June 2025 | 60th EDITION NEWSLETTER

What #MEC2025 Attendees are saying...



• Networking is always a plus and was very good. Vendor fair was nice. I did appreciate the interactive sessions, and the more leadership/team building focused sessions. Lunch was good.
• Variety of topics and interacting with other employers.
• The presentations are always great! And the topics are specific to what we face on a daily basis.
• A lot of useful information to take with me.

3 Ways to Clear Your Mind and Make Space for Big-Picture Thinking

Fast Company | Art Markman | April 22, 2025

If you feel like you’re accomplishing a lot, but not anything of longer-term significance, here’s how to reset and make time to tackle bigger goals. Take a look at your to-do list. Does it seem never-ending? The thing about task lists is that they are filled with specific things you need to accomplish. Combine that with an ever-expanding inbox, and you have a recipe for busy work days.

While you may get many things done, you may not feel like they are adding up to a more significant contribution to the mission of your workplace or your own big-picture goals. To ensure that the specific things you’re doing lead to important outcomes, you need some time in your schedule to reflect on the big-picture goals you have and their relationship to the actions you’re taking day-to-day.

Beyond the Acronyms and Noise: What’s Next for Corporate DEI?

HR Executive | Serilda Summers-McGee | April 16, 2025

DEI is under fire. The federal government has signaled outright hostility toward DEI efforts in workplaces, education and every other space where access, fairness and opportunity should be the norm.

And leaders? They’re afraid. Business owners and executives who once championed DEI without hesitation are now second-guessing themselves. They’re pulling back on policies, avoiding public commitments, and, in some cases, cutting DEI initiatives altogether.

Although many still believe in the work, they’re retreating because they don’t want to be the next target of a political machine that has turned progress into a battleground.



But let me be clear: DEI is not dead; it’s evolving.

How HR Can Strike a Balance Between People and Performance Priorities

HR Brew | Mikaela Cohen | April 17, 2025

“Humans have a variety of needs, and then organizations have needs as well. And, it doesn’t have to be an either/or decision between your people and their performance. It can actually be a both/and.”

People leaders are constantly wrestling with the three Ps of their job: People, processes, and performance. That’s why it makes sense on occasion if one gets more attention than another.

But the Ps of the people profession shouldn’t be an “either/or” option, it should be “both/and,” according to Jeff Smith, chief product officer at the performance management platform 15Five and author of The Meaningful Manager: How to Manage What Matters.

Leading a Company That Can Thrive in a Chaotic World

Harvard Business Review | Thomas Buberl, Bill George, Hubert Joly and Nitin Nohria | April 1, 2024

Recently, we met with a group of American and European CEOs of major companies to discuss how to lead in the context of the multiple, intersecting crises the world is facing — from geopolitical conflicts to environmental disasters, deepening political and social fractures, disrupted value chains, and disruptive technological change. This challenging context is causing significant stress for these leaders and their employees.

What emerged from our discussion is that leaders need to aim higher than simply withstanding or responding to these seemingly never-ending shocks. Although playing defense may be necessary, it’s not sufficient on its own.

What did ATTENDEES like MOST about #MEC2025?

• Local for me MO law updates/legislature. Good topics!
• The keynote speakers were AMAZING! If our library could afford to have them speak at our staff training, I would schedule them. I was able to take pieces away immediately and apply them to work.
• It was all very good. Tammy Rogers sessions were probably my favorite.
• Another excellent event for the books. Relevant and timely subject material makes it difficult to choose which sessions will be the most impactful. Thank you for organizing a great event!
• Networking!
• Really enjoyed every speaker I had the chance to hear from. They were all engaging and exciting even if their topics didn't mesh with me.

What Is Hybrid Remote Meaning in Today’s Workplace?

Missouri Employment Conference Sponsor Tesseon | April 22, 2025

Breaking Down Hybrid Work: The No-Nonsense Guide

The corporate world loves its buzzwords, and “hybrid work” sits at the top of that heap. After years of workplace whiplash—from office-bound to fully remote and back again, companies have landed somewhere in the middle.

