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Source: http://cdn.ymaws.com/sites/pihra.site-ym.com/resource/rss/news.rss

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<pubDate>Wed, 5 Jun 2019 16:22:24 GMT</pubDate>
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<atom:link href="http://www.mypihra.org/resource/rss/news.rss" rel="self" type="application/rss+xml"></atom:link>
<item>
<title>2019 HR Talent & Tech Program Spotlight</title>
<link>https://www.mypihra.org/news/454643/</link>
<guid>https://www.mypihra.org/news/454643/</guid>
<description><![CDATA[<center>
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<center></center>
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PIHRA's 4th Annual 
<h1 style="text-align: center;">2019 HR Talent & Tech</h1>
<h2 style="text-align: center;">
PROGRAM SPOTLIGHT 
</h2>

  
Stay on the pulse of how emerging technology can enhance HR and improve your organization's bottom line. Join a diverse community of HR practitioners in the heart of Los Angeles at PIHRA 2019 Talent & Tech this June - and earn 2.0 PDCs and recertification credits! Learn more about this event with our Program session spotlights. 
 
<a href="https://www.pihra.org/events/EventDetails.aspx?id=1219622&group=">Reserve your seat soon - prices increase Monday, June 10!</a>
 

Without further ado, let's dive into our 2019 session preview. 

 

<h2>
Workforce Analytics vs. Gut Feel 
</h2>
Presented by Jeff Higgins, CEO, Human Capital Management Institute
Businesses have never depended so much on talent as they do today. The number of talent management decisions that need to be made has increased, and yet the use of gut feel seems to also be increasing. How can HR adopt evidence-based talent management practices without treating employees as an expense to minimize?

In this presentation, HCMI CEO, Jeff Higgins, will answer this question and discuss the role of analytics in today's talent management practices. He will also walk through real-life case studies where analytics has been used to optimize HR decisions. Key learning points include:

<ul>
<li>The need for workforce analytics in modern talent management practice</li>
<li>How HR can answer questions that matter for C-suite executives</li>
<li>Workforce analytics success case studies 
 
 
</li>
</ul>
<h2>
The Optimal Work Environment: How HR Can Use Technology to Develop EQ</h2>
Presented by Morgan Mercer, Founder, Vantage Point
The Future of Work is front of mind for every organization, but the road to change is long and inertia often stalls even the best of agendas. 
Companies rush to recruit, retain, and train the best talent - often overlooking EQ for IQ. "Culture First" companies are becoming popular, and there is a rise in adoption of Diversity & Inclusion agendas. But Diversity & Inclusion agendas are often only a piece of the puzzle, and the core foundation of the agenda is teaching the most difficult skills to teach - empathy and communication. 
Can you really train and develop EQ the same way you can train and develop IQ? Can you have Diversity & Inclusion agendas without prioritizing EQ? How are EQ and D&I agendas linked?How do we take EQ and D&I beyond a ""nice to have""? And most importantly, how do you design technology solutions that work?"

 
Don’t miss this Los Angeles program led by HR and Tech executives focused on how to better leverage tech on June 19 at 6:00pm.
 


When: Wednesday, June 19 | 6:00pm - 9:00pm 
Where: Phase Two | 5877 Obama Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90016 
 
Learn more about this year's speakers at <a href="https://www.pihra.org/events/EventDetails.aspx?id=1219622&group=">pihra.org/talenttech</a> and register today! Prices increase after Monday, June 10, 2019. 
 

<h3><a href="https://www.pihra.org/events/EventDetails.aspx?id=1219622&group=">Learn more & register »</a></h3>]]></description>
<category>PIHRA News</category>
<pubDate>Wed, 5 Jun 2019 17:22:24 GMT</pubDate>
</item>
<item>
<title>Summer of HR Networking!</title>
<link>https://www.mypihra.org/news/454653/</link>
<guid>https://www.mypihra.org/news/454653/</guid>
<description><![CDATA[<center><img alt="" src="https://www.pihra.org/resource/resmgr/images/district_images/pihra-social-networking.png" style="width: 90%;" /></center> 
<h1 style="text-align: center;">Expand Your HR Community This Summer!</h1>
Summer in Southern California is starting to heat up - it's the perfect time to take a break to cool off, make new connections, expand your professional network, and have a great time!
PIHRA Chapters all over Southern California are hosting vibrant socials in June and July. In fact, so many PIHRA Chapters are hosting socials this Thursday, June 6 that we're nicknaming it Super Social Thursday!
Learn more about the socials happening this Thursday -- and beyond. See below to find the event nearest to you. Forward to your colleagues, and make plans to attend!
Did you know? PIHRA hosts dynamic socials and programs for HR professionals in Southern California year-round. 
<ul>
<li>Bookmark <a href="https://pihra.org/calendar">pihra.org/calendar</a> to see our upcoming events at any time.</li>
<li>Find your nearest PIHRA Chapter at <a href="https://pihra.org/chapters">pihra.org/chapters</a>.</li>
<li>Subscribe to email invitations at <a href="https://pihra.org/stayinformed">pihra.org/stayinformed</a>!</li>
</ul>
PIHRA members receive the best rates to all PIHRA events, and access to vast online tools and digital learning. <a href="https://pihra.org/page/Benefits2019">Learn more about PIHRA Membership Benefits.</a>
 
Let's dive in, shall we? 
 
<hr />
 
<h2><a href="https://www.pihra.org/events/EventDetails.aspx?id=1236001&group="><img alt="" src="https://www.pihra.org/resource/events/20190510_141321_26377.jpg" style="float: right;" /></a><a href="https://www.pihra.org/events/EventDetails.aspx?id=1236001&group=" target="_blank">Riverside - Summer Social</a></h2>
When: Thursday, June 6, 2019 from 5:30pm - 7:30pm 
Where: Texas Roadhouse, 370 N McKinley St, Corona, CA 92879
PIHRA Riverside Summer Social - Join us!

PIHRA Riverside would love to have you join your colleagues to socialize and make long lasting connections!

Win, Win, Win!  There’s a great raffle with a prize worth $200.00! Don’t miss out!
 

ONLINE REGISTRATION CLOSED - WALK-INS ARE WELCOME. <a href="https://www.pihra.org/events/EventDetails.aspx?id=1236001&group=">Learn more and register onsite!</a>
 
<hr />
 
<h2><a href="https://www.pihra.org/events/EventDetails.aspx?id=1220322&group="><img alt="" src="https://www.pihra.org/resource/events/20190325_123341_12717.jpg" style="float: right;" /></a><a href="https://www.pihra.org/events/EventDetails.aspx?id=1220322&group=" target="_blank">North Orange Co - Spring Mixer</a></h2>

When: Thursday, June 6, 2019, 5:30pm - 8:30pm 
Where: Anaheim White House Restaurant, 887 S Anaheim Blvd, Anaheim, CA 92805

You're Invited! 
PIHRA North Orange County Invites You To A Spring Mixer!

Join us for a spring networking event at the newly reopened landmark Anaheim White House Restaurant. 
Come enjoy delicious appetizers, tasty cocktails, cool raffle prizes and a warm and inviting environment to connect with other HR professionals!

PIHRA North Orange County hopes you will join us for this fun evening!

ONLINE REGISTRATION CLOSED - WALK-INS ARE WELCOME. <a href="https://www.pihra.org/events/EventDetails.aspx?id=1220322&group=">Learn more and register on-site!</a>
 
<hr />
 
<h2><a href="https://www.pihra.org/events/EventDetails.aspx?id=1230984&group="><img alt="" src="https://www.pihra.org/resource/events/20190424_181626_11567.jpg" style="float: right;" /></a><a href="https://www.pihra.org/events/EventDetails.aspx?id=1230984&group=" target="_blank">South Orange Co - 2nd Annual PIHRA South OC Party for a Purpose with WHW</a></h2>
When: Thursday, June 6, 2019, 6:00pm - 8:00pm 
Where: WHW/Deja New Clothing Store, 2803 McGaw Ave, Irvine, CA 92614
Mingle and mix with the OC HR community as we celebrate the achievements of WHW. Not only will you be able to network with other HR professionals, you’ll have an opportunity to tour WHW’s facility including Deja New, a unique vintage clothing store which will be open for business during the mixer.
<img alt="" src="https://www.pihra.org/resource/resmgr/images/sponsor_logos/women_helping_women_2.jpg" style="float: right;" />
Please clean out your closet and bring any articles of clothing that have made their way out of the rotation. WHW accepts new or gently used men’s and women’s business and casual clothing as well as accessories such as shoes, ties, purses and jewelry as well as full or sample sized hygiene products. 
Also available to you will be a professional photographer. Spruce up your social media profile photos with a new professional retouched head shot for only $25.
 
Included in your registration fee is a selection of fine red and white wines along with appetizers for your enjoyment.

The PIHRA South OC chapter will be donating 100% of all collected registration fees to WHW.
ONLINE REGISTRATION CLOSED - WALK-INS ARE WELCOME. <a href="https://www.pihra.org/events/EventDetails.aspx?id=1230984&group=" target="_blank">Learn more and register onsite!</a>
 
<hr />
 
<h2><a href="https://www.pihra.org/events/EventDetails.aspx?id=1238660&group=" target="_blank">Burbank/Glendale, Pasadena & Woodland Hills - PIHRA Valley Region Chapters Mega Mixer</a></h2>
<a href="https://www.pihra.org/events/EventDetails.aspx?id=1238660&group=" style="text-decoration-line: none;"><img alt="" src="https://www.informz.net/YM-PHRA/data/images/District%20Template%20Images/PIHRAValleyRegionMegaMixer-fnl.png" style="float: right; width: 50%;" /></a>

When: Thursday, June 6, 2019 from 6:00pm - 8:30pm 
Where: Wildlife Learning Center, 16027 Yarmell St, Sylmar, CA 91342 
Come join our PIHRA Valley Region Chapters Mega Mixer at the
Wildlife Learning Center for some good food and company.
Family and children are welcome!

WLC will provide Two biologists to help facilitate and answer questions about WLC and the animals, and Four Animal Interaction Stations:

<ul>
<li>Sloth Encounter</li>
<li>Feed a porcupine</li>
<li>Meet an eagle owl</li>
<li>Feed a giraffe</li>
</ul>

(While it is not anticipated, if for any reason a particular animal is not available an equal will be substituted.)
The center cares for more than 125 species of animals and provides wildlife learning opportunities to school kids and others throughout LA.

ONLINE REGISTRATION CLOSES JUNE 5 - WALK-INS ARE WELCOME. <a href="https://www.pihra.org/events/EventDetails.aspx?id=1238660&group=">Learn more and register today!</a>
 
<hr />
 
<h2><a href="https://www.pihra.org/events/EventDetails.aspx?id=1234731&group="><img alt="" src="https://www.pihra.org/resource/events/20190507_181239_15880.jpg" style="float: right; width: 200px; height: 133px;" /></a><a href="https://www.pihra.org/events/EventDetails.aspx?id=1234731&group=">PIHRA South Orange Co - Gather and Grow</a></h2>
When: Thursday, June 13, 2019 from 6:00pm - 8:00pm 
Where: WeWork Spectrum Center, 200 Spectrum Center Dr, Suite #300, Irvine, CA 92618

PIHRA South Orange Co presents
Networking Social Mixer with HR Presentation:
Gather & Grow: Understanding the "Inner Game" of Higher Performance, presented by Tri Nguyen



<a href="https://www.pihra.org/events/EventDetails.aspx?id=1234731&group="><img alt="" src="https://www.pihra.org/resource/resmgr/images/district_images/wework_photo_5.jpg" width="50%" style="float: right; padding: 5px 5px 5px 5px;" /></a>Join us Thursday, June 13th, from 6:00pm - 8:00pm, for a networking social event with the chance to earn an hour of HR certification with our featured HR presentation, hosted by PIHRA South Orange Co. 
Appetizers and beverages will be provided. 
Presentation - Gather & Grow: Understanding the "Inner Game" of Higher Performance, presented by Tri Nguyen
HR Leaders deal with employee issues ranging from attendance and lack of engagement to disruptive and potentially destructive behaviors. Solutions such as Company polices and an Employee Handbook, performance improvement plans, progressive disciplinary action and other attempts at re-enforcing positive behaviors often fail or do not result in long-term improvement. They only focus at the surface level. As a result, companies are left with an unengaged workforce while productivity suffers.
Employers need to understand how to dig below the surface and uncover the hidden limiting belief systems that drive disruptive behaviors to impact positive and sustainable changes. This new perspective improves employee performance, connectivity and engagement. More importantly, it brings the HUMAN back in Human Resources.
<a href="https://www.pihra.org/events/EventDetails.aspx?id=1234731&group="><img alt="" src="https://www.pihra.org/resource/resmgr/images/speaker_headshots_2/tri_nguyen.jpg" style="width: 137.193px; float: left; height: 131.021px; padding: 5px 5px 5px 0px;" /></a>Speaker
Tri T. Nguyen is the Founder & Managing Partner of The Wisdom Tri, focusing on inspirational leadership that stimulates innovation throughout the entire organization. As a Vistage International Chair, she facilitates an exclusive CEO Peer Advisory Board and is a trusted advisor and coach to CEOs and business leaders.

Parking
Attendees have two convenient options. The Spectrum Center Garage is $7/hour. To avoid fees, it is recommended to park across the street at the Spectrum Center Mall, located Next to P.F. Chang's on Gateway Drive.
Program Agenda
 6:00pm - 6:30pm: Registration & Networking 
6:30pm - 6:45pm: Welcome 
6:45pm - 7:45pm: Speaker Presentation 
7:45pm - 8:00pm: Closing Remarks

ONLINE REGISTRATION OPEN. <a href="https://www.pihra.org/events/EventDetails.aspx?id=1234731&group=">Learn more & register!</a> 

 
<hr />
 
<h2><a href="https://www.pihra.org/events/EventDetails.aspx?id=1222793&group="><img alt="" src="https://www.pihra.org/resource/events/20190401_182634_18903.jpg" style="float: RIGHT;" /></a><a href="https://www.pihra.org/events/EventDetails.aspx?id=1222793&group=">Club PIHRA - Day at Los Alamitos Race Course/The Fun Side of HR</a></h2>
When: Friday, June 14, 2019 from 3:30pm - 9:00pm 
Where: Los Alamitos Race Track, 4961 Katella Ave, Los Alamitos, CA 90720 

Announcing Another Exciting Club PIHRA Event: Day at Los Alamitos Race Course - The Fun Side of HR!

<ul>
<li>Meet other attraction reps and learn how to offer their fun benefits to your employee base!
</li>
<li>A fun-filled schedule, with networking opportunities, earn 1.0 hour of HR certification credit,
</li>
<li>food and refreshments, horse racing, and more!
</li>
</ul>
Program Agenda
 
<a href="https://www.pihra.org/events/EventDetails.aspx?id=1222793&group="><img alt="" src="https://www.pihra.org/resource/resmgr/images/district_images/clubpihra/los_alamitos_photo.jpg" style="float:RIGHT;" width="50%" /></a>3:00pm - 3:30pm - Vendor Set Up
 
3:30pm - 4:30pm - Attendee Check In and Vendor Mixer
 
4:30pm - 5:00pm - Handicapper Training
 
5:00pm - 6:00pm - HR Training Presentation, with Andrew J. Hoag/ Fisher & Phillips LLP
 
6:00pm - 7:00pm - Dinner and Prize Raffle
 
7:00pm - 9:00pm - Races

Speaker
 
Raúl Zermeño is a partner in the firm's Los Angeles office. He represents local, regional and national employers in a broad range of labor and employment disputes, including harassment, discrimination, retaliation and wrongful termination matters. Furthermore, Raúl represents employers in both individual and class-action litigation alleging violations of wage & hour laws, as well as claims brought under California’s Private Attorneys General Act (PAGA).

Raúl also provides day-to-day preventative counseling to clients on all aspects of the employment process including hiring, disciplinary actions, and terminations. Raúl frequently provides advice to clients regarding its obligations for leaves of absences, the interactive process and reasonable accommodations.

Raúl regularly presents to members of the Los Angeles Latino Chamber of Commerce and is passionate about helping businesses in the community thrive and protect their assets. As a bilingual attorney, he regularly drafts employment policies, conducts workplace investigations and mandated trainings, such as California’s AB1825 Harassment trainings for supervisors, in Spanish.

ONLINE REGISTRATION OPEN. <a href="https://www.pihra.org/events/EventDetails.aspx?id=1222793&group=">Learn more & register!</a> 

 
<hr />
 

<h2><a href="https://www.pihra.org/events/EventDetails.aspx?id=1245816&group="><img alt="" src="https://www.pihra.org/resource/events/20190605_184435_31457.jpg" style="float: right; width: 200px; height: 134px;" /></a><a href="https://www.pihra.org/events/EventDetails.aspx?id=1245816&group=">PIHRA Young Professionals - Cocktails & Connections</a> </h2>
When: Wednesday, July 17, 2019 from 6:00pm - 9:00pm 
Where: Melody 751 N Virgil Ave Los Angeles, CA 90029
PIHRA YP presents Cocktails & Connections! 
<a href="https://www.pihra.org/events/EventDetails.aspx?id=1245816&group=" style="text-decoration-line: none;"><img alt="" src="https://www.pihra.org/resource/resmgr/images/yp/cocktails_&_connections_phot.jpg" style="width: 70%;" /></a>

PIHRA Young Professionals (YP's) invites you to join us for a night of "Cocktails & Connections." Network with like-minded YP's looking to advance their careers!
Networking is an important part of any professional’s journey - especially when you are a young professional. 
Meet the experts in your field, learn and discover their career paths and find out what other paths are out there. 
Ask them how they got started and what you can do NOW to get you where you want to be. 
Who should attend?
<ul>
<li>Young professionals who are actively working in or are interested in Human Resources </li>
<li>HR Pros looking for their next career move</li>
<li>HR Pros looking to hire their next HR Professional </li>
</ul>
<a href="https://www.pihra.org/events/EventDetails.aspx?id=1245816&group=" style="text-decoration-line: none;"></a>
<a href="https://www.pihra.org/events/EventDetails.aspx?id=1245816&group=" style="text-decoration-line: none;">Online registration open. Learn more and register!
</a>

 
<hr />
 

<h2><a href="https://www.pihra.org/events/EventDetails.aspx?id=1245765&group="><img alt="" src="https://www.pihra.org/resource/events/20190605_162912_28165.jpg" style="float: RIGHT;" /></a><a href="https://www.pihra.org/events/EventDetails.aspx?id=1245765&group=">Santa Clarita - A Night of Appreciation/Networking Event</a>  </h2>
When: Thursday, July 18, 2019 from 5:30pm - 8:00pm 
Where: Salt Creek Grille, 24415 Town Center Dr #115, Valencia, CA 91355

A NIGHT OF APPRECIATION! PIHRA Santa Clarita Networking Event 
Hosted by
LOCKTON INSURANCE BROKERS
<a href="https://www.pihra.org/events/EventDetails.aspx?id=1231339&group=" style="text-decoration-line: none;"><img alt="" src="https://www.pihra.org/resource/resmgr/images/district_images/wine_cheers.jpg" style="width: 70%;" /></a>
<a href="https://www.pihra.org/events/EventDetails.aspx?id=1231339&group=" style="text-decoration-line: none;">Please join us for the annual SCV-PIHRA after hours networking event</a>.

