HR News

It’s Decision Time! Strategies and Tools for Effective Decision Making

It’s Decision Time! Strategies and Tools for Effective Decision Making Decision fatigue draining your energy? Spending hours overthinking choices? Suffering from analysis paralysis? Join ODL Trainer & Consultant Jamie Kizer for a virtual, interactive workshop where you’ll learn proven strategies and practical frameworks to make better and faster decisions in…

Career and Professional Development Month Is Here!

Career and Professional Development Month Is Here! The Office of Alumni Relations is excited to announce a robust lineup of programming for Career and Professional Development Month this November. Designed to support alumni and the broader Mason community, this initiative offers relevant, meaningful opportunities for professional development, lifelong learning, and…

Pats for Patriots: October Round-Up

HR News Pats for Patriots: October Round-Up Each month, Mason Chooses Kindness celebrates members of the George Mason community who make a difference. Through the Pats for Patriots initiative, students, faculty, staff, and alumni recognize acts of kindness, support, and encouragement that embody the spirit of George Mason. Below is a snapshot…

Be Your Own Influencer Workshop

Be Your Own Influencer Workshop Human Resources is excited to announce an upcoming workshop on Monday, November 17, co-hosted by Staff Senate and the HR team’s instructional designer and trainer, Stephanie Barnett. In a world full of voices telling you how to succeed, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by it…

Upcoming ASPIRE Workshops

Upcoming ASPIRE Workshops from the Office of Access, Compliance, and Community ASPIRE meets people where they are through pathways that provide opportunities for skill enhancement, knowledge acquisition, and career improvement. ASPIRE’s professional development pathways serve as transformative journeys that foster growth, learning, and relationship building. Through autonomous choice, individuals chart…

Celebrate World Kindness Day

Celebrate World Kindness Day In honor of World Kindness Day, Mason Chooses Kindness is hosting a few uplifting events on Thursday, November 13! Morning Celebration at Wilkins Plaza ⏰ 10:30 a.m. to 12 p.m. 📍 Wilkins Plaza Clock Tower Join us for a heartwarming celebration of World Kindness Day. This annual…

Adjunct Faculty Success Workshop (1/10)

Adjunct Faculty Success Workshop (1/10) 🗓️ Saturday, January 10 ⏰ 9 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. 📍 Virtual The upcoming Adjunct Faculty Success Workshop is fast approaching on Saturday, January 10, which will be held virtually. Attending the workshop helps new and returning adjunct faculty transition into their new role at…

Catch-Up Ceremony: Service Milestones & Eligibility Dates

HR News Catch-Up Ceremony: Service Milestones & Eligibility Dates

Stay Connected with CommonHealth’s WellNote

HR News Stay Connected with CommonHealth’s WellNote CommonHealth has created a simple way for individuals to receive their monthly WellNote directly by email-no portal or mass messaging required. This is a great option for anyone who wants to stay informed about wellness tips, seasonal updates, and upcoming programs. As 2025…

TIAA Webinars: Beneficiaries and Retirement Income Planning

TIAA Webinars: Beneficiaries and Retirement Income Planning Looking to strengthen your financial planning? TIAA is offering two webinars this month: Naming Your Beneficiaries: Why It Matters Wednesday, November 5 at 12 p.m. Naming beneficiaries to your financial accounts is probably something you’ve received a lot of reminders about, but maybe…

Cardinal MFA Update: Action Required by November 30

HR News Cardinal MFA Update: Action Required by November 30 Human Resources has received several inquiries about a recent Cardinal communication regarding multi-factor authentication (MFA). We can confirm: this message is legitimate. The Virginia IT Agency (VITA) is retiring SMS and phone call MFA methods due to security risks. If…

MicroStrategy Hours Reporting

MicroStrategy HR Employee Reporting Updates: Thank you to all of you that were able to attend the recent trainings on HR reporting available in MicroStrategy. During the training we sunshined some upcoming changes in the User Acceptance Testing environment. As of 11/6/2025, the following changes will be put into production:…

No Tricks, Just Tips: Taking the Fear Out of Investing

No Tricks, Just Tips: Taking the Fear Out of Investing This Halloween, don’t let investing spook you-ditch the tricks and embrace smart tips to build your financial future. The Virginia Retirement System’s article “Taking the Fear Out of Investing” offers practical advice to help you overcome common fears, like market…

