A: An employer association is a group of businesses that come together for the interests of employers. These organizations may focus on issues related to labor relations, employment law, and other matters that affect the ability of employers to operate their businesses.
Employer associations often provide their members with a wide range of services, resources, and support, including legal advice, HR support, workforce training, and networking opportunities. They help small businesses avoid costly legal mistakes while competing by providing them access to the resources and support they need to succeed in today’s complex business 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: While technology has made it easier for people to access information and advice on a wide range of topics, it is not necessarily replacing professional services. In many cases, there are still significant advantages to connecting with an experienced person to get customized advice. Technology can provide general information and advice but cannot provide the same level of customization and personalization that a professional can offer.
One of the main advantages of working with a professional is that they have expertise and experience in a specific area. Professional service providers, such as lawyers and HR consultants, have specialized knowledge and skills that can be valuable in helping solve complex problems or make important decisions. Additionally, working with professionals provides businesses with resources and networks that may not be available through technology. Professionals often have connections and relationships with other experts and organizations that can provide valuable insights and support.
A. No. Associated Industries members have access to our most valuable resources through membership, including our unlimited employment law advice, HR advice, and valuable content like legal webinars, employee handbook templates, multi-state employment posters, salary benchmarking tools, and other HR apps. Other offerings, such as investigations, affirmative action plans, background screens, hiring support, and HR outsourcing, are available at discounted member rates.
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 do direct representation or litigation. They focus on preventative, proactive measures that help employers assess and minimize their risks. If you’ve already been working with our legal team and discover you need representation, our team can help you through the transition and referral.
A: Employment law attorneys and HR professionals differ in several ways. Employment law attorneys are legal professionals who specialize in the laws and regulations that apply to the workplace. Our in-house attorneys are trained to understand and interpret federal and state-specific laws and provide legal guidance to organizations on employment-related matters.
While employment law attorneys and HR professionals both play critical roles in the workplace, they have different areas of expertise and focus. Employment law attorneys are skilled in the legal aspects of employment, while HR professionals focus on managing and supporting employees and, often, with general compliance needs. HR professionals may need to consult with employment law attorneys on specific legal matters, and employment law attorneys may need to understand the policies and practices of the organization to provide effective legal advice. By communicating effectively, employment law attorneys and HR professionals can work together to support the organization’s success.