Don’t Forget Your Optional MSU Benefits and Resources

Published on by Megan MacGregorLeave a comment

Updated March 2023

MSU is committed to offering valuable benefits to support you and your family. As a benefits-eligible employee, you’re probably aware of MSU’s health and dental care benefit options. However, on top of those, there is a range of optional benefits we’d like to remind you about as well.

Beyond meeting your health care needs, these optional benefits can help you save money on needed products and services. We realize keeping track of all these different resources can be overwhelming. To help, we’ve created the following recap to jog your memory with links to more detailed information to learn more.

This graphic provides a quick summary of these optional benefits (click the image for a PDF version):

Benefit Highlights Infographic

Optional benefit programs available:

You might not always need or think of these resources but keeping them tucked away can make it easier and more cost-effective to manage your family’s health. As always, if you have any questions about these benefits options, please visit the HR website to learn more or contact the HR Solutions Center at SolutionsCenter@hr.msu.edu or 517-353-4434.

Photograph of a person sitting in front of a laptop. Over the photo, a graphic reads "Sign Up Today! Identify and Maximize Your Strengths virtual course". Additional graphics next to the text show images of graphic elements from the CliftonStrengths assessment used for this course.

OPD Course Spotlight — Identify & Maximize Your Strengths

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“What will happen when we think about what is right with people rather than fixating on what is wrong with them?” â€• Donald O. Clifton

How do you build better relationships at work? Find the right role to fit your talents? Have powerful, constructive conversations? Living your best life begins when you tap into your unique talents. Learn to Identify & Maximize Your Strengths in an upcoming workshop with HR Organization and Professional Development.

Identify & Maximize Your Strengths is currently open for registration in the EBS Portal for Wednesday, September 21, or Tuesday, December 13, 2022, from 1:00 to 5:00 p.m.

Before this workshop, you will complete Gallup’s CliftonStrengths online assessment to determine your natural patterns of thinking, feeling and behaving. Then, attend the 4-hour Zoom session to receive your customized assessment results and participate in a series of structured discussions and reflection exercises to develop a deeper understanding of yourself and increased appreciation for others.

“Identify and Maximize Your Strengths is an introduction to the CliftonStrengths framework in which participants will take the assessment and review their results to explore what they naturally do best, identify the impacts of those talents on their work and relationships, and determine how to further develop these areas to be most successful,” explains course co-facilitator, David Robinson, Learning and Development Professional for MSU Infrastructure Planning and Facilities.

Lean Into Your Strengths

Often, when we think about learning and development, we’re working on our “weaknesses” — areas that could use improvement. One unique aspect of this workshop is its focus on your existing strengths. Discovering your strengths is just the beginning. Applying and investing in them sparks real change and growth.

Danielle Hook, course co-facilitator and Learning and Development Manager for MSU HR Organization and Professional Development, shares, “Identify and Maximize Your Strengths guides participants from the initial understanding of their results through the identification and implementation of strengths-based actions. It is through these actionable steps that we see the deeply meaningful impact of a strengths-based approach to the development of individuals and teams. Using the CliftonStrengths framework, we celebrate the unique talents and contributions of individuals as well as the diversity within our teams.”

Check out a preview of what you can expect from the CliftonStrengths assessment and Identify & Maximize Your Strengths:

Ready to Sign Up?

Register for an upcoming Identify & Maximize Your Strengths session in the EBS Portal by selecting the Courses for Employees at MSU tile under My Career and Training. Contact OPD at prodev@hr.msu.edu with questions about this workshop or inquiries regarding hosting this program for a group.

Put Mental Health First on Employee Appreciation Day and Beyond

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Employee Appreciation Day (Friday, March 4, 2022) is an opportunity for MSU employees to reflect on how you prioritize your mental health, how you talk about it with your supervisors, and how supervisors can show appreciation by supporting the mental health of their employees. Emphasize rest and recognition, learn about your self-care preferences and learn how to utilize the resources available to you!

