Getting back to basics with the Chamber’s Learn Series

Members of the Whitby Chamber of Commerce (WCC) and post-secondary students got back to basics on September 19 at the WCC’s second instalment of its Learn Series.

The event featured a panel of professionals who guided attendees through the basic concepts of human resources. Panellists included Travis Dutka from 360insights, Mitch LePage from Predictive Success Corporation and Diane White from Diane White & Associates. Leading the conversation was WCC board member Corette Miller, owner of new initiatives hr consulting inc.

Miller began by going over legislation and making note of its key components to ensure businesses with as little as one employee were made aware of how to be compliant. “It’s not just about hiring the right employees,” explained Miller. She then led the panel into discussing how to retain, mentor, train and reward employees.

Many business owners and executives spend company money on marketing, sales, SEO, and much more, but they often forget about their people and that is the power that really drives their business. It’s important to get to know your employees and understand their wide range of priorities.

“Not all of us have big budgets, but the cost of not being compliant can be extreme,” said Dutka. “It’s better to invest a little. When you connect purpose to their work it becomes rewarding.”

The series is hosted at the University of Ontario Institute of Technology (UOIT) in partnership with UOIT’s Management Development Centre and is sponsored by MacAskill Chiropractic and Wellness Centre, Part-Time CFO Services, The Village of Taunton Mills and Trinity College School.

The final instalment of the series is on Wednesday, November 28 and will help employers understand how to manage marijuana in the workplace.