13th Annual HR Technology Conference 2010 Attendee Tips

As soon as I’ve finished delivering my Webinar entitled “Convergence in Bloom” today, I’ll be very focused on completing preparationsfor the 13th annual HR Technology Conference.  From the time we arrive in Chicago late morning on Monday (yes, The Wallace will be with me), until we leave late Friday, it will be non-stop vendor meetings, exhibition hall booth visiting (I make a valiant effort each year to stop at every single booth, but the show has gotten so large that this just isn’t possible), session attending, session delivery (I’m doing the Great Debate with Jim Holincheck Thursday morning and an “ask the expert” session Thursday afternoon), pickup conversations with valued colleagues and long-standing industry friends, the occasional meal, our annual Brazen Hussies gathering, and more.  Many of you know that I’m celebrating my 65th birthday this Friday, and I’ve chosen to think of the conference as my personal birthday party (it’s amazing what your mind can do when you let it drift).

As I’m making my own preparations, I thought you might enjoy a few tips from my personal list.  Like all good twitterstreams, this one should be read from the bottom up:

#HRTechConf tip #10: Get #HRTechConf11 on your calendar/in your budget now. 10/3-10/5/11 in Las Vegas. Yes, we’re going to VEGAS! 

#HRTechConf tip #9: Talk, talk, talk and listen, listen, listen because sharing questions, ideas and experiences with colleagues is the point. 

#HRTechConf tip #8: Bring a swag carrier if you’re flying in or plan to carry your #Monster home in your lap.

#HRTechConf tip #7: Leave room in your schedule for serendipity and for nature breaks.

#HRTechConf tip #6: Attend as many sessions as possible. I do because they’re excellent, and there’s NO sales crap allowed.

#HRTechConf tip #5: Don’t try to attend > 3 vendor parties Wed night. Save yourself for Great Debate Thurs AM.

#HRTechConf tip #4: Go online now http://www.hrtechnologyconference.com/agenda.html and plan your conference.

#HRTechConf tip #3: Carry a water bottle and refill it every chance you get. Convention center climates are designed to dessicate.

#HRTechConf tip #2: Wear your most comfortable walking shoes. Few places to sit except in sessions and long convention center distances.

#HRTechConf tip #1: For vendors of greatest interest, do you homework in advance so booth time is hands-on demo time.

I’ll look forward to seeing you in Chicago.