TroopHR

Fully remote friends: make time for in-person coffee dates. A couple weeks ago, I met with Jill Katz (a founding advisor of TroopHR and expert in the HR field!) for the first time on Zoom and halfway into our call we realized we live practically walking distance from each other. Fast forward: we met today for coffee and had so much fun chatting about our amazing community, our families, and all things HR. It was such a treat. Thanks Tracy Avin for building the best network of people!

If you think 2024 was just another year in HR, you weren't paying attention. This was the year HR professionals finally said "enough" to outdated practices and empty certifications. The year we watched companies choose between real employee development and performative management. The year AI stopped being a buzzword and started being a tool for giving managers back time for actual human connection. At SkillCycle, we proved you can use AI to make HR more human, not less. In September, we launched Aida - our AI assistant that handles the admin work so managers can focus on what matters: helping their people grow. (Being named to Inc.'s Female Founders 250 validated that you can innovate in HR tech while keeping humans at the center.) Some posts that sparked real conversations about where HR needs to go: "Companies requiring SHRM/HRCI certifications show laziness in HR hiring" On why real experience beats checking boxes https://lnkd.in/e_Ccr5g5 "I'm glad SHRM removed Equity from DEI initiatives" On finding progressive HR communities that drive actual change https://lnkd.in/eueZ2wgc "Response to Wayfair CEO's message about work ethic" On driving performance without burning people out https://lnkd.in/e88HkWry The best part? Building community through #HRConfessions with 🏡 Kim Rohrer (she/her) and watching HR pros find their voice in spaces like TroopHR and Safe Space. Nothing beats seeing people realize they're not alone in wanting better for our profession. Looking ahead: 2025 is about making learning and development accessible to everyone while ensuring technology enhances rather than replaces human connection. And yes, I'll keep calling out practices that hold us back. To every HR professional tired of "this is how we've always done it" - your time is now. The old playbook is dead. Let's write a better one together. Human first. Always. (Ironically, the bulk of this post was actually written by AI! Sometimes you need an objective perspective when you're trying to summarize a whole year 😊 )

Closing out 2024 on a high note by joining TroopHR! Community has always been important to me, and after a great chat with Tracy Avin, I knew this was the right group. I’m especially grateful for the flexibility and support in welcoming me just before my maternity leave. I can’t wait to dive into live learning sessions, leadership squads, and virtual networking events. How are you planning to grow your community in 2025? #TroopHR #HumanResources #PeopleOperations

Research shows that belonging to a group satisfies fundamental psychological needs, providing a sense of identity, support, and purpose. Studies in social psychology have found that group membership can enhance self-esteem and reduce stress. Being part of a supportive community can also foster personal growth and resilience. PS - they also send you great SWAG! Thanks to TroopHR for the community and swag! Who’s your troop?

Rocking my new holiday swag from TroopHR! A big thank you to Tracy Avin and Nicole Fealey for building such an incredible community. TroopHR is truly one of a kind. It’s a space where, if you’ve got a question or need support, there’s always a crew ready to have your back. If you’re in the HR space, I recommend checking it out —you’ll find inspiration, connection, and so much more. Also, a huge shoutout to Menttium for continuing to support my personal and professional growth. Investing in yourself is the best gift you can give, and I’m excited to keep growing with these amazing networks in the year ahead! #Gratitude #TroopHR #Menttium #ProfessionalGrowth #Community