Please note that, although these are wonderful sites and newsletters (you can sign up to receive e-notices with most of these), they are not unique to private-independent schools—they are geared toward corporations. (In almost all cases, all of the federal and state employment laws that are highlighted on these websites apply to private-independent schools—however, how these regulations can be effectively implemented will need some "tweaking," given the unique culture of private-independent schools.)
The list below includes nationally known law firms specializing in employment law.
Also check your school's labor law firm's website for similar news and information.
- www.jacksonlewis.com
- www.ogletreedeakins.com/
- www.littler.com/Pages/Home.aspx
- www.ballardspahr.com/
- hr.blr.com/
- www.legalworkplace.com/
HR blogging sites?
Blog sites have been sprouting up since the 1990s. There are so many online communities, it's almost difficult to stay current with them all. However, if you're looking for breaking stories, being a part of a few networking blogging sites could benefit you. They can be a vital way to stay in touch with the HR world's forward thinkers.
Outside of the normal Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn, and Digg craze, there are several "one-offs" such as www.yourhrguy.com and renegadehr.net, which are written directed toward a younger crowd. Not the best blogs for everyone, we'll admit, but if you can see past the light tone and sarcastic humor, the information is valuable. Both of these are increasing traffic on a daily basis, so they must be doing something right!
Social networking sites for HR information too?
Yes, social networking has exploded over the past several years—and most definitely over the last two. It's not just for kids anymore. Oh no. In fact, Facebook's highest growing demographic is 35+.
Online communities are places where we can retreat for keeping up with friends, gaming, sharing stories and links we've found of interest from across the Web, and of course for work, too. HR information is no exception.
LinkedIn is a great resource for groups and professional contacts. Linked:HR is one of, if not the most, popular group on LinkedIn for HR conversations. However, if you're looking for a more diverse conversation base, H.R. Professionals is another great group with members on various levels—from students to HR experts.
Keep your sanity!
Don't overwhelm yourself with an abundance of memberships you'll soon lose track of. Keep it as simple as possible—for yourself and your family. The last thing you want to do is spend all your down time and work time checking in with a dozen different sites.
Look into a few and see which ones fit your personality and needs best. And, of course, stick with us—we'll keep you posted to what is going to affect private-independent schools most urgently.
