While technology has expanded the ways and means through which HR professionals can continue their education, the most rewarding and valuable professional development experiences always occur in real life.

On June 19, more than 15,000 attendees will converge on the Walter E. Washington Convention Center for four days of learning, sharing and networking at the SHRM 2016 Annual Conference & Exposition.

Conference attendance for HR professionals is a key component of professional development. With the workforce and workplace changing so rapidly, having frequent opportunities to gain knowledge about the latest trends, technology and best practices are critical for career growth and success.

The SHRM Annual Conference & Exposition is a kind of marketplace, jam-packed with sessions and solutions for every issue that HR is facing in the new world of work. Whether it’s mobile recruiting, global cross-cultural competency, workplace wellness or tracking employee classification for the new DOL overtime regulations, #SHRM16 will deliver the most up-to-date information in an environment where HR professionals can share with—and learn from—their peers, and create valuable connections that will last throughout their careers.

There are many reasons why annual conference attendance lands on every HR professional’s annual check list, however, the three most frequently cited are:

1. Career growth and success: With the world of work changing so rapidly, conference attendance keeps HR professionals current on all of the latest technology, trends and public policy issues, and is critical for job success and career growth.
2. Recertification: The ability to demonstrate competency in the HR profession is now a must, and a SHRM Certification is the way to do this. Conference attendance affords busy HR professionals an annual opportunity to accumulate educational credits to maintain their certifications.
3. Networking:The networking that occurs with other HR professionals is priceless. Conference attendance provides an occasion for HR professionals to share ideas and learn from the experiences of their peers. It also provides an opportunity to meet IRL (in real life) the social media connections that are created throughout the year. The sharing of information and the creation of friendships that will last a lifetime are invaluable benefits.

On June 15, at 1 p.m. ET, SHRM SVP of Knowledge Development Alex Alonso and SHRM VP of Membership Elissa O’Brien will chat with Meghan M. Biro during a #WorkTrends special segment that will focus on the personal and professional benefits of conference attendance.

We hope you will join the conversation to learn why your return on investment for conference attendance has never been greater.

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