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Recruiting conferences are a great place to network. But they are also a melting pot of insights and industry trends.

For any HR and people leaders looking to stay ahead of the latest trends, or pick up a new tactic they can use to recruit, these are the best recruiting conferences to attend in 2024.

Best Recruiting Conferences 2024 Shortlist

Here's a shortlist of the best recruiting conferences I think are worth attending in 2024:

  1. Engage - Multiple Locations and Dates
  2. HRWest 2024 - Oakland, CA (March 2024)
  3. Recruitment Agency Expo - Multiple Locations and Dates
  4. The i4cp Conference Next Practices Now - Scottsdale, AZ (March 2024)
  5. DEAMcon24 - New Orleans, LA (April 2024)
  6. SourceCon - Orlando, FL (April 2024)
  7. SHRM Talent Conference & Expo 2024 - Las Vegas, NV (April 2024)
  8. Workhuman Live - Austin, TX (April 2024)
  9. UNLEASH America - Las Vegas, NV (May 2024)
  10. ERE Recruiting Conference - Austin, TX (May 2024)
  11. California HR Conference - Anaheim, CA (May 2024)
  12. Talent42 Tech Recruiting Conference - Seattle, WA (June 2024)
  13. SHRM Annual Conference & Expo 2024 - Chicago, IL (June 2024)
  14. RecFest - Multiple Locations and Dates
  15. HR Technology Conference & Exposition - Las Vegas, NV (September 2024)

Find more details about each conference below.

Best Recruiting Conferences Of 2024

1. Engage - Multiple Locations and Dates

A presenter stands on stage at the Engage conference, addressing an attentive audience
The Engage conference
  • Dates: Multiple dates (see table below)
  • Location: Multiple locations (see table below)
  • Pricing: See the registration page for current pricing
  • Website: Engage

Overview:

Bullhorn Engage covers a wide array of topics pertinent to the staffing and recruiting industry, ranging from the latest in recruitment technology to strategies for business growth and candidate engagement.

The conference brings together a diverse group of speakers, including industry leaders, Bullhorn experts, and front-line practitioners.

Engage: Conference Locations and Dates

LocationsDates
Engage Sydney 2024 | Royal Randwick Racecourse Sydney, NSW, AustraliaMarch 14, 2024
Engage Boston 2024 | The Westin Boston Seaport District, Boston, MAMay 14-15, 2024
Engage London 2024 | ETC Venues, 155 Houndsditch, London EC3A 7DH, UKNovember 12, 2024

Why You Should Attend:

This conference is ideal for those looking to amplify their recruiting efforts and learn about cutting-edge tools and strategies from industry experts. It’s particularly relevant in today’s climate, where adapting to technology and maintaining a competitive edge is crucial.

2. Recruitment Agency Expo - Multiple Locations and Dates

Busy exhibition hall at the Recruitment Agency Expo with attendees
Recruitment Agency Expo
  • Dates: Multiple dates (see table below)
  • Location: Multiple locations (see table below)
  • Pricing: See the registration page for current pricing
  • Website: Recruitment Agency Expo
  • Social Media: Facebook | X | LinkedIn

Overview:

This conference is a leading event for recruitment professionals, focusing on the latest tools, technologies, people analytics, and recruitment tech among other topics and strategies in the industry. It features exhibitors from top recruiting software, job boards, and service providers.

Recruitment Agency Expo: Conference Locations and Dates

LocationsDates
Recruitment Agency Expo London | Excel LondonMarch 19-20, 2024
Recruitment Agency Expo Birmingham | National Exhibition Centre Birmingham October 9-10, 2024

Why You Should Attend:

It’s a must-attend for agency recruiters and talent acquisition leaders looking to boost their business performance and enhance their service offerings in a highly competitive market. The focus on innovation and technology makes it especially relevant.

