Frequently Asked Questions
Membership
Committees
Communications
Networking
Learning & Professional Development
Website
Job Postings
PHRA Resources
Sponsorships/Advertising
Miscellaneous
Membership
Membership rates and renewals
Membership Fees:
Professional & Affiliate Fees-
January-December $115
January-December (with SHRM membership) $100
Student Fees: (Must meet both of the following criteria: enrolled full-time in a recognized collegiate program and not employed full-time)
January-December $25
January-December (with SHRM membership) $15
Memberships are for individuals only. PHRA does not offer company memberships. We do offer discounts to companies with 5 or more employees who are members, but these are still individual memberships. Memberships cannot be transferred.
To renew your membership login at
To renew your membership login at
Am I an Affiliate or Professional member?
When does my membership expire?
All memberships are valid from January-December of each year. In other words, your membership will expire on December 31 each year. You will need to renew in order to receive continued benefits from PHRA in the following year.
Corporate memberships are simply company discounts for companies with more than 5 employees who are PHRA members. These are still individual memberships and cannot be transferred between other company employees. Each employee that wishes to receive member benefits must register as a PHRA member. Other company employees can attend programs at the non-member rate if they will wish.
Companies may also wish to pre-purchase Learning & Professional Development classes, networking events and sponsorships for the year in the corporate package. Please contact the PHRA office to develop a package that works for you!
Am I a SHRM member if I am a PHRA member, and vice versa?
No, you must register as both a SHRM member and a PHRA member if you would like to receive benefits from each. You are not required to be a member of both organizations.
Should I be a member of both SHRM and PHRA?
Yes, it is recommended that you join both SHRM and PHRA. SHRM has a vast amount of resources at your fingertips, and PHRA offers local educational programs and networking programs. For more information see “What is the difference between SHRM and PHRA?”
What is the difference between SHRM and PHRA?
The Society of Human Resource Management (SHRM), is a national association for human resources professionals. With over 200,000 members from across the country, SHRM provides their members online resources and tools, publications, research resources, discounts for various professional development tools and conferences.
PHRA is a local chapter of SHRM. “The purpose of [local] chapters is to provide a local forum for your personal and professional development; provide an opportunity to develop your leadership, managerial, public speaking and group decision-making skills; provide a local networking arena; and to provide a focus for legislative attention to local, state, and national human resource management issues. Membership in an SHRM local chapter is separate and apart from membership in SHRM. We encourage you to become a member of both!” (http://www.shrm.org/about/)
If you need to make any updates to your profile, you can access the Edit Profile sub page from the Membership Tab on the left bar of the website. To access this page directly, use this link: http://www.pittsburghhra.org/37.php.
You will be asked to log in with your user name and password. One logged in, you will have the ability to edit any of the fields in your profile. When you have completed you update, hit the submit button in order for your changes to be processed.
You can update your:
-Username
-Password
-SHRM number and expiration date
-Name
-Certifications
-Home address
-Date of birth
-Gender
-Educational level
-Race
-Company information
-Phone numbers
-Email addresses
-Fax number
If you have recently accepted a new position or job and would like to be included in the “On the Move” section in Perspectives, update your profile and then send a notification of your job change to Becky Fortune at rfortune@pittsburghhra.org.
The membership directory is for use by members only. You must log in to access the directory. Please see “Forgot Password” if needed.
The directory contains names and identifying information of Association members. This information is not to be used or shared with others for sales or marketing purposes.
Information that can be found in the membership directory includes:
Name, Company, Address, Phone, Email
When you register as a member and fill out your profile, you are asked to provide a username and password. It is recommended that you select a username and password that others cannot easily guess, but also one that you will remember!
If you forget your password, go to the member login page at http://www.pittsburghhra.org/member_login.php. There is a sentence that says “Forgot your password? Click here.” Select the “Click here” link. You will be asked to provide you email address. Please enter the primary email address that you use for your PHRA account. Your username and password will be emailed to that email address.
Are there general membership meetings?
No, not in the typical sense of general membership meetings. The committee meetings are your way of participating each month. For more information about committees see “How do I join a committee?"
Another form of participation each month is the Learning & Professional Development Classes. They are typically held twice a month and provide members with educational information and a chance to receive recertification credits. For more information see “Does PHRA offer continuing education programs?”
Committees
How do I join a committee?
Committee involvement is encouraged and is considered the general membership meetings. For more committed involvement with a particular committee, it is recommended to contact the committee chair. Current committee chairs can be found at http://www.pittsburghhra.org/27.php and the membership directory at http://www.pittsburghhra.org/17.php will provide you with contact information. You can also contact the PHRA office at 412-261-5537 or phra@pittsburghhra.org to express interest.
You are not required to be a formal member on a committee. Any PHRA member is welcome to attend any of the committee meetings at any time. Meetings are posted on the online monthly calendar, in the weekly update email and on the monthly postcard. We appreciate if you let us know that you intend on coming so that we can provide you with any updates (time change, location change, cancellation, etc). Once again you can inform either the committee chair or the PHRA office.
