Keep HR practices strong in downturn, conference delegates told

More than 120 sessions, 230 exhibitors over three days

More than 4,000 HR practitioners gathered for three days of professional development at the Human Resources Professionals Association’s annual conference and trade show in Toronto Jan. 28 to 30. Canadian HR Reporter was on-hand filming highlights of the event.

HRPA CEO Bill Greenhalgh spoke about the importance of maintaining training and development even though organizations are experiencing an economic downturn.  (Click here to view video highlights.)

Creativity and diversity

The conference featured 230 exhibitors and more than 120 sessions and speakers. Keynote and author Richard Florida outlined the changing economic realities in which human creativity will be the driver that organizations in North America must tap into to compete internationally. In a new world where brick and mortar are replaced by human creativity and knowledge, diversity will be a differentiator. (Click here to view video highlights.) 

Engaging staff

David McLean, CEO of staff development and retention consultancy GetKeepGrow, noted when the economy recovers those organizations that have ignored engaging and motivating employees will see top staff moving to greener pastures. With limited time and ability to engage everyone on staff, spending time with the right people is key. (Click here to view video highlights.) 

Tackling staff complainers

The desire to complain exists in us all. But it’s a tendency that can be curbed in people and in organizations, said author and speaker Will Bowen. Understanding how and why people complain is part of eliminating the problem. (Click here to view video highlights.) 

Human Resources Summit Awards

A gala night honouring leaders in Canada’s HR community was held on Jan. 27, the evening before the HRPA conference and trade show. The first annual Human Resources Summit Awards were presented by Canadian HR Reporter and the HRPA.

The awards are designed to recognize individuals who have made outstanding contributions to the human resources profession and business community through the implementation of innovative human resources programs and practices as well as thought leadership.

The awards are dedicated to recognizing the very best in human resources management across Canada and are the benchmark for HR leadership in Canada. Individuals were recognized in six categories. (Click here to view video highlights.) 

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