Your Ultimate Guide to the 2024 SHRM Annual Conference

“You know what the happiest animal on earth is? It’s a goldfish. You know why? It’s got a 10-second memory” —Ted Lasso 

My favorite Ted Lasso quote 🤝 the perfect opening to a blog about the 2024 SHRM annual conference. 

Are you wondering what Ted Lasso and SHRM have in common? Well, it just so happens Jason Sudeikis, the Emmy-winning actor and star of Ted Lasso, is one of the main session speakers.

Welcome to our guide for the 2024 Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) Annual Conference. In writing this, we’ve taken inspiration from Coach Ted Lasso's spirit of optimism, leadership, and teamwork that is celebrated in the beloved show. Our goal is to approach the conference with the same enthusiasm and values as Coach Lasso.

Just as Ted navigates the challenges and victories of managing AFC Richmond with heart and humor, we invite you to approach this year's SHRM conference in Chicago with the same enthusiasm and belief in the power of HR to change lives for the better. 

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Prepare yourselves for an unforgettable experience as Jason Sudeikis, who brought the iconic Ted Lasso to life, takes the stage this year. 

Why Attend the SHRM 2024 Conference?

The Windy City, Ted Lasso, Jay Leno, Kelly Clarkson…. Enough said? For real, though, not only is the SHRM 2024 Conference taking place in the iconic city of Chicago with amazing speakers, but it’s the best opportunity for HR professionals to learn, grow, expand their networks, and find solutions to the most pressing issues in the world of HR right now. 

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What's on the Agenda?

375+ Sessions:

From talent management strategies to the latest in diversity and inclusion efforts, the conference offers a diverse range of topics across 375 sessions. It's an educational feast designed to cater to every taste and professional level.

A few that piqued the YML team’s interest are: 

1. Financial Wellness for Women: Meeting The Needs Of Your Female Workforce on Monday, June 24, 7:30 a.m. -8:30 a.m., presented by Kristen Koluch, CFA, CFP, Senior Vice President, Investments at Raymond James
2. Leading the Conversation: HR’s Role in Driving Benefits Strategy on Monday, June 24, 3:30 p.m.- 4:30 p.m., presented by Melanie Hallenbeck, Chief Growth Officer at Alegeus, and Anna Lyons, Chief Talent Officer at Alegeus 
3. What’s Your Edge? Compensation, Benefits, and Pay Equity on Tuesday, June 25, 2:00 p.m.-3:00 p.m. presented by Brenda McChriston, M.A., SHRM-SCP, SPHR, CEO and Owner of Spectrum HR Solutions

Star-Studded Keynotes:

‍Get ready to be inspired by Jason Sudeikis, aka Ted Lasso, along with Sherri Shepherd, Emmy-winning talk show host, Johnny C. Taylor, President and CEO of SHRM, and many others. Their stories and insights will provide unique perspectives on leadership, resilience, and creativity.  

Evening Entertainment:

‍The conference also promises unforgettable entertainment with performances by comedy legend Jay Leno and the famous Kelly Clarkson, but since you’ve been goneeee (okay, I’ll stop now). 

Networking Opportunities Galore:

‍With thousands of HR professionals from across the globe in attendance, the SHRM 2024 conference is the perfect venue to expand your professional network, form new partnerships and connect with peers.

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If you need more convincing, you’ll also be able to receive 25+ PDCs and have I mentioned Ted Lasso yet? 

Maximize Your SHRM 2024 Experience

Plan Your Visit: 

With so much to see and do, planning your conference itinerary is important! Mark your calendar for must-see sessions and dedicate time to networking and exploring the expo hall.

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A few conference pointers:

• Get to sessions early to secure a good seat
• Schedule blocks for visiting the expo hall when it's less crowded
• Scope out vendors you want to visit ahead of time
• Allow buffer time to travel between venues and events
• Wear comfortable shoes—you'll be doing a lot of walking
• Pack business cards for easy networking  
• Bring a refillable water bottle to stay hydrated
• Download any session handouts or materials before arriving
• Research Chicago restaurants and make dinner reservations in advance (we’re partial to some deep dish at Giordano’s, margaritas down the street at La Cantina Grill, or a fancy dinner at the Gage)

Planning ahead will help you make the most of the endless opportunities at SHRM 2024 without feeling overwhelmed. Being prepared lets you stay energized and focused on learning, connecting, and maximizing your experience.

Visit Your Money Line at Booth 1621: 

‍Are you interested in promoting financial wellness among your employees? Do you want to know what your employees are mostly stressed about (hint: it's related to money)? Are you thinking about ways to improve the lives of your employees? If yes, stop by our booth to learn about workplace financial wellness and how we approach it. You’ll also have the chance to win a memory foam pillow and improve your night of sleep at the conference!

Find us easily on the expo map!

Explore Chicago:

‍Enjoy being in one of the U.S.'s most vibrant cities. There’s nothing better than Chicago in the summertime, so try to plan some non-SHRM activities! There's so much to do, from visiting the Bean to walking along Lake Shore Drive! You can also take a quick walk out to the Adler Planetarium for a stunning, Instagrammable city view. 

Why Your Money Line?

At Your Money Line, we believe in the power of financial wellness to transform workplaces. Just as Ted Lasso brings out the best in his team, we're here to help you empower your employees to achieve their best financial selves. Our booth (1621) is your go-to spot for discovering how to integrate financial wellness into your HR strategy effectively. 

Looking Ahead

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As we gear up for the SHRM 2024 conference, let's take a page out of Ted Lasso's playbook and approach each day with belief, positivity, and the unshakeable conviction that HR can make a difference. Whether aiming to enhance your professional skills, deepen your industry knowledge, or expand your network, SHRM 2024 in Chicago is your opportunity to score big for your career and your organization.

So, lace up your sneakers, pack your most comfortable business attire, and join us for what promises to be an unforgettable gathering of the HR community. And remember, in the wise words of Ted Lasso, "Believe." See you in Chicago!