My Unconference Experience – HRevolution

In the beginning of May I attended my first unconference in Chicago, HRevolution.  This being my first unconference, I was not sure what to expect.  What exactly is an unconference?  According to Wikipedia, an unconference is a facilitated, participant-driven conference centered on a theme or purpose.  Sounds interesting, right?  It was not only interesting, but the most incredible event I have ever attended. 

So what was so special about this unconference?  Let me share with you why I felt this was a great experience.

• Meeting Social Media Friends In Person 
  • Prior to HRevolution, I met many people attending the unconference on Twitter.  It was so exciting to finally meet these people in person. Because of our 140 character dialog on Twitter, we already knew about each other and had a common interest.
  • Prior to the conference, I  had met only three people in person.  I was a bit sceptical about going to an event not knowing anyone, but that did not last long thanks to my Twitter friends.  A special thanks to John Jorgensen @JKJHR who pulled me out of my shell.
• Engaged, Smart People 
  • Everyone was engaged, smart and passionate.  I mean everyone. 
    • The Presenters – were very engaged.  Each breakout session had 3-4 session leaders.  The session leaders had so much to offer and were passionate not only about their topic, but the event.  They were very smart, approachable and easy to talk to. 
    • The Organizers - were focused on your experience.  They floated from session to session participating as a panel member and sometimes in the audience.  They were so accommodating, pleasant and smart. 
    • The Sponsors- were great!   The sponsors of HRevolution were - Monster, Ceridian, Fusion Frames, Whiting Consulting, Nobscot, Pinstripe, Unbridled Talent and Rypple.  The were friendly and very approachable.  I have never met sponsors that seemed so real and that I enjoyed speaking with.
    • The Participants –  were so passionate about learning.  Learning about each other, discussing challenges and best practices.    
• The Breakout Sessions
  • A variety of content was offered which made it difficult to choose.  There were sessions on diversity, branding, HR Technology, blogging, generations, global recruiting, culture and social media.
  • Each session was engaging and interactive.  Participants contributed frequently and often which lead to several healthy discussions.  I really enjoyed the dialog and discussion in all the groups.  Participants did not hold back their opinions which lead to interesting, constructive discussions.
• The Location
  • It was in a great city (Chicago), at a great hotel with an awesome rooftop bar (The Wit Hotel) and great facility (The Catalyst Ranch).  These three things were icing on the cake.

Reflecting on my experience at HRevolution, I have a variety of emotions.  First, I have to send special thanks to the HRevolution planners – Trish McFarlane, Ben Eubanks, Jason Seiden, Crystal Peterson, Joan Ginsberg, Steve Boese and Mark Stelzner.   Thank you for the idea and working so hard to deliver an outstanding experience.  I cannot wait for the next one and left Chicago feeling like a kid again -  rejuvenated and hungry for more.  In the end, I left with some great ideas and wonderful new friends.

Returning home, I had to explain to my husband why I came home with a cowbell (thank you Monster) and immediate went out and purchased a pair of black Converse tennis shoes…(inspired by a very motivating and adorable speaker Laurie Ruettimann).  Thanks to everyone I met at HRevolution.  I appreciate your time and the great discussions and look forward to continuing the dialog.

Tagged as: HRevolution, Social Media, Unconference