Celebrate the summer season with your fellow PIHRA Santa Clarita members and friends!
 

Join us for a fun networking event and relaxing cocktail party at Salt Creek Grille. The chef will prepare a delicious selection of hors d'oeuvres accompanied by wine and beer.
We hope that you can join us for an evening out with a group of outstanding HR professionals. <a href="https://www.pihra.org/events/EventDetails.aspx?id=1231339&group=" style="text-decoration-line: none;">Register now!</a>
Great raffle prizes!! 
50% of all opportunity drawing proceeds to benefit PIHRA Foundation. 
Opportunity drawing tickets: 1 for $5, 3 for $10 and 10 for $20! 
Drawings will be held at 7:00pm. Must be present to win.
Come to eat, drink, mingle, network and meet some great people.<a href="https://www.pihra.org/events/EventDetails.aspx?id=1231339&group=" style="text-decoration-line: none;"> </a>
<a href="https://www.pihra.org/events/EventDetails.aspx?id=1231339&group=" style="text-decoration-line: none;">Online registration open. Learn more and register!
</a>

<a href="https://www.pihra.org/events/EventDetails.aspx?id=1231339&group=" style="text-decoration-line: none;"> </a>
<hr />
<a href="https://www.pihra.org/events/EventDetails.aspx?id=1231339&group=" style="text-decoration-line: none;"></a>
<a href="https://www.pihra.org/events/EventDetails.aspx?id=1231339&group=" style="text-decoration-line: none;"> 
</a>
<h2><a href="https://www.pihra.org/events/EventDetails.aspx?id=1231339&group=" style="text-decoration-line: none;"></a><a href="https://www.pihra.org/events/EventDetails.aspx?id=1231339&group=">Ventura County, Woodland Hills & NHRA - PIHRA & NHRA Summer Mega Mixer</a></h2>

<a href="https://www.pihra.org/events/EventDetails.aspx?id=1231339&group=" style="text-decoration-line: none;"><img alt="" src="https://www.pihra.org/resource/resmgr/images/district_images/Screen_Shot_2019-06-05_at_1..png" width="50%" /></a>

 
<table style="float: right;" width="40%">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>
<a href="https://www.pihra.org/events/EventDetails.aspx?id=1231339&group=" style="text-decoration-line: none;"><img alt="" src="https://www.informz.net/YM-PHRA/data/images/District%20Template%20Images/VC-WH-Mixer-Header2018.png" style="float: right;" width="100%" /></a>
<a href="https://www.pihra.org/events/EventDetails.aspx?id=1231339&group=" style="text-decoration-line: none;"><img alt="" src="https://www.pihra.org/resource/resmgr/Images/District_Images/Event_Location_Logos/Bogie's_Restaurant_Logo.jpg" style="float: right; width: 100%;" /></a></td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
When: Tuesday, July 23, 2019 from 5:30pm - 7:00pm 
Where: Bogie's Restaurant, 32001 Agoura Road, Westlake Village, CA 91361

Summer Mega Mixer and Networking Event for HR Professionals!

Hosted and Sponsored By
PIHRA Ventura County, PIHRA Woodland Hills, and NHRA Ventura Chapters
Please join us for our annual summer Bogie's mixer!

Come to eat, drink, mingle, network and meet some great people.

Bring an HR Colleague and don't forget your business cards!
WE'LL HAVE AWESOME RAFFLE PRIZES. YOU WON'T WANT TO MISS OUT!!
ONLINE REGISTRATION OPEN: <a href="https://www.pihra.org/events/EventDetails.aspx?id=1231339&group=">Learn more and register!</a>
 
<hr />
 
Cheers, and happy networking!]]></description>
<category>PIHRA News</category>
<pubDate>Wed, 5 Jun 2019 17:22:07 GMT</pubDate>
</item>
<item>
<title>Cannabis in the Workplace – Regulate or Relax?</title>
<link>https://www.mypihra.org/news/452127/</link>
<guid>https://www.mypihra.org/news/452127/</guid>
<description><![CDATA[<h1 style="text-align: center;"><img alt="" src="https://www.mypihra.org/resource/resmgr/images/realhr/lajolla/realhr-lajolla-facebook-li-r.png" style="width: 820px; height: 430px;" /></h1>
PIHRA has assembled an extraordinary panel to explore and discuss the multifaceted impact that the growth of the cannabis industry has and may continue to have on HR and the workplace. <a href="https://www.pihra.org/events/EventDetails.aspx?id=1222261&amp;group=">Join us on Wednesday, May 29 from 6:00pm - 8:30pm at The Lot - La Jolla | 7611 Fay Ave, La Jolla, CA 92037.</a>  See you there!
<h1 style="text-align: center;">Cannabis in the Workplace – Regulate or Relax?</h1>
Marijuana legalization in the United States has become a heated topic of discussion. Approximately 10 states and Washington, D.C, have now legalized recreational usage for adults over the age of 21, and 33 states have legalized medical marijuana (“State Medical Marijuana Laws,” 2019).
Nonetheless, federally, marijuana is an illegal substance.  HR professionals and employment attorneys are concerned with how new marijuana legislation has and will impact the workplace. 
The fact that employers want to ensure that employees are not coming to work intoxicated will never change. The marijuana subject is complicated because using marijuana off-the-clock results in a failed drug test with current testing technology. This leads to a lot of unanswered questions: 
<ul>
<li>What should employers do when an employee uses marijuana for medical purposes and has a permit? </li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Should employers use more sophisticated drug testing technology or stop using drug testing as condition of employment?</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Should employers relax their drug use policies or vary it depending on the type of position? </li>
</ul>
 
<h4>Defining impairment and testing</h4>
One of the biggest challenges that employers face is determining levels of intoxication or impairment.  The legalization of marijuana doesn’t mean that being high at work is acceptable. Some corporations suggest treating cannabis the same as alcohol.  However, the body reacts to marijuana and alcohol in different ways. Further, the substances are metabolized different and show up in the bloodstream differently. For example, research shows that alcohol drastically impacts the part of the brain that controls balance and movement. That is why people who have ingested alcohol lose their balance easily. While there are not as many studies on the impact of marijuana, toxicologists affirm that the human body reacts to marijuana differently. Marijuana targets receptors, CB1 and CB2 receptors, that are naturally present in the brain, central nervous system, and the rest of the body. These receptors send messages to different parts the body. For example, CB1 receptors are known to impact appetite regulation You may have heard that people who smoke marijuana may have a sharp increase in their appetite (“What Are The Differences Between Being High And Being Drunk?” 2017).
Given that there is limited research on the impact of marijuana on the body, it makes sense that testing for impairment is more challenging than testing for alcohol inebriation. Currently, the most widely used tests for marijuana use fluids that detects use within 3-30 days. They do not test impairment. The hair follicle test is another testing option but more effectively measures long term usage rather than current impairment. Many agencies and organizations are concerned about the lack of viable testing that is available to measure impairment. Organizations, such as Hound Labs, are focused on establishing testing around impairment that balances fairness and safety. For instance, last year Hound Labs introduced a “pot breathalyzer” that detects THC, the chemical in marijuana that gives people the feeling of euphoria, on a person’s breath. In a 2018 interview on NPR, Mike Lynn, CEO of Oakland, CA based Hound Labs, states, “When you find THC in breath, you can be pretty darn sure that somebody smoked pot in the last couple of hours.” Lynn went on to say, "And we don't want to have people driving during that time period or, frankly, at a work site in a construction zone" (“The Pot Breathalyzer is Here. Maybe,” 2018).
 
<h4>New Workplace Policies?</h4>
Lawmakers are still divided when it comes to off-the-clock marijuana use. Approximately a dozen states prohibit employers from discriminating against medical marijuana cardholders or from firing employees for testing positive for marijuana. In a recent article published by the Society for Human Resource Management, United States Representative Charlie Crist, D-Fla., is noted as proposing a 2018 bill that would prevent federal workers from being fired for using marijuana legally according to their state laws (“ABCs of THC,” 2019).
As new marijuana legislation continues to be introduced throughout the U.S., the taboo around marijuana use is weakening and usage is increasing. What does this mean for the workplace of the future? Well, happy hour may also take place at a cannabis café in the foreseeable future. Clearly, there really isn’t a one size fits all way to address cannabis in the workplace. Employers may begin to address the issue based on their industry and the various types of responsibilities their employees have. Human resources will need continue to engage with employees to evaluate what works best for their company and culture, ensure overall safety and adhere to local and federal law.
 
<h4>Let’s keep talking about it</h4>
It’s time that HR leaders come together to discuss how much of an impact the growth of the cannabis industry has and may continue to have on human resources and the workplace. 
Join PIHRA on Wednesday, May 29th at <a href="https://www.pihra.org/events/EventDetails.aspx?id=1222261&group=">PIHRA #RealHR-La Jolla: HR. THC. CBD. OMG!</a> for an interactive panel discussion & social. 
For more information, visit <a href="https://www.pihra.org/events/EventDetails.aspx?id=1222261&group=">pihra.org/realhrlajolla19</a>. See you on May 29th!]]></description>
<category>PIHRA News</category>
<pubDate>Fri, 17 May 2019 23:57:00 GMT</pubDate>
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<title>Announcing 2019 HR Talent & Tech</title>
<link>https://www.mypihra.org/news/449531/</link>
<guid>https://www.mypihra.org/news/449531/</guid>
<description><![CDATA[<img alt="" src="https://www.pihra.org/resource/resmgr/images/hrtt19/HRTT19-Thin-Banner-Calendar2.png" width="100%" />
<h4 style="text-align: center;">Announcing PIHRA's 4th Annual</h4>
<h1 style="text-align: center;">HR TALENT & TECH</h1>
Annual event provides Southern California human resource professionals with easy-to-access education on the latest technology trends & how to best apply within HR to streamline existing processes and enhance culture. 

 

<img alt="" src="https://www.pihra.org/resource/resmgr/images/hrtt19/Rodeo_004.jpg" width="25%'" style="padding: 0 15px; float: left;" />
LOS ANGELES, CA | In the 21st century, technology can be HR's friend or foe. PIHRA's annual event, <a href="https://www.pihra.org/events/EventDetails.aspx?id=1219622&group=">HR Talent & Tech on Wednesday, June 19</a>, is here to humanize technology. Whether you tend to be cautious about new tech, or you're a verified HR tech enthusiast, our speakers will help make the latest tools more friendly, applicable, and relevant to your role.
 

The new digital world of work moves quickly, and new applications to HR emerge constantly. Staying on top of the latest developments in HR tech innovation will boost creativity and productivity, and significantly impact your bottom line.
 
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<td style="width: 50%;"><center><img alt="" src="https://www.informz.net/YM-PHRA/data/images/Speaker%20Headshots/Morgan-250px-circle.png" width="50%" /></center></td>
<td style="width: 50%;"><center><img alt="" src="https://www.informz.net/YM-PHRA/data/images/Speaker%20Headshots/Jeff-250px-circle.png" width="50%" /></center></td>
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<img alt="" src="https://cdn.ymaws.com/www.pihra.org/resource/resmgr/images/hrtt19/Rodeo_018.png" width="25%" style="padding: 0 0 0 15px; float: right;" />This year's <a href="https://www.pihra.org/events/EventDetails.aspx?id=1219622&group=">HR Talent & Tech</a> speakers include Morgan Mercer, a Top 10 Female Tech Innovator and founder of Vantage Point, and Jeff Higgins, workforce analytics expert and CEO, Human Capital Management Institute.
 
 
Our 2019 speakers bring collective expertise in finance, senior human resources leadership, AI (artificial intelligence), VR (virtual reality), online training platforms, translating data into intelligence to increase organizational ROI, and much more.
 

Purchase your ticket to PIHRA's annual program, HR Talent & Tech, Wednesday, June 19 from 6:00pm - 9:00pm at <a href="https://phasetwospace.com/">Phase Two</a> in Los Angeles and <a href="https://www.pihra.org/events/EventDetails.aspx?id=1219622&group=">save with Early Bird pricing before May 15.</a>
<a href="https://www.pihra.org/events/EventDetails.aspx?id=1219622&group="> </a> 

<h2><a href="https://www.pihra.org/events/EventDetails.aspx?id=1219622&group=">Learn More & Register »</a></h2>
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<category>PIHRA News</category>
<pubDate>Wed, 1 May 2019 20:57:44 GMT</pubDate>
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<title>PIHRA #RealHR-OC Recap & Resources</title>
<link>https://www.mypihra.org/news/446952/</link>
<guid>https://www.mypihra.org/news/446952/</guid>
<description><![CDATA[<center><img alt="" src="https://www.mypihra.org/resource/resmgr/images/realhr/oc/realhroc_Post-Event-Resource.jpg" width="75%" /></center>
 
<h2><center>PIHRA #RealHR-OC: Don't Fear the Deep End of the Talent Pool </center></h2>
<h1><center>Event Recap & Resources</center></h1>
<center>April 10, 2019 | Volcom Skatepark, Costa Mesa</center>
 
Thank you to everyone who attended the #RealHR–OC on April 10th at Volcom Headquarters. The topic, Don’t Fear the Deep End of the Talent Pool, was well received and was attended by a SOLD OUT crowd of nearly 170 PIHRA members and sponsors. 
Our expert panelists provided such a wealth of information that we created this page to provide all of the resources to you. Please be sure to share this resource page with your fellow HR professionals and the community at large!
<hr />
<h2>Panelist Testimonial</h2>
The PIHRA #RealHR-OC event, Don't Fear the Deep End of the Talent Pool, exceeded my expectations as a panelist. As an HR professional, I will be the first to admit that it has been difficult to advocate for applicants that do not meet what some consider standard role requirements. I have been challenged throughout my career to think outside of the box and to recognize any biases that may create obstacles for diverse applicants that have unusual circumstances. 
 During the event, I was proud to see a standing room only room full of fellow HR professionals willing to tackle stigmas and societal norms that have created barriers for applicants deserving a second chance. The positive response from my Orange County HR colleagues and their willingness to get real talent back to work reminded me of why I became an HR professional. Thank you again PIHRA for providing a platform to discuss such a bold topic!
- Thelá R. Thatch, MBA, PHR, SHRM-CP, #RealHR-OC Panelist
<hr />
<h2>Attendee Survey</h2>
If you attended the event, please take our attendee survey. Click below to begin. 
<a href="https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/RealHROC041019">SUBMIT YOUR FEEDBACK »</a>
<hr />
Event Resources 

<h4>Sign the SHRM Pledge: Getting Talent Back To Work</h4>
As an individual and/or as a company, PIHRA invites you to participate in SHRM's Getting Talent Back to Work initiative. 
<a href="https://www.gettingtalentbacktowork.org/">TAKE SHRM'S PLEDGE »</a>
<h4>Resource: Helping Formerly Incarcerated Individuals</h4>
<a href="https://www.dfeh.ca.gov/wp-content/uploads/sites/32/2017/11/DFEH_E04P-ENG-2017Nov.pdf">DOWNLOAD »</a>
<h4>Resource: Fair Chance Hiring Laws</h4>
This is a one sheet to share with interested participants that will connect them to resources around the Fair Chance Hiring Laws, Thelá's upcoming 'Fair Chance' job site, and Community Based Organizations that specialize in making sure applicants receive a fair chance.

