Burgh Biz Saturday Showcase 09-13-14
Today's Guests:
Lisa Kennis-Miller, SPHR
Owner of HR Rescue Resources, LLC
John S. Oliverio
President of Pittsburgh Young Professionals
Stephanie Oliver
Lead Planner at Oliver Events
Jennifer Hain
Founder and Owner of Jennifer Lee Life Coaching
Lisa Kennis-Miller, SPHROwner of HR Rescue Resources, LLC
John S. Oliverio
President of Pittsburgh Young Professionals
Stephanie Oliver
Lead Planner at Oliver Events
Jennifer Hain
Founder and Owner of Jennifer Lee Life Coaching
Owner, HR Rescue Resources, LLC
Growing up in rural PA, Lisa also became an avid hunter and although she doesn’t get back very often these days for deer season; she has had 13 successful ‘buck’ seasons - which includes a ‘trophy buck’.
For a refreshing change of scenery, Lisa escaped the daily grind to attend Penn State and study Industrial/Organizational Psychology. With her hard work ethic, Lisa completed college in 4 years, graduating with a 3.5 GPA. Why is that such a big deal? Well, she was on schedule to graduate in just 3 years, but life happened. She gave birth to her daughter the summer before her junior year (taking that fall semester off) and a year later changed the focus of her major from science to business, resulting in two additional semesters of business classes. Most college stories don’t include tales of 18 credit course loads (maintaining Dean’s List status) while working 20 hours/week and raising a newborn with colic!
With over 15 years of progressive human resources experience, primarily in the manufacturing industry, Lisa has held positions as Generalist, Front line Manager, Senior Management, and now Consultant.
Lisa Kennis-Miller is the Owner and Founder of HR Rescue Resources, LLC in Moon Township, PA.
Lisa has her Senior Professional in Human Resources Certification. The SPHR certification, awarded by the HR Certification Institute, signifies that Lisa has mastered the principles of human resources and that she is dedicated to staying current in the profession.
Lisa resides in Moon Township with her husband and 15 year old and 12 year old step-sons. Her 18 year old daughter is a freshman at Kent State University majoring in Visual Communication Design.
Lisa is an active member of the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM), Pittsburgh Human Resource Association (PHRA), Pittsburgh Consulting Community, Member Coordinator of No BS Marketing Group, Senior Project Judge for Moon Area School District, and Member of St. George Byzantine Catholic Church.
Talking Points:
- The company I worked at for 7 years was acquired by a competitor in 2010, the redundant positions were eliminated, including mine. After much consideration, my husband and I decided I would give independent consulting a shot, allowing for flexibility in my schedule to be home for our teenage children when needed. I've been at in now 3 1/2 years.
- Employment compliance should be given great attention by business owners. Within the past 3 years government agencies have increased audits by nearly 243%, focusing primarily on small businesses because they know that is where they will find violations. Many times, they will present under the guise of (for instance) a "Payroll Audit" when in reality they are really looking to see if your employees are classified properly (exempt vs. non-exempt or independent contractor) and a payroll audit will get them access to the files they need to determine that!
- Fines for small business owners are serious business and can have a huge impact. Under IRCA (Immigration, Reform and Control Act), the fines for failure to have Form I-9 completed upon within 3 days of hiring an employee begins at $110 and can go as high as $1100 per employee, this is also the case for having the form filled out incorrectly or having it filed improperly. Now if an employer knowingly hires and continues to employ an illegal alien, those fines start at $395 and can go as high as $16,000 per employee plus jail time. Think about this for a moment; does your business complete the NEW Form I-9 on EACH and EVERY new employee within 3 business days of them being hired? Are you certain that the person who reviews the I-9 documentation and is responsible for the form's completion is filling it out correctly? Do you know if you are filing the form in the correct place and keeping it for the recommended period of time? My recommendation to you is to make sure you find the correct answers to these questions before the IRCA finds you....
