A: An employer association is a collective of businesses that come together to support each other in navigating the challenges of running a business. Traditionally, these associations focused on labor relations and employment law, but they have evolved to meet the modern needs of employers.
Today, employer associations like ours offer a wide range of services, from employment law advice and HR support to workforce training and employer-sponsored health benefits. We help small businesses avoid costly mistakes and provide the tools they need to succeed in today’s complex and competitive environment.
A. No. Associated Industries is an employers association. Unlike most HR consulting firms, Associated Industries leverages the purchasing power of the employer community to offer small to mid-sized businesses cost efficiencies on vital, high-quality professional services and business solutions. However, our HR team is happy to discuss with you their more dedicated outsourced-style offerings if you are looking for those services.
A: No. Companies join Associated Industries, not individual employees. When your organization becomes a member company, you’ll designate a team member as the main point of contact. They will receive our communications and can access the resources and benefits of membership to disseminate throughout your organization. That person may designate other members of your team to access member benefits and resources.
A. Because companies join Associated Industries, not individuals, membership remains with the company. For example, if you accept a new position at another organization, and they are not yet a member, you would no longer have access to the HR & legal guidance or resources. We would encourage you to share your positive experiences from our organization with the new leadership team and explain why they should consider membership.
A: No, the in-house attorneys at Associated Industries do not provide direct representation or engage in litigation. Our legal team is dedicated to offering proactive guidance, focusing on preventative measures that help employers identify, assess, and mitigate potential risks before they escalate into legal issues. However, if you find yourself in need of direct representation, our attorneys can assist you in transitioning to external counsel and provide a referral to ensure you receive the appropriate legal support.
A: Not all services are free or included in membership. Think of Associated Industries as your business’s HR lifeline, much like an AAA membership is for drivers. Just as an AAA membership offers roadside assistance to keep you moving, membership with our employer association provides essential HR tools and guidance to keep your business running smoothly. With membership, you gain access to unlimited employment law and HR advice, legal webinars, employee handbook templates, multi-state employment posters, salary benchmarking tools, and HR apps. These resources empower you and your team to effectively navigate the challenges of HR management and compliance.
However, when it comes to actually rolling up our sleeves and doing the heavy lifting of HR—whether it’s handling investigations, crafting affirmative action plans, conducting background checks, supporting your hiring process, or even stepping in as your fractional HR team—that’s where additional fee-based services come into play. Just like AAA’s premium services, these are available at discounted rates for our members, ensuring you get the valuable help you need when the stakes are high.
A: In an era where technology offers quick answers, it’s tempting to think a simple search can replace professional judgment. But the law—and HR especially—is a complex maze of nuances, exceptions, and ever-changing state and federal regulations that technology doesn’t always keep pace with. The real challenge isn’t just finding information; it’s interpreting it correctly within this intricate framework.
While technology can give you a basic understanding, it can’t match the depth of insight that comes from long-term professional relationships. Over the years, we’ve built deep connections with our members, gaining an understanding of their unique workplace cultures, dynamics, and the local market. We’re not just providing answers; we’re offering guidance that’s tailored to your specific needs, backed by a long history of trust and familiarity with your organization.
A: While an HR Hotline can be a helpful resource, it may not fully address the specific needs of Washington employers. National HR hotlines often lack the regional knowledge needed to navigate the unique laws and regulations in our state. This is where the advantage of regional HR professionals and local employment law attorneys becomes clear.
Our in-house attorneys specialize in Washington, Idaho, and Montana employment laws, providing tailored legal guidance that a national hotline might miss. They help your business stay vigilant about compliance while mitigating risks. Meanwhile, our in-house HR professionals understand the local business environment and workforce dynamics, offering practical support for day-to-day employee management and compliance. However, when legal issues arise, HR professionals often need to consult with attorneys to ensure your organization is fully protected.
By combining the strengths of local HR knowledge and specialized legal guidance, your business can better navigate Washington’s complex regulatory landscape, ensuring both compliance and effective risk management.