Clear the Air(ways) Fall Respiratory Virus Vaccine Clinic

RSR-EHW Clear the Air(ways) COVID, Flu, Pneumonia, and RSV Vaccine Clinic 🗓️ Thursday, November 6 at 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. 📍 Peterson Hall, Population Health Center This vaccine clinic will offer COVID, Flu, Pneumonia, and RSV vaccine. Each of these vaccines can be co-administered. Select the vaccine(s) you’d like…

Supervising Students: The Role of Supervisors as Educators in On-Campus Student Employment

Supervising Students: The Role of Supervisors as Educators in On-Campus Student Employment 🗓 Friday, November 14 at 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. 📍 Student Union Building (SUB) I, Room 3400 This practical, discussion-based training is designed to equip supervisors with the tools, knowledge, and strategies necessary to enhance the employment…

Explore GMU’s Online Master’s in I-O Psychology

Explore GMU’s Online Master’s in I-O Psychology Join us for a virtual open house on Wednesday, November 12 at 7 p.m. to learn more about George Mason University’s fully online Master of Professional Studies (MPS) in Industrial-Organizational Psychology. During the session, you’ll hear from a panel of MPS I-O Psychology…

Maximize Savings: Turn Student Debt Savings into Retirement Growth

Maximize Savings: Turn Student Debt Savings into Retirement Growth October is National Retirement Security Month – a perfect time to review long-term savings goals. For many with student debt, monthly payments make saving for retirement challenging: over two-thirds of borrowers cut back on retirement contributions to cover loans. That’s money…

Gallup Access AI Tool: A Workplace Engagement Tool

Gallup Access AI Tool: A Workplace Engagement Tool On Thursday, October 30, Gallup Access, the platform where supervisors review their Faculty and Staff Experience Survey results, will now include new AI capabilities for all users: delivering personalized insights, grounded in Gallup’s science and data, available on both web and mobile. Gallup AI, a built-in AI assistant,…

Colors and Connection Workshop

HR News Colors and Connection Workshop 🗓️ Wednesday, November 5 at 2 p.m. to 3 p.m. 📍 Virtual Colors & Connection is a one-hour, interactive workshop designed to spark authentic connection and creative self-expression. Through simple, color-based art activities and guided conversation, participants explore how color can reflect on mood, emotion, and identity…

Preparing for Menopause Webinar

Preparing for Menopause Webinar 🗓️ Wednesday, October 22 at 12 p.m. Learn tips to embrace the change and stay healthy before, during, and after menopause. While this session is hosted by Kaiser Permanente, it is available to ALL employees. Register now!

Supervisor Feedback: A Key Driver of Employee Engagement

Supervisor Feedback: A Key Driver of Employee Engagement The Midcycle Check-in for A/P Faculty and Classified Staff opened on October 1st and is currently underway. The Check-in process offers an opportunity for employees and supervisors to reflect on work outcomes, team collaboration, and professional growth. It also allows for a…

Share Your Feedback & Support Campus Services

Share Your Feedback & Support Campus Services The University Bookstore is gathering input from faculty and staff to help improve course materials, services, and campus support. Take a few minutes to complete the survey and you’ll be entered to win a prize as a thank-you for participating! Complete the Survey!

Pats for Patriots: September Round-Up

HR News Pats for Patriots: September Round-Up In September, we brought our Pats for Patriots initiative to the annual Mason Nation 9/11 Day of Service. During this event, in addition to the usual Pats, community members shared nearly 100 messages to express appreciation for the people who keep our campus…

Supporting Caregivers: Resources for You and Your Family

HR News Supporting Caregivers: Resources for You and Your Family Balancing work and caregiving responsibilities is a reality for many in our George Mason community. Whether you are parenting young children, supporting an elderly parent, or navigating both, caregiving can be rewarding but also stressful. George Mason is committed to…

Supervising a Hybrid Workforce

Supervising a Hybrid Workforce Join the Faculty and Staff Engagement team for the Supervising a Hybrid Workforce workshop. This workshop is designed to equip participants with the knowledge and skills essential for thriving in a modern, flexible work environment. Supervisors will discuss the benefits of flexible work, develop essential knowledge…