What is Hybrid Remote Work?

Hybrid remote work, often simply called “hybrid work,” is a flexible work model that blends in-office and remote working days. Organizations practicing this model maintain physical offices for certain days while allowing teams to work remotely on others. A hybrid work schedule might involve teams coming into the office on fixed days, flexible days, or a mix of both.



This model has gained significant traction in recent years. According to recent data, as of May 2024, 63% of companies now embrace a hybrid work model, making it by far the most popular approach. Research from a top firm further reveals that 75% of the Fortune 100 operate on a hybrid work schedule, and 46% have reduced their office space footprint since 2020.

Rethinking How Employees Are Promoted

HR Brew | Mikaela Cohen | April 21, 2025

Current strategies could be harming retention and pushing talented employees out the door.

Employees aren’t all vibing with the idea of becoming someone else’s boss.

Only one-third of individual contributors in the US want to be a people manager, according to a LinkedIn survey. And some companies are rethinking how they handle promotions, so people management isn’t the only option for employees.

Shopify, Google, and BP, for instance, started dual-track or two-track promotions, The Hill reported, where employees choose to advance either as a people manager or as a higher-level individual contributor within a company.

Want To Bring Momentum into Your Life? Focus On Action and Not Perfection

Fast Company | Michel Koopman | April 22, 2025

Don’t wait for the ‘perfect’ time to start working on your goals.

I’ve always been a doer. I move fast, I love learning new things, and I don’t sit still for long. Productivity has been a faithful companion throughout my career, and I attribute much of my success to one key trait: the courage to take action—even when things seem uncertain or complex.

I trace this mentality back to a moment in my childhood. I was about 11 years old, growing up in the Netherlands, where a bicycle isn’t just a toy—it’s your main mode of transportation. 

"Day 1 of Missouri Employment Conference! City of Mexico is here to Level Up, Learn More... Build Leaders!" #MEC2025 Attendee Vicki J. Duenke

In response to Vicki's LinkedIn post…

"Two of Mexico's finest! Thank you both for taking the initiative to learn and for bringing that knowledge back to share with our city & community - it makes a real difference." Gigi Quinlan McArevy

"Way to invest in yourselves and to add value for those around you!" Beth Joelner 

What Does HR Need to Fulfill Its New Role As ‘Strategic Architect of Wellbeing’?

HR Executive | Jen Colletta | April 14, 2025

The last few years have ushered in a host of changes to the employee benefits landscape—including an increased emphasis on employee wellbeing. At the same time, there have been significant shifts in employee expectations, including around access to flexibility, personalization and offerings like telehealth. These are all core to the mission of Iris Telehealth, says Sarah Fyfe, chief people officer.

The organization has about 130 corporate employees and works with 650 clinicians to connect patients with high-quality behavioral telehealth resources. 

Why Communication Skills Training Fails When You Over-Prepare at Work

Forbes | Dr. Diane Hamilton | April 15, 2025

Many companies invest heavily in preparing their people to strengthen communication skills. In 2024, U.S. companies spent approximately $98 billion on employee training. And preparation does matter. But whether it is in sales, leadership, or public speaking, there is a point where too much preparation starts to backfire. It can become so rigid that it shuts down adaptability. The words may be perfect, but the connection disappears. I have seen organizations train people out of their natural strengths. That happened to me.

‘Why It’s Not Far-Fetched for HR Pros to Dream of Being COO

HR Brew | Paige McGlauflin | April 18, 2025

Chief operating officers (COOs) are a big deal in the business world. They oversee the day-to-day operations of a company, are typically second-in-command to the CEO, and often next in line for the top role.

Unfortunately for HR pros, the career path from the people function to head of operations isn’t so common. Most COOs tend to come up through operations or finance before landing their role.

Making the jump, however, isn’t impossible. Angel Franklin, COO of the dating app Hinge, stepped into her role last August after serving as CPO since June 2022.

