Archive for the ‘Human Resources’ Category
We’ve Got Work to Do.
Thursday, June 27th, 2013
By Dennis Powell, e-Management
The Department of Labor does more than reporting employment statistics. Did you know that the agency provides millions of dollars to communities for employment assistance during times of emergencies such as natural disasters?
The U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) has many scratching their heads about what the department actually does. Well, maybe that’s an exaggeration. Keep in mind, DOL news coverage oftentimes centers on employment or rather unemployment numbers. The department, however, is broader than reporting employment statistics. In fact, 25 agencies including the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the Center for Faith-Based and Neighborhood Partnerships (CFBNP), and the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) make up DOL. Essentially, the department deals with everything concerning labor. DOL also supports the needs of active workers as well as retirees.
How Much Do You Know about Labor?
DOL fosters programs (and policies) that strive to improve work environments. Labor is also here to be an advocate for the rights of and benefits for American workers. In our usual form, we’ve pulled together four awesome roles that DOL plays in our lives.
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Providing Valuable Statistics on Employment and Economy. BLS is perhaps one of the best known agencies within DOL because it provides the most comprehensive research on economics, statistics, and labor. Data from BLS includes information on wages, productivity, and inflation among other areas. So, those monthly unemployment numbers reported in the news comes from data collected by BLS. The agency also provides statistics on major economic indicators including consumer price index and employment cost index. BLS data helps businesses, government organizations, and consumers get a clearer picture of our overall economy.
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Making Safety at Top Priority. There are numerous ways workers can become seriously injured or even die on the job. Congress passed the Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970 to address safety concerns for American workers. Simply put, the law requires employers to provide safe workplaces for their employees. OSHA, an agency within DOL, helps to make the workplace safe and healthful for millions of workers. The agency does all this by “setting and enforcing standards, and providing training, education and assistance.” In the most recent strategy plan from DOL, the agency commits to reducing fatalities by two percent in the workplace and five percent in the mining industry.
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Providing Assistance during Emergencies. Through the Employment and Training Administration (ETA), DOL provides grants to assist with a variety labor issues during times of crisis, natural disasters, or economic hard times. For instance, ETA recently announced it has released a half million dollars in grants for 130 Minnesota workers who were laid off after the closure of a mortgage company. As a result of the ETA grant, the dislocated workers now have access to “individual career counseling, skills assessment, skill upgrades, occupational skills training and job search assistance.” In the aftermath of Hurricane Sandy, DOL provided national emergency grants exceeding $50 million for cleanup and recovery initiatives in New York. These grants offer temporary work opportunities for persons in need. Similar grants were also awarded to other states ravaged by the unprecedented storm.
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Supporting Veterans Transitioning to Civilian Life. The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) isn’t the only government agency that seeks to protect the interests of veterans. DOL is also there for military service members. The agency partners with VA and other federal agencies to administer the Transition Assistance Program (TAP). The program supports military service members who are transitioning into civilian life. TAP provides career assistance and other employment services. Recently, DOL decided to overhaul TAP. By September 30, the program will be completely redesigned and be accessible at 188 U.S. sites and 50 international locations. Participants of TAP receive comprehensive 3-day workshops and have access to family support services, potential employments, and government employment services.
Questioning DOL
DOL provides numerous programs that are designed to promote workplace, veterans transitioning to civilian life, and employment services during crises. But, (1) what are your impressions of DOL? (2) Do you think it is doing enough when it comes to training or safety? (3) What labor/employment activities should the agency focus on?
Tags: BLS, Dennis Powell, Department of Labor, DOL, , Economy, ETA, Government, labor, Ola Sage, OSHA
Posted in Corporate, Economy, Government, Human Resources | 18 Comments »
Back to the Future III
Tuesday, September 13th, 2011
By Dennis Powell, e-Management
Relying on the past alone won’t get us to where we need to be. Choice, collaboration, and inclusion are just a few factors that will help guide us to a better future.
What I like most about the past are the good memories. Yesteryear is jam-packed with lessons learned, fun times, and a heap of nostalgia. I also love everything ‘80s including the 1985 film Back to the Future starring Michael J. Fox. As some of you may recall, the movie is about a teenager of the 1980s, who accidentally gets transported to 1955 while driving a time-machine car. Throughout the movie, Fox spends his time trying to get back to the future, because he discovers the good ole days aren’t so great—especially when you are a product of the future.
Are you stuck in a 20th Century time-warp?