Plan Today for Tomorrow: National Retirement Security Month

Plan Today for Tomorrow: National Retirement Security Month October is National Retirement Security Month-a reminder to invest in your future! Every dollar you contribute toward retirement can grow over time, and when you maximize your employer’s match, you’re unlocking money you would otherwise lose. Think of it as a raise…

National Disability Employment Awareness Month

National Disability Employment Awareness Month October is National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM), a time to recognize the contributions of America’s workers with disabilities to the workforce, and to promote inclusive employment practices across all industries. This month serves as a reminder that disability includes a broad spectrum, not just…

Winter Break HR Action 25 Deadlines

HR News Winter Break HR Action Deadlines This is a reminder of key HR deadlines for submitting EPAFs, CTFs/FTFs, and hiring documents before winter break. EPAFs Semi-monthly effective 12/10: Fully approved to HR by COB 12/05 Bi-weekly effective 11/30: Fully approved to HR by COB 11/29 Bi-weekly effective 12/14: Fully…

PageUp Updates

HR News PageUp Updates PageUp is an evolving system that continuously incorporates user feedback and introduces new updates. To help you stay informed, Talent Acquisition team will provide a quick snapshot of what’s new, what’s in development, and what’s in discovery. We’ll also include system updates and important reminders for…

In Good Company: Stuart Cline

HR News In Good Company with Stuart Cline New in Town When Stuart Cline joined our HR team this April as a Benefits Specialist, he walked straight into one of the busiest times of the year: onboarding new hires for the academic season. “There’s so much to learn,” he said,…

Update to University Policy 2202: Flexible Work for Student Wage Employees

HR News Update to University Policy 2202: Flexible Work for Student Wage Employees University Policy 2202 (Flexible Work) has been updated to include student wage employees. Student wage employees may participate in hybrid telework if they both reside and perform their work within the Commonwealth of Virginia. This update ensures…

Updated Performance Evaluation View for 2025 Midcycle Check-In

Updated Performance Evaluation View for 2025 Midcycle Check-In Starting October 1, 2025, Classified Staff, A/P Faculty, and their supervisors participating in the optional Midcycle Check-In will experience a refreshed performance evaluation interface in MasonLEAPS. While the Midcycle Check-In questions remain the same as last year, the platform’s look and feel…

“I’ve Fallen and I Can’t Get Up!”

“I’ve Fallen and I Can’t Get Up!” Some of you might remember this line from an old commercial-it’s a bit of a throwback! While falling isn’t something to joke about, it does grab your attention. As the Fall semester kicks off, more employees are returning to campus. With increased activity,…

Need Temporary Staffing Support? Mason Talent Temps Can Help

Need Temporary Staffing Support? Mason Talent Temps Can Help If your department has a temporary staffing need, contact Talent Acquisition and our Mason Talent Temp Program! Mason Talent Temps is the university’s in-house temporary employment service. We provide temporary staffing coverage for various needs throughout the university during vacations, leaves…

Anthem Employee Assistance Program (EAP) Expansion

Anthem Employee Assistance Program (EAP) Expansion The Employee Assistance Program (EAP) for Anthem is now available to all employees who have waived their enrollment in a health plan, non-benefit eligible wage employees and TRICARE Supplement members. Employees and their household members are eligible for up to four free online or…

Wait, I Have Life Insurance?

Wait, I Have Life Insurance? Many faculty and staff are surprised to learn that GMU automatically provides basic life insurance coverage through Securian Financial: no paperwork, no payroll deductions, just peace of mind built into your benefits. If you are a full-time or part-time classified or faculty member with a…

Empowering Supervisors with the ACT Framework

Empowering Supervisors with the ACT Framework To support our supervisors in creating an enhanced faculty and staff experience, we are introducing the ACT Framework-a simple, three-step approach designed to help supervisors turn survey results and team feedback into positive action. The ACT Framework is particularly valuable as we review the…

Empowering Supervisors for Meaningful Midcycle Conversations

Empowering Supervisors for Meaningful Midcycle Conversations Supervisors play a vital role in shaping the faculty and staff experience at George Mason. From supporting well-being to guiding professional growth, the quality of conversations between supervisors and their teams directly impacts engagement, performance, and workplace culture. That’s why we’re excited to offer…

