Workhuman Live San Diego 2023

Thank you to everyone who made this our best one yet. But the work isn't done! Here's everything you need to put your learning into action. Don't forget to check out our upcoming events, too.

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Workhuman Live 2023 in San Diego: Visibility, Intention, and the ROI of Recognition

Workhuman® Live just wrapped in San Diego, and our humans are glowing from the sunshine, inspiration, and being seen. We spent the week talking about how to bring intentionality into HR and the ROI of recognizing your people as the humans they are. This year, Workhuman Live focused on the theme of intentionality, with speakers and breakout sessions exploring how organizations can be more deliberate and strategic in their people strategies.

A woman wearing a bright yellow dress stands on stage with a smile, addressing an audience. She is positioned in front of a colorful backdrop that features the word 'Humans!' along with graphic elements, including large stylized icons and dynamic lighting. Two white chairs are set on the stage beside her.
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A performer passionately singing into a microphone while playing a small guitar on stage, with vibrant green lighting illuminating their face. Behind them, a drummer can be seen in the background, contributing to the lively atmosphere of the performance. The backdrop features dark drapery, highlighting the colorful stage lighting.
A woman in a blue suit and glasses and a man in a gray shirt are engaged in a discussion on stage at an event. The woman is seated in a modern chair, while the man, speaking animatedly, gestures with his hands. On the table between them are bottles of water. The backdrop features colorful geometric designs, creating a lively atmosphere for their conversation.
A young woman is performing on stage, dressed in a vibrant traditional costume featuring bright colors like red and green, with frilly edges and floral decorations. She has long, braided hair adorned with colorful accessories, and she is joyfully smiling while showcasing her dance. In the background, a second performer can be seen, adding to the lively atmosphere of the performance. The backdrop is a bright blue, enhancing the colors of the dancers' attire.
A vibrant display at the Workhuman Live conference showcasing the Amplify Award and Culture Award. The area features a large, illuminated overhead structure with hanging lights and colorful banners. In the foreground, there are seating arrangements with white couches and potted plants. Prominent blue and green signage highlights the awards, with text emphasizing values such as 'creating ripple effects of positive culture' and ensuring safety in the workplace. The overall setting reflects an energetic and engaging atmosphere for attendees.
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Be Intentional, Create Good Trouble, Speak Up

The keynote speakers all shared common messages: be intentional in your actions, create good trouble, and speak up for what you believe in. Eric Mosley, CEO of Workhuman, kicked off the event by reminding attendees that “people are not an asset at your company; they are your company.” He urged HR professionals to focus on building a culture of gratitude and recognition, and to make data-driven decisions that prioritize equity and engagement.

Attendees were inspired by Esther Perel, Luvvie Ajayi Jones, and Ed Catmull, who encouraged us to be vulnerable and to create workplaces where employees feel seen and use their influence to effect positive change in their organizations and communities.

Weaving the Red Thread Through Your Plan

This year's breakouts were organized around several common themes, including the need to change the way we work and prepare for the future of work, the importance of intentionality in HR initiatives, and the need to tie recognition and culture to data-driven results and future strategies. Speakers from a wide range of industries and backgrounds shared their insights and experiences, providing attendees with actionable advice and best practices.

Some standout speakers included Kat Kibben's session on writing inclusive job postings, Siobhan Murray's session on burnout, and insights from companies like NBCUniversal, Zimmer-Biomet, and Corebridge Financial on meeting people where they are and inspiring them to continue moving forward.

The slides for all Workhuman Live breakout sessions can be accessed in the event app. Navigate to the session description and a link to the slides will be available at the bottom of the screen.

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A group of four people engaged in discussion in a podcast studio setting. Two individuals, one male and one female, sit on gray couches with microphones in front of them, while another woman listens attentively. A laptop and a coffee cup are placed on a table between them. The background features vibrant colors with the word 'STUDIO' prominently displayed. The atmosphere is casual and collaborative.
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Feeling Seen at Workhuman Central

The themes of intentionality, visibility, and recognition were woven throughout the event space, with attendees encouraged to reflect on times they felt invisible and to express gratitude for their colleagues and peers. One fun activity was aura photography, where attendees could have their aura analyzed. Walk off the Earth performed at the all-attendee party.

Workhuman Live is for any human looking to drive positive change in their organization. We all know change is constant in HR. Managing it with intentionality with your employees at the center is critical to driving business outcomes, productivity, and success. The time is now and there is no reason to wait - see you in Austin for Workhuman Live 2024!

A vibrant exhibit space at the Workhuman Live conference showcases the Demoverse, with colorful signage promoting the 'Accelerate Award' and 'Innovator Award.' Attendees engage in conversation among lush greenery and modern seating arrangements, while bright lights enhance the atmosphere. The decor features various banners with dynamic colors and promotional content, creating an inviting and energetic environment for networking and exploration.
A vibrant Workhuman Gratitude Bar setup at a conference featuring colorful ribbons hanging from a circular sign that reads 'workhuman gratitude bar.' Attendees engage in conversation and activities around several high-top tables and displays, with sections showing various initiatives like 'Project New Village' focused on community well-being. Surrounding areas are well-lit with a mix of purple and warm lights, and signs indicating amenities such as restrooms are visible in the background.

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