Board Member Spotlight - Tiffany Miller - Legislative Chair

1. Tell us about your experience with SHRM Topeka.

I attended a SHRM Topeka chapter meeting as a guest when I started working in Talent Acquisition and was hooked! I joined in November 2022. Since then, I have participated in everything I can – monthly meetings, chapter networking events, DisruptHR, member appreciation, state conferences, and the SHRM-CP study group. This is my first year participating in the board.
2. How long have you been working in HR?

I’ve worked in different HR capacities since approximately 2006. My experience ranges from a focus on education and training (students, internships, accredited education) to Talent Acquisition to Comp & Benefits, Employee Relations, Leadership Development, and ultimately all-things-HR as an HR Director. I am now embarking on a new phase as the Director of People Experience, which is very exciting!
3. What resources do you use to stay up-to-date on HR news and trends?

I attend as many in-person HR meetings and conferences at the local and state level as possible. I subscribe to a lot of newsletters and daily bulletins ranging from legislative updates to trending HR “in the trenches” issues. I’m in several social media groups comprising HR professionals. I lead a state-wide monthly call of HR leaders for my industry. I listen to podcasts (HR Besties is one of my favorites!).
4. What professional accomplishment are you the most proud of?

I’m really proud of achieving SHRM-CP certification. I didn’t set out in my career with HR in mind, didn’t go to school for HR and didn’t receive any formal training in HR. I just discovered a passion for it while pursuing other career pathways and really stumbled into it. I had no idea the wide scope of topics covered by “HR”. The depth and span of areas encompassed to achieve my SHRM-CP was daunting, and exciting! I didn’t know if I could do it. I worked hard, studied a lot, practiced, and I did it! I’m very proud of that.
5. What advice do you have for someone new to the HR field?

Learn all you can about all aspects of HR. I really think there is something for everyone. Find a mentor who is willing to spend time with you, support you, and talk through the hard parts. Attend conferences. Network. Most of all, remember that it’s all about the people! Keep the human in HR.
6. Why should local HR professionals get involved in SHRM Topeka?

Involvement in SHRM Topeka provides local HR professionals with the opportunity to meet colleagues and peers from industries similar to their own, as well as different perspectives. This helps to build a diverse network to turn to when needed for professional support or career growth. SHRM Topeka is also a fantastic source for a variety of educational topics, legislative updates and SHRM CEUs. If SHRM certification is a goal, SHRM Topeka hosts a study group to help prep for the tests, which I found to be very beneficial!
7. What do you like to do in your free time?

In my free time I enjoy riding my motorcycle, traveling, going to concerts, spending time with my family, hiking, kayaking, and camping; pretty much anything outside!
8. What's one thing you love about Topeka?

I love a lot of things about Topeka! One thing my husband and I talk about often is how much there really is to do right here in town – outdoor adventure, dining, live music, comedy, arts; and we’re the state capital, and it’s so easy and quick to get to other towns if you want a weekend getaway.