<a href="https://www.pihra.org/resource/resmgr/files/attendee-resources/realhr-oc-2019/MRSHR_Fair_Chance_One_Sheet..pdf">DOWNLOAD »</a> 
<h4>Resource: DFEH Transgender Rights in the Workplace</h4>
<a href="https://www.dfeh.ca.gov/wp-content/uploads/sites/32/2017/11/DFEH_E04P-ENG-2017Nov.pdf">DOWNLOAD »</a> 
<hr />
<h2> Organizations</h2>
Learn more about the organizations our panelists work with:
<ul>
<li>Learn more about <a href="https://transcanwork.org/">TransCanWork</a></li>
<li>Project Rebound: <a href="https://www.fullerton.edu/rebound/">CSU Fullerton</a> | <a href="http://www.calstatela.edu/engagement/project-rebound">CalState LA</a> | <a href="https://www.csusb.edu/project-rebound">CSU San Bernardino</a></li>
</ul>
<hr />
<h2>Follow our Panelists</h2>
<ul>
<li>Follow Romarilyn Ralston on Twitter: <a href="http://twitter.com/RomarilynR">@RomarilynR</a></li>
<li>Follow Michaela Mendelsohn on Twitter: <a href="http://twitter.com/MichaelaSpeaks">@MichaelaSpeaks</a></li>
<li>Follow Thelá Thatch on Twitter: <a href="http://twitter.com/AskMrsHR">@AskMrsHR</a></li>
</ul>
<hr />
<h2>Thank you to our Sponsors</h2>
This event could not have happened without our sponsors. Thank you for supporting PIHRA #RealHR-OC's gathering & dialogue about this important topic!
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<a href="https://www.roberthalf.com/" target="_blank" style="background: 0px 0px;"><img alt="" src="https://www.mypihra.org/resource/resmgr/images/sponsor_logos/roberthalflogo.jpg" style="width: 100%;" /></a> 
Event Sponsor
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<a href="https://www.ceridian.com/" target="_blank" style="background: 0px 0px;"><img alt="" src="https://www.mypihra.org/resource/resmgr/images/sponsor_logos_2/ceridian2019.jpg" style="width: 100%;" /></a> 
Event Sponsor
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<td style="padding: 10px; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.lockton.com/" target="_blank" style="background: 0px 0px;"><img alt="" src="https://www.mypihra.org/resource/resmgr/images/sponsor_logos/locktonlogo.jpg" style="width: 100%;" /> 
</a>Grand Prize Sponsor</td>
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<td style="padding: 10px; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.volcom.com/" target="_blank" style="color: #2a6496; background: 0px 0px;"><img alt="" src="https://www.mypihra.org/resource/resmgr/images/sponsor_logos_2/volcom.jpg" style="width: 100%;" /> 
</a>Venue Sponsor</td>
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<td style="padding: 10px; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://harbordistributingllc.com/" target="_blank" style="color: #2a6496; background: 0px 0px;"><img alt="" src="https://www.mypihra.org/resource/resmgr/images/sponsor_logos_2/harbor_distributing_llc.jpg" style="width: 100%;" /> 
</a>Beverage Sponsor</td>
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<h2>#RealHR-OC Photos</h2>
We encourage you to post photos of the event on your social media channels - include #PIHRA and #RealHR-OC hashtags so that your fellow attendees can find them! 
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<img alt="" src="https://www.mypihra.org/resource/resmgr/images/realhr/oc/img_5323.jpg" width="100%" /> 
PIHRA members gathering by the Wahoo! Fish Taco Truck
<img alt="" src="https://www.mypihra.org/resource/resmgr/images/realhr/oc/img_5328.jpg" width="100%" /> 
Checking into #RealHR-OC. 
 
<img alt="" src="https://www.mypihra.org/resource/resmgr/images/realhr/oc/Scott_2944.JPG" width="100%" style="font-size: 11px;" /> 
Scott Ripley, Chair of PIHRA South Orange Co, welcomes the crowd & kicks off the main event! 

 
 
<img alt="" src="https://www.mypihra.org/resource/resmgr/images/realhr/oc/audience_view_of_panel_2983.JPG" width="100%" /> 
Romarilyn Ralston takes the mic. 
 
<img alt="" src="https://www.mypihra.org/resource/resmgr/images/realhr/oc/E0C83BCD-BC02-454F-B19A-C21.jpeg" width="100%" />A vibrant night discussing how HR can lead by example and consider nontraditional candidates.

<img alt="" src="https://www.mypihra.org/resource/resmgr/images/realhr/oc/panel_in_action_2953.JPG" width="100%" /> 
Michaela Mendelsohn has the mic.
 
<img alt="" src="https://www.mypihra.org/resource/resmgr/images/realhr/oc/panel_in_action_2947.JPG" style="width: 100%;" /> 
Thelá has the mic. 
 
<img alt="" src="https://www.mypihra.org/resource/resmgr/images/realhr/oc/panel_in_action_2982.JPG" width="100%" /> 
Our panelists shared deeply moving stories and impressive insights.
<img alt="" src="https://www.mypihra.org/resource/resmgr/images/realhr/oc/IMG_5343.jpg" width="100%" /> 
The social part of PIHRA #RealHR-OC!
<img alt="" src="https://www.mypihra.org/resource/resmgr/images/realhr/oc/IMG_5346.jpg" width="100%" /> 
Attendees mingling at #RealHR-OC.

<img alt="" src="https://www.mypihra.org/resource/resmgr/images/realhr/oc/IMG_5324-Wahoo-Fish.jpg" width="100%" /> 
Someone's about to dig into some seriously fresh Wahoo! fish tacos.
<img alt="" src="https://www.mypihra.org/resource/resmgr/images/realhr/oc/RealHR-2019-600px.png" width="100%" /> 
One last photo of our wonderful panelists - and our moderator, Amber Solano. Brava!
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<td style="width: 4%; text-align: center;">  </td>
<td style="width: 48%; text-align: center; vertical-align: top;">

<img alt="" src="https://www.mypihra.org/resource/resmgr/images/realhr/oc/M_Paletz_Skateboard.jpg" width="100%" /> 
Matt Paletz, Lockton and Stacey Gordon, PIHRA get ready to ollie!
<img alt="" src="https://www.mypihra.org/resource/resmgr/images/realhr/oc/Rafael_PledgeIMG_5361.jpg" width="100%" style="text-align: center;" /> 
Rafael Rivera announces that PIHRA has signed SHRM's Getting Back To Work initiative. 


 
<img alt="" src="https://www.mypihra.org/resource/resmgr/images/realhr/oc/Rafael_Pledge_IMG_5362.jpg" width="100%" style="text-align: center;" /> 
Rafael Rivera and Scott Ripley. 

<img alt="" src="https://www.mypihra.org/resource/resmgr/images/realhr/oc/IMG_2979.JPG" width="100%" />Attendees taking notes.
<img alt="" src="https://www.mypihra.org/resource/resmgr/images/realhr/oc/IMG_5341-pihra-volcom-ladies.jpg" width="100%" />PIHRA & Volcom Staff ready for #RealHR-OC!
<img alt="" src="https://www.mypihra.org/resource/resmgr/images/realhr/oc/IMG_2932.JPG" width="100%" style="font-size: 11px;" />Who would have guessed 150+ HR professionals would fill up Volcom Skatepark?
<img alt="" src="https://www.mypihra.org/resource/resmgr/images/realhr/oc/photos_from_stacey_phone19.jpg" width="100%" />Attendees mingling & enjoying tacos.
<img alt="" src="https://www.mypihra.org/resource/resmgr/images/realhr/oc/Panel_3011.JPG" width="100%" /> 
Our incredible PIHRA #RealHR panelists. 

<img alt="" src="https://www.mypihra.org/resource/resmgr/images/realhr/oc/IMG_5342.jpg" width="100%" /> 
Attendees mingling at #RealHR-OC.
<img alt="" src="https://www.mypihra.org/resource/resmgr/images/realhr/oc/IMG_2990-Rafael-Wayne.JPG" width="100%" /> 
Wayne Munyer, PIHRA Past President, poses with PIHRA Executive Director Rafael Rivera.
<img alt="" src="https://www.mypihra.org/resource/resmgr/images/realhr/oc/Scott_2944.JPG" width="100%" /> 
Scott Ripley, PIHRA South Orange Co., addressing the crowd.
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Photo credit: Cami Hamilton, Stacey Gordon, Maddy Apple (c) PIHRA 2019

<hr style="text-align: center;" />
<h2>What's next with PIHRA #RealHR? Meet us in La Jolla!</h2>
<h1>#RealHR-La Jolla: HR. THC. CBD. OMG! </h1>
#RealHR is a fusion of learning, discussing, and networking. It's the place where you can exchange real stories & insights, gain practical & strategic takeaways from dynamic panelists, and engage with your local HR peers.
Join us for PIHRA #RealHR-La Jolla on May 29 where we'll learn and discuss future trends of the cannabis industry, and its multi-dimensional effect on HR.
We hope to see you there!
<a href="https://www.mypihra.org/events/EventDetails.aspx?id=1222261&group=">REGISTER »</a> 
]]></description>
<category>PIHRA News</category>
<pubDate>Mon, 15 Apr 2019 23:16:36 GMT</pubDate>
</item>
<item>
<title>Hiring in a Tight Labor Market</title>
<link>https://www.mypihra.org/news/444737/</link>
<guid>https://www.mypihra.org/news/444737/</guid>
<description><![CDATA[
<h1>Can a tight labor market convince employers to hire outside of their talent pool?</h1>
The milestone of this past year was the market reality that there were more open jobs than there were people to fill them.
The unemployment rate, at its lowest point in the past seven years, is standing at 3.8 percent through February 2019. A survey by Express Employment Professionals in 2018 revealed that more than three-quarters of respondents reported that it was difficult to recruit for and fill open positions. The top reasons many business leaders are finding it harder to fill positions are:
<ol>
<li>Lack of applicants with experience</li>
<li>Lack of available applicants</li>
<li>Lack of applicants with hard skills</li>
<li>No available positions</li>
<li>Lack of positions focused on soft skills</li>
</ol>
According to Bill Conerly, this problem will continue for a decade or more. Recruiting and retaining in a tight labor market, although challenging, can still be successful and get results.
 
<h1>Close the skills gap </h1>
We are seeing a shift in the working population itself. Baby boomers are taking retirement, while the millennials have entered their working years. However, the number of those young people graduating without the skills that the employers are looking for is cause for concern. 
James Heckman, Economics professor at the University of Chicago, explains how a motivated and skilled 20-30 year old adult can also be a premium in today’s labor force. In a recent podcast with The Marketplace, he explained, “What managers need are young people prepared to learn. They are worth the investment.”
Despite their ability to learn and take on new knowledge, young adults are not always the perfect fit for jobs that are available.
David Blow, who teaches Economics at the Ohio State University, cites the increases in college tuition as a reason for the skills gap; rising costs are making it harder for students to complete graduation.
 A survey by The National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE), found that when hiring new graduates nearly 91 percent of the respondents prefer that their candidates have work experience whereas only 5 percent state that work experience is not a factor.
 
<h1>Look outside “normal” talent pools</h1>
The skills gap is forcing HR professionals to broaden the search parameters to include hiring individuals who have been formerly incarcerated, for example. 
A recent research published by SHRM and the Charles Koch Institute found that 74 percent of managers and 84 percent of HR professionals who answered nationwide said ‘they were willing or open to hiring individuals who have a <a href="https://www.charleskochinstitute.org/news/shrm-second-chances-survey/">criminal record</a>.’
“Workplaces are transforming quickly, and talent strategies must evolve along with them,” said Johnny C. Taylor, Jr., SHRM-SCP, president and chief executive officer of the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM). “Organizations can no longer grow without tapping into the reservoirs of potential talent hidden in our communities.”
 
<h1>Let’s continue the conversation</h1>
The time has come when business leaders need to reconsider the depths of their talent pools and rethink hiring and job requirements. Let’s come together to discuss various ways to become more flexible. Join PIHRA on Wednesday, April 10 at <a href="https://www.pihra.org/events/EventDetails.aspx?id=1206531&group=">PIHRA #RealHR-OC</a> “Don’t fear the Deep-End of the Talent Pool” event for a panel discussion. The panel will explore ways to promote inclusivity in hiring and give untapped talent such as individuals in our community who may have been formerly incarcerated, homeless or LGBTQ+ the ability to thrive and help drive organizational success. For more information, visit <a href="https://www.pihra.org/events/EventDetails.aspx?id=1206531&group=">pihra.org/realhroc19</a>. See you on April 10th!
 
<h2><a href="https://www.pihra.org/events/EventDetails.aspx?id=1206531&group=">Learn More>></a></h2>
<a href="https://www.pihra.org/events/EventDetails.aspx?id=1206531&group="><img alt="" src="https://www.mypihra.org/resource/resmgr/images/realhr/oc/pihra_calendar_thin-0327219.jpg" style="width: 700px;" /></a>
 
Sources:
<a href="https://money.cnn.com/2018/06/05/news/economy/job-openings-unemployed-workers/index.html">https://money.cnn.com/2018/06/05/news/economy/job-openings-unemployed-workers/index.html</a> 
<a href="https://www.expresspros.com/Newsroom/America-Employed/New-Survey-Its-Getting-Even-Harder-to-Fill-Jobs.aspx">https://www.expresspros.com/Newsroom/America-Employed/New-Survey-Its-Getting-Even-Harder-to-Fill-Jobs.aspx</a>  
<a href="https://www.shrm.org/resourcesandtools/hr-topics/talent-acquisition/pages/recruiting-tight-labor-market-pay-people-more.aspx">https://www.shrm.org/resourcesandtools/hr-topics/talent-acquisition/pages/recruiting-tight-labor-market-pay-people-more.aspx</a>
<a href="https://www.forbes.com/sites/billconerly/2017/11/06/labor-market-forecast-2018-2019-retaining-and-recruiting-workers-will-continue-to-be-hard/#40b22fc526a8">https://www.forbes.com/sites/billconerly/2017/11/06/labor-market-forecast-2018-2019-retaining-and-recruiting-workers-will-continue-to-be-hard/#40b22fc526a8</a> 
<a href="https://www.marketplace.org/2018/04/19/economy/does-tight-labor-market-mean-more-jobs-young-people">https://www.marketplace.org/2018/04/19/economy/does-tight-labor-market-mean-more-jobs-young-people</a>
<a href="https://www.charleskochinstitute.org/news/shrm-second-chances-survey/">https://www.charleskochinstitute.org/news/shrm-second-chances-survey/</a>]]></description>
<category>PIHRA News</category>
<pubDate>Tue, 2 Apr 2019 18:43:18 GMT</pubDate>
</item>
<item>
<title>Is HR Certification Really Worth It?</title>
<link>https://www.mypihra.org/news/443799/</link>
<guid>https://www.mypihra.org/news/443799/</guid>
<description><![CDATA[<img src="https://www.mypihra.org/resource/resmgr/images/hr_certification_images/2019-PIHRA-HR-Cert---Thin-Ba.png" width="100%" alt="Define Yourself as an HR Leader" />
 
Certification is a great way to demonstrate your knowledge and experience in human resources, but does it necessarily equate to greater pay and career advancement opportunities? The data about how much an HR credential impacts salary and seniority have been absent, until now. A recent salary survey and report offers HR professionals more information about the benefits of credentials. According to the study, HR certification may not only make you more appealing to employers but may be an investment that pays off with better opportunities and earnings potential.
 
<h2>Climbing the HR ladder</h2>
The study evaluated 10 different certifications held by more than 102,000 respondents with HR job titles and revealed that 34.2% of the respondents had at least one credential. The largest represented certifications were PHR, SPHR, SHRM-CP and SHRM-SCP. The higher the level the HR professional, the greater the percentage of those were credential holders: 35.5% of HR Managers and 51.1% of Vice Presidents of HR are credentialed.
 
 
<h2>And if you’re already certified? </h2>
Does it make sense to pursue multiple certifications? Multiple certifications among HR professionals are not as uncommon as you might at first suspect. The study found that 50% of SHRM-CP professionals also have a PHR certification, whereas 62.5% of SHRM-SCP also hold a SPHR certification. According to PIHRA member and certification prep course instructor Richard Dawson, MBA, SHRM-SCP, SPHR, PHRca, HRPM -- his HR certification has both afforded career opportunities and increased salary levels throughout his career.
Check out our conversation with Richard here:
<a href="https://cahrconference.org/the-value-and-power-of-earning-your-hr-certification/">https://cahrconference.org/the-value-and-power-of-earning-your-hr-certification/</a>
 
<h2>Increasing your earnings potential</h2>
In terms of seeing a boost in pay, there are several contributing factors including type of credential, industry, work location and job level. Compared to their peers without certification, professionals with SHRM-SCP might see a 5.7% pay boost and those with SPHR credential saw 9.6% pay boost. Over the last 10 years, earning certification has become increasingly valuable to HR professionals in both pay and career advancement. With one exception, all certification types demonstrated evidence of a boost in pay for those professionals who were credentialed.
For more a detailed breakdown of survey findings, please see <a href="https://www.payscale.com/data/hr-certifications-pay">https://www.payscale.com/data/hr-certifications-pay</a>
 
<h2>Prepare for your exam with successful strategies</h2>
PIHRA offers preparation courses through both Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) and the Human Resource Certification Institute (HRCI). We are excited to offer Pre-Conference Education Sessions on August 23-25 before this year’s California HR Conference. The Pre-Conference and CAHR19 will be happening in Long Beach, California. Not only is attending a great way to update your knowledge, adding certification will help you improve your marketability. This might be just the right time to get additional staff up-to-speed in their HR knowledge and ready to earn their certification, too.
Learn more about upcoming courses & register: <a href="http://pihra.org/hrcertification" target="_blank">pihra.org/hrcertification</a>
  
 
<h2>Scholarship opportunity deadline</h2>
The PIHRA Foundation is committed to supporting workforce readiness including human resource scholarships. Since its inception, the PIHRA Foundation has provided more than $100,000 worth of assistance to educate HR professionals who are in transition and emerging HR professionals who might not have the capital to invest on their own. In its efforts to serve the greater HR community, the PIHRA Foundation has launched the 2019 scholarship program for HR certification. You do not need to be a PIHRA member to apply. We encourage you to please share this opportunity with emerging HR professionals or anyone currently in transition.


The deadline to apply for the PIHRA Foundation HR Certification Scholarship is April 26. To download the application and see more details please visit: <a href="https://pihra.org/foundation">https://pihra.org/foundation</a>]]></description>
<category>PIHRA News</category>
<pubDate>Tue, 26 Mar 2019 23:25:03 GMT</pubDate>
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<title>PIHRA 2019 Legal Update Speaker Spotlight: Richard M. Green</title>
<link>https://www.mypihra.org/news/435468/</link>
<guid>https://www.mypihra.org/news/435468/</guid>
<description><![CDATA[<a href="http://bit.ly/2RdbU8u"><img alt="" src="https://www.mypihra.org/resource/resmgr/images/legalupdate/legal_update_2019/LU19_Speaker_Spotlight-richa.png" width="100%" /></a>
<h1>Get to know your PIHRA 2019 Legal Update speakers!</h1>

With the <a href="http://bit.ly/2RcFFWO">final seminar of the PIHRA 2019 Legal Update</a> only seven days away, we are proud to see how much value attendees got out of the first three events this year. From 13 brand new California labor laws and employment documents best practices, to marijuana in the workplace and #metoo, our presenters covered everything you need to know to stay compliant and ahead of litigation in 2019. If you didn't attend any of the Updates yet, you're missing out. 
 
