All topics can be tailored to the specific needs of your organization.
Catalog offerings thru June 2022 are delivered as a virtual classroom experience.
We are scheduling in-person onsites!
Impactful Training
What makes us different:
-Post microlearning touchpoints to help solidify learnings and key takeaways
-Customized curriculum to align with your organizational goals
-Skilled and engaging facilitators
-Committed to small group size to maintain an interactive virtual classroom
HR Certification Institute’s® (www.HRCI.org) official seal confirms that Employment Matters meets the criteria for pre-approved recertification credit(s) for any of HRCI’s eight credentials, including SPHR® and PHR®.
Employment Matters LLC is recognized by SHRM to offer Professional Development Credits (PDCs) for the SHRM-CP® or SHRM-SCP®.
Training- scroll down or click on the topic in the drop down menu to go directly to that section of the catalog
Our regularly offered open enrollment virtual classes cover an array of workplace, leadership and communication topics. They are largely for all audiences and include attendees from numerous organizations. These sessions provide the opportunity to hear a diversity of perspectives, which can encourage openness and enhance the learning experience.
We also provide in-person and virtual classroom sessions tailored to the specific needs and goals of an organizations. These are facilitated for intact teams, as well as those under stress, to create a shared experience. Participants from different departments may also join together for these sessions.
Refund Policy:
For a full refund to be received, you must cancel at least 72 hours in advance of the session. For cancellations received less than 72 hours in advance, a credit for an equivalent class will be granted and must be used within six months. Please email lm@em-lm.com regarding any cancellations or questions.
“I really benefited from Ken’s class. He is knowledgeable, informative, and responsive. In addition to the course content, he offered additional resources and meetings to prepare for the test. His teaching style is compassionate and engaging, and I am not sure I would have passed the certification without his help. I would definitely take another class from him!”
Adrian Bradley | Discover Compass
“Ken is a seasoned HR professional with a depth of knowledge. I had delayed taking the SHRM-SCP exam for years and once committed knew a course would be an integral part of my study plan. He was a hands-on instructor despite the virtual nature of the course. Ken walked us through complicated topics and often shared strategies and tips. The notes I took during class were invaluable. He held extra sessions so we could spend additional time on practice questions. Ken was committed to his students’ success and equipped me with the tools I needed to successfully pass the SHRM-SCP exam.”
Lisa Lubas, MS, SHRM-SCP | Tetra Tech
I wanted to reach out to thank you for being such a great instructor. I had been thinking about taking the course for over three years. However, I was extremely hesitant due to the horror stories regarding how hard the exam was to pass. After much hesitation, I decided to sign up for the course, and I have to tell you that we lucked out for having you as the instructor. You made the class fun to attend. You were very thorough when going through the presentations. Thanks to your way of teaching, I was able to pass the exam. I took your advice on how to approach the test, and it worked!!!
For a full refund to be received, you must cancel at least 2 weeks in advance of the session. Cancellations that occur after the SHRM Learning Materials have been shipped will be less the cost of the materials and shipping. SHRM Learning materials may not be returned once shipped. Please email shrmcertprep@em-lm.com regarding any cancellations or questions.
You are the future
Invest in yourself with SHRM Certification
Employment Matters’ SHRM Certification Preparation Course will broaden and update your knowledge and skills
while delivering everything you need to pass the SHRM-CP or SHRM-SCP exam, all in an interactive environment.
One-on-one guidance from an expert
Personal access to the SHRM Learning System
Knowledge and skills necessary for the SHRM exam
Opportunity to network and collaborate with peers
A structured and supportive learning environment
In today’s changing HR landscape, it’s becoming more important than ever that you not only have strong HR knowledge and skills but are also able to be a strategic business thinker, capable of tackling any issue thrown your way. With the SHRM Certified Professional (SHRM-CP®) and SHRM Senior Certified Professional (SHRM-SCP®), you’ll have the answers AND know what to do on the job.
SHRM LEARNING SYSTEM
The SHRM Learning System is the official SHRM certification prep tool. It delivers the most comprehensive, flexible, and effective SHRM-CP and SHRM-SCP exam preparation.
With our course, you’ll receive the SHRM Learning System which offers personalized learning that adjusts to your unique learning style. You’ll learn to apply HR knowledge and competencies to real-life situations and maximize exam readiness with more than 1,500 practice questions, including 160 retired exam questions, as well as interactive tools.
Designed using a proven approach for teaching adult learners, this system helps you understand, apply, and engage with behavioral competencies and HR Knowledge. Online learning modules, based on the SHRM Body of Applied Skills and Knowledge (SHRM BASK), and interactive study tools, are incorporated into the study process to test your knowledge and decision-making skills.
There’s no better way to successfully prepare for the SHRM certification exams!
For best results, schedule your certification exam for a date that is after the end of your preparation course. Apply online at shrmcertification.org/apply.
To be eligible for the SHRM-CP and SHRM-SCP exams, you must meet specific educational and work experience criteria at the time you submit your application. For details on eligibility requirements, visit shrmcertification.org/eligibility.
