In the American landscape, the state of California occupies a special place. As one of the biggest economies and most populous states, it’s a leader in many things – and an outlier in the HR industry as well.

Now, the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) is offering a specific “micro-credential” to professionals who want to become competent in navigating the challenging labor law environment within the state. By attending lectures, completing tests, and enjoying eLearning models, participants attain a qualification that makes sense for compliance in California.

“We know that they have achieved a level of competence,” Nick Schacht, SHRM's chief global development officer, told HR Daily Wire, describing a broad set of core competencies that are necessary in the field.

Schacht said California requires HR managers to be a bit more proficient in terms of some statutes.

“In the U.S., California is a little unusual,” Schacht said, citing a more active legislature and particular application of federal legal structures like FMLA and FLSA. However, he said, laws in California are not “radically different.” Still, it helps career pros to get in-state specialization.

Schacht said lectures and seminars that are a part of the training may be delivered in-person or virtually. The seminars allow for in-depth learning and give the opportunity for learners to ask questions and participate in more kinds of hands-on learning.

“You have a knowledgable instructor,” Schacht said.

Participants, he said, also take four eLearning courses and complete a knowledge assessment.

“It gives them a good base of knowledge and reference,” Schacht said of the eLearning component.

Overall, he explained, the micro-credential helps to prepare HR people for demanding roles where navigating the law is a primary part of the job.

With 285,000 members in more than 165 countries, the SHRM is a standard-bearer for the industry. Get more information on the available micro-credential for California and other programs at the organization’s web site.