For example, you're missing out on Richard M. Green's presentation about one of the hottest topics right now: immigration. Richard was kind enough to answer our Speaker Spotlight questions below about trends in the enforcement of Federal immigration laws in the workplace and what makes the PIHRA Legal Update such a valuable event. Join us in La Jolla, January 30th, for your last chance to see Richard and 13 other experts break down the hottest employment law issues of this year. Tickets are still available, but they're going fast - <a href="http://bit.ly/2WnUklY">Register here!</a>
<h2 style="color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.83); background-color: #ffffff; margin: 9px 0px -27px; padding: 24px 0px 0px; border-style: none; border-width: 0px; border-image: none 100% / 1 / 0 stretch; text-align: left; letter-spacing: normal;">Richard M. Green, Partner & Chair of Immigration, <a href="https://www.cdflaborlaw.com">Carothers DiSante & Freudenberger LLP</a></h2>
<h2 style="color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.83); background-color: #ffffff; margin: 9px 0px -27px; padding: 24px 0px 0px; border-style: none; border-width: 0px; border-image: none 100% / 1 / 0 stretch; text-align: left; letter-spacing: normal;">Topic: Trends in the Enforcement of Federal Immigration Law in the Workplace</h2>
<h2>
</h2>
<p style="color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.83); background-color: #ffffff; margin: 9px 0px -27px; padding: 24px 0px 0px; border-style: none; border-width: 0px; border-image: none 100% / 1 / 0 stretch; text-align: left; letter-spacing: normal;">Richard M. Green is certified as a specialist in Immigration and Nationality Law by the California State Bar Board of Legal Specialization, and a partner with Carothers, DiSante & Freudenberger, LLP in Irvine, California. Mr. Green has twenty years of experience practicing employment-based immigration law. Mr. Green is also an adjunct professor of law at the Dale E. Fowler School of Law at Chapman University in Orange, California.
 
 
PIHRA: What should HR professionals be most concerned with in 2019?
 
Richard Green: Changes to the immigration system that are announced by Executive Order or memo, and the litigation that arises from said EO/memo.
 
PIHRA: What do you predict will be the most common mistake HR makes in 2019?
 
RG: Failing to notify the U.S. Department of Homeland Security and the US Department of Labor upon the termination of a nonimmigrant worker.
 
PIHRA: What can Southern California HR professionals do now to ensure they avoid litigation later in the year?
 
RG: Over-document any immigration related petitions filed with the U.S. Department of Homeland Security.
 
 
PIHRA: What are you most excited about at the PIHRA 2019 Legal Update? 
 
RG: The opportunity to interact with HR professionals all over Southern California.
 
PIHRA: What's one reason why HR professionals shouldn't miss your #pihraLU19 session?
 
RG: You’ll learn what the current administration really thinks about foreign workers.
 
PIHRA: What's one thing HR professionals will be surprised to hear in your session?
 
RG: You’ll learn how to produce technically perfect I-9 forms. 
 
PIHRA: How many years have you (or your law firm) been a member/speaker/sponsor with PIHRA? 
 
RG: First time!
 
 
<h2>Don't miss Richard's presentation at our final Legal Update in La Jolla next week. <a href="http://bit.ly/2WhCjp7">Register today!</a></h2>]]></description>
<category>PIHRA News</category>
<pubDate>Thu, 24 Jan 2019 19:03:49 GMT</pubDate>
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<title>PIHRA 2019 Legal Update Speaker Spotlight: Ryan Nell</title>
<link>https://www.mypihra.org/news/433782/</link>
<guid>https://www.mypihra.org/news/433782/</guid>
<description><![CDATA[<a href="https://www.pihra.org/mpage/pihra-2019-legal-update/?utm_source=lu19_blog&utm_medium=header_image&utm_campaign=PIHRA_19LU&utm_term=speakspot_rn&utm_content=011419"><img alt="" src="https://www.mypihra.org/resource/resmgr/images/legalupdate/legal_update_2019/LU19_Speaker_Spotlight-Ryan-.jpg" width="100%" /></a>
<h1>Get to know your PIHRA 2019 Legal Update speakers!</h1>

The second of our four 2019 employment seminars starts this Wednesday, January 16, 8am at the Riverside Convention Center (you might be able to get a seat still, but when this post was published there were less than 15 seats left, <a href="https://www.pihra.org/events/EventDetails.aspx?id=1155415&group&utm_source=lu19_blog&utm_medium=textlink1_ah&utm_campaign=PIHRA_19LU&utm_term=speakspot_rn&utm_content=011419">so register here</a>, but you better act fast!) 
 
This Speaker Spotlight interview series is so much fun - talking to these employment law experts about the most pressing topics of this year offers a valuable preview of what you'll experience at every one of our Legal Update seminars. In this case, the topic is marijuana in the workplace, something everyone wants to know more about. Read below what Ryan says you should concern yourself with the most this year and keep and eye out for more Legal Update speaker spotlights. If you're not already registered to attend the PIHRA 2019 Legal Update, tickets for <a href="https://www.pihra.org/events/EventDetails.aspx?id=1155415&group&utm_source=lu19_blog&utm_medium=textlink2_rs&utm_campaign=PIHRA_19LU&utm_term=speakspot_rn&utm_content=011419">Riverside</a>, <a href="https://www.pihra.org/events/EventDetails.aspx?id=1155426&group&utm_source=lu19_blog&utm_medium=textlink3_bu&utm_campaign=PIHRA_19LU&utm_term=speakspot_rn&utm_content=011419">Burbank</a> and <a href="https://www.pihra.org/events/EventDetails.aspx?id=1155478&group&utm_source=lu19_blog&utm_medium=textlink4_lj&utm_campaign=PIHRA_19LU&utm_term=speakspot_rn&utm_content=011419">La Jolla</a> are still available, but they're almost gone!
<h2 style="color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.83); background-color: #ffffff; margin: 9px 0px -27px; padding: 24px 0px 0px; border-style: none; border-width: 0px; border-image: none 100% / 1 / 0 stretch; text-align: left; letter-spacing: normal;">Ryan Nell, Shareholder/Employment Attorney, <a href="https://pettitkohn.com">Pettit Kohn Ingrassia Lutz & Dolin</a></h2>
<h2 style="color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.83); background-color: #ffffff; margin: 9px 0px -27px; padding: 24px 0px 0px; border-style: none; border-width: 0px; border-image: none 100% / 1 / 0 stretch; text-align: left; letter-spacing: normal;">Topic: Marijuana in the Workplace in California</h2>
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</h2>
<p style="color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.83); background-color: #ffffff; margin: 9px 0px -27px; padding: 24px 0px 0px; border-style: none; border-width: 0px; border-image: none 100% / 1 / 0 stretch; text-align: left; letter-spacing: normal;">Ryan H. Nell is an employment attorney responsible for representing California employers statewide in both counseling and comprehensive litigation support. With the ever-changing landscape of California and federal employment law, Ryan prides himself on assisting clients in staying ahead of the curve in an effort to avoid legal trouble before it arises. He has extensive experience representing clients in harassment, retaliation, and discrimination matters, as well as large-scale wage and hour lawsuits.
 
 
Ryan speaks regularly on a wide range of topics aimed at assisting California employers in the avoidance of legal trouble before it arises, and his work in the field has led to his recognition as a Rising Star by San Diego Super Lawyers®.
 
PIHRA: What should HR professionals be most concerned with in 2019? 
 
Ryan Nell: The disconnect between the legalization of marijuana at the state level compared to its (still) illegal characterization at the federal level means that California employers are often forced to balance the competing impacts of state and federal law. As the gap in policies continues to grow, California employers will be forced to walk a narrowing tightrope to maintain legal compliance.
 
PIHRA: What do you predict will be the most common mistake HR makes in 2019? 
 
RN: Employers are often quick to rely on “the way we used to do things” as a justification for current and future performance. Particularly in an area like marijuana in the workplace, a strict adherence to the old guard is an easy way to frustrate well performing employees or, even worse, run afoul of the law.
 
PIHRA: What can Southern California HR professionals do now to ensure they avoid litigation later in the year? 
 
RN: Attend #pihraLU19, of course. Beyond that, Southern California HR professionals need to continue to keep an eye on California employment law updates. Each year sees a large amount of new legislation and case law that can present stumbling blocks for HR professionals. The best ones are those that are able to stay on top of legal changes and be proactive rather than reactive.
 
PIHRA: What new employment laws for 2019 are you most excited to see have a positive impact in the workplace? 
 
RN: The enactment of legislation requiring “all hands” harassment prevention training appears primed to have the impact of better educating California employees about their rights and obligations in the workforce. 
 
PIHRA: What are you most excited about at the PIHRA 2019 Legal Update?  
 
RN: Interacting with attendees and fellow presenters between sessions. While attorneys are in the presentation spotlight, #pihraLU19 is attended by hundreds of seasoned HR professionals, each of whom has a vast realm of experience and insight to share. 
 
PIHRA: What's one reason why HR professionals shouldn't miss your #pihraLU19 session?
 
RN: The handling of marijuana in the workplace is as nuanced as it is topical. Employees around the state are asking questions about their rights, and their employers need to be prepared to provide thoughtful, well-reasoned, and legally compliant responses.
 
PIHRA: What's one thing HR professionals will be surprised to hear in your session? 
 
RN: HR professionals may be surprised to hear that, even with the recent legalization of marijuana for recreational use, not much has changed with regard to California employers’ obligations…yet. With the way changes are being made, however, employers will want to engage in a discussion about best practices for remaining at the cutting edge of policy change before old policies become outdated ones.
 
PIHRA: How many years have you (or your law firm) been a member/speaker/sponsor with PIHRA? 
 
RN: This is my first time presenting at a PIHRA event, but several of our Pettit Kohn attorneys have been PIHRA members for several years. I look forward to becoming more involved in such a strong (and growing) organization moving forward.
 
PIHRA: What makes PIHRA a valuable resource in Southern California? 
 
RN: California employment law is complex and constantly changing. PIHRA’s ability to provide resources and prepare events like #pihraLU19 on the topics that are most important to employers is invaluable to employers looking to avoid legal trouble.
 
<h2>Don't miss Ryan's presentation at all of our Legal Update locations. <a href="https://www.pihra.org/mpage/pihra-2019-legal-update/?utm_source=lu19_blog&utm_medium=textlink_cta&utm_campaign=PIHRA_19LU&utm_term=speakspot_rn&utm_content=011419">Register today!</a></h2>]]></description>
<category>PIHRA News</category>
<pubDate>Mon, 14 Jan 2019 19:00:46 GMT</pubDate>
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<title>PIHRA 2019 Legal Update Speaker Spotlight: Brian Nagatani</title>
<link>https://www.mypihra.org/news/433044/</link>
<guid>https://www.mypihra.org/news/433044/</guid>
<description><![CDATA[<a href="https://www.pihra.org/mpage/pihra-2019-legal-update/?utm_source=lu19_blog&utm_medium=header_image&utm_campaign=PIHRA_19LU&utm_term=speakspot_bn&utm_content=010719"><img alt="" src="https://www.mypihra.org/resource/resmgr/images/legalupdate/legal_update_2019/LU19_Speaker_Spotlight-brian.jpg" width="100%" /></a>
<h1>Get to know your PIHRA 2019 Legal Update speakers!</h1>

The first of our famous 2019 employment seminars kicks off this week at 8am on Thursday, January 10 at the Anaheim Marriot (as of the publishing of this post, there were still a few seats left so if you want to attend, <a href="https://www.pihra.org/events/EventDetails.aspx?id=1150039&group&utm_source=lu19_blog&utm_medium=textlink1_ah&utm_campaign=PIHRA_19LU&utm_term=speakspot_bn&utm_content=010720">register here</a>, but do it fast!) 
 
We're thrilled to introduce this year's speaker lineup of employment law experts, all from Southern California, with our spotlight interview series. We asked them for a preview of what they'll be presenting and what they think about the the PIHRA Legal Update. As you'll see, they really know how best to prepare for and handle any workplace issues that might come your way in 2019. Stay tuned for more Legal Update speaker spotlights, and if you haven't registered to attend, seats for <a href="https://www.pihra.org/events/EventDetails.aspx?id=1155415&group&utm_source=lu19_blog&utm_medium=textlink2_rs&utm_campaign=PIHRA_19LU&utm_term=speakspot_bn&utm_content=010721">Riverside</a>, <a href="https://www.pihra.org/events/EventDetails.aspx?id=1155426&group&utm_source=lu19_blog&utm_medium=textlink3_bu&utm_campaign=PIHRA_19LU&utm_term=speakspot_bn&utm_content=010722">Burbank</a> and <a href="https://www.pihra.org/events/EventDetails.aspx?id=1155478&group&utm_source=lu19_blog&utm_medium=textlink4_lj&utm_campaign=PIHRA_19LU&utm_term=speakspot_bn&utm_content=010723">La Jolla</a> are still available!
<h2 style="color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.83); background-color: #ffffff; margin: 9px 0px -27px; padding: 24px 0px 0px; border-style: none; border-width: 0px; border-image: none 100% / 1 / 0 stretch; text-align: left; letter-spacing: normal;">Brian Nagatani, Co-Founder and Partner, <a href="https://hnemploymentlaw.com/">Hixson Nagatani, LLP</a></h2>
<h2 style="color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.83); background-color: #ffffff; margin: 9px 0px -27px; padding: 24px 0px 0px; border-style: none; border-width: 0px; border-image: none 100% / 1 / 0 stretch; text-align: left; letter-spacing: normal;">Topic: Common Mistakes in Employment Documents</h2>
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<p style="color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.83); background-color: #ffffff; margin: 9px 0px -27px; padding: 24px 0px 0px; border-style: none; border-width: 0px; border-image: none 100% / 1 / 0 stretch; text-align: left; letter-spacing: normal;">Brian K. Nagatani co-founded Hixson Nagatani LLP with his long-time colleague Ray Hixson in 2008.
<p style="color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.83); background-color: #ffffff; margin: 9px 0px -27px; padding: 24px 0px 0px; border-style: none; border-width: 0px; border-image: none 100% / 1 / 0 stretch; text-align: left; letter-spacing: normal;">Mr. Nagatani has an active counseling and litigation practice. He provides preventive counseling to employers on a number of employment-related issues including terminations, hiring, and leaves of absence.
<p style="color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.83); background-color: #ffffff; margin: 9px 0px -27px; padding: 24px 0px 0px; border-style: none; border-width: 0px; border-image: none 100% / 1 / 0 stretch; text-align: left; letter-spacing: normal;">Mr. Nagatani has defended court lawsuits involving numerous claims including discrimination, harassment, wrongful termination, fraud, and breach of contract. He also has experience defending both single plaintiff and class action lawsuits involving alleged wage and hour violations. He has experience handling claims before the EEOC, DFEH, EDD, and other administrative and governmental agencies.
 
 

PIHRA: What should HR professionals be most concerned with in 2019? 
 
 
Brian Nagatani: Significant court rulings from the past year and how to be sure that changes these rulings dictate are integrated into pristine employment-related documentation.
 
 
PIHRA: What do you predict will be the most common mistake HR makes in 2019? 
 
 
BN: Blindly relying on forms that have previously been “blessed” by employment counsel, without ensuring a fresh review to ensure compliance with the most up-to-date changes in the law.
 
 
PIHRA: What can Southern California HR professionals do now to ensure they avoid litigation later in the year? 
 
 
BN: The start of the year is a great time to conduct a periodic audit of employment-related documentation to ensure it is legally compliant.
 
 
PIHRA: What new employment laws for 2019 are you most excited to see have a positive impact in the workplace? 
 
 
BN: I believe California’s expanded harassment prevention training requirement to include non-supervisory employees will have a positive impact in the workplace with respect to educating all employees about how to prevent harassment from occurring.
 
 
PIHRA: What are you most excited about at the PIHRA 2019 Legal Update? 
 
 
BN: Hearing the always stimulating questions attendees have both during my presentation and afterwards.
 
 
PIHRA: What's one reason why HR professionals shouldn't miss your #pihraLU19 session?
 
 
BN: I’m going to equip HR professionals with not only practical advice, but several personnel documents they can take back with them so they can be sure they’re prepared for the changes that the laws have dictated.
 
 
PIHRA: What's one thing HR professionals will be surprised to hear in your session? 
 
 
BN: Now, even employee non-solicitation clauses may be on the chopping block in California!
 
 
PIHRA: How many years have you (or your law firm) been a member/speaker/sponsor with PIHRA? 
 
 
BN: I’ve been speaking at the PIHRA Legal Update since 2015.
 
 
PIHRA: What makes PIHRA a valuable resource in Southern California? 
 