All catalog topics can be delivered as is or tailored and customized to your needs. Enrollment at your location could be for a specific team/dept or open enrollment within your organization.
Additional topics include, but are not limited to:
LPI® Assessment: The Leadership Challenge®
Innovation Practices in the Workplace
The Power of Narrative: Storytelling for Leaders
Mindfulness in the Workplace
Managing Your Inner Critic
Strategic Thinking
MBTI Step II: A Deeper Dive
Custom topics as requested @ $250/hr.
Material fees may apply/Virtual enrollment is capped at 18-24
Onsite Fees
2 hour $1200
1/2 day $1850
Full day $2650
Additional Support for Teams & Departments
Allow us to guide a team or department to greater cohesiveness and effectiveness.
5 Dysfunctions of a Team
Building Radically Collaborative Relationships
MBTI Step I, Step II, Crisis Reactions, & other advanced applications
Innovation Practices in the Workplace
World Café
Setting Values
Group-Level Assessment
Appreciative Inquiry
Context Mapping
Future Search
LEAN Processes
DISC Communication Strategies
Any offering can be delivered as modules across multiple days or weeks.
Delivery can be virtual, in-person (following CDC guidelines) or a hybrid, which is a mix of virtual and in-person modules. Enroll in our catalog classes or let us come to you!
Leadership Learning Lab
The Leadership Lab is a robust, customized leadership development program through which leaders deepen their level of self-awareness, form their leadership vision, enhance their level of influence, navigate change more effectively and build relevant leadership capacity. As a result of the program, leaders are more conscious and intentional about their impact and inspire greater engagement among those they lead.
The Leadership Lab is tailored to the specific needs of your organization and can be delivered in a six-month or 12-month timeframe. Employment Matter consultants will partner with you to design a Leadership Lab that meets your leaders’ unique needs.
Leadership Learning Lab Elements
Foundational
Monthly training sessions
Monthly application practices
360 Assessment
Executive coaching
Optional
Team projects
Mentoring
Business/Industry/Cultural Acumen sessions
Applied problem-solving sessions
Timely Topics
Fostering Well-Being
Feel like you are languishing? Unsurprisingly, many are suffering from post-pandemic fatigue. After two years, the fallout is unrelenting. Levels of anxiety and distress have been exacerbated by the COVID mutations, social isolation, health concerns, and continued uncertainty and upheaval. Explore effective coping strategies to reduce the toll of this lasting health crisis. Learn how to maintain balance and set healthy boundaries in this post-pandemic reality. Take steps to replenish and practice rejuvenating self-care practices.
While some might claim that discussing personal happiness during the current crisis is selfish and inappropriate, research reveals the contrary. Those who actively cultivate their own happiness are more resilient, both physically and mentally. That resilience not only serves the individual, but it also furthers their team and organization. Discover and practice the tools and techniques associated with greater resilience.
There are many facets to leadership, and leading in a virtual environment can raise some distinct challenges. Leading in a Virtual Environment is a half-day class that examines five key principles. Learn how to effectively bolster and engage your team remotely. Prioritize the trust and team connection necessary for innovation and performance. Avoid mistakes that may be amplified in remote settings. Identify best practices as you continue to navigate the new normal for work and leadership.
Explore the dynamics of crisis reactions and how communication is impacted by Myers-Briggs’s type and the impact those reactions have on a team’s functioning. Craft a plan for more effectively navigating the needs of a team and mitigating harmful stress responses in yourself and others.
*Enrollment is closed one week before the session for pre-work. An online report and interpretation booklet are included.
Available upon request as an onsite
Email: employmentmatters@em-lm.com or call 303.803.1686
Facilitator: Employment Matters staff
Mitigating Unconscious Bias
What is bias? And how does it drive decisions? Neither good nor bad, bias is hardwired in the brain. While there are dozens of identified biases, this session focuses on ones that often appear in the workplace. Through examples and discussion, see what their impact can be. Discuss ways to mitigate that impact individually, on teams, and at an organizational level.
Belonging is the key component of inclusion and is a key metric in DEI initiatives. When people feel a sense of belonging at work, they are not only happier, but they are also more engaged and as a result even more effective. While efforts in recruiting a more diverse workforce are essential, it is also imperative that the employee experience is intentionally crafted to drive their success. Explore how to foster inclusion, belonging, and connection on a team and organizational level with the goal of embedding it in your workplace culture.
Spend the day exploring generational cohort groups and the similarities and differences among them. Identify ways to flex and adapt to the differing expectations of each generation. Conduct a workplace audit thru the lens of generational inclusivity and identify best practices to create generational affinity in the workplace.
FIRO theory, developed by Dr. Will Schutz identifies common human behaviors and the motivations behind them. Utilize his framework to increase self-awareness and develop a better understanding of others. Enhance effectiveness by managing reactivity and practicing new ways of working with and leading others. This session will bring clarity about your leadership aspirations and provide strategies for increasing interpersonal effectiveness.