Hiring International Employees

Hiring International Employees The International Tax Office (ITO) has redesigned its website and updated information on the HR Liaison Network – Hiring International Employees. HR Liaisons play a key role in the hiring and onboarding of international employees. Hiring international employees is more complex and time-consuming than hiring U.S. citizens…

Social Work Department Embraces Engagement Action Planning

HR News Social Work Department Embraces Engagement Action Planning During an August Department of Social Work retreat, faculty and staff gathered to review, reflect, and develop actionable steps to address insights from the 2024 Faculty and Staff Experience Survey. The 3 hour retreat was facilitated by HR’s Faculty and Staff…

Roadmap to Retirement

Roadmap to Retirement Retirement is more than an endpoint; it’s the start of a new adventure. This week, nearly 100 employees took the first step on that journey by attending our pre-retirement seminar, Roadmap to Retirement. Held in Dewberry Hall, the event offered attendees a comprehensive roadmap to help them…

Ease the Burden of Student Debt with Savi and TIAA

Ease the Burden of Student Debt with Savi and TIAA George Mason University is partnering with TIAA and Savi to help employees reduce student loan payments and work toward forgiveness. This financial wellness tool finds the best federal repayment and forgiveness programs for your situation and even takes care of…

Get the Most Out of Your Midcycle Check-in and Explore Professional Development Opportunities

Get the Most Out of Your Midcycle Check-in and Explore Professional Development Opportunities The Midcycle Check-in is coming on October 1, offering a great opportunity for classified staff and a/p faculty to reflect on progress, celebrate successes, and plan for continued growth. This is a time for employees to have…

There is still time to get a Byte Plan!

There Is Still Time to Get a Byte Plan! Fuel your workday with ease! Faculty and staff can enjoy all-you-care-to-eat dining at Mason’s four dining halls or use daily meal swipes at The Eaterie, featuring fresh stations from our new dining partner, Chartwells. A Byte Plan makes it simple to…

Discover Exclusive Deals with Patriot Perks!

HR News Discover Exclusive Deals with Patriot Perks! Did you know that as a member of the George Mason community, you have access to a wide range of exclusive discounts and offers? We’re excited to highlight Patriot Perks, a fantastic initiative by George Mason University’s Auxiliary and Business Services designed…

Pats for Patriots: August Round-Up

HR News Pats for Patriots: August Round-Up Welcome to this month’s Pats for Patriots kindness recognition. As we begin a new academic year, campus is filled with energy, anticipation, and preparation. In the midst of this busy season, small acts of kindness can have an especially meaningful impact. While we…

Academic Year EPAF Reminders

HR News Academic Year EPAF Reminders Due to the upcoming start of the academic year, EPAF volume is increasing, and many are being returned for correction. To help ensure efficiency, please: Review the steps in the Self-Service EPAF Job Aids. The decision guide walks submitters step by step through each…

Building Resilience and Well-Being in 2025–26: A Shared Responsibility

Building Resilience and Well-Being in 2025-26: A Shared Responsibility As we begin the 2025-26 academic year, we are reminded that the well-being of our faculty and staff is the foundation for a thriving university community. Recent insights from two thought-provoking books, Rethinking Employee Resilience by Dan Pelton (2025) and Why…

Engagement in Action: Strategies for Supervisors

HR News Engagement in Action: Strategies for Supervisors Supervisors are invited to an interactive session on faculty and staff engagement. Join colleagues in exploring Gallup survey engagement data, discussing best practices, and learning new strategies to strengthen the faculty and staff experience at George Mason. Sessions are offered on the…

Important Notice for Patriot Web Users:

HR News Important Notice for Patriot Web Users HR Liaisons: please help spread the word to your colleagues. This fall, Patriot Web, Mason’s self-service site for personal, administrative, and academic information, is getting a new look and improved navigation. Starting Sunday, August 17, you may see multiple login prompts while…

Protected: Certified Applicant Pool Training

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Sip Sip Club Returns — Bigger, Bolder, and Brewed for Mason Nation!