- The most common area of compliance a small business finds problematic is typically in wage and hour law. There are so many rules and regulations and that creates opportunities for business owners to be fined and sued. In my consulting business, I highly caution business owners to take heed and make certain they do not take these laws lightly. This can cover everything from keeping impeccable time records, to making certain your employees have well- written job descriptions (by a certified HR professional who is experienced in job analysis) so employees can be classified properly (exempt vs. non-exempt) and also making sure all employees get reimbursed for any business expenses incurred no matter how nominal. Managers and supervisors need to be trained thoroughly to discourage non-exempt employees from performing work 'off the clock' as not doing so will certainly bring a lawsuit against the employer in the future!
- If you are a business owner who is planning on hiring in the near future, I would highly recommend sticking to structured behavioral interview questions that have been vetted by a professional to make sure they are legal to ask. Make sure your employment application doesn't have any illegal questions either. Check at least 3 professional references asking a series of probing questions that would allow you to establish whether or not the applicant was competent in their job duties in their former role, why they left, if they would rehire them, etc. before making an offer. You would be surprised how much information you can attain from spending 15 minutes on the phone with a former supervisor!
- Another tip is to do state, federal, county, and nationwide criminal background checks on the applicant after making a 'contingent offer'; meaning, they are hired contingent upon meeting the standards of the background check. There are FCRA (Fair Credit Reporting Act) laws you MUST follow when performing background checks. I also want to point out that it is illegal to not hire an applicant just because they have a criminal record. You have to look at the results and make a business case for or against hiring them that would stand up in court (this is why you really should have a professional assist you in hiring situations). If you do not hire them based on the background check, you have to send them a letter telling them that along with the results per FCRA. Failure to do a background check though can also have negative consequences, such as a negligent hiring lawsuit brought against you later on should the person you hire harm someone else.
Entrepreneur Tip:
Do NOT try to be the master of all departments - Accounting, Sales, Marketing, Human Resources, etc. A business owner has so much pressure to get customers in the door and to keep them happy. Leave it up to the experts to handle the areas you aren't an expert in. You will save so much valuable time and money in doing so!Consumer Tip:
When determining if you should hire a Human Resource Consultant, ask yourself these questions:
- Am I certain that my company is 100% compliant with all employment laws and feel confident that a disgruntled employee's lawsuit could be strongly defended?
- Do I have an employee handbook that has been written or revised within the past 18 months?
- Can my company survive a lawsuit ranging between $10,000 - $600,000 or a Department of Labor audit with potential fines and negative press that goes with it?
- Am I prepared to be held PERSONALLY LIABLE and SEPARATELY CHARGED in lawsuits in the workplace (for being involved in missed promotions to unjustified discipline, inflicting emotional distress, and other perceived wrong-doing) that could lead to the loss of your home, assets, and destroying personal relationships?
- If you answered 'NO' to any of these questions, CALL ME TODAY to get an HR Audit of your business to uncover vulnerabilities to avoid these devastating experiences. 724-777-2286
Any listener that would like a FREE one hour consultation should mention that they heard this interview. The retail value of a One Hour Consultation is Regularly $150.
Contact:
www.HRRescueResources.com
PO Box 602, Moon Township, PA 15108
724-777-2286 | HRLady34@gmail.com
Facebook: HRRescueResources | LinkedIn: Lisa Miller, SPHR | Blogspot: Small Business Safety Net
John S. Oliverio, SPHR
President, Pittsburgh Young Professionals
John S. Oliverio, SPHR, is the Chief Human Resources Director for GAI Consultants where he leads Human Resources for over 900 national employees. He has 19 years of HR experience, having worked previously at WESCO, EDMC, ADVO, Nicholson Construction and Ames. John is currently President of Pittsburgh Young Professionals (PYP - member since 1999) and board member/HR Committee Chair for the Animal Rescue League. He previously held the position of President for both Pittsburgh Cares (2006-2008) and Pittsburgh Human Resources Association (2005) and was a board member for PUMP. John is one of Pittsburgh’s 40 Under 40 winners and named one of the Pittsburgh Business Times’ Fast Trackers.
