The HR Technologist

I’m not sure what you’re doing on May 7th and 8th, but I can assure you that I will be in downtown Chicago on those dates.  The second installment of HRevolution will be held at Catalyst Ranch, Chicago’s most unique meeting space and a great location for such a unique event.

Before I list the top 5 reasons why I’ll be attending, it makes sense to first tell everyone what HRevolution is.  Quite simply HRevolution is a unique combination of some of the most progressive HR thinkers, social media rockstars, and technology thought-leaders brought together in an unconference format for discussion on a host of topics of interest to HR.  Think HR Woodstock without the music, drugs, or anarchy – it will be a defining moment for the HR domain.

Why I’m planning on attending HRevolution 2010:

1.  It’s in Chicago – For those traveling from other parts of the country and the world Chicago is centrally located, easily reached by direct flight from just about every major airport in the world.  While travel to Chicago is fairly simple, it’s also an amazing place to visit.  Come see the Magnificent Mile, State Street, Navy Pier, Millennium Park, and some of the finest modern architecture in the country.  The conference hotel is within steps from world class dining, some of the hottest nightlife, as well as being adjacent to Chicago’s Theatre District.  As important as all this is, for me the location provides very easy access because it’s 45 minutes from my house.

2.  Its unlike the other HR/Tech Conferences – Whether you typically attend the annual SHRM conference, HR Technology, IHRIM, or any other standard HR-themed conference, they all have something in common – similar content, themes, and speakers.  While each of these events serve a well established purpose and should continue doing so, they lack the one thing that HRevolution promises – full interaction.  The unconference format provides attendees with the ability to not only learn from a host of great leaders but also participate in the discussion and learning in ways not possible in a more traditional conference format.  Speakers are simply facilitators of the discussion rather than pontificating from a stage.  No powerpoint, no panels of analysts/experts, and no sales pitches – just straight talk from folks who have been there and done it.   I see this as not a replacement for the traditional conferences, but a great addition to some already outstanding events.

3.  Its a great value – Unlike a traditional conference which can cost upwards of $500 per day, HRevolution is only $100, little more than a dinner out on the town.  In a time of tight budgets and people’s reduced ability to attend a conferences, this offers a great opportunity to learn without breaking the bank.  Many are attending on their own dime – further demonstrating the value that is seen in the event.

4.  Meet great people – The conference is being organized and attended by some of the most well known HR bloggers and twitter personalities.  Its a great opportunity meet some of the top online HR influencers, bloggers, consultants, and practitioners.

5.  The Conference is ALL ABOUT YOU! - Hard to imagine that after the previous four reasons you still need more, but if you are still on the fence think about this; The conference is all about you.  If you don’t attend, the conference will be different – really.  Since this is an unconference, attendees and speakers alike shape the discussion, the content and the learnings.  If you don’t attend, not only will you miss an opportunity to learn from others but you’ll also eliminate the opportunity for others to learn from you as well.  After all, an unconference is only as good as you’re willing to make it.

I hope to see you in Chicago on May 7th and 8th at HRevolution 2010.  It will be a great event and is limited to 100 attendees, so if you haven’t registered yet please do so while tickets are still available.  To register, click here.