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3. The i4cp Conference Next Practices Now - Scottsdale, AZ (March 2024)

Conference room filled with attendees seated at round tables focused on a speaker presenting on stage at the i4cp Next Practices Now conference
The i4cp Conference Next Practices Now

Overview:

This event is focused on high-performance organizations and covers topics like workforce planning, talent management, and organizational agility. It's known for its exclusivity and high-caliber attendees, including senior HR practitioners and business leaders.

Why You Should Attend:

If you're looking to gain insights from organizations that are at the forefront of HR innovation, the i4cp Next Practices Now Conference is for you.

It offers a unique blend of strategic discussions and actionable insights, featuring speakers like Dave Ulrich, a Professor at the University of Michigan Ross School of Business and co-author of "HR from the Outside In," and Diane Gherson, the former Chief HR Officer at IBM. Their expertise and experiences provide a rich learning environment, showcasing the latest in workforce planning, talent management, and organizational agility.

Attending this conference puts you in the same room as leading minds in the field, allowing you to absorb their wisdom and apply it to your organization.

4. DEAMcon24 - New Orleans, LA (April 2024)

Conference attendees engaging in conversation in a hallway at DEAMcon
DEAMcon Conference

Overview:

DEAMcon, organized by the Direct Employers Association, focuses on recruitment marketing and compliance. It offers practical advice on navigating the complexities of OFCCP compliance and effective strategies for digital recruitment marketing.

Why You Should Attend:

This conference is essential for employers who need to balance aggressive recruitment strategies with stringent compliance requirements. It’s particularly timely given the increasing regulatory scrutiny in the recruitment space.

5. SourceCon - Orlando, FL (April 2024)

A speaker presents on stage at the SourceCon conference event to an audience of attentive attendees
The SourceCon Conference

Overview:

SourceCon is where sourcing innovators gather to share their experiences and strategies. It covers everything from leveraging technology in sourcing to creative methods of finding hidden talent pools. The speaker lineup typically includes a mix of sourcing practitioners and industry thought leaders.

Why You Should Attend:

If you're looking to up your sourcing game and learn from the best in the business, this is the place. Given the current talent market, mastering the art of sourcing is more crucial than ever.

Developed by Jim Stroud, SourceCon is the premier gathering for sourcing innovators. If you're aiming to up your game in talent acquisition, this conference is indispensable. The opportunity for professional development to learn from industry leaders like Greg Hawkes, Principal Sourcing Lead and Vice President at M&T Bank, and Kalifa Oliver, Global Director of Employee Experience (EX) Analytics Strategy at Ford Motor Company, makes it a can't-miss event.

Greg's insights into strategic sourcing and Kalifa's expertise in enhancing employee experience through analytics offer attendees a comprehensive view of modern recruitment challenges and opportunities.

Attending SourceCon will not only equip you with the latest techniques and technologies for finding and attracting talent but also provide a deeper understanding of the importance of candidate and employee experience in today's competitive talent market.

6. SHRM Talent Conference & Expo 2024 - Las Vegas, NV (April 2024)

Attendees walking around an exhibition hall at the SHRM Talent Conference & Expo
The SHRM Talent Conference & Expo

Overview:

This conference is a powerhouse of knowledge on all things talent acquisition and retention. Topics range from recruitment marketing to employee engagement strategies, with speakers from various sectors sharing their insights and successes.

Why You Should Attend:

The SHRM Talent Conference & Expo 2024 is a powerhouse of knowledge on talent acquisition and retention, essential for HR professionals navigating the complexities of today's job market.

With speakers like Tim Sackett, CEO of HRUTech.com, and Elliott Masie, Chair of the Masie Learning Foundation, the conference offers a rich tapestry of insights and strategies.

Tim Sackett brings a wealth of experience in HR technology and talent management, offering practical advice and innovative solutions. Elliott Masie adds a unique perspective on learning and development, a crucial component of talent retention and engagement. Their participation underscores the conference's commitment to providing actionable content that can transform your HR practice, making it a must-attend for those looking to enhance their recruitment marketing, employee engagement strategies, and overall talent management approach.

