Two weeks ago, 54 employees at Miami University's Oxford campus received notice of their position's elimination. Now, a university Web site aims to provide information and resources to smooth these workers' transition into new jobs.
Becky Dysart, director of human resources staff development, said she helped organize the Web site and wanted to make it as efficient as possible. Dysart said the Web site is easily accessible and attempts to facilitate the process of transitioning out of their positions at Miami.
"There are multiple things for people to glance at that could help answer their questions," Dysart said. "There is information on health care benefits, classes that are being offered, ways to help the job search process."
The Web site provides dates and times of meetings with representatives from Liberty Assistance, credit unions, the Ohio Department of Jobs and Family Services and Career Services to provide employees with more detailed information on how they can help.
Dysart added employees have the opportunity to work with representatives to search for a new job or answer questions about their personal situations.
"We want to provide means to help people look for a job who haven't gone through that process in a while," Dysart said. "There will be individual and group career counseling, mock interview sessions and ways to perfect their resume."
Senior Director of Human Resources Carol Hauser said the Web site provides multiple resources because the university wants to continue to maintain a high level of service and dedication to its employees.
Hauser said the idea for the Web site came after President David Hodge announced possible job cuts at a January board of trustees meeting. Hauser and Dysart said they worked closely with others to quickly prepare and organize the Web site in case it had to be utilized.
"We came up with the idea and once employees started getting laid off, we put it in motion," Hauser said. "We wanted to help find services for employees and to get them back on their feet, so when it started happening, we knew the Web site would help."
Whether it is information regarding financial matters, ways to continue receiving insurance benefits, or a simple support group session, Hauser and Dysart think the Web site answers a variety of questions employees are asking.
Dysart said the human resources department has received positive feedback regarding the Web site.
"People are pleased the information is in one consolidated place," Dysart said. "They are very appreciative and think it's much easier than looking through a stack of papers to find information that could be accessible in one place."
Hauser said she believes the Internet is a very resourceful tool that can be used when dealing with such an important and difficult subject as finding a job.
"During this time it is very difficult for the University," Hauser said. "We pride ourselves on doing as much as we can for our employees. We're challenged to find ways to provide a high level of services for our employees, and this Web site helps manage the change with a high level of service."
The Web site, "Information for Employees in Transition" can be found at www.muohio.edu/transitioninfo/.
