Oct. 2026 - Staff Matters: How Can We Support Employees Who Are Also Caregivers?, Jodi Schafer Sphr, Shrm-Scp

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

This human resources column offers actionable advice for dental practice owners on supporting staff members managing caregiving responsibilities for aging parents, spouses, or children. Recognizing the financial and operational constraints of small dental practices, the author outlines low-cost supportive strategies, including flexible scheduling, clear communications, and empathetic management. Practice leaders are encouraged to establish consistent time-off request protocols, train managers to respect employee privacy, and connect staff with community caregiver resources and employee assistance programs to maintain staff retention and practice productivity.

Measuring Administrative Hiring Confidence Of Music Teachers In The Context Of Shallow Hiring Pools, Aaron M. Strum

Dissertations

The purpose of this study was to identify and measure the confidence of K-12 administrators in hiring music faculty. This study also aimed to analyze administrators’ perspectives and confidence in key stages of the hiring process, including defining job expectations, posting, advertising, interviewing, and selecting highly specialized music teachers in K-12 settings. Confidence of K-12 administrators can be gauged through their understanding of how well an applicant aligns with the specific needs of the school’s program. Three research questions guided this investigation: (1a) How confident are K-12 administrators in their understanding of music teaching pedagogy when interviewing music teacher candidates …

Staff Matters: How Much Time Off Should I Give For Bereavement?, Jodi Schafer Sphr, Shrm-Scp

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

Author Jodi Schafer provides guidance for dental practices on developing clear and consistent bereavement leave policies. She notes that while no federal law requires bereavement leave, standard employer practice typically offers three to five days for immediate family members. The article emphasizes balancing compassion for grieving employees with the operational needs of the practice. Key considerations include whether leave is paid, the definition of covered relationships, and the importance of flexibility, as grief often extends beyond a formal leave period.

How Do I Avoid Burning Out My Staff?, Jodi Schafer Sphr, Shrm-Scp

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

This column details the financial advantages of utilizing MDA-endorsed vendors to improve practice profitability. It explains the vetting process performed by volunteers to ensure vendors offer meaningful discounts and vetted solutions. The source highlights specific services, such as PPO fee negotiation, dental marketing, and insurance verifications, which can save a practice over $58,000 annually. By leveraging collective bargaining, members gain access to revenue-boosting solutions without exhaustive trial-and-error searching.

The Global Onboard Training Programme (Gobt) : A Comprehensive Review, World Maritime University

Reports

A stable supply of qualified seafarers is a critical component of the global maritime logistics industry, which relies heavily on maritime transportation. According to the 2021 BIMCO Manpower Report, an additional 89,510 officers will be needed by 2026. In 2021 alone, there was already a deficit of 26,240 STCW-certified officers, clearly indicating that demand continues to outpace supply. The report also noted a 45.8% increase in the number of female seafarers since 2015, although they still represent only a small share of the overall workforce. Maritime Education and Training (MET) institutions around the world continue to provide training to develop …

Human Resources Impact On Person-Environment Fit And Job Performance: A Single Case Study Design, Constance J. Mitchell

Doctoral Dissertations and Projects

Person-environment (PE) fit is central to the interactional psychology (IP) theory, which is the behavioral consequences of the interface between individuals and their environment. According to both PE fit and IP theories, employee motivation, job satisfaction, and job performance are enhanced when individuals are compatible with various aspects of the workplace. In this single-subject, bounded case study, the researcher explored HR’s influence on job performance and person-organization, person-job, and person-supervisor fit. The sole participant is a subject matter expert with over 35 years of experience in HR-related fields. The study procedures consisted of four interview sessions, an observational/field study, and …

Employee Training Methods On Performance, Retention, And Career Growth In A Multi-Skilled Workforce And The Impact Of Emerging Technologies, Julia Bellis

Research Awards

This research paper examines how different types of employee training like on-the-job training, micro-credentials and formal course can affect performance, retention, and career growth in today’s multi-skilled workforce. Many businesses will invest lots of money into training but struggle to understand whether these programs actually improve employee skills or provide positive return on investment. The literature shows that each training method has strengths and weaknesses and that their effectiveness depends on what industry it is used in, the skills that are required, and the resources that the company has. New technologies like virtual reality and extended reality also are changing …

Staff Matters: Maintaining Empathy And Respect When Performance Issues Occur, Jodi Schafer Sphr, Shrm-Scp

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

In her monthly column, human resource expert Jodi Schafer provides guidance on managing employee performance issues and terminations with empathy and respect. She highlights that a practice's reputation is influenced by how it treats people, especially during difficult moments. Strategies include early intervention—documenting specific incidents and giving timely feedback instead of waiting until frustration builds. Leaders should foster open dialogue to offer support, such as training refreshers, before resorting to discipline. Difficult conversations should be held in private with honesty and compassion. If termination is necessary, leaders should "exit with grace," clearly explaining final steps and making a neutral announcement …