He also spends his time volunteering for Pittsburgh Cares, Pitt Alumni Association, Pittsburgh's Promise, and Girls Hope. John has been asked to speak at seminars and has been interviewed by media sources on HR issues. He also provides resume preparation assistance to people in career transition. In his free time, he is the captain of an adult kickball team for the Pittsburgh Sports League and has traveled to six continents. John holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology from the University of Pittsburgh and Senior Professional in Human Resources (SPHR) certification. From Pittsburgh, he grew up in South Park and resides in Crafton.
About PYP
In 1988, six friends who reunited in Pittsburgh formed a group to contribute to the community – a movement that officially marks the beginning of PYP, a Pittsburgh non-profit organization. Now with over 420 members and 26 years of experience, PYP has aided in the social, professional, and civic development of young professionals in the Pittsburgh region.
Talking Points:
Consumer Tip:
The same advice - network, network, network. Whether you may be looking for a job, looking for a business opportunity, or just to meet new people, the best technique is to get out there and network with people. PYP offers a "safe" environment for networking as all of our events present attendees with opportunities to network and meet other professionals.
Positively Pittsburgh Live Special Offer:
Annual Signature Event "A Black and White Affair" on September 19 at Bill Chisnell Productions. $30 for Members, $40 for Non members. Email me at john.oliverio@pyp.org for a coupon code for $5 off registration for the event.
Contact:
Pittsburgh Young Professionals
www.pyp.org
P.O. Box 23127, Pittsburgh, PA 15222
412-339-0797 | info@pyp.org
Facebook: PghYP | Twitter: PghYoungProf
LinkedIn: Pittsburgh Young Professionals
He also spends his time volunteering for Pittsburgh Cares, Pitt Alumni Association, Pittsburgh's Promise, and Girls Hope. John has been asked to speak at seminars and has been interviewed by media sources on HR issues. He also provides resume preparation assistance to people in career transition. In his free time, he is the captain of an adult kickball team for the Pittsburgh Sports League and has traveled to six continents. John holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology from the University of Pittsburgh and Senior Professional in Human Resources (SPHR) certification. From Pittsburgh, he grew up in South Park and resides in Crafton.
About PYP
In 1988, six friends who reunited in Pittsburgh formed a group to contribute to the community – a movement that officially marks the beginning of PYP, a Pittsburgh non-profit organization. Now with over 420 members and 26 years of experience, PYP has aided in the social, professional, and civic development of young professionals in the Pittsburgh region.
Talking Points:
- I began as a PYP member in 1999 and have been a member ever since. I joined the board of directors in 2012 and became President in 2014.
- Now in our 26th year, Pittsburgh Young Professionals (PYP) is forging ahead with a membership of more than 420 young professionals of diverse professional and personal backgrounds.
- One of the oldest Young Professionals organization in the country, PYP was formed in 1988 by a group of six individuals who returned to the Pittsburgh region looking to give back to the local community. Through the years, PYP continues to be a strong not-for-profit and 100-percent volunteer-run organization that is dedicated to providing career-minded individuals with opportunities to develop socially, professionally and civically.
- PYP sponsors an annual Scholarship Program where we award a $1,000 scholarship to a professional going for their Bachelor's or Masters Degree based on certain criteria. We will announce the 2014 winner at our Signature Event next Friday.
- 2014 Pittsburgh Young Professionals (PYP) Signature Event (A Black and White Affair) on September 19th, 6:30 - 11PM at Bill Chisnell Productions, Downtown Pittsburgh. Details at: http://members.pyp.org/event-1725013
Get Involved with PYP
Come out and spend some time with us
Join us for a PYP Social, Professional Development, or Community Involvement event. Socialize, network and meet people from a wide variety of professions located throughout the Pittsburgh area.
Participate on a Committee
Every year, PYP’s committee chairs strive to offer a wide variety of networking opportunities to its entire membership.
Become a Committee Chair or Board Member
PYP is a volunteer-run organization. Each year, the organization looks for candidates to fill chair and board member positions. Click here to access the online application for board members. Committee chair applications can be found here.
