SHRM State Councils do What

The Illinois State  Council of SHRM is going to meet in one week. This is one of only two face to face meetings we have each year.  I know why we are getting together and why we are meeting.  I also think I know what it is that SHRM state councils do, but I don't think a lot of other folks get it. The reaction I get when I tell people I am a board member of this organization is somewhere between a deer in the headlights and your dog tilting their head to one side and looking at you like - you're crazy right?

As I ponder my question - what is it that SHRM State Councils do, I reacted the way I normally do when I have a question; I googled it.  The mothership at Duke Street has the answer.  While SHRM National's answer is succinct and to the point, I think the the state councils do more than this...

"State councils provide HR professionals with programs, published materials, conferences and more. They also serve as "entry points" for HR professionals new to a particular state or for those in an area not covered by a local chapter."

One of the biggest thing I think that we do is to be cheer leaders and supports of the National organization. We support them, promote them, mimic their actions, and do what ever they ask us to do.

Illinois, and I think most, but not all states hosts an annual State Conference.  These range from one day events to nearly week long extravaganzas depending upon which state you are examining.  State Councils also provide support to any and all chapters within their  state.

Today I am embarking on an effort to get other State Councils to share what it is they they do. All they will need to do is create a blog post about their State Council and what they do.

We will then create a carnival, linking all of these posts together as a resources for all of the state councils. I will be contacting as many of you as I know. If you do not get contacted and would like to participate - please email me and I will get in touch with you.

-Dave Ryan Director of Social Meddia ISC SHRM