Human resources. This is quite a proposition, and, a job title that has varied and unpredictable effects on the stress activation level of many. Gail Rodman fits the proposition well and gives a compelling meaning to the title. You rarely, if ever, see her without a smile, and will likely laugh in her company. Pushed by her convivial demeanor, you may attempt at a joke that will be received with an equally charming smile. If you have a sweet tooth, her office is your Heaven, in the form of 3 jars candy. And if this wasn’t enough, know that she was in NYC to see the original Broadway production of Rent, twice.
Full name: Gail Weinberger Rodman
Where she comes from: Scranton, PA (yes, home of The Office)
Where she went to school and what she studied: Boston University, Sociology and Business Administration
Her job title: Director of Human Resources
How long she has been working at the Graham School: 10 months
What her job entails: A wide variety of responsibilities for the Graham School such as recruiting and staffing, performance management, policy development, employee relations and compensation to name a few. Gail feels fortunate to have a position that gives her the opportunity to work with everyone in the school.
What is on Gail’s Graham School wish list: “Great vision without great people is irrelevant” – Jim Collins, Good to Great. Her hope for Graham is that we continue our dialogue on culture and engagement. Her wish is that we all work on our evolving and growing team environment together.
An HR ‘must know’: Know your employers policies and benefits. All new hires and current staff have access to published employer, in our case “University, employee handbook and policies”. These tools provide vital information concerning benefits and workplace guidelines. In essence, it tells you what's expected of you and what you can expect from your employer.
An HR ‘don’t’: Don’t wait for professional development. While many employers are supportive of classes, conferences, certifications, etc., don’t wait for someone to suggest them to you. Proactively seek development that mutually benefits you and your employer. Even if you are not in the position to do formal training, there are countless articles, blogs, videos, TED Talks, and local or regional events.
Favorite hobby/surprising fact: When attempting to think of a favorite hobby or fun fact about her, Gail drew a complete blank in a similar way she would, when asked for a new restaurant recommendation and she can’t think of one although she just went to three. After seeking other sources for help, here are some the responses she received. They are indeed are all true.
- She loves red licorice laces but can’t find them anywhere these days.
- After seeing the original of Annie and A Chorus Line in New York, she’s always wanted to be a Broadway musical star. Not being able to sing had not discouraged her.
- Her nickname: Nancy Drew – “a ferocious ferret of facts” – a friend. Once she locks on to something, she will get the answer.
- She’s obsessed with her bitmoji.
July 13, 2016