Develop
Pittsburgh Young Professionals offers a variety of professional development events throughout the year, focused on providing our members with a diversified menu of opportunities. On any given night, you may find yourself immersed in a round table discussion with leaders of our region, listening to a prestigious speaker, or honing your presentation skills in front of a crowd of your peers. At PYP, we like to vary our programs monthly – ensuring that there’s always something for everyone! Our Professional Development Committee works diligently to ensure that all of our members are satisfied with the level of professional development we offer throughout the year.
Network
During all of PYP’s professional development events, there will be time set aside to network with the speakers, panel members and other PYP members. However, PYP understands that most young professionals are looking to build their network of business contacts in the most efficient way possible. For this reason, a few times a year, PYP hosts professional networking events, such as speed networking, to afford our members the opportunity to expand their contact list. Remember, to advance your business or career, you first need to make and build those all-important relationships – and PYP can provide you with the platform to make that happen.
Succeed
Educate your mind. Sharpen your skills. Strengthen your connections. PYP is an excellent catalyst for this development, but ultimately, it’s up to you to make it happen!
Entrepreneur Tip:
I can't emphasize enough to network, network, network. Even if an event looks to be more social than professional, you never know where your next client or business might come from. At PYP, we have business connections happening at all of our events whether it is a happy hour, professional development series or dinner club.Join us for a PYP Social, Professional Development, or Community Involvement event. Socialize, network and meet people from a wide variety of professions located throughout the Pittsburgh area.
Participate on a Committee
Every year, PYP’s committee chairs strive to offer a wide variety of networking opportunities to its entire membership.
Become a Committee Chair or Board Member
PYP is a volunteer-run organization. Each year, the organization looks for candidates to fill chair and board member positions. Click here to access the online application for board members. Committee chair applications can be found here.
Develop
Pittsburgh Young Professionals offers a variety of professional development events throughout the year, focused on providing our members with a diversified menu of opportunities. On any given night, you may find yourself immersed in a round table discussion with leaders of our region, listening to a prestigious speaker, or honing your presentation skills in front of a crowd of your peers. At PYP, we like to vary our programs monthly – ensuring that there’s always something for everyone! Our Professional Development Committee works diligently to ensure that all of our members are satisfied with the level of professional development we offer throughout the year.
Network
During all of PYP’s professional development events, there will be time set aside to network with the speakers, panel members and other PYP members. However, PYP understands that most young professionals are looking to build their network of business contacts in the most efficient way possible. For this reason, a few times a year, PYP hosts professional networking events, such as speed networking, to afford our members the opportunity to expand their contact list. Remember, to advance your business or career, you first need to make and build those all-important relationships – and PYP can provide you with the platform to make that happen.
Succeed
Educate your mind. Sharpen your skills. Strengthen your connections. PYP is an excellent catalyst for this development, but ultimately, it’s up to you to make it happen!
Entrepreneur Tip:
Consumer Tip:
The same advice - network, network, network. Whether you may be looking for a job, looking for a business opportunity, or just to meet new people, the best technique is to get out there and network with people. PYP offers a "safe" environment for networking as all of our events present attendees with opportunities to network and meet other professionals.
Annual Signature Event "A Black and White Affair" on September 19 at Bill Chisnell Productions. $30 for Members, $40 for Non members. Email me at john.oliverio@pyp.org for a coupon code for $5 off registration for the event.
Contact:
www.pyp.org
P.O. Box 23127, Pittsburgh, PA 15222
412-339-0797 | info@pyp.org
Facebook: PghYP | Twitter: PghYoungProf
LinkedIn: Pittsburgh Young Professionals
Stephanie Oliver
Lead Planner, Oliver Events
Stephanie is Butler native, alumna of Mercyhurst University and an International Event and Wedding Planner Certified Professional. She loves the Pittsburgh Penguins, singing, wine, reading, fashion, laughing uncontrollably, and is a self proclaimed Foodie. She proudly opened Oliver Events in May of 2014, and is having a blast planning signature events throughout the Pittsburgh region.
Oliver Events is a full-service event planning company. We plan corporate and private events throughout the Pittsburgh Region. "Be A Guest at Your Event, Leave OLIVE the Planning to Us!"