Artificial Intelligence Dimensions (Expert Systems, Neural Networks, And Genetic Algorithms) And Their Impact On Human Resources Dimensions (Recruitment, Training, And Employee Performance Evaluation) In The Government Sector In The United Arab Emirates - Dubai Government As A Case Study, Dr. Shawk Hasan Mahdi

Faculty Peer-Reviewed Papers | بحوث هيئة التدريس المحكمة

The study aimed to elucidate the Artificial Intelligence dimensions (Expert Systems, Neural Networks, and Genetic Algorithms) and their impact on Human Resources dimensions (Recruitment, Training, and Employee Performance Evaluation) in the government sector in the United Arab Emirates - Dubai Government as a case study. The study population comprised employees in the government sector in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. The study followed descriptive-analytical methodology and utilized a questionnaire for data collection. The sample size was 355 individuals, selected randomly. The Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) software was used for data analysis. The study yielded several key findings, including …

Ai Avatars In Hospitality Employee Training: Transforming Learning Through Innovation, Eulanda A. Sanders, Nikol K. Lopez Llantuy, Li Jiang

ICHRIE Research Reports

The hospitality industry faces challenges in delivering consistent, engaging, and scalable training. Traditional training often fails to address cost, efficiency, and learner engagement. Organizations are turning to technologies like artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance employee development, including AI-driven avatars. Drawing on recent literature in microlearning, avatar-mediated education, and technological adoption models, this study examines the potential of AI avatars to personalize instruction, enhance accessibility, reduce costs, and enhance learning outcomes. Content analysis of fifteen YouTube videos reveals ten themes associated with the use of AI avatars in real-world hospitality settings. The report includes implementation guidelines for integrating AI avatars into …

The Impact Of Recruitment And Selection Strategies On Organizational Performance And Employee Productivity, Kenneth R. Sisneros

Doctoral Dissertations and Projects

Formalized labor management and practices, such as employee recruitment and selection, are among the core functions of any organization's human resource department. While human labor has seen significant milestones since World War II, HR managers struggle to identify the best strategies to use in recruiting and selecting applicants in the midst of increased demand for high-quality hires in most organizations. As such, this flexible, qualitative case study research aimed to examine the relationship between selection and recruitment strategies and the performance of organizations in the hospitality industry. In particular, the case study sought to explore the recruitment and selection techniques …

Toward A Relational Theory For Hr Function Research, Jinhwan Jo, Clint Chadwick

Human Resource Management Faculty Publications

In this conceptual review, we suggest that investigations of the HR function’s strategic value should encompass the relational activities between the HR function and its multiple stakeholders and go beyond the existence or the effectiveness of the HR function in implementing HR practices. Specifically, we aim to answer the questions of (1) who are the critical stakeholders of the HR function? (2) what relational activities should occur between the HR function and each stakeholder for the effective management of human capital? and (3) how can these relational activities contribute to the effectiveness and performance of the organization? Building from HRM …

Millennial Turnover: An Implication For Human Resource Management, Folake Titilola Olumide

Doctoral Dissertations and Projects

The qualitative single case study examined the turnover behavior of millennial employees in the financial sector of Midwest America and the implications for human resource management. The research employed the use of semi-structured interview questions that were utilized to gather pertinent information from 21 participants who met the research criteria. The research also used archival data and current peer-reviewed journals to buttress the information gleaned from the interviews. The findings from the study demonstrated that millennial employees in similar sectors may differ in their desires to remain or leave an organization. The study also agreed with previous research that rated …

Human Resource Professionals And Ombuds: Perceptions, Challenges, And Benefits Of Their Working Relationship And Interactions A Qualitative Descriptive Study, Herbert S. Ambrose

Department of Conflict Resolution Studies Theses and Dissertations

Many organizations use policies and procedures as well as professionals to manage conflict within their organizations. Human Resource (HR) professionals assist organizations by establishing policies and ensuring that processes are being followed accordingly. Ombuds provide confidential assistance to individuals through various methods but are not associated with the organization’s official procedures for handling workplace conflict and do not have the formal authority of Human Resources. This qualitative descriptive study explored the individual working relationship between Human Resources professionals and Ombuds. Based on interviews with HR professionals and Ombuds who work in organizations that employ both types of professionals to deal …

Enhancing Inclusion: Neurodiversity In The Workplace, Micah Cox

Dissertations, Theses, and Projects

Neurodiverse individuals have long been viewed negatively, particularly in the workplace. Many recruiters or hiring managers have never considered the benefits that hiring a neurodiverse candidate could bring to their organization, rather looking at the additional costs of accommodation. The results of analyzing several case studies show that companies who incorporate neurodiverse candidates into their labor pool have seen increased productivity, creativity, process innovation, and cost reductions. This paper reviews several case studies combined with data obtained from interviews with a neurodiverse individual and a direct support care professional to develop a list of methods to be used in the …