 
BN: PIHRA provides resources for its members – such as the CA HR Conference and Legal Update – to ensure that its members will always be on top of the most recent developments in employment law.
<h2>Don't miss Brian's presentation at all of our Legal Update locations. <a href="https://www.pihra.org/mpage/pihra-2019-legal-update/?utm_source=lu19_blog&utm_medium=textlink_cta&utm_campaign=PIHRA_19LU&utm_term=speakspot_bn&utm_content=010719">Register today!</a></h2>]]></description>
<category>PIHRA News</category>
<pubDate>Tue, 8 Jan 2019 18:30:48 GMT</pubDate>
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<title>Tips for handling holiday spending</title>
<link>https://www.mypihra.org/news/430752/</link>
<guid>https://www.mypihra.org/news/430752/</guid>
<description><![CDATA[<img alt="" src="https://www.mypihra.org/resource/resmgr/images/membership/holiday-budgeting-1440698052.jpg" />
‘Tis the season to spend a ton!  And yes, it happens to HR professionals too.  
How many of you feel like every year you spend a fortune during the holidays? It happens to most of us. All the holiday décor, gift-exchanges, travel and parties are just some of the many things to spend on.  It can really turn holiday spending into a financial nightmare.  A recent survey by the National Retail Federation states that consumers will spend <a href="https://nrf.com/media-center/press-releases/consumers-will-spend-41-percent-more-last-year-during-winter-holidays" target="_blank">4.1 percent more</a> on holiday spending this year than in 2018, and experts expect that number to grow.  It feels good to spend money, until January hits and you realize that you overspent.
Below are some hints and tips to help you celebrate the most wonderful time of the year without stressing your bank account. 
Yes, budgets work
When you create your holiday budget, look at last years’ holiday expenses.  Use your bank account and credit card statements to make a realistic budget.  Look out for spending on gifts, meals, special clothing, travel, home decorations and social events.   
A budget tracker can also help you track your holiday expenses. There’s an app called <a href="https://www.mint.com/how-mint-works">Mint</a> that helps you create your budget, track your expenses and helps you discover new ways to save. It’s simple to use and it’s free.
‘Make a list and check it twice'
Once you know how much you want to spend, make a list. Gift giving to your loved ones can be so much fun, but those expenses add up quickly. Start with making a list of everyone you want to buy for and then assign a dollar amount to each person. If you plan on having a holiday party make a list for that too. But the key is to make sure you stick to that amount. If you can’t afford it, don’t buy it! 
Look for the savings
Whether you’re online shopping or going out to get your gifts, make sure you get the best deals out there. Do your research, look for the sales, look for coupon codes, use your rewards points, anything to help you save. Also, try to use cash and debit instead of your credit card. You don’t want to add on more expenses for your interests’ rates.
Apps like <a href="https://paribus.co/">Paribus</a> help you sort through your emails to help you monitor prices so that you don’t have to.
Gift your time 
If you’ve never done it before, this holiday season consider giving thoughtful gifts. You can save a large fraction of you budget by gifting your time and efforts – volunteering. Make a nice meal for local charity group or transport toys at a local hospital.  You can find a local volunteer group through <a href="https://www.idealist.org/en/?type=JOB">Idealist</a> or <a href="https://www.volunteermatch.org/">VolunteerMatch</a>, plus studies show it can also improve your <a href="https://www.theatlantic.com/health/archive/2015/12/altruism-for-a-better-body/422280/">health</a>.
If you are craftier, spread your holiday cheer by hand making your gifts. Use your skills and talents to make something special, it saves you money and adds a personal touch to your gift.
Don’t forget the true meaning of the season
It’s a challenge to not spend a ton of money during this time of year. There is so much societal pressure to spend more.  Everywhere you turn there are bright, shiny things to buy but stick to your budget.  Remember, the holidays are about family, being of service and preparing yourself for the new year.    <a href="https://stefanieoconnell.com/start-here">Stefanie O’Connell</a>, author and personal finance expert, recommends creating “giving account.” So set a goal to save 2% of your pay every month into a special account.  That way you’ll have the whole year to prepare and your wallet will thank you for it later.
Happy Holidays!
Sources:
https://abcnews.go.com/GMA/Living/tips-financial-experts-avoid-post-holiday-spending-hangover/story?id=59419099
<a href="https://nrf.com/media-center/press-releases/consumers-will-spend-41-percent-more-last-year-during-winter-holidays">https://nrf.com/media-center/press-releases/consumers-will-spend-41-percent-more-last-year-during-winter-holidays</a>
<a href="https://www.mint.com/how-mint-works">https://www.mint.com/how-mint-works</a> ]]></description>
<category>PIHRA News</category>
<pubDate>Sat, 15 Dec 2018 03:13:38 GMT</pubDate>
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<title>Speak at the 2019 California HR Conference</title>
<link>https://www.mypihra.org/news/422487/</link>
<guid>https://www.mypihra.org/news/422487/</guid>
<description><![CDATA[<img src="https://www.informz.net/YM-PHRA/data/images/CAHR19_Display-Email_Header-1080x150.png?cb=354730" style="width: 80%;" alt="2019 California HR Conference" />
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<h1 class="header-one" style="color: #0a1f40; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; text-align: center;">2019 California HR Conference</h1>
<h1 class="header-one" style="color: #0a1f40; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; text-align: center;">NOW ACCEPTING SPEAKING PROPOSALS</h1>
 
Submission portal closes January 25, 2019
 
 
Now's the time to submit your proposal or refer an engaging speaker for a coveted speaking opportunity at the largest HR conference on the West Coast. With close to 3,000 practitioners, presenters, and providers in attendance, <a href="http://cahrconference.org/" target="_blank" data-informz-link="true" data-informz-link-name="cahr19 first paragraphs" data-informz-do-not-track="false" style="color: #2e67df;">CAHR19</a> is the premier source of professional development and networking opportunities for HR professionals in Southern California.
 
PIHRA welcomes presentation proposals from professionals with expertise in Human Resources and those who are committed to advancing the HR profession and willing to share best practices. Proposals must align with one of the tracks listed below and clearly list key takeaways for attendees.
 
• California Employment Law
• HR Compliance
• Business & HR Strategy
• Global HR
• Talent Management
• Total Rewards
• Professional Development
• Nonprofit HR
 
#CAHR19 will be held from August 25-28, 2019 at the Long Beach Convention Center. Please note, while we do not provide stipends, honorariums or pay travel expenses for our concurrent session speakers, there are many benefits to being one of our speakers at the 2019 California HR Conference, including gaining exposure to a wide audience of HR and business decision makers. Snag the opportunity to highlight your expertise and position yourself as an expert among your peers by submitting a proposal that will intrigue and enlighten the conference taskforce.
 
If you haven't attended the conference previously, to get an idea of content, please click here: <a href="http://cahrconference.org/attendee-prospectus/" target="_blank" data-informz-link="true" data-informz-link-name="Prospectus" data-informz-do-not-track="false" style="color: #2e67df;">Attendee Prospectus</a>. 
 
We also highly recommend reading this page: <a href="https://www.pihra.org/blogpost/1358226/257695/California-HR-Conference" target="_blank" data-informz-link="true" data-informz-link-name="A Few Tips For Getting Selected" data-informz-do-not-track="false" style="color: #2e67df;">A Few Tips for Getting Selected as a California HR Conference Speaker</a>.
 
Not ready to submit to speak at our conference, but would like to submit webinar content or speak at a local chapter program? Submit your presentation in our portal and we’ll review proposals through January 25, 2019!
 
Act now, because speaker submissions won’t be accepted for any PIHRA programs again until October 2019. Don’t miss out!
 
Click on the button below to begin submitting. The submission window will close on January 25, 2018.
 
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Please share this post with anyone who might be interested in a PIHRA speaking opportunity!
 
<h5 class="header-one" style="color: #0a1f40; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; text-align: center;">The California HR Conference is hosted and curated by PIHRA - Professionals In Human Resources Association.</h5>
PIHRA is an independent organization and is the largest affiliate of SHRM in the world. Learn more at <a href="https://bit.ly/2QrYlC5" target="_blank" data-informz-link="true" data-informz-link-name="pihra.org" data-informz-do-not-track="false" style="color: #2e67df;">pihra.org</a>.
 
<h4 class="header-one" style="color: #0a1f40; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; text-align: center;">Upcoming PIHRA Programs</h4>
 
<a href="https://bit.ly/2OuRESb" target="_blank" data-informz-link="true" data-informz-link-name="Calendar PIHRA" data-informz-do-not-track="false" style="color: #2e67df;">Monthly Meetings all across Southern California</a>
 
<a href="https://www.pihra.org/events/EventDetails.aspx?id=1151690&group=" target="_blank" data-informz-link="true" data-informz-link-name="strategic leadHR" data-informz-do-not-track="false" style="color: #2e67df;">Strategic LeadHR</a>| Nov 1 | Irvine
 
PIHRA 2019 Legal Update - January 2019:
<a href="https://www.pihra.org/events/EventDetails.aspx?id=1150039&group=" target="_blank" data-informz-link="true" data-informz-link-name="Anaheim LU" data-informz-do-not-track="false" style="color: #2e67df;">Anaheim</a>|<a href="https://www.pihra.org/events/EventDetails.aspx?id=1155415&group=" target="_blank" data-informz-link="true" data-informz-link-name="Riverside LU" data-informz-do-not-track="false" style="color: #2e67df;">Riverside</a>|<a href="https://www.pihra.org/events/EventDetails.aspx?id=1155426&group=" target="_blank" data-informz-link="true" data-informz-link-name="Burbank LU" data-informz-do-not-track="false" style="color: #2e67df;">Burbank</a>|<a href="https://www.pihra.org/events/EventDetails.aspx?id=1155478&group=" target="_blank" data-informz-link="true" data-informz-link-name="SD LU" data-informz-do-not-track="false" style="color: #2e67df;">La Jolla</a>
 
<a href="http://cahrconference.org/" target="_blank" data-informz-link="true" data-informz-link-name="upcoming programs - cahr18" data-informz-do-not-track="false" style="color: #2e67df;">2019 California HR Conference</a>| August 25-28 | Long Beach
 
Other Programs
HR Webinars | HR Talent & Tech | HR Department of One
 
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<category>California HR Conference</category>
<pubDate>Fri, 12 Oct 2018 19:56:51 GMT</pubDate>
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<title>Advocacy Day at the 2018 California HR Conference</title>
<link>https://www.mypihra.org/news/421485/</link>
<guid>https://www.mypihra.org/news/421485/</guid>
<description><![CDATA[AUGUST 27, 2018 - Long Beach, Calif.
Monday, August 27 was Advocacy Day at the 2018 California HR Conference, where PIHRA and SHRM brought local and regional California legislation & advocacy efforts to the forefront. 
The California HR Conference is created & curated by the Professionals In Human Resources Association (PIHRA). To learn more about CAHR19, visit <a href="http://cahr19.org">cahr19.org</a>. 

 
<h4>Annual PIHRA Mock Election</h4>
This year at the California HR Conference, attendees had the chance to participate in a California Mock Election by voting at the PIHRA Advocacy Booth. No matter which measures or candidates are on the ballot, each mock election provides an opportunity to be informed about current initiatives and to get a pulse of the population and demographics reflected at the conference are inclined to vote. This year's mock ballot included California gubernatorial and senate candidates - see results below!
PIHRA's immediate past Vice President of Legislative Affairs 2014-2018, Sarah Prince, CEBS, conveys her deepest gratitude to the fabulous volunteers who showed up for us by manning the mock election booth and helping to make this happen: Ed Garcia, Ken Cornelison, Dana Mayhew, Noma Bruton, and Marilyn Monahan.
 
<a href="https://www.pihra.org/resource/resmgr/images/cahr18/CAHR18-Mock-Election-Results.png">
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<h4>SHRM A-Team Advocacy Lunch at the California HR Conference</h4>
The California HR Conference partnered with Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) and the California State Council of SHRM (CalSHRM) to offer an exclusive, special advocacy day program with senior district congressional staff representing a number of members of Congress from the Greater Los Angeles Area. 
The event took place on Monday, August 27, from between 12:30pm-2:00 pm at the Long Beach Convention and Entertainment Center in Long Beach, CA.
For the first half of the program, Representatives Mimi Walters (R-CA) and Lou Correa (D-CA) addressed the group about what issues Congress were to face upon returning to Washington in September, as well as an outlook for the upcoming November elections. 
 
Following their remarks, attendees had the unique opportunity to speak with key congressional district staff of nearly a dozen members of Congress representing the Greater Los Angeles area. During the program attendees had an opportunity to share - in a mini roundtable discussion - the HR perspective on a number of federal workplace policies impacting California employees and employers. Most importantly, their participation in the program reinforced with these public policy decision-makers how valuable HR professionals can be as a resource for lawmakers and their staffs when debating workplace issues in Washington.
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<a href="https://www.facebook.com/279889285407115/photos/?tab=album&album_id=2037500816312611">To view more photos of Monday at the 2018 California HR Conference, visit our Facebook Page!</a>
  
The California HR Conference is created & curated by the Professionals In Human Resources Association (PIHRA). To learn more about CAHR19, visit <a href="http://cahr19.org/">cahr19.org</a>.]]></description>
<category>California HR Conference</category>
<pubDate>Mon, 8 Oct 2018 13:03:04 GMT</pubDate>
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<title>#RealHR Event: Inclusion and Belonging - Is HR in Charge?</title>
<link>https://www.mypihra.org/news/419843/</link>
<guid>https://www.mypihra.org/news/419843/</guid>
<description><![CDATA[<h4>Getting Real at #RealHR West Los Angeles</h4>
One of the biggest challenges we’ve seen in the workplace is the pace in which the workforce is changing, especially in diversity and inclusion. At the PIHRA #RealHR event, we discussed some of the pitfalls that we face and different ways to create a safe space in which employees can have meaningful conversations about this topic.
 
<h4>#RealHR Event: Inclusion and Belonging - Is HR in Charge? </h4>
Wanting to feel included is human nature. We all want to feel a sense of belonging with friends, in relationships and in the workplace. When employees don't feel they are an integral part of an organization or you perceive lack of teamwork within your organization, where do you begin? What can you, as an HR leader, do? Working together, the panelists and the audience were able to discuss issues and brainstorm solutions to take back to their organization.
More than 60 individuals attended the 2nd rendition of PIHRA #RealHR at <a href="https://www.ctrlcollective.com/playa-vista" style="font-size: medium;">CTRL Collective</a> located in Playa Vista. The venue has a unique and creative look with neon animated lights, plenty of art, and an open rumpus room layout, which helped create a welcoming and safe space.
 
 
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<h4>We’ve All Felt Excluded In Some Way Or Another</h4>
During the event, the panelists discussed different occasions when they’ve felt excluded. Bill Stoddard, one of the panelists and a Senior Administrative Assistant at KPMG talked about how LGBTQ employees can feel excluded and alienated during company blood drives because of their sexual orientation and related ramifications. During the dialogue that ensued, he reflected that although he feels left out, he can’t stop his organization and co-workers from participating in a cause that saves lives.
Peggy O’Neill, an award-winning keynote speaker and author, was also on the panel. She talked about one of her many trials as a little person living in a big world. Her example was after completing a challenging degree at an art school, a faculty member told her she would never find a job because of her situation. Although the statement was devastating, she refused to let it define her future.
Nicole Hancock Husband, Esq., Vice President of Human Resources, Warner Brothers Television was also on the panel. As a young lawyer, she experienced being the only African American woman at a prestigious law firm. When the firm discussed the diversity issue, they were more concerned about how diversity would mean they would have to “lower their standards.” Needless to say, the conversation didn’t sit well for her. 
 
<h4>The Story Behind The Outcome</h4>
Ultimately, it’s up to us to make the change. Amber Baldet, former JPMorgan Blockchain program lead, defines <a href="https://qz.com/work/1260780/finally-a-definition-of-workplace-inclusion-thats-truly-actionable/">inclusion</a> “like health and happiness, it's not something that you arrive at one day and say, 'We’re done!' It’s something that you work at every day, a process."
During PIHRA #RealHR, an African American woman from the audience bravely stood up during the panel discussion and shared that she works for an organization that is “lopsided” with respect to diversity. There is diversity at the administrative level but not at the technical level. “How can I start the conversation?” she asked. With the help of the panelists and the audience, they came up with the following ideas to help her start the conversation.
 
<h4>Steps to start the conversation:</h4>
Step 1: Benchmark. Evaluate how other similar organizations have managed to use diversity and inclusion effectively. Think about how open senior management might be to discussing diversity. It’s important to observe and think about the different scenarios that might come up. Bring all that with you to the conversation.
Step 2: Seek advocates on the management team. If it’s intimidating for you, invite your advocate to participate in the conversation. Don’t do it alone.
Step 3: Have the conversation. Simply starting the conversation is the first step in making the change.
 
At PIHRA, we want to create a safe space for people to have real conversations and takeaway real tangible steps in their career.
“It was especially touching to see how life changing in such a positive way the event benefited the attendees, including myself,” said Jennifer Blair, PIHRA West Los Angeles Vice Chair. “The event was so well thought out and I truly feel it was one of if not the best HR event I’ve ever been to.”
 
<h4>Thank You</h4>
We want to give a special thank you to the panelists, attendees, sponsor, and everyone who in some way contributed to make this event possible. Stay tuned for another #RealHR event coming soon.
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<category>PIHRA News</category>
<pubDate>Tue, 25 Sep 2018 18:54:35 GMT</pubDate>
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<title>The Rogue Executive and HR Disruptor – Two Sides of the Story</title>
<link>https://www.mypihra.org/news/410676/</link>
<guid>https://www.mypihra.org/news/410676/</guid>
<description><![CDATA[As HR professionals, what would you do if you worked with a rogue executive? How can human resource professionals use the skills needed to manage a destructive rogue executive to become a disruptor of the status quo?
These were some of the questions addressed at PIHRA #RealHR-LA - Taming the Rogue Executive on Wednesday, July 18. The purpose of the #RealHR program is to engage panelists and the audience in an interactive discussion regarding a thought-provoking topic. 
Over a 100 individuals attended the #RealHR inaugural event which was held at one of the sleekest ultra-lounges in Downtown Los Angeles, <a href="http://www.elevatelounge.com/index/home">Elevate Lounge</a>.
 
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Every HR Professional Has Encountered a Rogue Executive
“Every HR professional has encountered a rogue executive and we all have our own perspective on how we handled those unique situations,” says Melissa Johnson, a Regional Director of HR, who attended the event. We’ve all seen executive behavior being denounced in the media.  #RealHR is the place for HR professionals to share their experiences, and thoughts around solutions to these currently routine (yet taboo) workplace issues.
The Power of Emotional Intelligence and Data
During the event, panelist discussed various ways to approach a rogue manager, as well as ways for the HR business unit to be perceived as a key influencer in the organization. David L. Samuels, a panelist and an Executive Coach with DLS Partners, talked about the need to develop emotional intelligence.  Those with higher emotional intelligence are more self-aware and can foresee the consequences of their communications.  This is crucial when dealing with a rogue manager, who may not be as aware of how they are impacting their team or the rest of the organization with their behavior.
Dr. Samantha Broitman, an organizational development expert who was also on the panel, added that it’s important to use data to be seen as an influencer. For example, HR professionals can utilize internal data that supports the need to correct rogue behavior and implement HR initiatives that are seen as touchy-feely.  The data can be in the form of employee surveys, employee retention metrics, productivity indicators and/or corporate culture studies.
HR Disruptor?  Why not? 

