What are the qualifications to be a member of NSHRM? If I’m not exactly a “human resource professional” can I still join?

The following answer is taken from the Chapter bylaws.

Professional Members - Individuals who are engaged in the profession of human resource management and who meet one of the following criteria:

1. Possess at least three (3) years of exempt-level human resource management experience.
2. Hold an HR certification recognized by SHRM.
3. Are faculty members holding assistant, associate or full professional rank in human resource management or anyof its specialized functions at an accredited college or university and have at least three (3) years of experience at this level of teaching.
4. Are full-time consultants with at least three (3) years of experience as a practitioner in human resource management.
5. Are full-time attorneys with at least three (3) years of experience in counseling and advising clients on matters relating to the human resource profession. 

Student Members - Individuals may be granted student membership provided they meet the criteria as outlined below:

1. Students are currently enrolled in a degree-seeking program. Student shall provide proof of enrollment in a college or university to qualify for student membership.
2. Student's coursework, taken or planned, supports an interest in Human Resource Management or a related degree program.
3. Student membership will be limited to six (6) years from initial start date. A full-time student enrolled in a graduate degree program may apply for an additional two (2) years of student membership. A student member cannot have previously held professional membership. Upon graduation or academic withdrawal, student member must convert to professional membership during the next renewal cycle.

Honorary Life Members - 

• This membership shall be conferred on each retired Past President of the Association. The Board of Directors may also designate and elect individuals who are deemed to have made a significant contribution to the practice of human resources administration and management.

Can I transfer my membership from one chapter to another?

Memberships are not transferable. You would need to pay the annual dues when you move from one chapter to another. You may be a member of more than one chapter however you must designate a primary chapter through SHRM.

Do I have to be a member of SHRM?

This chapter is a 100% Affiliated Chapter of SHRM, and all chapter members are required to be members in good standing of SHRM in order to then be a chapter member. You do not need to be a member to attend meetings.

I’m already a member of SHRM. What can this chapter offer me in addition to my national membership?

Being a local chapter member provides you with a local networking resource. You have the benefit of meeting other local professionals who are facing the same challenges that you are and can assist you with answers to your questions. You will also receive local information on legislative actions, which affect your company at the state, parish and municipal levels. You will receive notification of cost saving seminars and professional development opportunities in your area. You will learn about issues that are directly affecting your community.

Also, members have the opportunity to post job openings free to our chapters website which also includes a link in the quarterly newsletter. 

How much does membership cost?

The Board of Directors shall establish annual membership dues for the next year by the end of each year. National SHRM will manage annual dues and notifications shall be sent out in advance of the member's renewal date to give sufficient time for the member to renew without a break in their membership status.

Where are the meetings held?

Meetings are usually held in person the second Thursday of each month in the Mandeville, Covington or the Hammond area.  There are breakfast and lunch meetings. Once a year, the Chapter hosts an all-day professional development conference. Most meetings are approved for professional certification credits.