Why I'm going to RecruitFest!

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Who goes to Canada for their birthday? Me apparently. When I first learned about RecruitFest!, the upcoming RecruitingBlogs.com conference that Jason Davis is having, it didn't even have a name. But I knew I wanted to go. For those reading, I have been to a few-ish conferences in the last few months. I've also been actively involved in more than a few social networks.

When I mentioned that I wanted to go to RecruitFest! it was the last straw. I had to argue pretty hard to convince bosses and hubby alike that this was a good idea, resulting in this emo-vid shortly after the big blowup.

In the end, I agreed to forgo all other conferences (except maybe this one, just don't say anything yet) in favor of this one. Smart deal? That will remain to be seen. But I think it will end up being genius, here's why:

RecruitFest is put on by a pro: I know Davis' current focus is marketing to recruiters, but most everyone knows he used to BE an awesome one. I've heard his story (if you haven't you should) and some of the future possibilities for RBC. He wants recruiters to succeed. To that end, Jason has filled his conference with tried and true speakers who are not only thought leaders but practitioners that are still working it, both third party and corporate.

RecruitFest is exclusive: There are only 80 seats. I love that. I've been at big shows, I've been at smaller shows but the real networking and LEARNING comes after hours, behind the scenes. That's where lifelong relationships are made. If I sound corny, sue Ramer and Sumser. They made me this way. Small is the new big right?

RecruitFest is not in Vegas: Or Orlando, or San Diego, or any other place that is known for cheap flights, conference rates etc. It's in Toronto. What this means to me is that people will have to THINK about it. It's not easy, it's not standard, which means only the most committed will be there.

RecruitFest is not $1000: I hate this. I know people have to make their money somewhere so I don't begrudge the ERE and Kennedy and SHRM (it should be noted that key players from some of these orgs are coming, which proves I am right about this being something) etc shows. But when someone comes out with an intimate, well thought out, information filled conference that doesn't focus on automaton tactics AND it's less than $300, I'm in.

RecruitFest gives me a voice: I am not heard in a room full of thousands or even hundreds of people. But in a room with 30-40 people (there are several tracks, so the 80 will be divided for some of the time). I have heard the adage that "content used to be king, now it's conversation". Davis and his crew have tapped into that with a vibrant and organic community and now it's being translated into conference form. I like what I've seen so far. . .

RecruitFest has no flashy titles: Save the ! in the title, there are no flashy headlines promising that I will make a bazillion dollars next year if I go to this conference. Wisely enough, Davis has out the responsibility of that into my hands. It's an conference about our industry, but it's not the standard industry conference. And it's the first one.

Something inside me says that this will be big. And I plan on being...

Comment by Slouch on July 29, 2008 at 3:23pm: I'm trying real hard to make this target to good old fashion recruiting. I promise it will be good and if anyone is not happy at the end of it, I'll refund the ticket price. That's a no brainer.

Comment by Recruiting Animal on July 29, 2008 at 4:32pm: Hey, JD. How come Maren wasn't asked to speak at Recruitfest? Are you holding the bright new up and coming WOMEN back in favour of the old boys network?

Comment by Maren Hogan on July 29, 2008 at 5:07pm: Oooooh, I will stay out of this dogfight. But I do love the British spellings of words. Really, it's quite adorable and I know how you strive for adoration!

Comment by Slouch on July 29, 2008 at 6:00pm: Dude, you won't even come.

Comment by Recruiting Animal on July 29, 2008 at 6:05pm: Trying to change the topic? Too hot for you? Behind the sexist, ageist 8 ball?

Comment by Maren Hogan on July 29, 2008 at 6:06pm: Um, awkward. Speaking of 8 balls, did you all know I used to be a pool shark? It was awesome!

Comment by Maren Hogan on July 29, 2008 at 6:21pm: Actually I am trying to keep this post from going to the place where he has to say: "Um, because she doesn't know anything yet," which would hurt my feelings, despite its truthiness. I can't take honesty on my birthday. Quick, does this dress make me look fat?

Comment by Recruiting Animal on July 29, 2008 at 6:42pm: That's no reason. Is anyone doing more intense research than you are about how to learn about recruiting today?

Comment by Recruiting Animal on July 29, 2008 at 6:45pm: I should give you a session on The Recruiting Animal Show called, "Teach Me, I'm Cute".

Comment by Maren Hogan on July 29, 2008 at 6:45pm: Now you may have a point there. . . .But I am happy to observe. I know you're being sarcastic but I do not care, the truth is I am a very fast typist and what people think is nonstop socializing is just the tip of the iceberg. Don't underestimate the perky ones.

Why I'm going to RecruitFest!

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