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Merritt began her Human Resources career 12 years ago. In addition to her key strength in human resource information management systems, she also possesses a background in federal contract regulations and compliance, diversity, and inclusion, change management, employee benefits, compensation, performance management, employee recruitment, training and employee relations. Merritt is a graduate of The University of West Georgia, where she received her Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration with an emphasis in Marketing. She has also earned her Master’s degree in Human Resource Management from Columbia Southern University. Simone brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to her role by providing strategic leadership in the planning and implementation of quality-based, integrated human resources programs for personnel and staff for small business and young entrepreneurs.
GP: What advice would you give to black-owned businesses who are looking to hire in today's job market?
My advice to black owned businesses looking to hire in today's job market is to ensure they have a diverse pool of candidates. This can include reaching out to minority organizations and job boards, and implementing diversity and inclusion strategies in their hiring processes. I would also suggest being very strategic with your candidate selection process along with your development of the position and compensation. I also think about quality or comfortability. Sometimes it is worth doing more due diligence to avoid high turnover down the line.
GP: What are some good hiring practices?
Good hiring practices include having a detailed job description and requirements, conducting thorough interviews and background checks, providing competitive compensation and benefits, and ensuring a positive and engaging candidate experience.
GP: What are some qualities you think every entrepreneur should possess?
Every entrepreneur should possess qualities such as resilience, solid communication skills,adaptability, creativity, leadership, and a passion for their business idea.
GP: What made you want to start this business?
HR is my passion, along with the desire to elevate and challenge myself continuously. As I grew and plateaued at a Senior level position where I worked, I decided it was time to see if I could offer my passion as a service to other small businesses that are growing, but may not have the capacity to have a full time HR Business Partner on staff. Working for a small business for over 10 years I saw where the gap was in compliance with smaller companies and I wanted to fill it.
GP: How do you define success?
Success can be defined in different ways for different people and businesses. It can be achieving financial stability, meeting personal or professional goals, making a positive impact on society or the environment, fulfilling a passion, or experiencing personal growth and satisfaction. Ultimately, success is what brings happiness and fulfillment to individual or business goals.
Oftentimes on our entrepreneurial journey, we get discouraged because we’re not exactly where we desire to be, but insight is what allows one to see the bigger picture, and what’s to come if we simply persevere. At 13, Dr. Mya Smith-Edmonds began working at her father’s McDonald’s where she developed her strong work ethic, accountability, discipline and focus. Today she is the proud owner of nine McDonald’s restaurants.