On June 2, the American Payroll Association hosted a guided networking chat during the Chapter Exchange session of Congress Xstream. With approximately 300 people in attendance, the chat box was filled with a wealth of helpful information. Take a look at the recap below for key takeaways for each question chapter members discussed virtually:
1) What educational topics have been the most popular with your members and why?
While an overwhelming majority agreed that the new Form W-4 was a popular topic, responses also included:
- Garnishments and wage attachments
- COVID-related payroll issues
- Unemployment claims
- Stock compensation
- CARES Act
- Fringe benefits
- Remote workers
- Global payroll
Abbey Moran, CPP from the Washington Metropolitan Area Chapter said “Everyone seems to always need more information on multi-state payroll and local taxes. There are so many levels & requirements are constantly changing!”
2) What are some cost-saving tips you have learned as a chapter leader?
Common responses included:
- Contracting sponsorships/vendors
- Utilizing free speakers
- Looking for free meeting spaces
- Ordering the Payroll Source in bulk for a discount
Jon Schausten, CPP, from the Indianapolis Chapter said, “Contact government officials to speak at events. They cover relevant topics and they do not charge a speaking fee. Free is always good!”
Lisa Vandervelden, CPP, from the Atlanta Chapter said, “Check with local SHRM chapter to see if they want to trade off speakers.”
3) What are some effective exercises to promote teamwork on the chapter board?
Many chapter leaders joked that the key to an effective team is… alcohol! Of course, drinks alone cannot solve everything, but allowing your board to get to know one another while socializing and unwinding is a great way to promote camaraderie and teamwork.
Kenneth Klimik, CPP, from the Central Jersey Chapter phrased it as “Have a night out to bond instead of just a boring meeting.”
Melineé Cody, CPP, from the Hampton Roads Chapter suggested combining business and fun by “hosting a chapter retreat-in and planning next year’s agenda, budget, and ideas to strategize on gaining new members and sponsorships.”
Katie Staffeldt, CPP, from the Chicago Chapter also reminded chapters to “give all board members a voice and don’t micromanage. Everyone is equal.”
4) How have you improved your chapter’s marketing strategies?
Many chapters shared that they have expanded their social media presence through platforms such as Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn.
Carrie Louise Hovell, CPP, from the Washington Metropolitan Area Chapter suggested “requesting the APA mailing list and reaching out to members in your area.”
Valery Noakes, CPP, from the Alamo Chapter of the APA said, “Looking forward to virtual options for meetings to tap those attendees that can't be out of the office for more than 1.5 hours (travel time to and from can be the issue in larger locations).”
5) What software or online tools would you recommend to other chapter leaders?
Below are most of the answers shared, along with a link and description:
- StarChapter – website hosting and membership management
- Hootsuite – social media scheduling across platforms
- Zoom and WebEx – video conferencing/online meetings
- Quickbooks – bookkeeping tool for Treasurers
- Wix – free website builder
- PayPal and Square – online payment software
- Google Drive and Dropbox – online document storage
6) What are your successful strategies for organizing CPP and FPC study groups?
Tim Wallen, CPP, from the Payroll Professionals of Kentuckiana suggested “using games to reinforce learning” and many agreed that adding fun elements (as well as food) helps participants better engage in the study material.
Sue Bradley, CPP, from the Greater Milwaukee Chapter shared, “Our study groups are free for members. Sessions travel instead of being in one location.” Other chapter leaders also suggested having multiple meeting time options and multiple instructors.
Tim Walstrum, CPP, from Charm City Payroll Association said, “Make a great practice test at the end. The test I wrote could predict who would pass and who needed a little more work.”
Other suggestions included using flash cards and inviting new CPPs and FPCs to share their exam experience or help with the study group.
Did you attend our first virtual Chapter Exchange event? Leave a comment below and let us know what your favorite part was!