Today, some people focus more on the past, than what’s to come. “Let’s get back to the good ole days” is something I hear far too often when it comes to economics, education, family, morality, and believe it or not technology. Personally, I find that way of thinking somewhat defeatist. It’s like saying things have become so challenging we need to run backward, rather than to find creative ways to move forward.
Sometimes I feel as if I am surrounded by media and people who are fixated on “how we’ve always done it before.” So I was pleasantly surprised that the hosted by the agency Chief Information Officer (CIO) Linda Cureton in San Francisco was all about doing things a little differently to prepare for our future. It’s great that NASA is forward thinking.
Top 3 Lessons-Learned about Preparing for the Future
At the conclusion of the Summit, I came away with three lessons to help all of us to move from the past and get back to the future.
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Choice leads to better collaboration: During a keynote address, Facebook CIO Tim Campos talked about the great work the social media giant is doing to drive innovation by pretty much breaking conventional rules of how things should be done. For instance, employees have the choice to use Blackberry technology or another mobile device such as the iPhone. Many organizations today require staff to use only one mobile carrier and one type of mobile device. Similarly, most work environments force staff to use only PC or only Mac. In stark contrast, Facebook has moved away from the past ways of thinking and has embraced the future by giving staff a choice. They have found giving staff a choice leads to higher satisfaction, better employee engagement, and improved collaboration. These byproducts of choice can mean more productive and innovative organizations for our future.
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It’s okay to make mistakes in the future: According to Campos, Facebook wants its technologists to “move fast and break things.” Why? Because doing things the old way only advances the status quo. Whereas breaking things is how innovation comes about. (As a kid, I was very “innovative” if you asked the elders in my family.
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Diversity and inclusion will make collaboration and work products better: In another Summit session, Brenda Manuel, associate administrator for diversity and equal opportunity with NASA, and her colleagues discussed the agency’s diversity and inclusion framework. It appears our notion of a diverse workforce has clouded our perceptions of past diversity training, which has been met with some resistance such as “multiculturalism.” In contrast, NASA and other organizations are embracing the future through the concept of inclusion. Inclusion goes beyond “race,” “disability,” or “gender.” Inclusion focuses on every asset that each employee brings to an organization. According to Ms. Manuel, “diversity is a competitive advantage” that improves collaboration within organizations, which may lead to greater success. Still in another session on leadership, Sandy Peavy, CIO for the Federal Law Enforcement Training Center’s (FLETC) at the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) said diversity and inclusion are integral for her agency’s success. Not to beat a dead horse, but in yet another panel discussion at the Summit, industry experts talked about how inclusion and diversity are more than a human resources department concern. Specifically more and more IT departments leverage technologies such as social media and collaboration software (e.g., SharePoint®) to draw on the important inputs from staff to improve the overall “health” of organizations.
Different Sides Same Vision
Two U.S. presidents from different sides of the political aisle agreed on the role of the past in our lives. “While I take inspiration from the past, like most Americans, I live for the future,” said President Ronald Reagan. Similarly John F. Kennedy, said “Change is the law of life. And those who look only to the past or present are certain to miss the future.” Our past is full of rich history; however, to face challenges of our future we need to adopt disruptive, unconventional ways of doing work and thinking to drive innovation! Leave the past in the past. It’s time we get back to the future.
Back to You…
So what is your take of the role of the past in our personal and business lives? What ways of thinking will help guide us to a better future? Do you agree that choice, risk-taking, and inclusion are appropriate actions to secure a better future for all?
Tags: Android, Brenda Manuel, collaboration, culture, Dennis Powell, DHS, disability, diversity, , FLETC, gender, Human Resources, inclusion, iPhone, IT, John F. Kennedy, Linda Cureton, Mac, NASA, Ola Sage, pc, race, Ronald Reagan, Sandy Peavy, SharePoint, Social Media
Posted in Corporate, Government, Human Resources, Leadership, Project Management, Social Media | 10 Comments »
There’s a First Time for Everything…Including First Impressions.
Friday, February 25th, 2011
By Dennis Powell, e-Management
Every now and again you meet someone who does everything to rub you the wrong way whether intentional or accidental. You know, the young Ivy League college graduate who dresses casually (i.e. shorts and sandals) on his law firm interview. The sales guy who tries to sell you a cobalt blue car, even though you are adamant about getting something black. The woman who shows up at a federal judge’s funeral dressed in her South Beach outfit.
Dressing to impress potential employers, business partners, or customers is a time-honored way to make a great first impression. What does the way you dress say to strangers?