Over the last 25 years I have had the pleasure of working closely with a number of the Employment Matters staff. I have watched them in action, observed the skillfulness with which they facilitate groups and engage individuals in transformational growth. They are experts in their craft and have the social and emotional intelligence skills to create powerful and safe interpersonal learning experiences for leaders who wish to address the human element in business”.
Ron Luyet, Senior Global Consultant for BCon Human Element
and co-author of Radical Collaboration
“The Employment Matters practitioners bring a caring and skill to their work that helps to create exceptional transformational experiences. Their programs will deliver more than you expect!”
Ethan Schutz, President & CEO, The Schutz Company and
Master Human Element Practitioner
Coaching: Maximizing Potential
Coaching an employee may be an organization’s most rewarding investment – and benefits the team, as well. Effective coaching can inspire individuals to meet their professional goals, resulting in positive shifts in their approach, behavior, and impact. This interactive session focuses on creating resonant coaching relationships, integrating meaningful coaching practices, and utilizing a concrete coaching process. Develop effective coaching competencies and skills to support individuals in realizing their highest potential and spark enhanced individual, team, and organizational performance.
Peggy has a rich range of experience in coaching, mediation, and facilitation, with an M.S. in Educational Psychology from Southern Illinois University. A certified coach, her intuitive and supportive style creates an ideal environment for self-discovery and growth. Peggy is gifted at coaching people to their best, particularly leaders endeavoring to be more strategic and influential. A certified mediator, Peggy also enjoys the challenge of navigating others through conflict and adeptly shepherds teams through workplace strife with her exceptional conflict resolution skills. Among numerous advanced certifications, Peggy holds one for both Human Element (LHEP™) and Radical Collaboration.
Hometown: Akron, OH
Following on LinkedIn: Brene Brown, Simon Sinek & Adam Grant
EQ Masterclass
Emotional intelligence focuses on the ability to better connect and manage emotions to promote positive outcomes. These skills can be developed and improved. This results-oriented session will provide practical tools to enhance one’s capability in each of the EQ five competencies. Build your self-management skills and apply that knowledge at a personal, team, and organizational level.
Compassionate leaders see individuals as more than cogs in the machine. They choose people over process and are fully committed to creating a culture of trust through action. Compassionate Leadership is about propelling team members to their potential with a genuine commitment to their well-being. Learn how to check behaviors and practices for impact and align them with your intent. Embody a proactive mindset that nurtures growth, innovation, and risk-taking, all keys to a successful team.
Faculty Spotlight: Lisa Barbeau, M.S., PHR, SHRM-CP, HRCI
Lisa holds an M.S. in Instructional Design from the University of Michigan and has practiced in the field of OD for over 30 years. Lisa is a gifted facilitator with a talent for drawing out and engaging learners in dialogue and reflection. She is a certified MBTI® and LHEP™ facilitator, as well as a mediator. Lisa is skilled in crafting learning experiences from source material that results in exceptional growth opportunities. She adeptly creates and holds a safe space for individuals to explore the content to their level of comfort; always inviting them forward. Lisa has long found deep satisfaction in supporting the building of capacity in individuals and organizations.
Hometown: Ferndale, Michigan
Following on LinkedIn: Simon Sinek, Center for Creative Leadership, MindSpark Learning and Adam Grant
Leadership Influence Strategies
This methodology identifies strategies of influence for the workplace. Participants will have multiple opportunities to practice each tactic in a variety of applications. These techniques may be applied to influencing at all levels of the organization. Designed to reinforce skills and enhance the ability to gain resources, support and cooperation for initiatives and endeavors.
Administered 3.5 million times annually, the Myers-Brigg Type® Indicator (MBTI) continues to be one of the most popular assessment worldwide. Use it to help develop a better appreciation of self and others; build effective work teams and enhance problem-solving and performance. This session focuses on the relationship between personality type and leadership. Learn about the unique contributions each leadership style offers and how to navigate potential derailers and blind spots. Identify patterns that serve effectiveness and others where there is an opportunity for development.
Available upon request as an onsite
Facilitator: Employment Matters staff
5 Dysfunctions of a Team
This class is based on Patrick Lencioni’s 5 Dysfunctions of a Team body of work. The content offers great insight into team dynamics, individual conflict contributors, and specific tools for creating a cohesive team. This session is presented in five modules: Absence of Trust, Fear of Conflict, Lack of Commitment, Avoidance of Accountability, and Inattention to Results. This class can be offered as a full-day class that covers all 5 tenets, or it can be offered with a focus on any one of the modules.
Available upon request as an onsite
Facilitator: Employment Matters staff
Recommended Reading
Also, noteworthy: The Advantage, Patrick Lencioni & Leaders Eat Last and Start with Why, Simon Sinek
Supervisory Skills
Foundations of Supervision
Being a great leader is much more than managing people. This session will focus on six key components of exceptional leadership. Learn specific ways to enhance team performance. Whether you are a seasoned supervisor or entering the role this class will provide tools to help navigate growing your role.
* Our Leadership Certificate series provides leaders tools, insights and learning to increase their awareness and effectiveness. See Programs for details.