Training Requirements and Resources

OSHA provides information on employers' training requirements and offers resources such as free publications, videos, and other assistance to help employers protect workers against injuries and illnesses.

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OSHA provides safety and health resources specifically designed for small businesses. Find information on complying with OSHA standards and receive advice you can trust through OSHA's no-cost and confidential On-Site Consultation Program.

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Empowering Small Businesses for a Stronger America

Department of Labor Blog | S. Marisela Douglass | May 1, 2025

Small businesses are the engine of the American economy -- creating jobs, driving innovation, and strengthening communities. The U.S. Department of Labor is proud to celebrate National Small Business Week 2025 and recognize the hard work, resilience, and entrepreneurial spirit of small business owners across the country.

We understand that running a small business is both rewarding and challenging. That’s why we are committed to reducing regulatory burdens, increasing flexibility, and providing clear, accessible compliance resources. Our goal is to help small businesses focus on what they do best—creating jobs and growing the economy—without unnecessary government overreach.

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I-9, Employment Eligibility Verification

Use Form I-9, Employment Eligibility Verification, to verify the identity and employment authorization of individuals hired for employment in the United States. All U.S. employers must properly complete Form I-9 for every individual they hire for employment in the United States. This includes citizens and aliens. Both employees and employers (or authorized representatives of the employer) must complete the form.

On the form, an employee must attest to their employment authorization. The employee must also present their employer with acceptable documents as evidence of identity and employment authorization. The employer must examine these documents to determine whether they reasonably appear to be genuine and relate to the employee, then record the document information on the employee’s Form I-9. Certain employers who choose to remotely examine the employee’s documentation under a DHS-authorized alternative procedure rather than via physical examination must indicate they did so by checking the box provided. 

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EEOC Resources

Need information about a specific discrimination topic? We've categorized EEOC material for small businesses categorized by topic, so you can find what you need quickly and easily.

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Laws Enforced by EEOC

Employers

The U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission enforces Federal laws prohibiting employment discrimination. These laws protect employees and job applicants against employment discrimination when it involves:

• Unfair treatment because of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, gender identity, and sexual orientation), national origin, age (40 or older), disability or genetic information.
• Harassment by managers, co-workers, or others in the workplace, because of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy), national origin, age (40 or older), disability or genetic information.
• Denial of a reasonable workplace accommodation that the employee needs because of religious beliefs, disability, or pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions.
•  Retaliation because the employee complained about job discrimination or assisted with a job discrimination investigation or lawsuit. 

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What #MEC2025 Attendees are saying...

• Easy! Walked right in, got my badge, and got to networking!
• The team at check in were wonderful... so happy to be there and lots of laughter from that table.
• Loved everything!
• I was so impressed that all of the sessions occurred as planned, and the location of sessions was dedicated. I would say it all ran on time, and so smooth which I appreciated.

"This is our first year to sponsor the event. We are excited about the connections we are going to make!" IPE Screening

"IPE Screening is a proud sponsor!" Jennifer Cummings, Owner IPE Screening

CLICK HERE FOR SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES! 

Grow with the Conference & Benefit from the Marketing Enhancements

PRESENTING SPONSOR SPOTLIGHT

Can I Ask a Candidate If They Are a U.S. Citizen to Verify Employment Eligibility?

MEC Presenting Sponsor Bukaty Companies | May 21, 2025

Questions pertaining to a candidate's citizenship status are prohibited, but hiring managers must verify candidates are authorized to work in the United States. Given that it is illegal for employers to hire those not authorized to work in the county, and to ask discriminatory interview questions, hiring managers must toe the line between ensuring job eligibility without breaching any employee protections. 



Discriminatory questions lead to legal trouble and fines. “Are you a U.S. citizen?” and “Were you born in the U.S.?” are prohibited as they lead to biased decisions based on citizenship status. Individuals can be authorized to work in the U.S. without holding citizenship. Asking “Are you legally allowed to work in the U.S.?” identifies ineligible applicants while upholding non-discriminatory practices.  

