Articles

Member & Certification Spotlight: Delores Jones, SHRM-CP, SHRM-SCP

Delores Jones, SHRM-CP, PHR is the Human Resources Manager at TRUE Fitness Technology, and this duly certified Human Resources Practitioner has cherished her experience with SHRM St. Louis over the years!  

Were you born and raised in the St. Louis area?
No, I was born in East St. Louis and raised in Springfield, Illinois. I earned my Bachelor’s degree at Southern Illinois University-Edwardsville – Business Administration, specializing in Human Resources, and crossed the river when seeking the right job opportunity.

What is your history with SHRM St. Louis? 
I have been a SHRM St. Louis member for many years and have been PHR certified. I also earned my SHRM-CP and have maintained both certifications throughout my career. I enjoy my continued work with the Certification Committee!

Why did you decided to focus on employment/human resources? 
At this point in my career; being a change agent is extremely important in this ever-changing world of Human Resources. It truly requires HR’s expertise and contributions to senior management to run an effective organization. I really enjoy interacting and working with people through training and recruitment and learning the new processes of the automated HR systems. The field of HR is never just a job, it is my career. I strongly believe that taking care of your employees will take care of your customers. 

Please describe your job. 
I am a Human Resources Manager, and up until four months ago, I was in a one-person HR department. I’ve enjoyed this aspect because it gave me the opportunity to expand my knowledge in every facet of HR, which is ever-changing. There is a lot to learn and share because the days are never the same – no matter how you plan, which keeps things exciting. I am a planner by nature, so I always try to plan out the next day which in HR means be flexible.  

What is your favorite part of the job?
It’s definitely the people side, analyzing data and being a strategic thinker, which is needed in the world of recruitment, benefits and training. As a HR Manager, it is definitely knowing that every day will be different and how you can make a difference for the employees and the company you represent. I am a strong believer in if an organization recognizes that your employee is your best investment and focuses on customer service; then you can have a thriving business. 

What is one example of a positive experience that you’ve had in this field? 
I always feel that I have a positive impact on people’s lives. I truly enjoy sharing my HR knowledge.

Who introduced you to SHRM? How did you initially become involved?
I want to say that it was my participation in the student association group on campus that introduced me to the value in SHRM membership upon graduation.  

What have you gained thus far through your SHRM St. Louis membership? 
Just staying up to date on the ever-changing world of Human Resources. Membership also gives me an avenue to maintain my certifications. 

What are your hopes for SHRM St. Louis in 2022?
I like the amazing topics that are addressed each month; very timely and HR relevant. I’m really hoping that the Certification Committee can get a study group back started for those members still looking to take their certification courses. I really like the flexibility of the monthly scheduled sessions. I also think that the additional activities being offered today are amazing.

What non-professional activities do you enjoy in your spare time?
I have preteen children, so my husband and I are involved in the school parent teacher organization, and work with other parents on activity planning and engagement. I enjoy sports that I commit to, including Zumba and kickboxing to maintain work-life balance. I do also enjoy traveling, reading, listening to jazz and gospel music and I am active in my church. 

What is a favorite quote of yours and why?
“If You Love What You Do, You’ll Never Work A Day In Your Life”
I truly enjoy Human Resources and the contributions this field has on people and the operation of organizations.

Who would you consider to be your mentor and why? 
I would say that would be my mother, she is an advocate for education and to learn as much as you can. Everyone in your life could be considered as a mentor if you practice being a good listener. Every HR organization that I participate in has always been an opportunity to listen and share Human Resource knowledge.