Congratulations, you’ve been promoted! Now you have the challenge of leading a team and managing people who were formerly your peers. They may even be your friends. Spend the day with us exploring strategies for a successful transition. Practice the skills you will need to navigate the path forward and to be an exceptional supervisor. Gain confidence in your ability to inspire, lead and contribute to a thriving workplace.
This session identifies best practices for supporting individuals and teams as they navigate the challenging change process. Learn to identify the facets of change and how to develop appropriate responses to invite people forward. Audit existing practices at an individual, team, and organizational level for effectiveness. Gain ideas on how to optimize and build capacity for change individually and organizationally.
Having a leadership role and little authority can create a frustrating dynamic. This unique role shares responsibilities with both the employees and the supervisor. This class will offer a chance to identify the opportunities to better influence, as well as how to leverage personal relationships. It provides concrete tools and tactics to enhance knowledge and skillset in this capacity.
Skillscope is a robust 360 assessment tool. Developed by the Center for Creative Leadership (CCL) to support leaders in building effectiveness through feedback, it identifies 15 essential competencies and 98 behavioral items. Each participant selects their raters prior to the session. The session provides an opportunity to interpret and develop a plan in response to the feedback report.
*Skillscope is a developmental tool and results are only shared with the participant.
Available upon request as an onsite
CEU: 4.0
Facilitator: Employment Matters staff
Trust in the Workplace
Developing and sustaining trust is the key to successful working relationships. It is the core from which to communicate, resolve conflict and operate in daily interactions with coworkers and leadership. This course offers a lens into individual trust challenges as well as trust at the organizational level. Discover ways to build, rebuild and ultimately sustain trust.
SLII®, is the most widely used leadership training program in the world. Blanchard’s model teaches leaders how to build meaningful connections with colleagues and employees. Research shows that employees need different levels of direction and support depending on their level of competence and commitment. Unfortunately, most managers use only one leadership style—and the results are costly. Agility can increase productivity and engagement to deliver exceptional ROI.
Take your and your team’s productivity to the next level with this skill-building course that focuses on learning how to let go, when to delegate and when not to, who to delegate to, and how to delegate successfully. Build relationships, leverage the talents of others, and develop your staff through the assigning and delegating of tasks and responsibilities. Explore best practices and more effectively navigate common errors.
Strong communication skills are the foundation of workplace success. They build strong relationships, connected teams and, ultimately, higher performing organizations. This workshop focuses on tools and techniques that increase intentional and effective communication. Realize immediate results of impactful communication.
An essential workplace skill is the ability to manage challenging situations. Competence in navigating difficult conversations can increase individual effectiveness and organizational success. Learn how to apply practical principles for navigating complicated interpersonal situations. Choose effective strategies for crafting collaborative conversations that enhance resolution. Build skill and confidence in the ability to positively resolve complex issues and build agreement.
Striking the right balance on the continuum of assertiveness is a common challenge. Identify and practice assertive communication, focus on specific behaviors to enhance positive impact and increase confidence. Learn practical skills that lead to improved relationships.
DISC is a tool that when effectively applied can bridge gaps between individual communication styles on a team and improve the efficiency of workplace communications. Each participant will assess their own behavioral and communication styles, reflect on strengths, and blind spots, and then apply that information on how to work more effectively with others. Assessment results will be used to better address challenges that they are facing in their work environments and learn how they can adapt to others for enhanced communication.
There is much more to listening than hearing the spoken words. It is important to ensure that those around us feel heard. Much is gained by recognizing where listening might be improved. Small changes in listening can bring about a big impact on interpersonal relationships. Learn tools that will enhance listening and increase positive communication.
Collaboration is the foundation of all high-performing teams. This session provides tools to immediately cultivate any relationship, whether professional or personal. Learn how to defuse defensiveness through Interest-Based Negotiations. IBN is a straightforward method for navigating through complicated conflict and arriving at solutions that consider individual needs
Also, noteworthy: Crucial Conversations, Difficult Conversations & Nonviolent Communication: A Language of Life
Endorsement
The consultants at Employment Matters are highly skilled at creating radically collaborative work environments and teams using the Radical Collaboration® program.
Jim Tamm, co-creator of Radical Collaboration®
Also, noteworthy: Crucial Conversations, Difficult Conversations & Nonviolent Communication: A Language of Life
Endorsement
The consultants at Employment Matters are highly skilled at creating radically collaborative work environments and teams using the Radical Collaboration® program.
Jim Tamm, co-creator of Radical Collaboration®
Conflict Tools: Empowering Others
Mentoring and guiding staff through challenges is a key component of successful leadership. Recognizing types of conflict, signs of conflict, and ways to reframe conflict increases confidence when facilitating others. Learn and practice intervention strategies, effective verbiage, and techniques to coach and move others through conflict.
Conflict is not only inevitable; it is necessary for growth. In order to better address and resolve conflict, an individual examination of personal patterns and triggers is crucial. Gain skills to deescalate conflict situations and learn modifications to ineffective responses. This deepened understanding of conflict enables the navigation of tense situations with tact and authenticity.
