What’s the answer for you?

being used more often in discussions I have with fellow HR professionals. The good news is that the world is making it easier than ever to be uncomfortable whether through words, actions, or feelings.

One of my colleagues is fond of saying there is a “new normal” but I counter that definitions of normal has always been new and dependent on one’s point of view and “normal” will always evolve into something “new” and that change is truly the one constant.

The problem with that continuous change is the lack of being comfortable for many people about the pace and type of change. One need only look to the recent election to get confirmation of that. In our work places we are subject to the same elements. There are many who do not want nor are willing to change and that any change to the normal they experience is automatically bad. What is happening to adaptability and the desire to grow, learn, and improve?

In my own work, we are in the midst of numerous changes. As we continue toward our expected end point, I find myself managing not the process of the change but much of the emotion and fear around such change. Whether it is a new HR/Payroll system, the new mandated educator evaluation system, or an emphasis on service, the actual process of the change is much less difficult than the emotional reaction we are seeing. This suggests strongly that we still have work to do to get people willing to be comfortable being uncomfortable. Is change hard? Yes. Is it necessary? Yes.

As we start Thanksgiving week and stare into the abyss that is the end of the year, it’s a great to reflect on changes that occurred since this time last year. No matter how difficult they may have been, you made it through (or you wouldn’t be reading this!) and odds are that the change hasn’t been either as hard or as bad as you thought it would be. Who knows, perhaps it’s even made a positive impact you did not anticipate.

Just as Orange is the New Black (in some unfortunate ways too) uncomfortable is the new comfortable. If you don’t like it, I’m sorry but you need to get used to it!

Just a few of the people who make for a memorable SHRM VLS – 7 people from 7 states!

The title of this post sums up what makes something memorable or not.

Yes, it’s the people!

For the 5^th, 6^th or maybe 7^th time (sorry I’ve lost count) I was fortunate enough to attend the SHRM Volunteer Leader Summit in Washington DC last week.  I say fortunatebecause as conferences with HR people go, this one is one of my favorites.

Why is it a favorite? Yes, it’s the people!

This conference has become, for me, much more than an opportunity to gain some new ideas and get the latest from SHRM on initiatives and programs being pursued or incentivized over the next year. This conference becomes, more than most others, a reunion among like-minded colleagues friends.

From the time I arrived at the hotel Thursday afternoon until my last moments in Washington, I had the chance to catch-up with the people who share a passion for helping others improve their HR practices and want to see good things happen for their chapters, councils, and companies. While there is a healthy debate in some HR circles about the value provided by organizations like SHRM, there should be little doubt that the people who dedicate the extra hour each week to building something meaningful and sustainable are worthy of knowing and supporting.

It’s the people who contribute to memories, fun conversations, and an exchange of ideas that many HR people are either unwilling or unable to participate in. It does mean going above and beyond.  Yes, there are those who fall into the classic “do no harm” mentality that is pervasive in my field. However, spending time with positive and professional people can have anaffecton us and it is up to each and every one of us to penetrate bad practices and ensure that good comes from the work we do day in and day out.

There are many levels of thanks to go around after this summit. SHRM staff was excellent in their session preparation. There were numerous fellow volunteer leaders (many of whom I am lucky to call friends) who shared their experiences and expertise. Finally, I would be remiss if I did not thank my Indiana SHRM colleagues for allowing me the chance to continue to serve, even though I live in Michigan now!

Why do I stay involved (even when it requires a 4-hour drive to Indianapolis)? You already know the answer, it’s the people!

In my short tenure in my new position, it has become clear that my presence outside the administrative office is a new fangled concept to many.  I’ve heard phrases like:

“HR has never been here before.”

“Why are you here? Is something wrong?”

“I hope you’re not here because someone is in trouble.”

“Wait, you’re the new HR Director and you came to see me?!?”

While this seems novel and funny (and yes it is!) it is more a testament to a fundamental disconnect so many in HR have from the daily realities that occur in the organization that we are hired to support.  The only way HR can be relevant to an organization is to understand what being relevant in the organization means and what it looks like. In addition to visits to schools I’ve gone through a morning shift with a school bus driver, prepared and served food in a school cafeteria, and set-up chairs for a PTO meeting one morning before breakfast.  Each one of these experiences has informed me and will allow me to make better decisions that will benefit the district, the employees, and ultimately, the students we serve.

Serving lunch to middle school students provides valuable insight!

One of the phrases I use when asked why I’m visiting is:

“I can’t do good work unless I know what is needed and that can’t happen by sitting in my office and waiting for things to come to me.”

It will take time, but I am confident that my presence will cease to be alarming some day! As I gain more knowledge and understanding of the operations in the schools and other student support services, this presence can expand our opportunities to ensure that our HR department provides positive and proactive support to everyone in our organization.