The Hr Connection, Georgia Southern University

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Open Enrollment

Breast Cancer Awareness Month

Georgia State Charitable Contributions Program

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The Hr Connection, Georgia Southern University

Human Resources Newsletter

Talent Acquisition

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Fall USG Challenge: Walk and Talk Step Challenge

Understanding Progressive Discipline

BBU Channel of the Month

Training

Policy Review

Fire Safety

The Hr Connection, Georgia Southern University

Human Resources Newsletter

Talent Acquisition

Upcoming Events

Wellness Google Group

Fall USG Challenge: Walk and Talk Step Challenge

Understanding Progressive Discipline

BBU Channel of the Month

Training

Policy Review

Fire Safety

The Hr Connection, Georgia Southern University

Human Resources Newsletter

TALENT ACQUISITION

EMPLOYEE RELATIONS

TRAINING & DEVELOPMENT

OPEN LABS

RECRUITING SELFSERVICE Q&A

UPCOMING USG WELL-BEING EVENTS

HOW TO DECREASE SCREEN TIME FOR YOU & YOUR FAMILY THIS SUMMER

MINDFULNESS LANGUAGE TRAINING

The Hr Connection, Georgia Southern University

Human Resources Newsletter

TALENT ACQUISITION

BENEFITS AND WELLNESS

IMPORTANT DATES THIS MONTH

TRAINING & DEVELOPMENT

SUMMER JOB FAIRS

OPEN LABS

RECRUITING SELFSERVICE Q&A

EMPLOYEE TESTIMONIALS

UPCOMING USG WELL-BEING EVENTS

ESSENTIAL SUMMER SAFETYTIPS FOR YOU & YOUR FAMILY

Hr Connection, Georgia Southern University

Human Resources Newsletter

• Perks at Work
• Position Descriptions moving to Salary.com
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• Fire Safety Tips

The Family Medical Leave Act: The Current Regulations And Future Recommended Changes, Olivia Schmidt

Management Undergraduate Honors Theses

The Family Medical Leave Act was implemented in 1993, affecting thousands of employees. This act allows caregivers the time to care for their loved ones and for people to take the time they need to heal and care for themselves, all while maintaining their careers. While the workforce and it’s needs have changed over the years, FMLA has remained stagnant with minimal adjustments at the federal level. There are many different aspects to FMLA including different state regulations, different industry effects, and the special case of the airline industry. While FMLA was an important change in 1993, it needs to …

Recruiting Gen Z: An Emerging Talent Internship Thesis At Petsmart, Emma Jewell Symancyk

Marketing Undergraduate Honors Theses

During the summer of 2021, I served as the Emerging Talent intern in Human Resources for PetSmart. While this internship was virtual, PetSmart is the largest pet retailer and is headquartered in Phoenix Arizona. I served as the Human Resources intern in Emerging Talent. The Emerging Talent team is responsible for recruiting and developing the future talent of PetSmart through identifying diverse top-caliber talent and positioning the organization as an employer of choice. Over the summer, I was tasked with developing a campus ambassador program for talent acquisition to increase diversity in the variety of roles and programs that Emerging …

The Hr Connection, Georgia Southern University

Human Resources Newsletter

Talent Acquisition

Training

Upcoming Events

Wellness and Benefits

Faculty and Staff Wellness Week

Walk with the President

CAPTRUST

Job Fair

The Hr Connection, Georgia Southern University

Human Resources Newsletter

Charging Towards Reaffirmation

Phase 3 Segments & Batches: Draft Submission & Internal Review

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SACSCOC Accreditation Resources

Staff Council Minutes, Georgia Southern University

Staff Council Meeting Minutes & Agendas

No abstract provided.

Help Or Hindrance: How Social Media Affects The Selection And Hiring Processes Of Businesses, Alexandra Krska

Management Undergraduate Honors Theses

Continually, young people have been advised to be conscientious of the imagery they put on social media regarding their personal lives in preparation for employment selection. However, the use of social media in the selection process may cause Human Resource professionals to have inadvertent biases toward candidates among other moral and ethical issues. Through extensive research of the thoughts and actions of a plethora of different corporate professionals, I will analyze whether using social media as a tool in the selection process authentically produces positive unbiased results, or whether social media poses more ethical issues. With the hopes to create …

Staff Council Agenda, Georgia Southern University

Staff Council Meeting Minutes & Agendas

No abstract provided.

Staff Council Minutes, Georgia Southern University

Staff Council Meeting Minutes & Agendas

No abstract provided.

Staff Council Meeting Minutes, Georgia Southern University

Staff Council Meeting Minutes & Agendas

• Staff Council:
• Presidential Updates & Comments | Updates from Dr. Kyle Marrero are as Follows
• Human Resources | Updates from Mandy Maynard
• Office of Inclusive Excellence | Updates from Jazzkia Jones
• Treasurer Report | Updates from Andrew Durden, Treasurer
• Committee Reports