“HR professionals view "rogue" leaders as not positive,” says Tiana Sanchez, a Corporate Trainer, who attended the event. “The discussion around women in HR was also brought up and how HR leaders MUST be strategic partners to move initiatives forward.”

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Left to Right: Stacey A. Gordon, Moderator with panelists David L. Samuels, Dr. Samantha Broitman, & Stacey Lewis  
 
Photo (c) Gary Nellis 2018</td>
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Stacey Lewis, a panelist and the Director of HR at the Port of Long Beach, led a break away conversation about how being an HR disruptor is the other side of the story.   

While being rogue is considered negative, being an HR disruptor may be necessary in organizations where HR has not played a key role in setting the stage for the organization’s future growth and development.  Being a disruptor is risky, and it takes many of the same skills as those needed when challenging rogue behavior. 

Stacey shared that to develop her influencing skills, for example, she was led to work with a leadership coach.  Her coach helped her to shift her own behavior in subtle ways so that she ultimately would be seen as credible and a key influencer within upper management rather than just a “work horse.” 

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Bringing the "Hallway Talk" into the Room
We suspect that talking about rogue executives happens in the “hallway”, and may happen more often now that top executives are being exposed in public for their bad behaviors. PIHRA #RealHR is a place where HR can share their experiences, ask questions, offer practical advice and become better decision makers together.
If you enjoyed this event, or wish you could have attended, please join us at the <a href="https://cahrconference.org/">2018 California HR Conference</a> on August 26-29, 2018 and at the next #RealHR event, which will be in Fall 2018 in the West Los Angeles area. 
 
Thank you to our #RealHR-LA Sponsors!<img alt="" src="https://www.mypihra.org/resource/resmgr/images/#realhr-la_2018/panalist3.jpg" /><img alt="" src="https://www.mypihra.org/resource/resmgr/images/#realhr-la_2018/sponsors.jpg" />
We want to give a special thank you to the panelists and to our #RealHR sponsors, AMTEC and Vivity by Anthem. We're grateful for such fantastic partners to launch our first of many #RealHR events!
 
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<td style="height: 175px; width: 125px; text-align: center;"><img alt="" src="https://www.mypihra.org/resource/resmgr/images/2018_realhr-la/attendees.jpg" style="height: 250px;" /></td>
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 <img alt="" src="https://www.mypihra.org/resource/resmgr/images/2018_realhr-la/jennifer-danielle-lynn_(1).jpg" style="height: 250px; width: 363px; text-align: center;" />
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<td style="height: 175px; width: 125px; text-align: center;"><a href="mailto:immediatepastpresident@pihra.org" tabindex="-1" style="text-align: center;"><img alt="" src="https://www.mypihra.org/resource/resmgr/images/2018_realhr-la/panelists.jpg" style="height: 250px; width: 372px;" /></a> 
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<td style="height: 175px; width: 150px; text-align: center;"><a href="mailto:immediatepastpresident@pihra.org" tabindex="-1"><img alt="" src="https://www.mypihra.org/resource/resmgr/images/2018_realhr-la/sponsors.jpg" style="height: 250px; text-align: center;" /> 
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Photo Credit: Gary Nellis 2018
 
 
 
 
 ]]></description>
<category>PIHRA News</category>
<pubDate>Wed, 25 Jul 2018 18:18:42 GMT</pubDate>
</item>
<item>
<title>Experience PIHRA for FREE - 45 Day Trial Membership</title>
<link>https://www.mypihra.org/news/406893/</link>
<guid>https://www.mypihra.org/news/406893/</guid>
<description><![CDATA[<img alt="" src="https://www.mypihra.org/resource/resmgr/images/membership/pihra-experience-webpage_ban.jpg" />
 
I know you love a great deal! Who doesn’t right? Starting Friday June 15 until July 31, PIHRA is yours to try, on us. No credit card required. No obligation. It’s an easy, commitment free way to experience all that PIHRA has to offer. 
 
<a href="https://www.pihra.org/page/register"><img alt="" src="https://www.mypihra.org/resource/resmgr/images/buttons/register_now_button.jpg" style="width: 200px;" /></a> 

 

For 45 days you’ll have the opportunity to network with other Southern California HR professionals and instantly grow your network. You’ll also have access to <a href="https://www.pihra.org/page/yournextstep">CareerArc Your Next Step</a>, an online tool that will assist you in your job discovery or career transition. Plus, you’ll also receive a free demo of <a href="https://www.pihra.org/page/premiumupgrade">PIHRA Premium</a> that includes an enterprise-wide LMS, including the California AB 1825/2053.
 
Don’t let this deal expire. Visit <a class="js-link post-link" href="https://www.linkedin.com/redir/redirect?url=pihra%2Eorg%2Fpihra45&urlhash=uWdv&_t=tracking_anet" target="_blank" style="color: #008cc9; background: transparent; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px;">pihra.org/pihra45</a> to register today. ]]></description>
<category>PIHRA News</category>
<pubDate>Thu, 28 Jun 2018 01:23:27 GMT</pubDate>
</item>
<item>
<title>#RealHR | A high level HR program fusing networking with a learner centric discussion</title>
<link>https://www.mypihra.org/news/406890/</link>
<guid>https://www.mypihra.org/news/406890/</guid>
<description><![CDATA[<h1>PIHRA announces the launch of PIHRA #RealHR!  </h1>
 <img alt="" src="https://www.mypihra.org/resource/resmgr/images/realhr/pihra_realhr_event_banner_18.jpg" style="width: 780px; height: 302px;" />
<h2>The HR community comes to PIHRA for the real deal. </h2>
#RealHR Taming the Rogue Executive is designed as an interactive discussion in an exciting and entertaining format. Hosted in collaboration with <a href="http://www.pihra.org/losangeles">PIHRA Los Angeles</a>, #RealHR Los Angeles is the spot where the human resources community can relax and talk about real life stories, ask questions and create solutions together. Register now at <a href="http://www.pihra.org/realhr-la">pihra.org/realhr-la</a>! Space is limited!
 
<a href="https://www.mypihra.org/events/EventDetails.aspx?id=1111630&group="><img alt="" src="https://www.mypihra.org/resource/resmgr/images/buttons/register_button.jpg" style="vertical-align: middle; left: 730.889px; top: 362.889px; width: 200px; height: 100px;" /></a> 

“I’m excited to hear more on this topic,” says a PIHRA member who registered for the event. “I have to deal with a lot of managers who want to do their own thing.” We all know that HR professionals don’t usually win popularity contests in the workplace (<a href="https://hbr.org/2015/07/why-we-love-to-hate-hr-and-what-hr-can-do-about-it">Why We Love to Hate HR…and What HR Can Do About It</a><a href="https://hbr.org/2015/07/why-we-love-to-hate-hr-and-what-hr-can-do-about-it">, HBR, July-August 2015</a>). Nonetheless, HR professionals must continue to assist organizations in complying with labor law and remaining competitive from a corporate culture and human capital perspective. This program will provide attendees a venue to share experiences and practical ideas to be better leaders, persuaders and decision-makers.
Let’s not forget the social factor. #RealHR Los Angeles will be a great opportunity to meet over 75 of Los Angeles’ most influential HR professionals. We’ll be at <a href="http://www.elevatelounge.com/index/home">Elevate Lounge</a>, a penthouse venue in the heart of the Downtown’s business district. It’s one of the sleekest and most modern ultra-lounges in Los Angeles. DJ to the Stars, DJ Dave, will kick off the event with some smooth jazz and R&B, and a selection of appetizers will be served. Plus, your registration includes a drink of your choice. We know you know, but a friendly reminder never hurts - please drink responsibly.
 

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<td style="text-align: center; vertical-align: middle;"><img alt="" src="https://www.mypihra.org/resource/resmgr/images/realhr/elevate_appetizers.jpg" style="font-size: 14px; left: 965px; top: 438px; width: 350px; height: 200px; vertical-align: middle;" /> </td>
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<h2>Details?  </h2>
Date: Wednesday, July 18, 2018 (Save the date!)
Time: 6:00 - 8:30pm
Location: Elevate Lounge, 811 Wilshire Blvd, 21st Floor, DTLA 

Parking: Consider ubering or catching the metro over. Valet parking is $10 and available on Lebanon Street, accessible via Wilshire Boulevard between Flower Street and Figueroa Street. Drive carefully.
Recertification Credit: YES!
Please visit <a href="http://www.pihra.org/realhr-la">pihra.org/realhr-la</a> for additional details or call PIHRA at (310) 416-1210 ext. 810. We'd love to hear from you. 
  
<div>
<h2>Meet the Panel</h2>
This group of HR professionals will kick off the Taming the Rogue Executive discussion through a lightening round of moderated questions. The audience will then have a chance to share their experiences, comments and questions so we can all be better influencers. </div>
 
 

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<td style="height: 175px; width: 125px; text-align: center;"><img alt="" src="https://www.mypihra.org/resource/resmgr/images/speaker_headshots_2/stacey_lewis.jpg" style="height: 216px; width: 197px; text-align: center;" /></td>
<td style="height: 175px; width: 150px; text-align: left;">Stacey Lewis is the Director of Human Resources for the Port of Long Beach, the second-busiest seaport in the United States, with approximately 550 employees and generates annual operating revenues in excess of $300 million.  
 
Ms. Lewis has over 30 years of professional human resources experience, both in the private and public sectors. A dynamic and well-sought after “transformational” speaker, Ms. Lewis received her Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from the University of the Pacific. She also holds a Human Resources Management Certification from Loyola Marymount University, a Senior Professional Human Resources Certification (SPHR) from HRCI, Senior Certified Professional from (SHRM-SCP) and a senior professional Human Resources Certification (IPMA-SCP) from IPMA-HR. She is currently serving as a Commissioner on the Long Beach Unified School District Personnel Commission, as well as holding several leadership positions on a number of local boards.<a href="mailto:president@pihra.org" tabindex="-1">
</a></td>
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<td style="height: 175px; width: 125px; text-align: center;"><img alt="" src="https://www.mypihra.org/resource/resmgr/images/speaker_headshots_2/david_llewelyn_samuels.jpg" style="height: 234.333px; width: 197px;" /> 
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<td style="height: 175px; width: 150px; text-align: left;">
 
David Llewelyn Samuels brings over 25 years of professional experience in senior leadership, strategy development, organizational development to his executive coaching and leadership development business. Over 20 of those years, he led several change management initiatives, sponsored corporate-wide mentorship programs, on-boarding and development programs, and employee engagement and retention programs in his role as a business leader. He is consistently sought out as an internal expert on best practices in leadership, organizational development, and employee engagement. In his last leadership position at the largest Utility company in California, his expertise in the areas of leadership and culture allowed him to craft his own position.

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<td style="height: 175px; width: 125px; text-align: center;"><img alt="" src="https://www.mypihra.org/resource/resmgr/images/speaker_headshots_2/samantha_broitman.jpg" style="height: 224px; width: 188px;" /> 
</td>
<td style="height: 175px; width: 150px; text-align: left;">Dr. Samantha Broitman is on the faculty of the USC Masters in Applied Psychology Program and an organizational development consultant. Prior to teaching, Dr. Broitman served in organizational development and human resources roles at Warner Bros. Entertainment, Jet Propulsion Laboratory and consulted for several boutique consulting firms, as well as PricewaterhouseCoopers.<a href="mailto:immediatepastpresident@pihra.org" tabindex="-1">
</a></td>
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<td style="height: 175px; width: 125px; text-align: center;"><img alt="" src="https://www.mypihra.org/resource/resmgr/images/staff_headshots/sgordon_006_(002).jpg" style="width: 210px;" /> 
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<td style="height: 175px; width: 150px; text-align: left;">
 
 
Stacey A. Gordon is a sought after keynote speaker and diversity & inclusion strategist. She has worked with clients such as Disney, KPMG, LinkedIn, Human Capital Institute, USC, Pepperdine University and has been invited to write career and diversity related articles for Forbes, Essence and Monster.com. She is the author of a book titled The Successful Interview: 99 Questions to Ask and Answer (and Some You Shouldn't, and authored and developed four LinkedIn e-learning courses titled Recruiting for Diversity, Awareness of Unconscious Bias, Making a Career Change and Writing a Resume, which collectively have earned nearly one million views.
Stacey earned her MBA from Pepperdine University, Graziadio School of Business & Management. She is an Adjunct Professor at Phillips Graduate University, and develops and manages professional development programs for Professionals In Human Resources Association, the largest SHRM affiliate in the country.
We are delighted to have Stacey moderate the panel.
 
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<h2>Special thanks to #RealHR Los Angeles Sponsors</h2>
 
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<img alt="" src="https://www.mypihra.org/resource/resmgr/images/realhr/amtec_(002).png" style="width: 272px; vertical-align: middle;" />
<h1 style="text-align: center;">Hosting Apple Watch Drawing </h1>
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<h1 style="text-align: center;"> An Exceptional Health Care Experience </h1>
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<td style="text-align: center;"> <img alt="" src="https://www.mypihra.org/resource/resmgr/images/realhr/burnham_benefits.jpg" style="width: 163px; vertical-align: middle; left: 310.538px;" /><img alt="" src="https://www.informz.net/YM-PHRA/data/images/Sponsor%20Logos/Elevate.png" style="text-align: center; width: 163px; vertical-align: middle; height: 84px;" /> 
 
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</div>]]></description>
<category>PIHRA News</category>
<pubDate>Thu, 28 Jun 2018 00:45:06 GMT</pubDate>
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<item>
<title>The 2018 MEGA|Social: An Elevated Networking Event.</title>
<link>https://www.mypihra.org/news/387226/</link>
<guid>https://www.mypihra.org/news/387226/</guid>
<description><![CDATA[<img alt="" src="https://www.mypihra.org/resource/resmgr/images/2018_Mega_Social/haworth_3_FullSize_Blog_Head.png" /> 

 
When was the last time you really enjoyed the benefits of living, working, and networking in SoCal? 
We’ve put together a special night for you to fall (back) in love with L.A. – and even with HR. Seats for the PIHRA 2018 MEGA|Social are limited so <a href="http://bit.ly/2C2u4GC">reserve your spot today</a>.
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<img src="https://pihra.site-ym.com/resource/resmgr/images/2018_Mega_Social/haworth_front_desk_fullsize.jpg" alt="The Haworth Showroom Front Desk" title="The Haworth Showroom Front Desk" style="font-size: medium; width: 100%;" />
The Haworth Showroom Reception Desk
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Join 100+ local HR professionals at the <a href="http://bit.ly/2C2u4GC">PIHRA 2018 MEGA|Social</a> to experience the cool, sleek styles of Haworth Los Angeles Showroom with 360° views of Los Angeles. The view from the 48th floor may inspire you to ask for that promotion or, dare we say, start that consulting business you've been dreaming of.
 
You’ll also be in excellent company - plenty of motivated, connected pros will be there, eager to chat about what’s happening in HR and what’s working in their careers. 
 
"The view from the 48th floor may inspire you to ask for that promotion or, dare we say, start that consulting business you've been dreaming of." 

<div> </div>
As for the space, the workplace decor is a brilliant combination of classic and contemporary aesthetics built upon an approach to space design that promotes “well-being,” with the goal of achieving “the enduring state that encompasses wellness of mind and body, and can lead to productive, engaged, and healthy employees.”
 
Sounds a lot like the heart of HR, doesn’t it? 

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<img src="https://pihra.site-ym.com/resource/resmgr/images/2018_Mega_Social/haworth_bar_FullSize.jpg" alt="The Haworth Showroom Refreshment Bar" title="The Haworth Showroom Refreshment Bar" style="font-size: medium; width: 100%;" />
The Haworth Showroom Refreshment Bar 
 

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The Haworth Showroom Meeting Space
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Speaking of impressive, the evening’s interactive, moderated panel discussion is comprised of six successful employee-benefit companies. The founders of Helpr, PearIt, The Headshot Truck and EthicsSuite will share the arc of moving their innovative employee-benefit companies from concept to funding to launch to ultimate success, and the challenges overcome along the way.
 

The beverages will be flowing, the hor d’oeuvres plentiful, and the conversations meaningful, so come hungry to learn, relax, and have a light-hearted evening in a glamorous business-chic setting. 
 
 
Learn more about the panelists and their companies below and <a href="http://bit.ly/2C2u4GC">register today</a> to reserve your spot at the <a href="http://bit.ly/2C2u4GC">PIHRA 2018 MEGA|Social</a>. 
 
<h4 style="text-align: center;">Meet the MegaSocial Panelists:
Innovators in Employee-Engagement Benefits</h4>

<img alt="" src="https://www.mypihra.org/resource/resmgr/images/2018_Mega_Social/Becka_Klauber_Richter_and_Ka.jpg" style="width: 200px; height: 151px;" />
Becka Klauber Richter & Kasey Edwards, founder of Helpr | Convenient, Compassionate, Quality Childcare App. 
Learn from Helpr CEO Kasey Edwards and President Becka Klauber Ricther, who founded Helpr, a convenient app for quality childcare, in January 2016 with 1 million investment from Angel Investors and a micro VC firm.  Helpr currently serves Greater LA, OC, Santa Barbara, Ventura and the San Francisco Bay Area, and just launched in Seattle, Chicago & New York City. 
 
<img alt="" src="https://www.mypihra.org/resource/resmgr/images/2018_Mega_Social/Harrison-Chen-&-RJ-Tolson.png" />
Harrison B. Chen, co-founder & Director of Business Development and RJ Tolson, co-founder & Chief Marketing Officer, of PearIt | Smart Matchmaking for Students, Internships, & Companies. 
Using mainly magic and a little bit of science, PearIt is able to match companies with talent, and students with careers based on their personality. Learn from Harrison B. Chen, co-founder & Director of Business Development for PearIt, and RJ Tolson, co-founder & Chief Marketing Officer. They are now helping students have exactly what Chen wishes he had: “A career path based on compatibility and personality, starting with internships.”  
 