Why we prioritize

Mental health should be treated like physical health. It should be discussed as normally as physical illnesses especially because physical and mental health can be connected. We should prioritize mental health because it has spent so long in the background. To break that cycle, put your mental health first and make it part of your everyday conversations.

Other reasons to prioritize mental health include:

  • Having high job demands makes it easy to put work over mental health, but it is not worth it in the long run
  • In a time of mostly online interactions, some of the natural in-person social interactions that are missing can inadvertently lower well-being
  • Therapy is still stigmatized, and prioritizing mental health helps release that

Self-care ideas

Becoming burnt out at work is easier than you might think, and the best way to tackle or prevent burnout is self-care. Engaging in self-care in the simplest terms is making sure that as you prioritize work, you also prioritize sleep, nutrition, and exercise. Other suggestions for self-care include:

  • Unplugging when social media and news get overwhelming
  • Treat yourself with compassion no matter how you respond to burnout
  • Enjoy the little things like an ice cream cone or some alone time with your pet
  • Close your laptop at the end of the workday and do your best not to open it again until the morning
  • Seek out help from an expert rather than relying on yourself or your team for mental health related answers

Start the conversation with your team

You don’t have to be the supervisor on your team to start a discussion around mental health. Use empathy to address situations regarding mental health and give space your coworkers space to speak openly about their experience. If you aren’t sure how to start the conversation, use the MSU resources linked below and ease into it.

If you are a supervisor, here are four ways you can show appreciation for your team in support of their mental wellbeing:

  1. Show sincere interest in the needs, hopes and dreams of other people
  2. Watch for signs of burnout in yourself and others
  3. Demonstrate a willingness to help others and refer to appropriate resources
  4. Lead with compassion to contribute to a welcoming and inclusive workplace culture

Michigan State University recognizes the value of its employees and to show appreciation for the important work we all do, the university’s Worklife Office provides a variety of resources to support our wellbeing: 

Take a moment this Employee Appreciation Day to not only be thanked by those around you but also by your body as you begin to prioritize and destigmatize your own mental health.

Job of the Week: Systems Analyst I

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This week’s featured job from MSU Human Resources is an internal support staff posting  for a Systems Analyst (posting 763296) through the Department of Financial Planning and Budget. This posting is available to current employees only.

The Systems Analyst will analyze, design, modify and implement upgrades and modules of the Cognos (IBM) Planning Analytics system. Job responsibilities include but are not limited to training and consulting with system users, leading user groups and teams to improve training materials, and creating system dashboards for analysis. The selected candidate will also participate in special projects to assist University leadership with ongoing planning and analysis. 

The required qualifications for this position include a four year college degree in Computer Science, Programming or Information Systems and one to three years of experience in analysis and design. An equivalent combination of education and experience will also be considered. Preferred skills include fluency with SQL using Oracle or MS-SQL server, knowledge of Cognos and the ability to build financial and cost analysis models. Candidates are also asked to be able to work well in a team environment. 

Learn more about the Department of Financial Planning and Budget at https://opb.msu.edu/functions/budget/. More information about the position and how to apply is available within the EBS portal by selecting the “My Careers and Training” menu at the top and clicking the “Careers @ MSU” tile. All the latest job postings can be found at careers.msu.edu. 

two parents around their son all wearing spring clothes

Deals and Discounts for Spring Break 2022

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Contrary to the weather in Michigan, Spring Break 2022 is quickly approaching! Prepare for a relaxing beachside week, a week of theme parks or a week at home with family using these exclusive employee discounts from MSU Benefits Plus.

To access all the discounts, visit MSU Benefits Plus and sign up for a free account using your ZPID number (located on your Spartan Card ID badge or on EBS).

Still looking for that perfect rental car or hotel for your trip? Are you headed to Disney World and need a discount on tickets? These are the perfect travel discounts for you:

  • National Car Rental: Use the code XZ20LK4 when booking your car rental for their exclusive Big Ten employee discount.
  • Wyndham Hotel Group: At participating Wyndham locations, book over the phone or online for up to 20% off the “Best Available Rate” with ID number 1000009114.
  • OrlandoVacation.com: Discounted Walt Disney World vacations for MSU staff, faculty, students and family members are available online with the code msusaves.