Sip Sip Club Returns – Bigger, Bolder, and Brewed for Mason Nation! Back by popular demand, Mason Dining’s beloved Sip Sip Club is making a triumphant return! The 2025 edition features a sleek new design, expanded 28 oz capacity, and versatile 2-in-1 functionality. For $129.99, enjoy unlimited brewed coffee and tea plus discounts on handcrafted drinks at…

Elevating Employee Experience: A C3 Success Story

HR News Elevating Employee Experience: A C3 Success Story F&CO Leadership created the initial idea for C3 in fall 2022, which took shape in spring and summer of 2023. By October of 2023, C3 was operational and held their first meeting that month. As a result, F&CO formed the Culture…

Recognition and Appreciation Toolkit – Now Rebranded!

HR News Recognition and Appreciation Toolkit – Now Rebranded! We’re excited to announce a fresh new look for the Recognition and Appreciation Toolkit! The rebrand includes newly designed printable PDF cards and Zoom virtual backgrounds-perfect for celebrating your colleagues in thoughtful, creative ways. Whether you’re recognizing a birthday, graduation, new…

Roadmap to Retirement Awaits!

Roadmap to Retirement Awaits! Get ready to confidently step into your future! HR Benefits is delighted to present “Roadmap to Retirement,” an exclusive in-person seminar designed to help you navigate your retirement journey with confidence. This year, we’re expanding our invitation to include employees who are 55 and over, whether…

Facilitating Meaningful Feedback Conversations: An Engagement Strategy for Supervisors

HR News Facilitating Meaningful Feedback Conversations: An Engagement Strategy for Supervisors 🗓️ Thursday, October 30 to 2 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. 📍 Virtual (Zoom) Join us for an engaging and interactive session aimed at enhancing leadership skills, creating a psychologically safe workplace, cultivating a positive and productive workplace culture, and…

Stacey Ellis Receives CUPA-HR’s National Higher Ed HR Rock Star Award

Stacey Ellis Receives CUPA-HR’s National Higher Ed HR Rock Star Award Stacey Ellis, faculty and staff engagement program manager at George Mason University, has been named the recipient of the College and University Professional Association for Human Resources (CUPA-HR) 2025 Higher Ed HR Rock Star Award. This national award recognizes…

Employee Appreciation Highlight: Spreading Kindness

Employee Appreciation Highlight: Spreading Kindness The CHSS Staff and A/P Faculty Advisory Council, established to enhance faculty and staff engagement, using the Faculty and Staff Experience survey data as a guide, hosted a highly successful pop-up Appreciation Station in Horizon Hall to celebrate Employee Appreciation Day (March 7). The event…

Commuter Choice: Benefits for Northern Virginia-Based Employees

Commuter Choice: Benefits for Northern Virginia-Based Employees Save money this year! Full-time state employees in Northern Virginia qualify for up to $325 per month for public transit or vanpooling, thanks to an Executive Order. This a tax-free benefit. Visit the Mason Parking website for more details!

Celebrating George Mason Employees’ Degree and Certificate Milestones

HR News Celebrating George Mason Employees’ Degree and Certificate Milestones Human Resources celebrates the George Mason faculty and staff who have earned or are nearing completion of degrees and certificates as part of their professional development journey. These individuals are carrying out the George Mason motto, “Freedom and Learning.” Join…

One Year Later: Continuing the Momentum from the Faculty and Staff Experience Survey

One Year Later: Continuing the Momentum from the Faculty and Staff Experience Survey It has been one year since the Faculty and Staff Experience Survey was administered, and Human Resources is thrilled with the strong response from units who have reviewed their results, shared data with their teams, and developed…

Resources for Mental Health Awareness Month and Beyond

Resources for Mental Health Awareness Month and Beyond Mental Health Awareness Month is a time to reflect on the vital role mental health plays in our overall well-being-and to connect with resources that support emotional health at work and at home. As part of Mental Health Awareness Month, Anthem Blue…

In Good Company: Lena Anderson

HR News In Good Company with Lena Anderson For someone who once led Team USA to seven silver medals in dragon boating, you might expect a story about speed. But for Lena, it’s not about speed. It’s about direction and the intention behind the journey. At just 14 years old,…

In Good Company: Diego Ortega

HR News In Good Company with Diego Ortega Meet Diego: The New Voice in Employee Relations From the Marine Corps to Mason Nation, Diego’s path to HR isn’t what you’d call typical, but that’s exactly what makes him stand out. As our new Employee Relations Assistant and a proud George…