ATTENDEES, SPEAKERS & SPONSORS WERE INVITED TO ENJOY AN EVENING BOAT RIDE, COMPLIMENTS OF BUKATY COMPANIES, AT THE END OF DAY 1 OF THE CONFERENCE!

"Grateful doesn’t even begin to cover it! Huge thanks to Sue Kmet for the opportunity to pour into an amazing group of HR professionals about neurodiversity in the workplace. The conversation was rich, real, and deeply needed. The drive to Camden, MO was breathtaking, and the Old Kinderhook Resort and Conference Center? Absolutely flawless. The entire Missouri Employment Conference was a hit! Here’s to creating workplaces where everyone feels seen, valued, and empowered." Leslie Tolliver

"Thank you putting together a wonderful event!" Tammy Ebright

"#MEC2025 was another great event! Well done, Nan!" Julie Oeth

"I had an amazing time presenting my topic, "Mastering Modern Marketing: Strategies for Success." I'm grateful to the Missouri Employment Conference for the opportunity to present at the beautiful Old Kinderhook Golf Resort." Leizl Kurtz

"PERFECT opener!" Alan Feier

Feedback from #MEC2025 Speakers

THANK YOU FOR THOSE WHO TRAVELED NEAR AND FAR TO LEARN WITH US AT THE 2025 CONFERENCE!

MAKE SURE TO TAG US IN YOUR POSTS IF YOU ATTENDED THIS YEAR.

THE TEAM IS ALREADY HARD AT WORK DREAMING UP THE 2026 CONFERENCE!

What did ATTENDEES like MOST about #MEC2025?

• Opportunity to network in a smaller conference setting with folks in and around the lake.
• Location. Diverse topics
• Great topics and well done!! It's always one of the best in MO!
• Great sessions with lots of networking opportunities!
• Well organized event with a great mix of topics to choose from.
• Meeting new people.
• Lots of options to choose from! Great location & space. Everyone was kind & engaged with everyone.
• The different sessions regarding engaging with different people during the course of your duties.

"Great show! Thank you #MEC2025!" Kayla Kelly

"Although my photos from the conference are lacking this year, my experience is not! I love #MEC2025!!" Jordan Shalla

"It’s been the best one yet." Rachael Cox

"Worth attending!" Shereen Bender

Feedback from #MEC2025 Attendees

"Just had a blast speaking at #MEC2025 on one of my favorite topics—Unlocking Personality Strengths! Grateful for a room full of curious, engaged professionals ready to grow!" Rae Lyon

"Honored to be invited to speak at the Missouri Employment Conference! Thank you for the opportunity to support the incredible professionals shaping Missouri’s workforce." Lyon Coaching Group

"Had a blast speaking today at the #MEC2025. A privilege to be a part of such an amazing group of speakers. It was a great group….so fun and so engaged." Jason Herman

"It’s been a great conference! So many good takeaways." Steve Hughes

Feedback from #MEC2025 Speakers

What did ATTENDEES like MOST about #MEC2025?

• David Bartley, Jennifer Peterson & Tammy Rogers Sessions.
• Learning the different topics and talking to other HR professionals.
• Variety of topics. Quality of speakers.
• I loved the interaction of the events. Everyone was so hands on, and happy to engage in real content and conversation which is sometimes hard to find at some of the larger events. It felt authentic, intimate, and well worth the time spent. 

MIND MATTERS

Resources for Mental Health Support

988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: Call or text 988, or chat at 988lifeline.org/chat for free and confidential support from trained crisis counselors 24/7. 

Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration's free help line: Call 800-662-4357 for 24/7 mental health support in English or Spanish. 

David Woods Bartley has seen his fair share of successes and setbacks, from directing a nationally recognized nonprofit to battling the long-term effects of childhood sexual trauma and a life-threatening mental illness. The latter, a brutal knock-down, drag-out fight with clinical depression, led David to a suicide attempt.

Thanks to the support of many people and being shown the necessity of putting one’s self-care on a pedestal, David continues the essential yet challenging journey from the isolation of mental “hellness” to the inclusive space of mental wellness. His life having been saved, David is committed to moving the conversation about suicide, male sexual trauma, and mental illness from the dark shadows where they now live to the forefront of public concern.