<img alt="" src="https://www.mypihra.org/resource/resmgr/images/2018_Mega_Social/Brian_Confer.jpg" style="width: 200px; height: 215px;" />
Brian Confer, Founder and Director of Strategy & Marketing for The Headshot Truck | Portable, Professional & Personal Headshot Studio. 
We all know a picture is worth 1,000 words, and that holds true in the professional world – our headshot can say 1,000 words about us, too! But who has the time to get a new, quality, professional headshot taken? Instead of taking you out of the office, the Headshot Truck takes the studio right to you. The Headshot Truck is the first mobile photography studio in the country with trucks in Los Angeles, New York, and Atlanta. They specialize in personal and company branding headshots for professionals. Brian Confer, Founder and Director of Strategy & Marketing joined The Headshot Truck in January of 2015 and has been a part of launching two cities, acquiring financing, and developing our scalable business model. He has helped the company reach over $1M in sales to date with 2018 set to be a huge year!
  
<img alt="" src="https://www.mypihra.org/resource/resmgr/images/2018_Mega_Social/Juliette_Gust.jpg" />
Juliette Gust is Founder & President of EthicsSuite | Innovation in the New Age of Accountability. 
Juliette Gust is Founder & President of EthicsSuite, LLC. Juliette has personally led over 1,300 investigations spanning 75 countries, and advised on close to 10,000 whistleblower reports. Juliette is a former PwC Regulatory, Forensics and Hospitality & Leisure Advisory Services manager, and later developed and served as the Director of the Global Fraud & Investigations team and Project Manager of the Anti-Corruption Compliance Program for Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, a Fortune 500 company with 180,000 employees in more than 100 countries.

<div> </div>]]></description>
<category>PIHRA News</category>
<pubDate>Fri, 16 Feb 2018 17:02:22 GMT</pubDate>
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<title>Examining Marijuana Legislation with PIHRA 2018 Legal Updates Speaker William Betley, Esq.</title>
<link>https://www.mypihra.org/news/383616/</link>
<guid>https://www.mypihra.org/news/383616/</guid>
<description><![CDATA[<a href="http://www.pihra.org/BlankCustom.asp?page=legalupdates&utm_source=blog&utm_medium=links&utm_campaign=lu18_speakerflash_williambetley&utm_term=180122&utm_content=marijuana"><img alt="" src="http://www.pihra.org/resource/resmgr/images/legalupdate/PIHRA18_Marijuana_BlogHeader.jpg" width="100%" /></a>
 
<h1>One Toke Over the Line: The Growing Specter of Marijuana in the Workplace
</h1>
<h2>Examining Marijuana Legislation with <a href="http://www.pihra.org/BlankCustom.asp?page=legalupdates&utm_source=blog&utm_medium=links&utm_campaign=lu18_speakerflash_williambetley&utm_term=180122&utm_content=marijuana">PIHRA 2018 Legal Updates</a> Speaker William Betley, Esq.
</h2>
Now that Proposition 64 is enacted, California workplaces are dealing with a slew of unexpected scenarios and navigating the emerging, legally hazy territory of marijuana use by employees.
 


What’s actually legal? What’s not? How can you prepare yourself and your organization’s policy for this new age? 
 
At the <a href="http://www.pihra.org/BlankCustom.asp?page=legalupdates&utm_source=blog&utm_medium=links&utm_campaign=lu18_speakerflash_williambetley&utm_term=180122&utm_content=marijuana">PIHRA 2018 Legal Updates</a> William Betley, Esq. from AALRR will guide us through the common misunderstandings, classification of recreational marijuana, medical marijuana, Proposition 64, and other changes in the law. Learn what employers can and can’t do under this new legislation. Join William Betley’s session to explore the resulting complex scenarios, how they affect your organization’s bottom line, and the context you need to know about the growing specter in California's laws concerning marijuana.

 

<h2>Meet the Speakers: 
</h2>
William Betley, Partner at Atkinson, Andelson, Loya, Ruud & Romo 
 
William Betley practices in all areas of employment law, including unlawful harassment, discrimination, and wage and hour. He also counsels and represents architects, engineers and subcontractors in all phases of construction planning, development, negotiation and litigation.
 


The <a href="http://www.pihra.org/BlankCustom.asp?page=legalupdates&utm_source=blog&utm_medium=links&utm_campaign=lu18_speakerflash_williambetley&utm_term=180122&utm_content=marijuana">PIHRA 2018 Legal Update</a> seminars will help experts in their field inform HR professionals and business owners about the latest California Employment Law related updates.
<h4>
Form a new framework in before the new cannabis friendly economy arrives that can affect your employees at the PIHRA 2018 Legal Updates and Register at: <a href="http://www.pihra.org/BlankCustom.asp?page=legalupdates&utm_source=blog&utm_medium=links&utm_campaign=lu18_speakerflash_williambetley&utm_term=180122&utm_content=marijuana">http://www.pihra.org/legalupdates</a> 

 
</h4>

 

 ]]></description>
<category>PIHRA News</category>
<pubDate>Wed, 24 Jan 2018 18:45:06 GMT</pubDate>
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<item>
<title>Cal Lutheran Has a New PIHRA Student Chapter</title>
<link>https://www.mypihra.org/news/381958/</link>
<guid>https://www.mypihra.org/news/381958/</guid>
<description><![CDATA[<img alt="" src="https://www.mypihra.org/resource/resmgr/images/PIHRA_News/PIHRA_CAL_LUTHERAN_UNIVERSIT.png" style="width: 500px; height: 50px;" />
After nearly a year of planning and organization, the newest student chapter of the PIHRA family is up and running at <a href="https://pihra.site-ym.com/members/group_content_view.asp?group=174955&id=705294">California Lutheran University!</a>
Cal Lutheran is a private, liberals arts university located in Thousand Oaks, CA. The new chapter was initiated by Vlad Vaiman, PhD, Associate Dean, Professor of International Management. The majority of members are graduate students, and many of the members also attend PIHRA Ventura County meetings despite the official PIHRA Woodland Hills sponsorship. 
Founding Director Maria Godinez said this about the new chapter:
We are exited as students and alumni, to contribute and collaborate with professionals in the community. We believe that the relationships we build will make us all stronger, and continue to inspire us to be the best we can be. No matter the professional level we are currently at, we all have something we can offer and learn from each other. PIHRA Cal Lutheran gives us the opportunities to connect, learn, and ultimately optimize our profession. 
Loredana Carson, the chapter's Faculty Sponsor, said, "The students worked hard to get the group off the ground and have already exhibited excellent leadership capability by seeing the project through to the goal of being featured on the PIHRA website.  We look forward to having an active chapter and to our involvement with the PIHRA community at large."
If you'd like to meet the group, they have an event coming up. Here are the details: 

Date: February 1st , 2018 
Time: 6:00pm - 8:00pm 
Location: Ullman 101 (Thousand Oaks Campus) 
Located across from Starbucks 
Address: 60 West Olsen Road, Thousand Oaks, CA 91360
There will be pizza so go say hello! We hope you'll join us in offering a warm welcome to this new PIHRA Chapter. 
If you'd like to get involved, check out our other PIHRA Student Chapters:
<a href="https://pihra.site-ym.com/members/group_content_view.asp?group=174955&id=600389">Cal Poly Pomona</a> 
<a href="https://pihra.site-ym.com/members/group_content_view.asp?group=174955&id=600390">California State University, Los Angeles</a> 
<a href="https://pihra.site-ym.com/members/group_content_view.asp?group=174955&id=600391">California State University, Dominguez Hills</a> 
<a href="http://www.pihra.org/members/group_content_view.asp?group=174955&id=629784">California State University, Fullerton</a> 
<a href="https://pihra.site-ym.com/members/group_content_view.asp?group=174955&id=600392">California State University, Long Beach</a> 
<a href="https://pihra.site-ym.com/members/group_content_view.asp?group=174955&id=600396">Loyola Marymount University</a>]]></description>
<category>PIHRA News</category>
<pubDate>Fri, 12 Jan 2018 17:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
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<title>Welcome Your 2018 PIHRA Chapter Chairs</title>
<link>https://www.mypihra.org/news/381916/</link>
<guid>https://www.mypihra.org/news/381916/</guid>
<description><![CDATA[Do you know who your local <a href="http://www.pihra.org/page/board">PIHRA chapter chair</a> is? This is a great time to get to know the dedicated volunteers that head up your local chapter. Below is a list of all the returning chapter chairs along with those who are new in 2018. We are excited to welcome each one to such a vital role in our organization for the new year. Please join us in saying hello to your incoming members for 2018!
<img alt="" src="http://pihra.site-ym.com/resource/resmgr/images/volunteer_headshots/KRalph.png" style="width: 100px; height: 154px;" />
New Chapter Chair - Kevin Ralph, SPHR, SHRM_SCP, Director HR & Risk Management, <a href="http://www.pihra.org/group/burbank_glendale">Burbank/Glendale</a>
<img alt="" src="http://pihra.site-ym.com/resource/resmgr/images/volunteer_headshots/RBoldt.jpg" style="width: 100px; height: 100px;" />
New Chapter Chair - Rob Boldt, MBA, Executive Vide President, Employee Benefits, <a href="http://www.pihra.org/group/gateway_cities">Gateway Cities</a>
<img alt="" src="http://pihra.site-ym.com/resource/resmgr/images/volunteer_headshots/Michael_Johnson.jpg" style="width: 100px; height: 100px;" />
New Chapter Chair - Michael Johnson, Senior Managing Partner, <a href="http://www.pihra.org/group/pasadena">Pasadena</a>
<img alt="" src="http://pihra.site-ym.com/resource/resmgr/images/volunteer_headshots/SRipley.png" style="width: 100px; height: 154px;" />
New Chapter Chair - Scott Ripley, Benefits Advisor, <a href="http://www.pihra.org/group/south_orange_co">South Orange County</a>
<img alt="" src="http://pihra.site-ym.com/resource/resmgr/images/volunteer_headshots/MValdivieso.png" style="width: 100px; height: 154px;" />
New Chapter Chair - Mary Valdivieso, SHRM-CP, Senior Marketing Director, <a href="http://www.pihra.org/group/ventura_county">Ventura County</a>
<img alt="" src="http://pihra.site-ym.com/resource/resmgr/images/volunteer_headshots/AnneHolden.png" style="width: 100px; height: 150px;" />
Annie Holden, Office Manager, <a href="http://www.pihra.org/group/antelope_valley">Antelope Valley Chair</a>
<img alt="" src="http://pihra.site-ym.com/resource/resmgr/images/volunteer_headshots/coachella_valley/LoriParis.png" />
Lori Paris, PHR, SHRM-CP, Regional HR Manager, <a href="http://www.pihra.org/group/coachella_valley">Coachella Valley Chair</a>
<img alt="" src="http://pihra.site-ym.com/resource/resmgr/images/volunteer_headshots/mtrevizo.jpg" style="width: 100px; height: 151px;" />
Maru Trevizo, PHR, SHRM-SCP, Senior Director Human Resources, <a href="http://www.pihra.org/group/inland_valley">Inland Valley Chair</a>
<img alt="" src="http://pihra.site-ym.com/resource/resmgr/images/volunteer_headshots/SherylBender_LB.jpg" style="width: 100px; height: 100px;" />
Sheryl Bender, PHR, SHRM-CP, Senior HR Business Partner, <a href="http://www.pihra.org/group/long_beach">Long Beach Chair</a>
<img alt="" src="http://pihra.site-ym.com/resource/resmgr/images/board_of_directors/nathanackeret.jpg" style="width: 100px; height: 100px;" />
Nathan Ackeret, Vice President/Managing Director, <a href="http://www.pihra.org/group/los_angeles">Los Angeles Chair</a>
<img alt="" src="http://pihra.site-ym.com/resource/resmgr/images/volunteer_headshots/Ailene_Dewar_2017_cropped.jpg" style="width: 100px; height: 125px;" />
Ailene Dewar, Business Performance Advisor, <a href="http://www.pihra.org/group/north_orange_co">North Orange County Chair</a>
<img alt="" src="http://pihra.site-ym.com/resource/resmgr/images/volunteer_headshots/riverside/Barbara_Hileman.jpg" style="width: 100px; height: 150px;" />
Barbara Hileman, Human Resource Director, <a href="http://www.pihra.org/group/riverside">Riverside Chair</a>
<img alt="" src="http://pihra.site-ym.com/resource/resmgr/images/board_of_directors/smalmquist.jpg" style="width: 100px; height: 150px;" />
Sandi Malmquist, SPHR, SHR-SCP, Director of HR, <a href="http://www.pihra.org/group/santa_clarita">Santa Clarita Chair</a>
<img alt="" src="http://pihra.site-ym.com/resource/resmgr/images/board_of_directors/mpropster.jpg" style="width: 100px; height: 100px;" />
Mery Propster, SPHR, SHR-SCP, Principal, <a href="http://www.pihra.org/group/south_bay">South Bay Chair</a>
<img alt="" src="http://pihra.site-ym.com/resource/resmgr/images/volunteer_headshots/PVillamil.png" style="width: 100px; height: 154px;" />
Paul Villamil, Assistant Branch/Executive Account Manager, <a href="http://www.pihra.org/group/sw_riverside">SW Riverside Chair</a>
<img alt="" src="http://pihra.site-ym.com/resource/resmgr/images/board_of_directors/btrujillo.jpg" style="width: 100px; height: 150px;" />
Brenda Trujillo, PHR, SHRM CP, CSC, <a href="http://www.pihra.org/group/west_la">West Los Angeles Chair</a>
<img alt="" src="http://pihra.site-ym.com/resource/resmgr/images/board_of_directors/kboublis.jpg" style="width: 100px; height: 100px;" />
Karen Boublis, SPHR, SHRM-SCP, Founder & Principal Consultant, <a href="http://www.pihra.org/group/woodland_hills">Woodland Hills Chair</a>]]></description>
<category>PIHRA News</category>
<pubDate>Thu, 11 Jan 2018 19:46:35 GMT</pubDate>
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<title>PIHRA Remembers the Late Wanda Lee</title>
<link>https://www.mypihra.org/news/381002/</link>
<guid>https://www.mypihra.org/news/381002/</guid>
<description><![CDATA[<img alt="" src="http://www.pihra.org/resource/resmgr/images/PIHRA_News/Wanda_Lee.jpg" /> 

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of former PIHRA president, Wanda A. Lee on December 22nd, 2017. Wanda proudly served as the fortieth (and fifth female) president of our organization in 1986. She is remembered fondly for her strength, determination and caring personality. 
Her <a href="http://obits.ocregister.com/obituaries/orangecounty/obituary.aspx?n=wanda-lee&pid=187678955#_ga=2.29684351.1716889103.1514916395-1361508906.1514916395">obituary</a> describes an accomplished and admired life:
Wanda had an iron strong will, which she was usually successful in asserting. When she gave you "that look" you knew it was time to straighten up. Wanda graduated from her high school as valedictorian and, after raising two daughters (Dawn Ross of Santa Rosa and Penny Geiger of Wisconsin), she returned to school to earn both her Bachelor's and Master's degrees. Wanda had a successful career in human resources, retiring as Vice President of HR from Pacificare. After retiring, Wanda moved to Santa Rosa with her beloved husband of 44 years, Bill. Wanda had a strong faith, a sharp intellect and a loving heart. She always looked great, wearing lipstick to the end. Wanda will be missed by her husband Bill, their combined seven children, thirteen grandchildren and ten great grandchildren, her brother Harry Carlson (Oregon), and many friends.
Robert L. Wenzel, a former PIHRA president as well who served along side Wanda on the PIHRA Board, remembers her for her trail blazing and warm sense of humor: 
Wanda served, as you most likely know, as President of PIHRA in 1986.  Most of us remember her as one of the early “pioneers” of female leadership not only of PIHRA but SHRM as well.  Wanda, in her early years of PIHRA membership, rose through the offices quickly blazing a trail towards the Presidency – she had a mission!  At the same time her professional career took off.  Wanda attended every meeting, in the early days being chauffeured by her husband, Bill, prior to receiving her driver’s license.  Considering that Wanda was the fortieth President of PIHRA and only four females served as President of PIHRA before Wanda - Mary Lou Pyle in 1975, Bernice Hird in 1977, Sylvia Landa in 1979, and Ardith Gillis in 1982 - she was determined to guide PIHRA to new heights – and she accomplished her goal.  Then it was on to SHRM, Wanda exhibiting the same leadership and enthusiasm seeking recognition for the important contribution of Human Resources in the world community.
 
On a personal note, Wanda was fun and interesting to be around.  Many a gathering was made more enjoyable with Wanda’s humor and sense of caring.  She helped many, including me, to achieve our professional goals and we will miss her.
 
