Recruiter Chicks

Oh hells yes.

That was an actual question someone tweeted to me after this past #HRevolution.  I was a little shocked by the question at first.  I have been attending since the first event in Louisville back in 2009 — and I can honestly say it had never occurred to me to NOT go and be a part of it.  When Trish McFarlane, Ben Eubanks, Steve Boese, and Crystal Peterson first took on the challenge of starting this alternative to the more traditional HR conferences, I was sold.

HR, Social Media and Technology, all weaved together in a more informal, less structured format — with people you knew from their tweets and their blogs were not afraid to voice their opinions.  I think for many of us that attended that first event, that was the real draw — it was for me.  It was a chance to go beyond the blogs, tweets, and many off line conversations and bring it all together.  A group that  would share their experiences, frustrations, ideas and be willing to not only challenge the status quo … but also each other.

So fast forward to this most recent HRevolution here in Atlanta — and the question posed to me.  Is there much there for Recruiters?  I am glad he asked because I think Recruiters would be well served to understand and be a part of the dialogue that happens at these events — and all of the days between in this fabulous community of professionals.  I believe as a Talent Acquisition professional it is important to understand not just recruiting, but all that surrounds developing, managing, and retaining talent in your organizations or clients.

This year’s event was the best yet.  My only problem was I wanted to attend every single session – but I could not.  So I personally set out to spend time in sessions covering topics that would expand my awareness and knowledge beyond my area of expertise.  My other goal was to participate in such a way that might do the same for others.  I love that the attendees come from various disciplines of HR and Business – and aren’t afraid to share.  This is not your typical HR, not your typical conference – I don’t think one session I was in was without respectful debate and f-bombs.

Recruiting to me is not about butts in seats.  What we do is serious business.  Companies have few means to truly differentiate themselves – their talent is one of the primary ways.  All of the HRevolution topics discussed have an impact on Recruiting – and if you don’t believe that, call me…we need to have a talk.

** Special note:  Thank you to all of the fantastic session leaders and attendees – as always I walked away a better, more enlightened person.  Part of that was spending time with the friends made at past events, deepening friendships with people I had only previously known online, and making some new friends I can continue to expand online.  It was also a surprise and honor to be among the three time attendees recognized…very nice touch.  Which leads to my biggest thanks to the sponsors and planners – your best event yet…really.