I can go on and on. But I won’t. Instead, I offer up this blog thread, which is inspired by everyone who has made a poor first impression and wants tips to avoiding future mishaps. Here are suggestions for placing your best foot forward.
1. Mind Your Manners
I am beginning to think that “manners” may be on the endangered species list. Simply put, manners are appropriate actions (e.g., what you say or how you act) based on the social, cultural, or professional standards. Poor manners can lead to a poor first impression. To avoid this, whenever I travel outside of the country, I read up about what is suitable behavior for my destination. In social settings, I have learned never to ask a woman whom I just met how far along she is on her pregnancy, until she or someone else confirms she is indeed with child. Saying something that comes across as inappropriate can sabotage first impressions. True story.
2. Dress for the Occasion
Some people say you are what you eat. Well, I say you are what you wear. *Cue runway music here* While I respect and encourage everyone’s personal sense of style… skinny jeans, short-shorts, and trendy footwear may not be a “good look” when you want to make the best first impression. I’ve mentioned the colleague grad with the surfer look on the job interview. But, what about if you have been in the workforce longer than that guy? Appropriate business attire used to be a “non-issue.” Pretty much everyone knew what acceptable business attire was. With the advent of Casual Friday (CF), a lot has changed. A lot. Word of advice, if you are the newest employee, “slightly” over dress on your first CF. Be sure to keep your ears open for feedback others are getting on their CF ensembles. Use that data to inform what’s appropriate for making the right impression each and every Friday. Feel free to use this tactic in other unfamiliar social settings. You can thank me later.
3. Find Out What’s Important
Perhaps nothing makes a better first impression than an engaged person, who has done her or his research on the person or people she or he plans to meet. If you are going on a blind date, find out as much as possible about your date’s interests and how you connect with those activities. In other new social scenes, be sure to listen, comprehend, and then consider what your response is before saying it. Repeat what you hear and what you like about what is being said. That shows profound interest that will likely make an awesome first impression. Likewise, in business and professional settings, nothing is more important to a potential employer or business partner than the realization that you have taken the time to find out what’s important to them. How many of us have gotten our dream job by going into an interview saying we know nothing about the prospective employer? I rest my case.
4. You Are Not a Celeb, Don’t Try This at Home
Reality shows save TV and cable networks tons of money in production costs, and racks up the advertiser dollars for “fat” executives and investors. Reality TV may also be impairing our judgment as a society to make positive first impressions. Sure the cast of Jersey Shore is fun (and annoying) to watch. But if we emulate them in social and professionals settings, we are certain to make a poor first impression. Keep in mind, they are being paid to be “morons.” Since you aren’t a reality celebrity, leave the drama to the professionals!
5. Remember, You Never Get a Second Chance to Make a First Impression
This is all about you. Chances are, you’re a decent person. If you relax a little bit, perhaps the rest of us will find out. In your personal and professional interactions, remember to be honest, respectful, truthful, and especially genuine. The latter goes a long way for making a great first impression.
Your Stories, Your Impressions, Your Tips
I have given you the tips I have compiled over the years from mentors, and social networks on showing your best face. Have I missed anything? What are your tips for making a great first impression? Are there stories you would like to share of a first impression gone really, really wrong? I look forward to your comments and feel free to share this blog link with your social network, friends, or colleagues, who may find this particular entry worthwhile.
Tags: business, Dennis Powell, , etiquette, first impression, Jersey Shore, manners, partner, reality TV, social
Posted in Corporate, Entertainment, Human Resources, Leadership, Lifestyle, Uncategorized | 24 Comments »
What’s Really Going On?
Thursday, August 26th, 2010
By Dennis Powell, e-Management
Back in 1971, the late-soul legend Marvin Gaye released his critically-acclaimed “What’s Going On” album, which told the story of a man who comes home from the turmoil of the Vietnam War only to realize that things aren’t so rosy. Nearly 40 years later, some of us are still asking ourselves: What’s really going on?
More than 60 percent say work stress affects them significantly according to an APA study. How do you deal with your stress?
Arguably, 2010 has been a year of extremes. Consider these three words: BP oil spill. Prior to the devastating Gulf Coast spill, there was the 7.0 earthquake that rocked Haiti leaving more than 200,000 people dead and more than 1.3 million people injured or homeless. A few weeks later, Chile had to deal with an 8.8 magnitude quake, which caused hundreds of casualties, displaced more than 1.5 million people, and literally sent shock ways around the globe as tsunami warnings were issued in more than 50 countries! Both countries are still struggling to get back to normal (and still can use your support).