Classified Staff: Telework Form Renewal Process Updates

HR News Classified Staff: Telework Form Renewal Process Reminder Classified staff are now required by the Commonwealth to use the Commonwealth of Virginia (COV) Application system when renewing their telework agreements. Previously renewals for the same number of days of telework went through dynamic forms. Going forward, all renewals will…

Take Your Junior Patriot to Work Day 2025 Recap

HR News Take Your Junior Patriot to Work Day 2025 Recap George Mason University welcomed 229 Junior Patriots to its Fairfax, Mason Square, and SciTech campuses on April 24, 2025, for a fun filled Take Your Junior Patriot to Work Event! With 42 activities across the campuses, there was no…

Virginia State Employee Assistance Fund

Virginia State Employee Assistance Fund The Virginia State Employee Assistance Fund (VSEAF) provides grants to eligible state employees suffering from a financial crisis as a result of an unplanned emergency or other event that impacts the employee or family members residing with the employee. The VSEAF is a recognized 501c(3)…

Understanding Market Volatility with Voya

Understanding Market Volatility with Voya Market volatility refers to fluctuations-sometimes sudden-in the value of investments. These shifts can be caused by a variety of factors, including changes in economic conditions, interest rates, inflation, and geopolitical events. For individuals participating in retirement plans, especially those with investments in stocks or mutual…

New Required “Teaching?” Field in MasonOnBoard Packets

HR Liaisons: New Required “Teaching?” Field in MasonOnBoard Packets A new required field, “Teaching?”, will be added to MasonOnBoard packets under the Additional Job Data section. When creating a packet, HR Liaisons will now select either Y or N from a drop-down menu to indicate whether the non-benefitted employee will…

Understanding Qualifying Midyear Events: When You Can Make Benefits Changes

Understanding Qualifying Midyear Events: When You Can Make Benefits Changes Life can be unpredictable, and sometimes, changes in your circumstances may require you to update your benefits outside of the annual open enrollment period. That’s where Qualifying Midyear Events come in. These events allow you to make certain benefits changes…

New Policy: Reporting Hazing Incidents

New Requirements Under Clery Act For Employees to Report Hazing Incidents In December 2024, the federal Stop Campus Hazing Act (SCHA) was signed into law. Among the new requirements of the law is to add hazing as a crime that must be tracked under the Clery Act and reported in…

Enhance Your Future with a Supplemental Retirement Plan

Enhance Your Future with a Supplemental Retirement Plan Saving for retirement is essential, and a supplemental retirement plan can help you build additional financial security beyond your primary retirement benefits. Whether you’re looking to increase your savings, reduce your taxable income, or take advantage of employer matching, a supplemental plan…

Revamp Your Interviews with Fresh Questions!

HR News Revamp Your Interviews with Fresh Questions! Looking to revamp your interview process? We’ve updated our Sample Interview Questions to help you find the best candidates. This month’s refresh focuses on key competencies for higher education, including: Customer Focus Problem-Solving Drive for Results Teamwork Motivation Coaching & Development Functional…

Score Big: Discounted Athletics Tickets for Faculty and Staff

Score Big: Discounted Athletics Tickets for Faculty and Staff George Mason Athletics is proud to offer faculty and staff 50% off tickets to athletic events. Single-game and season ticket packages are available. Get discounted tickets for the men’s Homecoming game or other upcoming events by calling the Athletic Ticket Office…

Transform Your Work Experience with Workplace Coaching

Transform Your Work Experience with Workplace Coaching Mason’s Workplace Coaching Program offers personalized support to help you grow, lead, and thrive in your role. But don’t just take our word for it-here’s what fellow employees have shared about their experiences: “Because of coaching, I feel that Mason gets my best,…

Q12 Article Series: Q12. “This Last Year, I Had Opportunities At Work to Learn and Grow.”

Q12 Article Series: Q12. “This Last Year, I Had Opportunities At Work to Learn and Grow.” Gallup’s final Q12 question measures the degree to which an employee feels they are given opportunities to learn and grow. Having opportunities to continuously develop is a basic human need, one that stays with…

Q11. “In The Last Six Months, Someone at Work Has Talked to Me About My Progress.”