7. Workhuman Live - Austin, TX (April 2024)

Attendees wander inside the venue of the Workhuman Live conference
Workhuman Live Conference

Overview:

Focused on the human side of HR, this conference delves into creating cultures of appreciation, building inclusive workplaces, and the power of recognition. The speaker roster is always a blend of inspiring individuals from various fields.

Why You Should Attend:

Fostering a positive culture is key to retention and engagement. This conference offers deep dives into how to make work more human, which is invaluable in the current climate.

Workhuman Live stands out as a crucial gathering for those committed to nurturing a workplace culture centered on appreciation and inclusivity.

With keynote insights from Dr. Brené Brown, a leading expert on vulnerability and leadership, and Eric Mosley, a pioneer in employee recognition, you'll be equipped with transformative strategies and practices. Their sessions promise to inspire and provide actionable steps to enhance your organization's employee engagement and build a more human-centric work environment.

8. UNLEASH America - Las Vegas, NV (May 2024)

Conference attendees interact and network in a lively expo hall at the UNLEASH America event
UNLEASH America conference

Overview:

UNLEASH America focuses on the intersection of HR and technology, showcasing the latest in HR tech solutions, from AI and automation in recruitment to advanced HR analytics. It’s a melting pot of ideas and innovations from leaders in the space.

Why You Should Attend:

For those looking to transform their HR practices with technology, UNLEASH is a goldmine. The conference is especially relevant as HR becomes increasingly reliant on tech to drive efficiency and effectiveness.

UNLEASH America is a landmark event that uniquely combines the insights of leaders from various spheres, making it a crucial conference for HR professionals and business thought leaders looking to drive significant change within their organizations.

Earvin “Magic” Johnson, an NBA legend and Chairman and CEO of Magic Johnson Enterprises, brings an unparalleled blend of sports leadership and entrepreneurial success to the table, offering attendees a rare glimpse into building winning teams both on and off the court.

Dr. Kirstin Ferguson, an esteemed author and keynote speaker, adds depth to the discussion with her expertise in leadership, corporate culture, and the importance of diversity and inclusion in the workplace. Her insights provide practical strategies for fostering an environment where employees feel valued and engaged.

UNLEASH America's inclusion of such diverse perspectives highlights its dedication to addressing the multifaceted challenges of modern HR, making it an essential event for those committed to elevating their organization's employee experience and operational excellence.

9. ERE Recruiting Conference - Austin, TX (May 2024)

A cheerful group of conference attendees pose for a photo at the ERE Recruiting Conference
ERE Recruiting Conference

Overview:

ERE Recruiting Conference is the leading practitioner-led recruiting event that provides actionable insights for talent acquisition professionals, by talent acquisition professionals.

ERE focuses on the core aspects of recruiting excellence, including leadership, strategy, and innovation in the talent acquisition space. It’s known for its interactive panel discussions and actionable insights.

Why You Should Attend:

This conference is perfect for those looking to elevate their recruiting strategy to the next level. In an era where talent is king, having a cutting-edge approach is a game-changer.

10. California HR Conference - Anaheim, CA (May 2024)

Speakers in a panel discussion at the California HR Conference
California HR Conference

Overview:

This conference is a gathering spot for HR professionals who are looking to get a comprehensive update on the latest HR trends, laws, and practices in California and beyond.

Topics often cover everything from legal compliance and employee engagement to diversity and inclusion initiatives. The speaker lineup includes seasoned HR professionals, legal experts, and motivational leaders.

Why You Should Attend:

If you're based in California or manage a team there, this conference is particularly relevant due to its focus on state-specific legal updates and HR practices.

