So you’re going to HREvolution 3? Read this… really.

I’m one of the original 50. (I’m also quick to say “Big Deal” so don’t worry)

My path to HREvolution was truly an accident but in retrospect, it was a watershed moment in my career. So with less than two weeks to the event, I thought it would be pretty cool to ruminate on what the conference has done and has not done for me in the past two years.

Starting with what not to expect (because it’s probably the easiest):

Don’t expect to get spoon fed information in the sessions. I don’t want to say that all the sessions are lollipops and rainbows with flying ponies and hot air balloons because they’re not. HREvolution is not the type of event you should attend if you’re afraid to challenge, or be challenged. It’s also not for people looking for a more traditional version of personal development. Presentations will be on a personal almost visceral level. Some sessions will leave you wanting more, some will cover stuff you already know. The presenters all have various styles, skills and levels of presentation. You will be responsible for getting the value out of the presentation.



Think about that for a second and I’ll repeat it again for dramatic effect. You will be responsible for your own development.

That’s pretty much it on the “What not to expect list”, so let’s cover what you can expect by attending HREvolution:

You will have the opportunity to expand your professional network. This is not your average professional network. This is a network of like minded, bleeding edge, risk taking, thought provoking, mountain moving, people who are smart, funny, down to earth, and brilliant. Want to crack a joke about some obscure sport statistic and how it applies to talent management? How about a reference to classical literature, new wave lyrics, and performance management? Someone there will get the reference/joke.



You’ll also have a chance to ask questions and get counsel in a non-judgmental environment. No one will rat you out, snicker behind your back or report you to the EEOC for obvious violations.


Finally, you’ll have a chance to learn something new in ways that aren’t academic or intimidating. That style actually led to several moment of “self actualization” and instilled in me a renewed sense of purpose and drive. I also felt that I had to contribute to a change, at some level, either personal or professional.

So that’s my humble perspective. I’m arriving early for some work related events but if you’d like to meet up and say hello, catch me on twitter (@CigarSPHR) or at the lobby bar. I’ll be in the corner, possibly chewing on a cigar.

Tagged as: “human resources” “talent acquisition”, #HRevolution, #TrenchHR, Echo Chambers, hr “talent acquisition”, Social Learning