Two for One at HR Houston

Article by:  Bonnie S., "HR Cert Expert"

HR Houston held its monthly meeting this week at the Marriott West Loop where nearly 200 HR professionals had the opportunity to attend three sessions.  It was a “Two for One” event where attendees had the opportunity to learn simple and cost effective ways to reward employees and receive an update on the effects of the recent Supreme Court ruling regarding healthcare.  Participants earned up to a total of 4.5 HRCI credits depending on what sessions they attended.

Attendees received a free book!

Sessions 1 and 2 featured Dr. Bob Nelson who made a Houston stop during his national book tour for 1501 Ways to Reward Employees.  The topics that he presented included the following:

• pending shortage of skilled workers; 
• rise of the millennial generation;
• expansion of contingent workers; and
• globalization of the labor market.

Dr. Nelson provided humorous examples and kept the crowd entertained, while driving home strategies the HR professionals could take back and implement to engage their employees and show appreciation for the work they do. 
Session 3 featured Monica Toth, JD, the Area Vice President - Compliance, for Gallagher Benefit Services, Inc.  Monica presented information regarding the effects of the recent decision by the U.S. Supreme Court, which upheld the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (PPACA).  As such, employers must now prepare to implement the Act – unless repealed following the November election. This session reviewed the requirements that apply in the short term for 2012-2013.  She also discussed the landscape of the new health insurance marketplace in 2014 and what it means for employers.