As a formal member of a committee, you will receive additional updates and requests from the committee chair. Committee chairs will expect you to contribute to the committee goals in some way. PHRA understands that its members are full-time professionals, and the time commitments for each committee can be flexible. Talk to the committee chair to discuss how you can contribute with the time, skills and expertise that you have. Many committees offer conference call options to accommodate those that cannot leave the office or those who cannot make it to the city for a meeting. This should also be discussed with the committee chair.
Communications
How do I get my name in Perspective’s in the “On the Move” section?
How do I get articles in Perspectives?
If you are interested in submitting an article to be published in Perspectives, please review the editorial guidelines, and then email your article with your name and contact information to Becky Fortune at rfortune@pittsburghhra.org.
Networking
What networking opportunities does PHRA provide?
PHRA offers various networking events throughout the year. A list of these programs with details and registration information can always be found on the website at http://www.pittsburghhra.org/Events.php.
Networking is what you make of it! PHRA provides you with the opportunities and it is up to you to attend and mingle with the other participants.
You may also find the Learning & Professional Development classes to be another source of networking. Mingle with the other students or get to know the instructor.
Committee meetings provide another great way to network. Meet other PHRA members and learn more about them as you work together towards a common committee goal!
Whether you attend one or all of PHRA’s events, it is important to get out there and meet people in person at these programs! Make friends, mentors, or business acquaintances. PHRA has gotten you in the same room… now go talk to each other!
How do I register for an event or class?
You must register for PHRA programs through the online calendar at http://www.pittsburghhra.org/25.php. Select the month and then the program. If it is a program that you need to register for it will tell you the program capacity and the member and non-member rate (as it applies). Once you have selected the appropriate option by clicking on “Add to Cart,” you will need to proceed to the shopping cart at http://www.pittsburghhra.org/cart.php to check out. When you check out in the shopping cart, you can either pay by credit card or you can print an invoice (to pay by check or credit card at a later time, but before the program). You must complete this process in order for your registration to be complete! Please make sure to print your invoice if this option is selected.
Remember to log in as a member in order to get the member rate. If you forget your username and password, see “Forgot My Password” for instructions.
Learning & Professional Development
Does PHRA offer continuing education programs?
Yes, PHRA offers Learning & Professional Development programs to assist with your career development. The schedule of these programs will be listed on the website at http://www.pittsburghhra.org/LDP.php. Upcoming programs will also be announced on the monthly postcard members receive in the mail and in the Weekly Update email that members receive.
Members and non-members can attend these programs. Prices are listed on the website.
How do I become a presenter for a Learning & Professional Development program?
The Learning & Professional Development Committee will review the submission and get back to you. Please fill the form out in its entirety to ensure the committee has enough information to accurately review the proposal.
Can I receive PHR and SPHR recertification credits for attending programs at PHRA?
As always, PHRA is committed to providing quality educational programs for our members. Earn your PHR, SPHR, or GPHR recertification credits through the programs we offer! These programs are listed on our website at http://www.pittsburghhra.org/LDP.php.
Typically, for each hour of educational programming, you will receive 1 CE credit. PHRA will provide you with the number of credits you can receive for each program and following the completion of the program will provide you with the program number- either in certificate form or through an email (to ensure your email is correct, update your profile at http://www.pittsburghhra.org/37.php). If you need the credits to qualify for recertification, this program number can then be submitted to HRCI. You should have an account with them to update this information. Please visit www.hrci.org if you have questions.
Does PHRA offer a PHR/SPHR prep class?
Yes, PHRA offers a Certification Prep Class in both the spring and fall each year. This class is for MEMBERS ONLY. It is a twelve week course that is taught by our own PHRA experts who are PHR or SPHR certified. Classes are held in the evenings once a week in the PHRA office. The SHRM Learning System is included in the price of the class.
Program dates, times, and registration information are posted on the website at http://www.pittsburghhra.org/3.php when confirmed each term. Members will also receive program announcements in the regular member communications (Weekly Update email, Monthly Postcard, Perspectives Newsletter).
How do I receive the program codes for programs I attended to submit for recertification credit?
Typically, for each hour of educational programming, you will receive 1 CE credit. PHRA will provide you with the number of credits you can receive for each program and following the completion of the program will provide you with the program number- either in certificate form or through an email (to ensure your email is correct, update your profile at http://www.pittsburghhra.org/37.php). If you need the credits to qualify for recertification, this program number can then be submitted to HRCI. You should have an account with them to update this information. Please visit www.hrci.org if you have questions.
How do I register for an event or class?
You must register for PHRA programs through the online calendar at http://www.pittsburghhra.org/25.php. Select the month and then the program. If it is a program that you need to register for it will tell you the program capacity and the member and non-member rate (as it applies). Once you have selected the appropriate option by clicking on “Add to Cart,” you will need to proceed to the shopping cart at http://www.pittsburghhra.org/cart.php to check out. When you check out in the shopping cart, you can either pay by credit card or you can print an invoice (to pay by check or credit card at a later time, but before the program). You must complete this process in order for your registration to be complete! Please make sure to print your invoice if this option is selected.