Q12 Article Series: Q11. “In The Last Six Months, Someone at Work Has Talked to Me About My Progress.” Gallup Q11 emphasizes the importance of meaningful feedback conversations surrounding professional growth and progress towards goals, and it invites us to reflect on a crucial question: How often do we connect…

Q12 Article Series: Q10. “I Have a Best Friend at Work.”

Q12 Article Series: Q10. “I Have a Best Friend at Work.” In the workplace, having a trusted friend can enhance daily experiences, build a supportive work environment, and make challenging tasks feel lighter. Gallup Q10, “I have a best friend at work,” emphasizes the importance of these connections. The following…

Q12 Article Series: Q9. “My Colleagues Are Committed to Doing Quality Work.”

Q12 Article Series: Q9. “My Colleagues Are Committed to Doing Quality Work.” At George Mason University, quality isn’t just a goal-it’s a commitment that shapes our daily efforts and interactions. “My colleagues are committed to doing quality work” speaks to our shared dedication as a university community to ensure our…

Q12 Article Series: Q8. “The Mission or Purpose of My Institution Makes Me Feel My Job Is Important.”

Q12 Article Series: Q8. “The Mission or Purpose of My Institution Makes Me Feel My Job Is Important.” Question 8 challenges us to consider if our daily work feels connected to the broader mission, vision, purpose, goals, and strategic priorities of George Mason University, helping us see our roles as…

Q12 Article Series: Q7. “At Work, My Opinions Seem to Count.”

Q12 Article Series: Q7. “At Work, My Opinions Seem to Count.” Gallup’s Q7 question “At work, my opinions seem to count” highlights the importance of employee voices and inclusivity, which are critical drivers of engagement and workplace satisfaction. Benefits of Making Employees Feel Their Opinions Count Empowerment & Ownership: When…

Q12 Article Series: Q6. There is someone at work who encourages my development.

Q12 Article Series: Q6. There Is Someone at Work Who Encourages My Development Gallup’s Q6 statement “There is someone at work who encourages my development” highlights the importance of employees having a mentor, coach, or supervisor who actively fosters employee growth. Employees develop faster and engage more effectively when they have…

ITS Technical Support Now Available 24/7

HR News ITS Technical Support Now Available 24/7 Information Technology Services (ITS) is pleased to announce 24×7 technical support. Effective immediately, George Mason students, faculty, and staff can receive technical support any time-day or night, on weekends, and even holidays. ITS has partnered with Anthology, a market leader in education…

Q12 Article Series: Q5. My supervisor, or someone at work, seems to care about me as a person.

Q12 Article Series: Q5 – My Supervisor, or Someone at Work, Seems to Care about Me as a Person Thriving workplaces are built on trust, empathy, and connection. Gallup’s research highlights that employees who believe their supervisor genuinely cares about them tend to be more engaged, loyal, and productive. When people…

Re-introducing Your GMU Retirement Representatives

HR News Re-introducing Your GMU Retirement Representatives We are pleased to reintroduce our GMU retirement plan representatives. These professionals are here to support you with financial planning, retirement readiness, and one-on-one counseling sessions tailored to your needs. Steven J. Scott MissionSquare With over 25 years of experience in retirement and…

Q12 Article Series: Q4- In the Last Seven days, I Have Received Recognition or Praise for Doing Good Work

Q12 Article Series: Q4- In the Last Seven days, I Have Received Recognition or Praise for Doing Good Work Appreciation involves acknowledging the value of a person, event, or behavior and creating a positive emotional connection. In the workplace, it extends beyond recognizing performance metrics and celebrates the overall value…

Q12 Article Series: Q3 – At Work, I Have the Opportunity to Do What I Do Best Every Day

Q12 Article Series: Q3 – At Work, I Have the Opportunity to Do What I Do Best Every Day As we move on to Q3, we’re exploring Individual Contributions, which Gallup refers to as “Know Me.” Question 3, “At Work, I Have the Opportunity to Do What I Do Best…

Q12 Article Series: Q2- Ensuring Access to Materials and Equipment

Q12 Article Series: Q2- Ensuring Access to Materials and Equipment Having the right tools and resources is essential for employees to perform their jobs effectively. Gallup’s Q12 Question 2, “I have the materials and equipment I need to do my work right,” highlights the importance of equipping employees with what…