Services will be held in Santa Rosa on Saturday, January 6, 2018 at 11:00 a.m. at Bethlehem Lutheran Church. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Crossing the Jordan- <a href="http://www.crossingthejordan.org/" target="_new" rel="nofollow" style="color: #034e83; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px;">www.crossingthejordan.org</a>]]></description>
<category>PIHRA News</category>
<pubDate>Fri, 5 Jan 2018 17:18:42 GMT</pubDate>
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<item>
<title>Top Immigration Threats Impacting Employers in 2018</title>
<link>https://www.mypihra.org/news/376313/</link>
<guid>https://www.mypihra.org/news/376313/</guid>
<description><![CDATA[<h4>By Josie Gonzalez, Partner, Stone Grzegorek & Gonzalez</h4>
As an employer you may have heard about how -- without a “heads-up,” without regulatory or legislative changes, the current administration is drastically changing the landscape impacting the hiring and retention of foreign nationals in the U.S. After nearly forty years of practicing in the immigration field, representing employer and foreign nationals, I find the developments unprecedented, incredulous and genuinely heartbreaking for those whose dreams of making a life in the U.S. and contributing their talents to our economy are being dashed.
What are the adverse developments; how will they impact my company; and are there any actions I can take to retain and continue recruiting essential, valuable workers? This article will discuss the top immigration threats and will provide tips on how to address  the diverse and wide-spread issues plaguing employers.
<h4>Stricter Adjudicatory Standards for H-1B Applications</h4>
The impact of the Trump Administration’s executive order “Buy American and Hire American” (<a href="https://www.whitehouse.gov/the-press-office/2017/04/18/presidential-executive-order-buy-american-and-hire-american%20" target="_blank">https://www.whitehouse.gov/the-press-office/2017/04/18/presidential-executive-order-buy-american-and-hire-american</a>) ostensibly aimed at creating higher wages and employment rates for U.S. workers has been and will continue to be felt most acutely in the processing of H-1B petitions. These petitions are designed to help U.S. companies augment their workforce with talented and skilled  foreign nationals –many who are employed in STEM occupations (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) with master’s and PhD degrees.
Over the last several months employers who have filed these petitions have received burdensome RFEs (Request for Further Evidence) from U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) questioning whether the position is for a “special occupation,” i.e. one that requires the attainment of a bachelor’s degree or higher in a specific specialty.” 
New reports of talented foreign nationals who must return home after their H-1B application is denied are heartbreaking. Take, for example, the Stanford University MBA graduate whose employment involved artificial intelligence and big data. It’s incredulous that USCIS found unpersuasive the support letters from field authorities including a Nobel Prize winner and denied the application concluding that the job didn’t require advanced skills. <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/2017/11/23/opinion/immigration-visa-h1b-trump-.html" target="_blank">https://www.nytimes.com/2017/11/23/opinion/immigration-visa-h1b-trump-.html</a>
Based on new USCIS guidance, no deference is given to an extension application – even if it was previously approved multiple times. Lacking complete uncertainty as to whether an application will be approved, job mobility is stifled; an H-1B national will think twice before accepting a new position with a different employer. The impact is felt profoundly -- not only by the employer who is relying on the continued work authorization from a tenured employee assigned to valuable projects-- but also by the employer wishing to recruit new talent.
TIPS:
<ol>
<li>The application should educate USCIS about your industry, the complexity and importance of your product or services and its economic value to society.</li>
<li>Provide a robust detailed job description.</li>
<li>Correlate the theoretical knowledge gained from university coursework to the performance of each critical job duty.</li>
<li>Review your wage compensation and ensure that the job description and requirements reflect commensurate pay. For example, one would not expect a professional leading a team or supervising others to be paid an entry level salary.</li>
</ol>
<h4>USCIS Field Office Interviews Now Required for Employment-Based Applications</h4>
USCIS has announced that it will conduct personal interviews at the final stage prior to granting permanent residency. This is a stark departure from current policy.  Interviews were waived for employment-based applicants; USCIS made decisions based on the approval of the underlying application and the strength of the final submission. As far back as 1996, USCIS issued regulations <a href="https://www.justice.gov/sites/default/files/eoir/legacy/2002/09/09/fr25no96-6.pdf" target="_blank">https://www.justice.gov/sites/default/files/eoir/legacy/2002/09/09/fr25no96-6.pdf</a>  allowing for the elimination of final interviews. In 2005 USCIS issued a related guidance memo <a href="https://www.uscis.gov/policymanual/HTML/PolicyManual-Volume7-PartA-Chapter5.html" target="_blank">https://www.uscis.gov/policymanual/HTML/PolicyManual-Volume7-PartA-Chapter5.html</a>.  The goal was to promote more efficient adjudications for routine, non-suspect cases and to reduce backlogs.
While USCIS has indicated that the purpose of the interview is to verify the supporting documentation and information presented in the underlying applications, not to re-adjudicate the petition, early reports reveal that USCIS examiners, who have no prior experience with these applications, are re-adjudicating the bases for the underlying approvals.  Indeed, a different government agency, the Department of Labor (DOL), not USCIS, often adjudicates the predecessor application, applying a unique set of regulations, policy memos and administrative case law.
The need for a district office interview will create a burden on employees and their attorneys who may need to travel a long distance to attend an interview. For example, a San Luis Obispo or Santa Barbara resident’s pertinent USCIS field office is Chatsworth, California -- more than 175 miles from San Luis Obispo. USCIS failure to understand the bases of eligibility will produce indecision and delays, foiling efforts to reduce the prior salutary goal of “backlog reduction.”
Tips:
<ol>
<li>Be thoroughly prepared for the interview and be ready to address questions/concerns from an inexperienced examiner second-guessing eligibility.</li>
<li>Be ready to produce all records demonstrating continuous maintenance of immigration status since first arrival to the U.S.</li>
</ol>
<h4>Possible Elimination of Work Permits for Spouses of H-1Bs</h4>
Since 2015 spouses of H-1B nationals can apply for a work permit pending the final processing of an application for permanent residency – which can take 10 or more years for Indian nationals and 5 or more years for Chinese nationals. The spouse’s ability to work has been quite beneficial in enabling the spouse to find work and supplement the family income – particularly in those cities with a high cost of living.  Now, the Trump Administration is re-examining this benefit. The continued allocation of these limited work permits is uncertain.  The Administration’s position may be forthcoming in early 2018.
Tips:
<ol>
<li>Because these work permits are not available until the latter stages of permanent residency, an employer may consider whether to file an application to transition the employee to permanent residency sooner, rather than later.</li>
<li>The approval of the application may be fast-tracked with a premium fast track filing fee thereby facilitating and expediting the work permit.</li>
</ol>
<h4>Consular Processing Trends for Employment – Based Visas</h4>
Overseas American consular officers have increasingly examined visa applicants with approved employment- based petitions to ensure that the foreign nationals are eligible for the benefit. Now, adjudicatory standards not contained in the statutory framework are often raised in the interview.   For example, managerial and executive level employees and those possessing specialized skills employed at overseas multinational corporations may be asked about U.S. labor shortages and wage compensation – questions deriving their impetus from President Trump’s “Buy American Hire American” executive order.
The Trump administration has also increased administrative processing delays for individuals from Muslim majority countries under an informal “Extreme Vetting” program, wherein the applicant is required to provide additional details of their life over the past 15 years.  Additionally, administrative processing delays may also be triggered for applicants who work in sensitive scientific fields at risk for knowledge technology transfer.
Reduction in Department of State staffing combined with hiring freezes will lead to a shortage of consular officers to process visas at overseas posts, which is likely to result in increased wait times for visa appointments.
Tips:
<ol>
<li>Applicants must be prepared to clearly communicate their eligibility. Failure to do so, in the best case scenario, may lead to delays in visa issuance, but more likely a visa denial might occur with a request to USCIS for petition revocation or re-examination.</li>
<li>Although U.S. labor shortage and wage compensation are not relevant determinants, the positions filled by these global transferees are quite specialized; the skills are critical and are in demand. One should be prepared to address this level of examination.</li>
<li>Employers should plan ahead and prepare for delays in the transfer of employees to the U.S.</li>
</ol>
<h4>Halt in Temporary Work Permits for TPS and DACA</h4>
Recent announcements by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) regarding the rescission of the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program and termination of Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for certain countries will have far-reaching consequences.  The impact will be felt not only by immigrants and their families, but also by their employers and local economies. Once TPS and DACA holders’ employment authorization expires, their employers must terminate these individuals or face fines and penalties for their continued employment without work authorization. Just how many employees face losing their employment? Approximately 800,000 people received employment authorization under the DACA program, and the Center for American Progress estimates that over 90% of those young people are employed.  With the end of the DACA program, tens of thousands of individuals will lose their employment authorization, and their jobs, each month. See, <a href="https://dreamers.fwd.us/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/20170823-DACA-Job-Loss-Report.pdf" target="_blank">https://dreamers.fwd.us/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/20170823-DACA-Job-Loss-Report.pdf</a>
 
Similarly, the recent termination of TPS for Nicaraguans, and the probable termination of TPS for Honduras and Haiti in the near future, will result in the loss of employment authorization and protection from deportation for over 250,000 individuals living and legally working in the United States. Ending TPS will force employers to fire long-term and valuable employees, and estimates are that turnover costs will top $900 million. See, <a href="https://www.ilrc.org/report-tps-economic-cost" target="_blank">https://www.ilrc.org/report-tps-economic-cost</a>
 
It is uncertain whether Congress will pass long-overdue legislation that will provide a permanent solution to the hundreds of thousands of TPS and DACA holders who have been living and working lawfully in the United States for years – even decades.
Tips:
<ol>
<li>Although the current avenues for legalization are slim, employers might consider whether to offer immigration assistance for these valuable employees.</li>
<li>With the threat of a fourfold increase in I-9 inspections which are designed to determine immigration employment compliance, employers need to clearly docket the expiration date of work permits and realize that the continued employment of someone with expired work authorization can lead to substantial fines.</li>
</ol>
<h4>Increased Worksite Enforcement and Compliance Audits:  FDNS inspection audits</h4>
Following on the heels of an Office of Inspector General report entitled: USCIS Needs a Better Approach to Verify H-1B Visa Participants issued October 20, 2017, it is anticipated that USCIS will conduct more “robust” Administrative Site Visits to companies that have filed H-1B and L-1 petitions by USCIS’ Fraud Detection and National Security (FDNS) unit. Some of these site visits are compliance-based, random and unannounced; and others are “targeted visits,” now called “For Cause.”
The purpose of these visits is to determine if the foreign national is working at the job site indicated in the petition; if the salary stated in the application is being paid; and if the job duties are accurately stated. The focus may even expand to whether the appropriate wage is being paid considering the job duties.
The Inspector General’s report as well as Executive Order 13768, Enhancing Public Safety in the Interior of the United States, signed January 25, 2017, confirms plans to increase targeted site visits which may focus on employers with a very high ratio of H-1B workers compared to U.S. workers and on staffing or consulting companies that place workers at other companies in order to supplement that company’s workforce or to provide consulting services.
Tips:
<ol>
<li>In order to prepare for an FDNS site visit, ensure that the H-1B has accurate information and file amendments for any material changes, such as relocation to a job site outside the geographic area or significant changes to the job duties. Relocations outside the geographic employment site may trigger salary increases and promotions to a managerial or senior level classification may also trigger a salary differential.</li>
<li>Second, establish SOPs to address site visits that include the proper protocol for responding to the field auditor.</li>
</ol>
<h4>Threats to Eliminate North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) Work Permits for Canadians and Mexicans</h4>
There has been much discussion about the renegotiation of the NAFTA agreement; however there has been little mention of the work permits that flow from the treaty – that is, until Senator Grassley sent a letter to the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative on October 23, 2017, expressing concern that the TN classification “permits Mexican and Canadian citizens to take high-paying professional jobs.”
Senator Grassley urged the re-examination of the TN work permit stating: “… I believe that it would be a mistake to essentially renew the TN temporary worker visa category, without considering the broader implications for the current U.S. economy. Given President Trump’s willingness to reevaluate –or reject—any and all of the NAFTA agreement, and in the interest of protecting American workers, I recommend that you specifically include temporary workers in the ongoing NAFTA review.”
Sen. Grassley’s concerns can be summarized as follows:  1) Unlike H-1Bs, TNs can be issued without regarding to the payment of “prevailing wages” for the position; 2) There is no limit to the length of employment for the TN employee; 3) With the increased scrutiny of H-1B applications, more employers will revert to the TN classification to secure work permits.
With the heightened attention on the TN work permits, there are reports of increased rejections of applications by CBP at Canadian ports of entry. What can employers do about the threatened loss of this valuable workforce?
Tips:
<ol>
<li>Consider taking steps to move to another non-immigrant category such as H-1B or filing a permanent residency application.</li>
<li>Ensure diligent and thorough preparation of the TN applications which, up to now, have been viewed by many as easy to prepare.</li>
</ol>
BIO: Josie Gonzalez is a partner of Stone Grzegorek & Gonzalez LLP (SGG), in Los Angeles, CA. She is recognized nationally as an expert in employment-based immigration, I-9 compliance and worksite enforcement. She has served in AILA committee leadership positions in the areas of worksite enforcement and labor certification (PERM), and served on the AILA Board of Governors for nearly twenty years. She received her undergraduate, masters and law degree from U.C. Berkeley. She has published numerous articles for legal and business journals. Acknowledgment is given to David Strashnoy and Amy Prokop Lenhert, senior attorneys with SGG, for their assistance.
]]></description>
<category>PIHRA News</category>
<pubDate>Tue, 28 Nov 2017 22:02:56 GMT</pubDate>
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<item>
<title>Be Empowered with Confidence at the PIHRA 2018 Legal Updates!</title>
<link>https://www.mypihra.org/news/373313/</link>
<guid>https://www.mypihra.org/news/373313/</guid>
<description><![CDATA[<a href="http://www.pihra.org/page/legalupdate"><img alt="" src="https://www.mypihra.org/resource/resmgr/images/legalupdate/Legal_Updates-facebook4.jpg" style="width: 100%; vertical-align: middle;" /></a>
Have you been up-to-date on the slew of California laws that took effect in 2017? Well, now it's time to start preparing for what's to come in 2018! HR professionals who will be affected by new California legislature employment related laws will be taking advantage of The 2018 PIHRA Legal Updates Conference, an excellent opportunity for HR professionals to network while gaining a clear understanding of the latest California employment law related updates. PIHRA has been hosting Legal Updates Events for 31 years and will be in top form to provide comprehensive and actionable programming that will give you the confidence to protect your organization and manage your company’s risk.
 
<a href="http://www.pihra.org/page/legalupdate"><img alt="" src="http://www.pihra.org/resource/resmgr/images/legalupdate/NewRegulationsWeb.jpg" style="width: 50%; float: left; margin: 10px;" /></a>
Notable Changes 
Governor Jerry Brown has signed into law a number of significant employment-related bills that will impact California workplaces. Some of the more notable proposals that may be coming down the pike can ultimately change substantially. Some off the key laws taking effect on January 1, 2018 include:
- Salary history requirements 
- Immigration Enforcements 
- The Ban the Box policies 
- New Parental Leave Act 
- Retaliation parameters 
- Anti-Harassment Training requirements

Seeking confidence in the latest changes in workplace law and legislation will be easy with support from our local industry experts in 3 convenient locations (Los Angeles, Anaheim & Riverside) and 3 weekdays offered. You can choose the day that best applies to you.
 
 

Who Should Attend 
Business owners, employment law attorneys and all HR professionals in between will know what's next in workplace law and legislation by hearing directly from the top area lawyers and leaders on how these new changes will affect them. Looking to build compliant organizations? Need to insulate yourself from costly workplace disputes? Get tools, tips and resources that help minimize your organization’s exposure to litigation while you build a network of peers and resources. 
 
Here is just some of the benefits attendees can look forward to:
<ul>
<li>14 Sessions/14 Labor & Employment Attorneys.</li>
<li>Opportunity to network with over 20 exhibitors and 1,200 other HR industry executives in a fun, lively and educational environment.</li>
<li>6 recertification credits available</li>
<li>3 locations/ 3 weekdays: Riverside, Los Angeles, and Anaheim locations with 3 weekday options to choose the day best suited to you.</li>
<li>Bound PIHRA 2018 Legal Updates Handbook provided to all attendees giving them a reference guide for the year ahead.</li>
<li>Money Back Guarantee – We are so confident of the benefits you will take home that we are offering a 100% satisfaction guarantee.</li>
</ul>
Gain a streamlined guide with fellow HR Professionals in the latest California employment law related updates. The PIHRA 2018 Legal Updates Conference is an excellent opportunity to understand the new laws and prioritize accurate record keeping. See you at #PIHRA #LegalUps2018!
Register now to save up to $25 off the onsite pricing here: <a href="http://www.pihra.org/page/legalupdate" target="_blank">pihra.org/legalupdate</a> 
 
]]></description>
<category>PIHRA News</category>
<pubDate>Mon, 6 Nov 2017 22:37:37 GMT</pubDate>
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<item>
<title>A Convenient and Better Approach with David Yudis</title>
<link>https://www.mypihra.org/news/370875/</link>
<guid>https://www.mypihra.org/news/370875/</guid>
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The reliance on technology to innovate in business is becoming a pivotal factor in anticipating the needs of organizations. As companies around the world pivot their strategies to stay competitive, those that don't integrate new available technologies may lose opportunities to expand and keep up with customer expectations. That's why many organizations are seeking creative business solutions that maximize human performance with extensive consulting to all levels of the organization, from senior management to emerging leaders.
 
David Yudis is a driven, talent management leader with 15 years global experience providing creative business solutions that maximize human performance. He'll be joining the HR Talent and Technology Symposium (#HRTT17) on October 25, 2017, in Irvine, CA. David Yudis is a polished executive who seamlessly integrates his advanced education in psychology (Psy.D.), business (MBA) and learning (MS Ed.) with experience in leading enterprise wide, cross-functional initiatives to mine the competitive advantages within the business. Which is why he will address the primary goals of #HRTT17 - to help HR professionals be at the forefront of technology, and use it to anticipate the needs of their organization.
 
The Organizational Leadership Advantage with David Yudis 
 
David Yudis held positions of increasing responsibilities across several operating segments of The Walt Disney Company. These positions included a range of specialties and subject matter expertise in Global Learning, Organization and Executive Development. Most recently, Dr. Yudis led development for the organization’s Top 200 leaders as vice president, Enterprise Executive Development. He has worked with senior executives and teams from around the world and focused on the growth of businesses via innovation, global immersion and the use of technology in platforms that spanned consumer products, studio entertainment and corporate headquarters.
 
Prior to his work with Disney, he held positions in management consulting and executive search. Dr. Yudis’ consulting services have provided links between employee engagement and business performance. He is also a licensed psychologist and holds a Doctorate in Clinical Psychology and MBA from Widener University, and a Master of Science in Education and undergraduate Psychology degree from the University of Pennsylvania. 
 
Register here for #HRTT17 to start or improve your talent development initiatives and network with other employers ready to anticipate the needs of their organization with talent and technology. <a href="http://pihra.site-ym.com/events/EventDetails.aspx?id=1008904&group=" target="_blank">http://pihra.site-ym.com/events/EventDetails.aspx?id=1008904&group=</a> 
 

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<category>PIHRA News</category>
<pubDate>Thu, 19 Oct 2017 20:53:27 GMT</pubDate>
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