Whether an informal session on an online platform; a large virtual conference or strategizing with the board of directors, strong presentation skills are critical. This session sharpens these important skills. Day 1 is content and learning-driven; Day 2 provides the opportunity to practice and present virtually, as well as receive valuable feedback. Participants are provided helpful and practical presentation techniques around planning, proposing material, platform skills, and the final delivery of the presentation. Gain skills and confidence regardless of skill level.
Even for those never planning to take center stage at an event, there are numerous lessons to be learned from how TED talks are uniquely crafted. Spend the day discovering techniques and principles that can be applied to presentations of all kinds. Gain more polish and skill. Learn how to hold audience attention and increase impact through powerful and concise delivery.
Effective meetings are often the exception and not the norm. This course offers concrete tools that help organize, develop, and execute meetings of all sizes. It distinguishes the roles that are necessary to skillfully manage a meeting and allows ample opportunities to practice these roles. Learn how to address common meeting challenges and create a dynamic collaborative environment.
Eric holds an M.A. in International Intercultural Communication from the University of Denver. Eric worked as an OD consultant, coach, trainer, and mediator at Employers Council for the last 25 years, where he partnered with member organizations working to build healthy thriving workplaces. He works with leaders of all levels in the areas of interpersonal communication, conflict, valuing diversity, supervision, team building, mindfulness, and self-mastery. Eric is a certified Integral Coach through ICF®-accredited, New Ventures West. He is also a certified mediator, MBTI® practitioner, Radical Collaboration instructor, an LHEP™ Human Element facilitator, and a graduate of Newfield Network.
Hometown: Denver, CO
Following on LinkedIn: Patrick Lencioni, Bob Chapman, Right Use of Power, Amy Cuddy, and Stagen Leadership Academy.
Facilitation Skills
While facilitation is more art than science, there are specific verbal and physical methods that can improve effectiveness. This immersive experience allows for practice to refine delivery skills. Create and maintain an inclusive atmosphere to encourage engagement and participation. Practice maintaining neutrality, establishing group norms, designing appropriate interventions, and observing group dynamics. Each participant will have an opportunity to experiment with new skills and receive feedback on their facilitations.
Available upon request as an onsite
Facilitator: Employment Matters staff
On-the-Job Training Skills
This session provides a framework for systematically developing on-the-job training. The design templates given ensure consistency in delivery by different trainers and creates a structured method to track learning progress. A must for any organization intent on providing successful procedural training. Particularly effective for presenting standard operating procedures that adhere to regulatory compliance requirements.
See our pdf catalog p. 4 for a full list of pre-approved classes
Workplace Effectiveness
Problem Solving Meets Design Thinking
This session draws on various problem-solving methodologies including but not limited to Lean and Design Thinking. Participants will be exposed to tools and practices that emphasize co-creating solutions that are human-centric in focus. Time will be spent on asking the right questions and spotting the right issues. Data mining techniques and establishing feedback loops will be discussed as well as adopting a cycle of consistent observation and improvement at an individual, team, and organizational level.
A practical session that provides skills to streamline business processes and eliminate waste. A foundation of lean process improvement tools which can immediately be implemented in the workplace. Practices are identified to create efficient and sustainable lean systems that improve your competitive advantage. Lean is both a set of tools and mindset; this session discusses setting the stage for creating a lean culture.
There is a high cost to workplace incivility. Unfortunately, unkind, and discourteous behaviors can find tacit approval for select employees and even become the norm in unattentive organizations. Learn how to recognize when and how to hold people accountable for the often subtle and insidious behaviors associated with incivility. Take away tools that help build a culture of individual and team accountability.
Customer Relations challenges can frustrate even the most well-intended team member. Gain insight on how to deescalate an aggravating situation. Tools on how to reframe a complaint are also given. This course offers practical solutions to learn how to best serve both external and internal customers. Opportunities to practice and enhance customer service skills are provided.
This seminar provides best practices and skills that emphasize priorities, organization, and staying on task. Learn to identify and attain long-term professional and personal goals. Discover the time-wasters which are consuming your day and how they affect your performance. Better manage interruptions and the deluge of e-mails, voicemails, and other communications. Redesign your day so you can restore balance in your life and leave with the tools to make time for what is most important.
Doug is an educator, trainer, consultant, broadcaster, and activist whose professional career includes service to higher education, non-profit, small business, corporate, independent, organizational, men’s issues, and fatherhood consulting. Doug earned his doctorate from the University of Northern Colorado, his MA from Teachers College, Columbia University, and his BA from Kenyon College. He has lectured, published, and consulted widely in the areas of education, management, and gender studies.
Hometown: Toledo, OH
Following on LinkedIn: Mickey (Hiroshi) Mikitani, Getting Things Done® – Network of GTD® Enthusiasts, Sramana Mitra, and Satya Nadella.
HR / Legal
Harassment Prevention
This scenario-driven approach to harassment prevention provides an overview of employment discrimination law. It also goes deeper, exploring employees’ fundamental expectation of respectful treatment in the workplace and its intersection with employer policy. Higher expectations and potential liability for management based on law, internal policy, and employee perspective add more considerations. Optimize the work environment by integrating all these aspects and increase learning, understanding, and application.