From Snowmaggedon to Heatzilla
Around the same time, the federal government (in Washington, D.C.) closed for almost a week due to record snowfalls (i.e. Snowmaggedon). According to National Public Radio (NPR), the cost each day the government shutdown was roughly $100 million. Currently, the city is dealing with a heat wave (Heatzilla) that has lasted almost 2 months. With the heat came powerful thunderstorms that left thousands of homes and businesses without power for days, and effectively put some utility companies on the defensive. (e-Management was even affected by the last big storm).
Money’s Too Tight to Mention
According to the American Psychological Association (APA), nearly three-quarters of Americans say money issues are the main cause of their stress (APA Survey 2004). In politics, the only thing the two parties can agree on is that unemployment is high. Unsurprisingly, there is seemingly no effective bipartisan solution to slow the pace of joblessness. The roughly nine percent who are unemployed are faced with this stark reality, as well as significant challenges including tapping into their retirement or savings, fighting off foreclosures, finding it difficult to sell their homes, paying for college tuition (for themselves or their kids), dealing with volatile investments, and listening to the constant media coverage about a grim economic future
Disgruntle Worker Becomes Folk Hero?
For some who are employed, stress is ongoing. More than 60 percent say work stress affects them significantly (APA Survey 2004). Arguably work related stress may have been behind the now infamous tale of the JetBlue Airways flight attendant Steven Slater, who had a few “choice” words for passengers before collecting a beer or two, exiting off the plane’s evacuation slide, and heading home. He was later arrested. His account of how (and why) he quit differs dramatically from some passengers. Regardless, he has subsequently become somewhat of a folk hero to disgruntled workers everywhere. Apparently, there are plenty of them—given his Facebook fans in the tens of thousands. What’s really going on?
Five Simple Tips to Help You Cope with “What’s Really Going On” in the World
For many, 2010 has been a stressful and even overwhelming year. With headlines like the ones above who can blame them? So, if you are among the on-edge, exhausted, or stressed, here are a few tips that may help you get centered once again.
Engaging in fun activities can help you reduce stress levels in your life. When was the last time you had a relaxing, enjoyable vacation? What are you waiting for?
1. Find Discussion Groups or Support Groups: There seems to be a sundry of support and discussion groups popping up all across the country. You can find them in faith centers, through your professional networks, and even online. Liked-minded people can sometimes be the weekly or periodic escape you require to help get you centered.
2. Just Breathe it Out: Many athletes, fitness enthusiasts, and soccer moms recognize the benefits of taking time to relax and perform control breathing as a way to reduce or eliminate stress. A simple breathing technique is to inhale deeply on a 4-count, hold for 2 seconds, and then exhale on a 4-count. Repeat as needed. It’s that simple!
3. Get Active: Stop being a couch potato. Believe me it’s not helping with the stress thing at all. Exercise and active living (i.e., doing fun stuff) are great ways to keep the stress levels down. If you aren’t the gym type, try yoga, dancing, fencing, gardening/landscaping, or speed walking with your favorite pal!
4. Become a Part of the Solution: Volunteering your time or service may give you a sense of purpose. Plus, you will be providing a helping hand to a cause that is close to your heart. And that may lead to fulfillment, and stress reduction!
5. Seek Professional Help for Your Own Good: If you are feeling overwhelmed by world events, family, or work, please reach out to the professionals who may lead you back to feeling more in control of your life. Research suggests that 50 percent or more people who seek professional help see an improvement in their lives (APA, “How to Find Help Through Psychotherapy”, 1998). Besides, many government agencies, nonprofits/NGOS, and companies (including e Management) offer employee assistance programs (EAPs) to help their staff balance work and life. EAPs may actually help you find low-cost or even free counseling services to help you through difficult times. Ask your employer or human resources manager about EAPs.
How Do You Tackle Life Challenges?
Those are only a handful of ways to get back to the business of being a sound, healthy you. What are some the coping mechanisms and techniques that you have employed over the years? Are there any books, resources, or websites you recommend to our readers to help them cope with all of the challenges they may face?
Tags: American Psychological Association, APA, assistance, Chile, , EAP, earthquake, Economy, employee, , Federal government, foreclosure, Haiti, healthy, Heatzilla, JetBlue, NPR, program, Snowmaggedon, Steven Slater, stress, What's Going On, Work Life Balance
Posted in Corporate, Economy, Events, Government, Human Resources, Lifestyle, News, Uncategorized | 11 Comments »
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