Q12 Article Series: Q1-Understanding and Enhancing Clarity of Expectations at Work

Q12 Article Series: Q1-Understanding and Enhancing Clarity of Expectations at Work In today’s dynamic and fast-paced work environments, clarity of expectations is paramount for both individual and organizational success. Gallup’s Q12 Question 1, “I know what is expected of me at work,” serves as a foundational element in assessing and…

Discover Workplace Appreciation Strategies

Discover Workplace Appreciation Strategies 🗓️ Tuesday, October 8 at 1 p.m. – 2:30 p.m. 📍 Merten 1204 🗓️ Thursday, November 7, 2 p.m. – 3:30 p.m. 📍 Virtual (Zoom) The Faculty and Staff Engagement Team is excited to announce upcoming professional development focused on Workplace Appreciation. Based on the book…

Onboarding Guidance for New Employees

Onboarding Guidance for New Employees Welcome to Mason! To help you get started, here’s a quick guide on important onboarding steps, including I-9 completion, obtaining your ID card, and securing parking. Follow the instructions below to ensure a smooth transition into your new role. Section 2 of your i9 can…

Get Involved with University Sustainability’s Greenhouse & Gardens Program

Get Involved with University Sustainability’s Greenhouse & Gardens Program There are a number of ways to get involved with University Sustainability’s Greenhouse & Gardens Program Enjoy our FREE fresh produce and decorative flowers – we deliver! Produce options include berries, tomatoes, lettuce, microgreens, and more! Let us know a good…

Best Practices for New Employee Onboarding

Best Practices for New Employee Onboarding Welcoming new colleagues warmly is essential for a positive onboarding experience at Mason. Here are some top practices and resources from HR professionals across our campus: Prepare and Welcome the New Hire: Send a detailed welcome email before their first day, including parking recommendations,…

Gallup Success Story: Shannon Jordan and Housing and Residence Life

Gallup Success Story: Shannon Jordan and Housing and Residence Life After the University Life All-Staff meeting, where UL-specific 2022 Gallup Faculty and Staff Experience survey data was revealed, Shannon Jordan, Associate Dean and Chief Housing Officer, together with Housing and Residential Life (HRL) leadership, set sail on a journey to…

Gallup Success Story: The College of Humanities and Social Sciences

Gallup Success Story: The College of Humanities and Social Sciences In response to the 2022 Gallup Faculty and Staff Experience (FSE) survey, the College of Humanities and Social Sciences (CHSS) took decisive action to amplify employee engagement. Under the visionary leadership of Dean Ann Ardis, the CHSS Staff and A/P…

Gallup Success Story: Julie Zobel and the Risk, Safety, and Resilience Leadership Team

Gallup Success Story: The Risk, Safety, and Resilience Leadership Team After the 2022 Gallup Faculty and Staff Experience survey, Julie Zobel and the visionary RSR leadership team took the reins, delving deeper into their unit-specific survey results. Thus began the inception of a proactive, employee-centric approach to elevate engagement and…

Further Your Career with an MA in Higher Education at Mason!

Further Your Career with an MA in Higher Education at Mason! Are you looking to further your career in Higher Education? You can use your tuition benefit to pursue a degree with the Higher Education Program at Mason! Going part-time, you can complete the MA in Higher Education and Student Development in…

New Engagement Resource for Supervisors

HR News New Engagement Resource for Supervisors Mason supervisors are encouraged to check out the new Engagement at Mason page on our website. The page shares a variety of resources, including strategies for measuring employee engagement, tools for improving engagement, information on supervisor training and the faculty and staff experience…

New Position Vacancy Report Now Available for HR Liaisons

HR News New Position Vacancy Report Now Available for HR Liaisons HR Technology Services and the Business Intelligence Services group continue to partner on the creation of new MicroStrategy reports to meet the business needs of HR Liaisons and other users across Mason. A Position Vacancy Report is now available…

Empowering Employee Development: A SMART Approach to Success

HR News Empowering Employee Development Through SMART Goals In George Mason University’s quest for personal and professional growth, SMART goals have become a cornerstone of effective development strategies. SMART stands for: Specific: Set clear, precise targets that leave no room for ambiguity. Whether it’s mastering a new skill, completing a…

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