Staying at home during break has never sounded so enticing! See a new movie for less or bring your family to their first basketball game with these entertainment discounts:

  • Premium Seats USA: It is the height of the NBA season and there is no better time to check out a game with a 10% discount on tickets! Use the code CORESTREAM on the Premium Seats USA website.
  • AMC Theaters: Book movie tickets online for over 40% off at AMC, AMC Loews, AMC Showplace, Cineplex Odeon, Magic Johnson and Star Theaters.

Whether you are leaving town or staying in, you can try a new restaurant, see a show and more with these bonus flexible discounts:

  • Tickets at Work: Before you travel, book tickets for a show, visit an event and more, check your MSU discounts through Tickets at Work. The site is always being updated with new discounts and exclusives for employees.
  • Restaurant.com: As a special exclusive deal for MSU employees, pay $6 for $25 in restaurant certificates online using the code CORE.

Find these savings as well as many other benefits by visiting the MSU Benefits Plus portal. Sign up or log in today and have a great Spring Break!

Job of the Week: Clerical Aide

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This week’s featured job posting from MSU Human Resources is for a Clerical Aide (posting 764486) through Infrastructure Planning and Facilities Power and Water.

This temporary or on-call position provides clerical support for secretarial, receptionist, bookkeeping and information processing tasks. Current departments seeking temporary assistance include the East Lansing, Detroit and Macomb College of Medicine campuses. Job responsibilities include providing clerical support to the Power and Water Department, customer service, and safety briefings for contractors and guests. The support staff person will also prepare reports, schedule meetings, sort and distribute mail, order supplies, run errands and perform other duties as assigned. For a full list of responsibilities, click here. 

The desired qualifications for this position are a minimum two years of in-person customer service and basic computer skills. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment. Temporary employees can work for six months then terminate for three months or switch to an on-call role. 

Learn more about MSU IPF at https://ipf.msu.edu/. Read more about this position and apply here by March 6 with a resume, cover letter and reason for interest in working at MSU. All the latest job postings can be found at careers.msu.edu. 

Job of the Week: Extension Community Nutrition Instructor

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This week’s featured job posting from MSU Human Resources is for a Community Nutrition Instructor (posting 7466727) through MSU Extension, Emmet and Charlevoix Counties.

The instructor is responsible for delivering nutrition and physical activity education programs with the support of the MSU Extension Health and Nutrition Institute. Job responsibilities include conducting virtual and in-person programs about critical issues facing a wide variety of audiences, specifically through the lens of diversity, equity and inclusion. The goals for these programs are defined by grants including but not limited to Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program Education (SNAP-Ed) and Expanded Food and Nutrition Education Program (EFNEP). The position will operate in Emmet and Charlevoix Counties and requires active community participation such as attendance at city meetings and knowledge of the area and its residents. For a full list of responsibilities, click here.

Educational requirements of the position include an associates degree, at least two years of experience in effective program delivery in health-related subject matter, and effective oral and written communication skills. An equivalent combination of education and experience will also be considered. Desired qualifications include experience in managing participants and volunteers, knowledge of classroom management techniques, ability to accept and delegate responsibilities and use of Zoom video conferencing.

Learn more about MSU Extension at https://www.canr.msu.edu/outreach/. Read more about this position and apply with a resume, cover letter and four professional references by March 22 here. All the latest job postings can be found at careers.msu.edu.

Job of the Week: Clinic Coordinator I/S

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This week’s featured job posting from MSU Human Resources is for a Clinic Coordinator I/S (posting 762020) in Specialty Services for MSU Health Care.