In doing so, his mission is to shine a bright light on the crisis we now face and open doors to the possibility of mental health for everyone, everywhere.

David was recently featured in a really great TV interview about one of the therapies that has changed and saved his life!

STRONG MINDS | STRONG HEARTS

SERVANT LEADERSHIP

By definition, Servant Leadership is a leadership philosophy in which the goal of the leader is to serve. If you are in a place where your talent and skills will help others, by all means, use them. We are proud of the work our leaders have done and hope that if you are in a place to serve, you choose to step up.

Citizens Against Domestic Violence - Citizens Against Domestic

LOVE DOES NOT HURT

Domestic or sexual violence can happen to anyone of any race, age, sexual orientation, religion or gender. It can happen to couples who are married, living together or who are dating. Domestic violence affects people of all socioeconomic backgrounds and education levels.

The Surprising 5 Ways Birth Order Shapes Who You Are

RollingOut 25 | Dempsey May Ayuco | April 22, 2025

Photo Credit: Shutterstock.Com / Krakenimages.Com

An exploration of how sibling position influences personality development, career paths and relationships.

Birth order doesn’t just determine when family photos are arranged. According to developmental psychologists, your position in the family constellation significantly influences personality development, career trajectories and relationship patterns. While genetics and parenting styles play undeniable roles in shaping who we become, the unique dynamics of being first, middle, last or only deserve thoughtful examination.

5 Strategies to Balance Your Family and Career

RollingOut 25 | Vera Emoghene | April 18, 2025

Photo Credit: Shutterstock.Com / Fizkes

Research reveals effective approaches for professionals seeking to thrive in both personal and professional domains despite increasing workplace demands.

The perpetual tug-of-war between professional ambition and family connection has intensified in recent years. A study found that 60% of working parents find it challenging to balance work and family responsibilities. Meanwhile, research indicates that professionals who successfully integrate both domains report 27% higher life satisfaction and 23% greater career fulfillment than those who sacrifice one area for the other.

33 Easy Cocktails That Only Need 3(!) Ingredients

Delish | Mackenzie Filson and Colton Trowbridge | February 26, 2025

Photo: Lucy Schaeffer; Food Styling: Brooke Caison

Sipping done simple.

The beauty of mixing up cocktails is that, more often than not, the easiest cocktails are also the most delicious. Which, we think, only adds to how refreshing these 33 easy cocktails are. No matter if you're a whiskey-only type, a vodka/gin/tequila purist, or often just opt for a glass of wine, we've got 3-ingredient or fewer cocktail for everyone.

HELP AN HR HERO WIN A $50 VISA GIFT CARD!

Do you know someone in your HR department (or company-wide) who deserves to be recognized for making a positive impact in your company from day to day??

Whether personal or professional, in a big or a small way, we all know those people who go above & beyond for the greater good.

We want to help these everyday (H)eroes be (R)ecognized! Send your nominations to us & one deserving person each month leading up to the current conference will be selected to receive a $50 VISA gift card! We will announce the winner in the following month's newsletters.

The 2025 conference was truly a remarkable success, and we extend our heartfelt gratitude to the sponsors, attendees, and speakers who made it all possible.

The invaluable networking opportunities along with the delightful boat ride provided by Bukaty Companies, expertly navigated by Captain Kent, created memorable experiences that we hope you will cherish.

As we reflect on the importance of continuing education for HR leaders, we are grateful for the time spent with all of you, sharing knowledge and ideas that enrich our business community.

Your feedback is invaluable to us, and we are excited to announce that we are already implementing your suggestions for the upcoming 2026 conference, demonstrating our commitment to continuous improvement and responsiveness to your needs.

As summer approaches, we encourage you to embrace the season, stay safe, and prioritize your health. Let’s all strive to make a positive difference in someone’s life and spread kindness wherever we go!

Nan, Sue & the team at Missouri Employment Conference