What a week full of bright ideas, renewed inspiration, and meaningful conversations at SHRM 25 in San Diego. Recognized globally as the largest conference for HR professionals, this year’s annual SHRM event did not disappoint.
Thousands of diverse people leaders came together for over 375 sessions and panel talks to discuss all the forces shaping our work world and what’s in store. Unsurprisingly, AI’s impact was one of the most talked about themes throughout the conference, as well as anticipating major changes in compliance, culture, and workforce norms.
AllOne Health’s business development leaders Braeden Schaefer and Matthew Minor hosted some of their own compelling interviews with HR leaders, movers and shakers at the SHRM Exhibit Hall. Full of fresh takes, thought-provoking commentary, and a few laughs, here are a few top takeaways:
1. In a word, what does HR mean to you?
Those we interviewed resoundingly agreed that “HR is all about people,” and today’s technology is here to support that, not replace it. Those we spoke to showed a passion for helping others succeed at work and in life:
“Our employees’ mental health and stability are very important, and we try hard to make sure they have all that we have to give them to make sure they’re successful.”
– Chelsea Dunlap | Human Resources Specialist
2. What does well-being mean to you?
Many offered answers that discuss how well-being is about supporting the whole person on an ongoing basis. For example:
“Well-being is taking care of our employees in every way. Focusing on mental health, focusing on the job, making sure they’re trained properly, and they have the resources. It doesn’t stop after we first train them. We do training throughout because things change.”
– Brooke Basquit | Assistant Vice President of HR
3. What does a healthy workplace culture mean to you?
Visitors agreed that a healthy workplace culture is important, whether people work remotely or in the office. However, “office” culture is especially important when people are required to work on-site:
“Everything. It’s paramount. Happy people work better. Happy people aren’t stressed out at the end of the day. Happy people come ready to work, not begrudging that they have to go in. We’re 100% in the office. So we try to make everyone happy.”
– Michele Perry | Talent Partner
“Understanding that everybody’s not going to always be at 10, but there’s a space for grace in the workplace that’s absolutely important.”
– Valerie Wiggins | Chief of Staff
Stay tuned for more updates on the event, to be posted throughout the summer on LinkedIn.
At AllOne Health, our EAP supports every dimension of well-being—mental, emotional, physical, financial, and social. We also go beyond individual care to help organizations strengthen culture, leadership, and resilience. Our goal is to make care more human, accessible, and effective so people and organizations can flourish together. To learn more about us, visit AllOneHealth.com.