11. Talent42 Tech Recruiting Conference - Seattle, WA (June 2024)

Speakers on stage at the Talent42 Tech Recruiting Conference, engaging in a panel discussion.
Talent42 Tech Recruiting Conference

Overview:

Talent42 is the go-to event for those involved in tech recruiting. It delves into sourcing strategies, candidate engagement, and hiring best practices specifically for the tech industry. The conference features tech leaders, recruiting practitioners, and talent acquisition experts sharing actionable insights.

Why You Should Attend:

Given the fierce competition for tech talent, attending Talent42 can provide you with the edge you need to attract and retain the best in the industry.

The Talent42 Tech Recruiting Conference is the premier event for anyone looking to excel in the competitive field of tech recruiting. This year's lineup features Shannon Anderson, Director of Talent at Madrona Venture Group, and Hannah Brock, Senior Manager at Visa..

Anderson's experience with startup and venture capital environments offers valuable lessons on identifying and attracting emerging tech talent. Meanwhile, Brock's expertise at a global financial services powerhouse like Visa will provide strategies for scaling tech teams and navigating the complexities of the global tech talent market.

12. SHRM Annual Conference & Expo 2024 - Chicago, IL (June 2024)

A wide conference hall filled with attendees at the SHRM Annual Conference & Expo
SHRM Annual Conference & Expo

Overview:

The SHRM Talent Conference & Expo 2024 addresses the need for innovative talent management in today’s dynamic job market. This is one of the largest HR conferences globally, covering a vast array of topics from strategic management to operational HR and everything in between. Speakers include top HR executives, world-renowned leaders, and innovators in the field.

Why You Should Attend:

For a broad and deep dive into all things HR, this is the place to be. It offers unparalleled learning and networking opportunities, making it a must-attend for those looking to stay at the forefront of HR practices.

13. RecFest - Multiple Locations and Dates

A cheerful group of attendees at RecFest event
RecFest Conference
  • Dates: Multiple dates (see table below)
  • Location: Multiple locations (see table below)
  • Pricing: See the registration page for current pricing
  • Website: RecFest
  • Social Media: Instagram | X | LinkedIn

Overview:

RecFest offers a unique outdoor festival vibe, focusing on the future of talent acquisition. It’s a great place to hear about innovative recruiting strategies, employer branding, and approaches to the candidate experience. The event prides itself on its informal and engaging atmosphere.

RecFest: Conference Locations and Dates

LocationsDates
RecFest UK | Knebworth Park, Hertfordshire, UK July 11, 2024
RecFest USA | Bicentennial Park, Nashville, USASeptember 12-13, 2024

Why You Should Attend:

If you’re looking for a conference that breaks the mold with its format and offers fresh, forward-thinking content, RecFest is it. It’s perfect for those wanting to combine learning with a truly enjoyable experience.

15. HR Technology Conference & Exposition - Las Vegas, NV (September 2024)

Attendees bustling through the corridor of the HR Technology Conference & Exposition
HR Technology Conference & Exposition

Overview:

This conference is a premier event showcasing the latest innovations in HR technology. It covers everything from HR data and analytics to talent management software, offering insights into how technology can transform HR practices.

Why You Should Attend:

For HR professionals keen on leveraging technology to enhance efficiency and employee experience, this conference is invaluable. The focus on tech is more relevant than ever as HR departments seek to innovate and adapt.

Summary

These conferences represent just a few of the opportunities available for HR and people leaders to learn, network, and grow. The HR landscape is constantly changing, and attending these events can provide you with the insights and connections you need to stay ahead.

If you've attended or know of other conferences that have been particularly impactful for HR professionals, I'd love to hear about them. Sharing our experiences can help enrich the community, offering new perspectives and opportunities for all of us committed to advancing in the HR field.

Perhaps time and resource constraints mean you can't attend in person, in which case you might want to check out this list of virtual HR conferences.

Let's keep the conversation going and continue to support each other in our journey to becoming even more effective HR and people leaders.

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By David Rice

David Rice is a long time journalist and editor who specializes in covering human resources and leadership topics. His career has seen him focus on a variety of industries for both print and digital publications in the United States and UK.