HR legal changes as they occur, and some firms even provide free policy language and other tips you can apply immediately.
Check with your service vendors:
- Are you really tapping into the free and fee services offered by your benefits broker, payroll vendor, EAP, insurance providers, etc.? They can offer you so many extras to make your HR life easier.
- Ask each vendor what services and resources they have available that could save you time and money.
- Once you see what they’re offering, shop around a little to see if their competitors are offering more services, better services, etc.
And always connect with your peers. We forget that we’re not alone in our HR activities. So pick up the phone, email an HR friend, and see how they can help you keep sane in the world of DIY HR.
©2015 Arlene Vernon
Join a 2016 HR Mastery Group Today!
Every fall I let my readers know that I’m beginning enrollment for the 2016 HR Mastery Groups that I facilitate.
2016 is the 10th year that I’m offering this opportunity for you to meet monthly with a small group of your HR peers to share ideas, best practices and issues as well as to learn from local HR experts who present on key topics.
Whether HR is 100% of your responsibilities or a part of your job responsibilities, this is a great educational and developmental opportunity for you.
And one of the greatest benefits of being in an HR Mastery Group is knowing that you’re not alone when you have your HR Mastery team supporting you.
For one annual fee you receive the following:
- HRx hotline – Free access to me throughout the year for phone consultations related to any HR question or issue you may encounter
- 2-hour monthly meetings, with custom selected topics based on your group’s interests
- Email and phone access to your HR Mastery team
- Laughter, support and practical information you can use immediately
If HR is not your area of expertise and you know someone who you think would benefit from this opportunity, please email this newsletter to them.
To learn more about HR Mastery or any of my consulting or training services, please email me at Arlene@ArleneVernon.com or call me at 952-996-0975.
Groups will be starting in January, so the sooner you sign up, the sooner we can start planning for 2016!
About Arlene Vernon
Arlene has provided HR consulting and management training services to over 500 organizations since starting HRx, Inc. in 1992.
If you’re seeking a hands-on, practical HRxpert to assist your organization with employee relations, policy development, strategic HR activities or fun/doable management training, call on Arlene – Your HRxpert.
If you’re planning a conference, seminar or special event, Arlene specializes in keynotes, seminars and workshops to meet your talent management needs. And if you’re seeking a more lively entertaining activity, Arlene’s custom songs and musical-inspirational keynote may be perfect for your organization!
HRx, Inc., Eden Prairie, MN 55344, 952.996.0975www.HRxcellence.com. Arlene@ArleneVernon.com
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