An understanding of key employment laws is essential for managers and supervisors, especially because their knowledge and actions may be imputed to the organization. Issue-spotting acumen is critical. This highly interactive session provides a variety of scenario discussions to equip participants with practical knowledge of federal and Colorado state employment laws. Gain awareness of potential workplace legal issues and build confidence on this expansive and evolving topic.
Mark has collaborated with employers of all types as an employment attorney for nearly twenty-five years. As an advisor and trainer, he applies his extensive knowledge of Equal Employment Opportunity law, human resources, and employee relations. Workplace investigations are Mark’s professional passion. He has conducted hundreds of them and supervised hundreds more. In addition, Mark has published numerous articles and served as an expert witness on the subject. He is fascinated by the Enneagram tool and the study of implicit bias. He lives in Denver with his wife, daughter, and beloved dog Woodrow.
Hometown: Muskegon, Michigan
Following on LinkedIn: Association of Workplace Investigators, Inc., and Dr. Travis Bradberry.
Workplace Investigations
An organization’s appropriate response to behavioral, performance and compliance concerns in workplace investigations is crucial for informed decision-making. This session provides strategies and methodologies for conducting prompt, impartial, and thorough workplace investigations. From defining and managing scope, conducting interviews, and making credibility assessments, to crafting investigation reports and concluding the process, this course develops your ability to assume the role of an objective factfinder.
The business scandals of recent years have highlighted the importance of ethical behavior in the workplace. Evaluate theories of ethics and factors affecting ethical behavior in the workplace. An ethical framework will be applied to real-world organizational issues, situations, and decisions. Participants will develop skill in recognizing and addressing ethical questions and choosing among alternate courses of action. Ensure that employees acting on behalf of your business are operating within your company’s ethics policy and defined code of conduct.
While the necessity of appropriate documentation is well known, one’s skill can always be improved. Proper documentation can deflect liability, while poor documentation may do the opposite. Practice drafting impactful documentation as part of this interactive training. Learn and apply the building blocks of effective corrective action to improve performance.
The FMLA impacts organizations more than most employment laws because health conditions are inevitable and unpredictable. Often misunderstood and misapplied, the FMLA requires that employers grant job-protected leave to eligible employees, and sometimes pause when addressing employee attendance or performance concerns. This session helps participants navigate COVID-19 related leave and reinstatement, and numerous other leave issues under the FMLA. Learn the fundamentals of FMLA and explore its nuances to support the administration of this complex law.
Few management decisions are more critical than hiring. And few are more challenging and prone to missteps. This session will address potential legal concerns around the interviewing and hiring process. Learn what applicant questions might be problematic. Review organizational policies for compliance. Establish consistency between policy and current practices. Reduce concerns and leave with more confidence that mistakes are minimized. Establish a hiring process which results in fewer legal concerns, positive outcomes, and great hires.
Many organizations mistakenly assume that they are complying with I-9 requirements when in fact they are not. Immigration enforcement is rising, and mistakes can be costly. This is no time to take such a risk. It is important to review company practices, to better ensure compliance. This session covers proper completion and correction for the I-9, acceptable documents, retention, and best practices. The E-Verify process will also be discussed, as well as potential penalties for non-compliance.
Laura blends 20 years of experience as an HR leader and employment law attorney. Laura advises clients on all aspects of human capital management including organizational change, culture, policy development, employee/labor relations, talent acquisition, and compliance. Laura is a trained mediator, an experienced and engaging facilitator, and a recognized leader in DEI practices. In addition to her years as an employment litigator with the Colorado Attorney General’s Office, Laura served as the chief human resources officer (CHRO) at the University of Denver and supervised the University’s Title IX and Equal Opportunity program. Laura holds an Inclusive Workplace Culture specialty credential from SHRM and a Title IX Hearing Officer credential from ATIXA.
Hometowns: Fairfax,Va
Following on LinkedIn: Brene Brown, Johnny C. Taylor, Arianna Huffington, SHRM, HBR, National Geographic, & CUPA
HR Foundations
Set yourself up for success! This course helps you develop sound HR practices within the culture of your organization. As an introductory course, learn how you can best partner with managers and leaders in your organization. Learn how to manage risks, maintain compliance, and approach policies and practices with an equitable lens. Some of the areas that will be covered include talent acquisition, performance management, employee relations, policy approaches, employee handbooks, and records management.
Compensation is a critical element to retain and attract talent to your organization. Gain the knowledge necessary to lead your organization’s development of a compensation strategy, communicate key compensation factors, and align your organization’s goals with its compensation strategy. Identify compensable factors that fit your organization, consider for market data, and explore Total Rewards and best practices.
Trusted Partner Spotlight: Erich Wonsavage, MSM, PHR, SHRM-CP
Erich has over 20 years of diverse human resources and leadership experience in education, healthcare, and the public sector. He has an MS in Human Resources and Project Management and is a certified Organizational Development consultant and mediator. He has extensive experience leading HR initiatives including policy design, compensation, performance management, talent acquisition, compliance, workflow development, process improvement, and benefits administration. He integrates his hands-on experiences to transform complex topics and processes into actionable steps that can help individuals and groups move toward a more inclusive and productive environment.