Remember to log in as a member in order to get the member rate. If you forget your username and password, see “Forgot My Password” for instructions.
Website
How do I provide white papers, best practices or other information for inclusion on the PHRA resources page of the website?
If you have any resources that you would like to be included on the website as a service to other PHRA members, please email Becky Fortune at rfortune@pittsburghhra.org. Please consider sharing information with the other PHRA members! As members, you are each important resources for each other!
How do I register for an event or class?
You must register for PHRA programs through the online calendar at http://www.pittsburghhra.org/25.php. Select the month and then the program. If it is a program that you need to register for it will tell you the program capacity and the member and non-member rate (as it applies). Once you have selected the appropriate option by clicking on “Add to Cart,” you will need to proceed to the shopping cart at http://www.pittsburghhra.org/cart.php to check out. When you check out in the shopping cart, you can either pay by credit card or you can print an invoice (to pay by check or credit card at a later time, but before the program). You must complete this process in order for your registration to be complete! Please make sure to print your invoice if this option is selected.
Remember to log in as a member in order to get the member rate. If you forget your username and password, see “Forgot My Password” for instructions.
My shopping cart is empty
If you are trying to register for an event or program but the shopping cart is still empty, make sure that you selected “Add to Cart” for the program in the monthly calendar at http://www.pittsburghhra.org/25.php. You must complete this step before you will be able to check out in the shopping cart. If you are still having problems, contact the PHRA office.
Online forum or other forms to chat with other PHRA members?
PHRA does not currently have this feature on the website. We are looking into adding this type of feature. Please look forward to more information in the future.
Job Postings
Postings must be submitted online and will not be posted until payment is received.
The name and email at the top of the online form are for PHRA’s use only so that we may contact you if needed. The rest of the form is what job seekers will see and should apply to the job you are posting.
Only PHRA members have access to the job postings on our Career Bank. Members must login with their username and password. Please see “Forgot my Password” for information if needed.
Information on job postings are provided by each individual company and PHRA is not affiliated with the job search for that company. If there are questions about a particular job posting, a company site or email is not working, etc. please contact the individual company.
PHRA Resources
Under the resources tab you will find information about Legislation, PeopleLink, Book Reviews, Emerging Trends, White Papers, Best Practices and Related Links.
Does PHRA have a list of vendors?
The PHRA does not have a searchable directory based on services provided or a listing of vendors. It is recommended that members utilize PeopleLink at http://www.pittsburghhra.org/38.php. PeopleLink is a list of PHRA members who have volunteered to act as informal HR information resources to other fellow PHRA members on topics of personal expertise. These members are a great source for information. PeopleLink is divided into many categories and you can find several members under each category. For contact information you will need to log in to utilize the membership directory at http://www.pittsburghhra.org/17.php.
In need of particular services?
Seeking expertise on a particular subject
Members are encouraged to utilize PeopleLink at http://www.pittsburghhra.org/38.php. PeopleLink is a list of PHRA members who have volunteered to act as informal HR information resources to other fellow PHRA members on topics of personal expertise. These members are a great source for information. PeopleLink is divided into many categories and you can find several members under each category. For contact information you will need to log in to utilize the membership directory at http://www.pittsburghhra.org/17.php.
Sponsorships/Advertising
I want more information about sponsorships
I want more information about advertising with PHRA.
If you are interested in placing an ad in Perspectives, click here for an insertion order.
If you would like to discuss other advertising options, please contact the PHRA office at 412-261-5537.
Miscellaneous
I need an invoice/receipt.
If you select pay by credit card, after you submit your registration a receipt will be emailed to the email address provided. Please save this receipt for your records!
When you register for an event or class online you can also print your own invoice. When in the shopping cart, select Print an invoice. Once selected, you must print the invoice. You can then either pay by check or credit card. If you prefer not to fax or mail the invoice with your credit card number, you can call the PHRA office with the credit card information to complete your registration.
***All payments must be received before participants will be admitted to the program unless you have a purchase order.***
I didn’t get confirmation of my registration.
Confirmations of your registration will not be sent.
If paying by credit card, you will receive a receipt, which acts as your confirmation.
If printing an invoice, your registration will be confirmed when payment is received. If payment is submitted by credit card, you will get an email receipt. If payment is submitted by check, you will not receive a formal confirmation.
PHRA currently sells the mailing addresses of its membership to members for $1200 and non-members for $1500. Potential renters must provide PHRA with a sample of what they will be sending the members. They must also sign a contract, agreeing that the list will only be used for one mailing that has been pre-approved by the PHRA and that they will pay an additional fee for subsequent mailings. Contact the PHRA office if interested in purchasing the list.
PHRA will under no circumstances sell the email addresses of its members.
How do I unsubcribe from the mailing list
Members can unsubscribe from PHRA’s emails by selecting “Instant removal with SafeUnsubscribe” at the bottom of the email.
When is the Annual Conference and how can I register?
Please visit the Events tab at http://www.pittsburghhra.org/Events.php to find updated information about our events. The conference may also have a separate subpage where you can find additional information. All registrations will be taken online via the monthly calendar.