The Clinic Coordinator will support MSU HCI by maintaining master schedules, attending  quality training and meetings, and organizing clinical activities. Job responsibilities include managing specialized Health Care quality and incentive programs and assisting in the development of staff members for enhanced performance. The individual will also support the curation of current and future training programs. The position requires that health and safety standards are maintained to ensure compliance with University, State and federal rules and regulations. For a full list of responsibilities, click here. 

Educational requirements of the position include the specialized training acquired in two to three years of college in healthcare, science, or business school. Coursework in a field related to medical or ambulatory clinical experience and one to three years of experience with electronic medical records and other office tasks are also expected. An equivalent combination of education and experience will also be considered. Desired qualifications include outpatient clinic experience in a supervisory role. 

Learn more about MSU Health Care at https://healthcare.msu.edu/. Read more about this position and apply with a resume and cover letter by February 15 here. All the latest job postings can be found at careers.msu.edu. 

Three people are gathered in front of a laptop

Developing a Continuous Learning Mindset

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As the climate of rapid change and the nature of our work continues to evolve, our professional goals and expectations are becoming more dynamic and less predictable. Learning new technology and systems is often part of these changes. Although there are many factors over which we have little to no control, we can gain both confidence and competence by taking ownership of our professional development, whether it be related to technology or anything else new and unfamiliar. Choosing to adopt and strengthen a growth mindset is a key factor in understanding and adapting to new technology and can help you expand your existing personal capabilities.

The Growth Mindset

If you happen to be a caregiver for school-age children or have experience in education, you’re likely familiar with the emphasis on a growth mindset for students. The reality is that encouraging a growth, or continuous learning, mindset is just as important for adults. To develop a continuous learning mindset, it’s important to first recognize its characteristics:

  • Skills and intelligence are grown and developed
  • Concern is focused on learning and growing
  • Effort is necessary to learning
  • Mistakes are learning opportunities
  • Challenges are obstacles to be overcome

The Benefits of a Growth Mindset

Research has shown that adopting and utilizing a growth mindset at work leads to higher levels of satisfaction and engagement. When you invest in your own learning, growth and development, you typically become more involved in your work and demonstrate a greater interest in and capacity for innovation and collaboration. This can lead to being viewed favorably by supervisors and leaders and can increase your likelihood of new and expanded career opportunities and advancement.

Those who embrace lifelong learning and bring a growth mindset to their careers are more likely to take on new challenges and are typically better able to cope with disruption and adapt to change — key skills in today’s workplace. These attributes will serve you well, enhancing your career development both now and throughout your learning journey. 

Develop a Growth Mindset at Work

Understanding the components of a mindset dedicated to continuous learning is one thing but taking action and applying this knowledge to your job is critical. This requires steps including:

  • Recognizing and monitoring your own mindset
  • Sharing your mindset
  • Providing feedback for others’ growth
  • Striving for continuous team improvement

Ways to Take Action

One common obstacle to developing a growth mindset and embracing both new technologies and continuous professional development is the feeling of not knowing how — or where — to start. Below are ideas and resources to further your understanding of the growth mindset along with ways you can help ensure your success.

TIPS

  1. Just anticipating that you’ll enjoy the learning is important. Bring a positive and open mind to any new project and treat everything as a potential learning and development opportunity.
  2. Find the right resources for your learning process. Whether you learn best on the job, through instructor-led classes, or via self-directed learning, discovering and utilizing the resources that work best for you is key.
  3. Don’t hesitate to ask for help. Overwhelmed by options or feeling discouraged? Reaching out to trusted members of your team and your supervisor can provide support and new insights into ways you can increase your knowledge and continue your professional development.
  4. Share your learning with others. When you share what you’ve learned, it hones your skills in a greater way. This can happen in many different forms, from writing a how-to guide for your team to simply sharing new knowledge in a department meeting.

Recommended Resources

Live, Virtual Courses

MSU IT Training Courses

Process Mapping Series

Ready, Set, Change!

Identify and Maximize Your Strengths

elevateU Learning

Becoming a Continuous Learner (13-minute course)

Developing a Growth Mindset (24-minute course)

Microsoft Office 365 Learning Resources