Hometowns: Minneapolis, MN
Following on Twitter: Mile Hi SHRM & the Organizational Development Network
Title IX Coordinator Training
This training highlights the unique Title IX issues that confront K-12 educational organizations. Participants will acquire the skills and knowledge to build an effective Title IX compliance program, and to develop Title IX policies and procedures for their school. Ideal for school leaders and educators tasked with receiving and responding to Title IX complaints and developing interim measures. Best practices for investigations and recordkeeping will also be explored.
Custom onsite training upon request
Facilitator: Karin Ranta-Curran, J.D.
Faculty Spotlight: Karin Ranta-Curran, J.D.
Karin began her career as an employment attorney 25 years ago and developed significant experience in workplace investigations, labor relations, employment law, and human resources advising. In 2014, Karin began a deep-dive into education law, serving as the Title IX Coordinator for a prominent Colorado research university, a private university, and several K-12 charter schools. The parent of a neuroatypical child, Karin is passionate about helping schools meet the unique needs of their students. Karin lives in Denver with her husband and two sons and enjoys (albeit infrequent) visits from her college-age daughter.
Hometowns: Evergreen, CO & Tuscon, AZ
Following on Twitter: National Audubon Society & Temple Grandin School
Harassment Prevention for Schools
This training highlights the unique issues that confront K-12 educational organizations. In addition to providing an overview of employment discrimination law, the training discusses civil rights for students including Title IX and disability protections. Ideal for school leaders, board members, counselors, and teachers. Participants learn how anti-harassment principles can be applied across school policies to enhance a positive school culture for both students and employees.
A school’s prompt response to sexual harassment complaints is a critical aspect of an effective Title IX compliance program. This session provides participants with the skills and tools for conducting prompt, impartial, and thorough Title IX investigations in K-12 and higher educational settings. From defining and managing scope, conducting interviews, and making credibility assessments, to crafting investigation reports and concluding the process, this course develops your ability to assume the role of an objective factfinder. Ideal for educators and staff tasked with performing investigators and Title IX Coordinators.
Custom onsite training upon request
Facilitator: Karin Ranta-Curran, J.D.
HR as Strategic Business Partner
Impactful HR leaders initiate human resource programs and practices from an “outside-in” viewpoint. The operational needs of the organization are assessed first, and HR solutions are implemented and delivered enabling managers and employees to those needs. To do this HR professionals need to be trusted business partners. This session explores key leadership and influencing skills, relationship building, internal consulting skills, and applying a business case methodology for building and delivering impactful HR expertise and programs aligned to meet operational and business requirements.
Trusted Partner Spotlight: Ken Pinnock, MS, SHRM-SCP
Ken is the Director of People Development who leads talent management and organizational development programs and initiatives for the University of Denver. His work in HR management spans more than 25 years including strategy, organizational design, employee relations, workforce planning, coaching, and leadership development. He is a Certified Coach with the Institute of Social and Emotional Intelligence. He has been a facilitator for the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) for more than 10 years leading a variety of HR courses, including preparing HR professionals for the SHRM-S/CP Certification exams throughout the US and Internationally. Ken was recently published in the International Journal of Business and Financial Research on workplace bullying.
Hometowns: Ashland, OR
Following on LinkedIn: Organizational Development Consortium, SHRM Education Product Instructors, Academy of Human Resource Development
SHRM Certification Prep Program
In today’s changing HR landscape, it’s becoming more important than ever that you not only have strong HR knowledge and skills but are also able to be a strategic business thinker, capable of tackling any issue thrown your way. Employment Matters’ SHRM Certification Preparation Program will broaden and update your knowledge and skills while delivering everything you need to pass the SHRM-CP or SHRM-SCP exam, all in an interactive instructor-led virtual environment.
The Emerging Leader Cohort Boot Camp is a rigorous and results-oriented weeklong program. It prepares high-potential leaders to adopt increasing levels of responsibility. Presented over 4.5 days, this program is designed to help emerging or newer leaders build key competencies. More than ever before, emerging leaders must shift with agility from the role of individual contributor to developing a strategic perspective and taking their leadership skills to the next level. In addition to the weeklong program, all participants will also receive and debrief of their 360 and 3 sessions of coaching with a certified 360 Profilor coach.
Session 1
The Mindful Leader and Leadership: The Human Side of Business
Session 2
Change Management and Managing Your Inner Critic
Session 3
Leadership Influence Strategies
Session 4
Mindful Listening and Mitigating Unconscious Bias
Session 5
The Multigenerational Workplace
*Modules can be substituted at your request
Available upon request at your location
4 and a 1/2 days, Virtual and/or in-person delivery
The Mindful Leader & Leadership: Leveraging the Human Element
Session 2
Change Management and Managing Your Inner Critic
Session 3
Leadership Influence Strategies
Session 4
Mindful Listening and Mitigating Unconscious Bias
Session 5
Integration
Leadership Certificate
Whether a newly minted or well-established leader, this series will build a strong foundation for enhanced success. Our Leadership Certificate provides leaders tools and insights to increase their awareness and effectiveness. These leaders will foster stronger teams and ultimately create meaningful impact in their organizations.
