For those of you who do not know me, my name is Frank Cania, SPHR and I am the president of the Genesee Valley Chapter of SHRM. I’m very excited to be leading an organization that is such a vital part of the HR community in the Greater Rochester area.

Given our current economic and business climates, it is arguably one of the most challenging times in recent history to be a human resource professional. Many employers are reducing their workforce through layoffs or, at the very least, not filling open positions. Some are reducing hours as an alternative to workforce reductions. Still others are reducing and/or suspending benefits as a way to control costs. However, no matter what actions are taken by employers to combat the current economic situation, HR is involved.

It has never been more important for HR professionals to be informed, educated, and prepared for the difficult times ahead. Regardless of your role in the organization, you need to understand and support the bigger picture. You can do this by attending workshops, participating in webinars, watching podcasts, and reading HR and business-related articles to keep current on business, HR, and legal and regulatory changes happening every day. Also, commit to obtaining your PHR or SPHR certification this year, or if already certified commit to recertification, as a way to broaden and solidify you knowledge in all areas of human resources. Yes, these activities take time, but you will reap tremendous professional and personal rewards both in the short- and long-term.

GVCSHRM is committed to supporting our members and others in the HR and business communities. We will provide programming that is relevant to what HR professionals need in today’s business environment, keep you informed on the resources available through SHRM and other local organizations, and provide information and recommendations concerning certification and recertification.

But, we need your help. There are a three simple steps you can take to help us better meet your needs today and in the future.

• First, take a few minutes to complete the 2009 GVCSHRM Survey. Simply click on this link, 2009 GVCSHRM Survey, and it will take you directly to the survey.
• Second, get involved – whether you can commit to an hour to help with a program registration, a few hours to plan a program or event, or you want to serve on a committee or the board of directors, we would appreciate your help.
• Third, ask questions – if you want more information about a specific topic, like what certification is appropriate for you, how to suggest a topic for a future program, or the best way to network during a job search, send me an e-mail and I’ll be happy to point you in the right direction.

It is indeed a challenging time to be an HR professional. But remember, through challenge we grow, through growth we succeed, and through success we turn our goals and dreams into reality.

Best regards,

Frank-
frank@caniahr.com