Talking Points:
Consumer Tip:
When it comes to event planning many people assume they can handle it all themselves, but working with a professional saves you so much time and stress. There are a lot of little details to keep in order, and if you're planning an event as one part of your job or life, it can be hard to keep everything in line. Having a professional on hand, especially the day of the event, will be a life saver, and you'll actually get to enjoy the event you've created.
Positively Pittsburgh Live Special Offer:
15% off all event planning services for Positively Pittsburgh followers and listeners.
Contact:
Oliver Events
Be A Guest at Your Event, and
Leave OLIVE the Planning to Us!
www.OliverEventsOnline.com
724-496-1472 | OliverEventsOnline@gmail.com
Instagram: OliverEvents | LinkedIn: StephanieOliver
Oliver Events is a full-service event planning company. We plan corporate and private events throughout the Pittsburgh Region. "Be A Guest at Your Event, Leave OLIVE the Planning to Us!"
Talking Points:
- I've been in the event industry since I took my first job as a banquet server at 15 years old, and have been in love ever since. I opened Oliver Events in May 2014 after working in corporate event planning and marketing for many years.
- My company works with companies and individuals on all types of events, large or small, like fundraisers, tradeshows, weddings, mitzvahs, bridal and baby showers, board meetings, etc. Oliver Events plans any sort of event you can imagine: tradeshows, conferences, fundraisers, 5ks, awards shows, fashion shows, bridal showers, baby showers, mitzvahs, wakes, birthday parties, anniversary parties, retirement parties, weddings - you name it, we'll plan it. Do you want to throw a softball tournament with you and your competitors? We can do that too! The sky is the limit!
- As event planners we handle every aspect of your event so that you can enjoy it without the work. Let's say we're planning a wedding: we help the bride book the venue, decide on a menu, find a cake baker, a florist, the dress and bridal party fashion, invitations, entertainment, decoration. Then, we're there for the entire event, setting up, tearing down, and overseeing every moment to ensure success and fun.
Entrepreneur Tip:
Don't be afraid to ask. Ask for advice from your mentors, and meetings with people you admire. Ask your network to promote your endeavors. Ask questions about any and everything that can help you grow as an individual and business owner.Consumer Tip:
When it comes to event planning many people assume they can handle it all themselves, but working with a professional saves you so much time and stress. There are a lot of little details to keep in order, and if you're planning an event as one part of your job or life, it can be hard to keep everything in line. Having a professional on hand, especially the day of the event, will be a life saver, and you'll actually get to enjoy the event you've created.
15% off all event planning services for Positively Pittsburgh followers and listeners.
Contact:Oliver Events
Be A Guest at Your Event, and
Leave OLIVE the Planning to Us!
www.OliverEventsOnline.com
724-496-1472 | OliverEventsOnline@gmail.com
Instagram: OliverEvents | LinkedIn: StephanieOliver
Jennifer Hain
Founder and Owner, Jennifer Lee Life Coaching
Jennifer received her Bachelor of Arts degree in Corporate Communications from The Pennsylvania State University. It took some time “getting to know herself” in the workforce before she decided to make a huge leap – relocating from Pittsburgh, PA to Los Angeles, CA to explore her interest in TV hosting! However; after one year in CA and accepting various hosting opportunities, she still felt…empty. She was missing a sense of purpose and knew she needed to switch gears in order to feel fulfilled.
After an epiphany she had in CA, she created an inspirational website which has quickly developed into a business where she can incorporate her love for all of the above! Not only does she provide private coaching and workshop services, but she also brought back a piece of her “California Dream” and now interviews people who are making moves and chasing their dreams as an “A Breath of Fresh Air” feature!
Her specialty as a Motivational Life Coach is to help keep you motivated and on track while you strive to accomplish your personal and/or business goals. She serves as your personal coach – directing you {if needed}, holding you accountable, and cheering for you along the way! She offers private coaching and workshop services.
Talking Points:
If you do not take action, it will NEVER happen. Even if you do take action, you may not get the results or immediate turn around that you desire…but, just keep taking action. You absolutely have to live and learn to figure out exactly what it is that you want to do. Exploring leads to discovering. And, once you finally discover what you want, you’ll appreciate the journey it took to get there and that the reward of happiness and success!
