Well, it’s done.

Got my press pass. Booked my flight. Made my reservation at The Cosmopolitan. I’m going back to Vegas.

But I’m not getting married this time. I’m actually gonna make it to SHRM’s annual conference this year. I’ve threatened to attend this human resource pilgrimage every summer for nearly a decade now, but now – with the launch of BenefitsPro – I’ve run out of excuses to dodge this huge event.

It will actually be one of the biggest shows I’ve attended, and while I’m a little intimidated by it all, I’m looking forward to meeting as many of you as I can. More importantly, I’m eager to learn, too.

(Yeah, we all say that about every trade show, but I mean it this time.)

There’s so much of this side of things that are new to me, and I could really use your help: telling me what sessions to attend, what you like about BenefitsPro and what we’ve been doing wrong and right.

Which reminds me, are these types of events helpful? Are you able to actually attend many of these? And are employers supportive of HR when it comes to continuing educations and department development? I'd love to hear your thoughts, suggestions and complaints.

I know on the broker side of things, trade shows and conferences such as these are not only educational, but invaluable networking opportunities. Do you find that holds true on the HR sides of things, too? Sure, the celebs are great, but what makes these events really worth your time – and your company’s money?