Required:
Skillscope®: 360 Feedback
Foundations of Supervision
Leadership: The Human Side of Business
Coaching: Maximizing Potential
Employment Law: Issue Spotting
Communicating Effectively in Difficult Situations
Conflict Tools: Empowering Others
Electives (Minimum of 3)
Change Management
Compassionate Leadership
EQ Masterclass
5 Dysfunctions of a Team
The Multigenerational Workplace
Ken Blanchard’s SLII®
Leadership Influence Strategies
Leadership and the MBTI®
Managing Meetings
Mitigating Unconscious Bias
Inclusion and Belonging in the Workplace
Performance Documentation Fundamentals
* Certificate to be completed within an 18-month period.
Training @ Your Location
Integral Coaching
Integral Coaching is a framework of inquiry into the many aspects of a person. It is valuable for anyone who seeks to learn, grow, and thrive professionally or personally. EM’s Certified coaches work directly with leaders and individual contributors at all organizational levels.
Our coaches thoroughly assess each client’s needs. A customized and comprehensive strategy is created and includes readings, practices, and check-ins spanned over the client’s timeframe.
Our coaching philosophy is to unearth the learning edge and support vulnerability in a safe space. This leads to the ultimate goal – discovery, and development.
The coaching process includes:
Initial contracting
Optional 360 assessment
Comprehensive Intake
Customized coaching program design
Implementation
Closing
10 sessions (excluding Profilor) $5800
Profilor assessment $250
360 Profilor Coaching
The Profilor coaching process provides a collaborative environment in which leaders explore how others experience their leadership through a broad range of competencies. This enriching process gives leaders insight into their strengths and areas for development and helps them identify concrete steps for reaching their goals and potential.
Employment Matters is honored to announce a partnership with the Watson Wenk Group, founded by Darrell B. Watson and Dr. Michel Wenk. Darrell and Mike have over 50 combined years of supporting businesses, schools, community groups, nonprofit, and governmental organizations in fulfilling their Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DE&I) endeavors. The goal of our partnership with the Watson Wenk Group is to sustain teams that are empowered and engaged, particularly regarding DE&I.
With the Watson Wenk Group, we can offer a full range of DE&I support, such as group facilitation and training; formulation and implementation of an organizational plan; follow-through strategies; and measuring success. Please contact Employment Matters to learn how to take your DE&I efforts to the next level.
What else can Employment Matters do for us?
Mediation & Facilitated Conversation Services
Mediation is a structured and interactive process for conflict resolution. Employment Matters’ skilled and certified mediators provide effective communication and collaboration techniques to resolve workplace conflict. They offer unbiased support for conflicts arising between two or more individuals.
EM mediators bring the highest level of integrity to the process. Using a facilitative approach, the mediator provides coaching, support, and guidance to all participants. This furthers the expectation that all parties actively engage in the mediation.
4-hour mediation $1800
Pre-facilitation interviews $250/hour
Additional time as needed $250/hour
Intact team mediations TBD
OD Consulting Services
Team facilitations Including, yet not limited to:
Crafting Value Statements
Team Health Check
Norms/Working Agreements & Team Charters
World Café
PEST/SWOT/TOWS
Empathy Mapping/Customer Journey Mapping
Balanced Scorecard
LEAN processes
QStorming
6 Thinking Hats
Context Mapping
Appreciative Inquiry
Future Search
Stakeholder interviews $250/hr.
Facilitation pricing available upon request
Title IX and Equity Compliance Services
Employment Matters offers comprehensive Title IX and Equity compliance support for K-12 public schools and higher education institutions to meet increasingly complex federal requirements. Led by attorney and former Title IX Coordinator Karin Ranta-Curran.
Title IX services include:
Policy & Procedure Development
Training for all school constituent groups (students, staff, parents, Board members, etc.)
Our investigators bring decades of experience and dedication to conducting appropriate investigations of complex workplace issues. An investigation is a timely, impartial, and thorough collection and analysis of facts and circumstances within a defined scope of issues.
We start the process by working with you to define the investigation scope.
We utilize a consistent process that assists each participant in telling their side of the story.
We provide well-reasoned findings, coupled with thorough analysis, including a credibility assessment as needed.
We are personally and professionally dedicated to the role of objective and neutral fact-finder.
Our investigators’ depth of employment law knowledge and experience in conducting and managing workplace investigations is unmatched.
Call for 303.803.1686 or email mflynn@emfig.com for more information
Laura provides a full spectrum of human resources consulting services including interim HR leadership support. She is an engaging and collaborative HR leader with 20 years of experience as an employment attorney and CHRO. Laura’s superpower is connecting people to mission through the design and implementation of creative talent management solutions. Clients include small, mid-sized, and Fortune 500 companies as well as social impact organizations and governmental entities.
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