Consumer Tip:
In order to make a change in your life, you need to understand the importance of commitment and accountability. It’s easy to say you’re committed when things aren’t tough.
Positively Pittsburgh Live Special Offer:
Save 25% off of a private coaching session and/or group workshop/seminar if you provide the code words: “On fire to inspire.” Receive the discount by emailing me at jenniferleelifecoaching@yahoo.com and providing the code word above. Offer lasts for 6 months only.
Contact:
Jennifer Lee Life Coaching
www.JenniferLeeLifeCoaching.com
105 Bellwood Drive
412-600-6411 | jennifer.hain@yahoo.com
Instagram: Jennifer Hain
Founder and Owner, Jennifer Lee Life Coaching
After an epiphany she had in CA, she created an inspirational website which has quickly developed into a business where she can incorporate her love for all of the above! Not only does she provide private coaching and workshop services, but she also brought back a piece of her “California Dream” and now interviews people who are making moves and chasing their dreams as an “A Breath of Fresh Air” feature!
Her specialty as a Motivational Life Coach is to help keep you motivated and on track while you strive to accomplish your personal and/or business goals. She serves as your personal coach – directing you {if needed}, holding you accountable, and cheering for you along the way! She offers private coaching and workshop services.
Talking Points:
- I have had my inspirational website & blog for going on 2 years now. It was time for some serious self-reflecting! I eventually broke it down to this: I have a passion for 1.) motivating others 2.) presenting and interacting with others 3.) and helping others recognize and achieve their full potential. After an epiphany I had in CA, I created an inspirational website which has quickly developed into a business where I can incorporate my love for all of the above!
- I’ve been asked many times, “What exactly is a Life Coach?” Let me help clarify that for you! A Life Coach is someone who helps you improve and achieve in the areas of your life for which you wish to – and as the title says, they coach you! Think of it in terms of sports. A coach teaches you the game, supports you during your wins and losses, and helps you become the best player possible!
- Here are some examples of clients I am helping to achieve their goals:
- Someone reach their goal of qualifying for a raise at work. A huge portfolio needs created proving their abilities and skills and I am working with this person to set up personal deadlines to complete their portfolio by January 2015.
- I am currently helping someone grow their social media connections and stay on track with their personal savings goals.
- I am also working with someone on strengthening their self-confidence so that they may advance in their workplace.
Entrepreneur Tip:
Consumer Tip:
In order to make a change in your life, you need to understand the importance of commitment and accountability. It’s easy to say you’re committed when things aren’t tough.
Save 25% off of a private coaching session and/or group workshop/seminar if you provide the code words: “On fire to inspire.” Receive the discount by emailing me at jenniferleelifecoaching@yahoo.com and providing the code word above. Offer lasts for 6 months only.
Contact:
www.JenniferLeeLifeCoaching.com
105 Bellwood Drive
412-600-6411 | jennifer.hain@yahoo.com
Instagram: Jennifer Hain
Hosted By:
Joanne Quinn-Smith is the Creative Energy Officer of Dreamweaver Marketing Associates in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, a full service marketing company specializing in Web 2.0 Gorilla Branding™. Known as the Techno Granny she offers her clients unique, creative and energetic marketing and management plans. Joanne’s expertise is in creating online platforms that create perpetual buzz.
Joanne is an author, prolific blogger and talkcaster with over 800 shows. She has interviewed over 2000 prominent business owners, non-profit executives and celebrities. Her flagship website, PositivelyPittsburghLiveMagazine.com garners 220,000 hits per month, 62,000 unique page views per week and in 1 year had 2.25 million visitors.
Joanne Quinn-Smith has been designated nationally, 2009 Small Business Journalist of the Year by the U.S. Small Business Administration for her advocacy and reporting on small business using New Media. Her good news reporting at PositivelyPittsburghLive was a finalist for best website or blog in Media for the American Business Stevie Award in 2010.
Listen to the show HERE
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This was reported as a reproduction of PositivelyPittsburghLive news done by Joanne Quinn-Smith.
(c) Joanne Quinn-Smith and PositivelyPittsburghLive(TM) 2014 All rights reserved.
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