2023 SPONSORSHIPS & EXPO

EXPO Resources:

 

Key Dates:
  • October 1, 2022 – Previous Year Sponsor/EXPO Renewal Deadline
  • October 3, 2022 – 2023 Sponsorship & EXPO Packages Open to Public
  • Jan 3, 2023 – Participant Registration Begins
  • April 1, 2023 – Sponsor/EXPO Deliverables Deadline
  • April 15, 2023 – Initial Attendee List Distributed
  • April 29, 2023 – Deadline to order additional booth materials
  • May 6, 2023 – Pre-Con Attendee List Distributed
  • May 8-11, 2023 – Event Dates
  • May 12, 2023 – FINAL Attendee List Distributed

 

EXPO Schedule:
Subject to Change
  • May 8
    • Set-up: 12:00pm-4:00pm
    • Reception: 4:00pm-5:30pm
  • May 9
    • Breakfast: 7:00am-8:30am
    • Break: 9:45am-10:15am
    • Lunch: 11:45am-1:00pm
    • Break: 2:30pm-3:00pm
    • Reception: 4:00pm-5:30pm
  • May 10
    • Breakfast: 7:00am-8:30am
    • Break: 9:45am-10:15am
    • Lunch: 11:45am-1:00pm
    • Break: 2:30pm-3:00pm
    • Reception: 4:00pm-5:30pm
  • May 11
    • Breakfast: 7:00am-8:15am
    • Break: 9:30am-10:00am
    • Lunch & Prize Announcements: 12:00pm-1:00pm
    • Breakdown: 1:00pm-3:00pm

 

SPONSORSHIP PACKAGES:

 

 

GOLD TIER:

AVAILABLE | Technology Sponsor | FULL PRICE: $9,750 | Renewal Price: $9,000 by Oct 1

Features of this sponsorship

  • Logo/message inclusion on the keynote theater screen prior and after each presentation.
  • On-site signage prominently displayed at AV booth
  • Company logo listed as “Premier Sponsor” on all event emails and event website.
  • 1 push notifications through the conference app, noting your sponsorship.
  • 1 banner ad in the conference app, noting your sponsorship
  • Logo displayed on Splash Screen of Mobile App

 

Booth Package

  • Your display includes 6’ skirted table, 2 chairs, Booth ID sign, waste basket, wireless access, and power outlet with multi plug cord.
  • Company listing on website & mobile app.
  • Linked logo and listing with 700-character description on the Conference website.
  • Receive 3 Exhibitor Conference passes for representatives from your organization. Exhibitor Conference Passes includes access to:
    • Keynotes
    • Breakfasts
    • Lunches
    • Refreshment breaks
    • Receptions
    • Conference entertainment
  • Opportunity to purchase additional Exhibitor Conference Passes at the discounted rate of $200 each.
  • Access to pre-and post-conference attendee list with full name, title, organization name, and email address.
1 of 3 AVAILABLE | Keynote Sponsor | FULL PRICE: $8,750 | Renewal Price: $8,000 by Oct 1

Features of this sponsorship

  • Opportunity to introduce the keynote speaker or introduce host of the keynote presentation.
  • Opportunity to play a short, pre-approved video prior to the keynote presentation.
  • Logo/message inclusion on the keynote theater screen prior and after presentation.
  • Opportunity to provide all keynote attendee with a mutually approved gift or gift bag (items can include a pen, flash drive, company brochure, etc.).
  • On-site signage prominently displayed.
  • Company logo listed as “Premier Sponsor” on all event emails and event website.
  • 1 push notifications through the conference app, noting your sponsorship.

Booth Package

  • Your display includes 6’ skirted table, 2 chairs, Booth ID sign, waste basket, wireless access, and power outlet with multi plug cord.
  • Company listing on website & mobile app.
  • Linked logo and listing with 700-character description on the Conference website.
  • Receive 3 Exhibitor Conference passes for representatives from your organization. Exhibitor Conference Passes includes access to:
    • Keynotes
    • Breakfasts
    • Lunches
    • Refreshment breaks
    • Receptions
    • Conference entertainment
  • Opportunity to purchase additional Exhibitor Conference Passes at the discounted rate of $200 each.
  • Access to pre-and post-conference attendee list with full name, title, organization name, and email address.
AVAILABLE | Monday Early Arrivals Sponsor | FULL PRICE: $7,750 | Renewal Price: $7,000 by Oct 1

Features of this sponsorship

  • Podium time at a key moment on Monday for full audience.
  • Tent cards on tables at Monday Lunch
  • Banner on Keynote Stage throughout Monday
  • Opportunity to play a short, pre-approved video prior to Monday’s keynote presentation.
  • Logo/message inclusion on the keynote theater screen prior and after presentation.
  • Opportunity to provide all keynote attendees with a mutually approved gift or gift bag (items can include a pen, flash drive, company brochure, etc.).
  • On-site signage prominently displayed welcoming Monday’s attendees.
  • Company logo listed as “Premier Sponsor” on all event emails and event website.
  • 1 push notification through the conference app, noting your sponsorship.

 

Booth Package

  • Your display includes 6’ skirted table, 2 chairs, Booth ID sign, waste basket, wireless access, and power outlet with multi plug cord.
  • Company listing on website & mobile app.
  • Linked logo and listing with 700-character description on the Conference website.
  • Receive 3 Exhibitor Conference passes for representatives from your organization. Exhibitor Conference Passes includes access to:
    • Keynotes
    • Breakfasts
    • Lunches
    • Refreshment breaks
    • Receptions
    • Conference entertainment
  • Opportunity to purchase additional Exhibitor Conference Passes at the discounted rate of $200 each.
  • Access to pre-and post-conference attendee list with full name, title, organization name, and email address.

 

SILVER TIER:

SOLD | Maine Great Leaders Series Sponsor | FULL PRICE: $7,000 | Renewal Price: $6,500 by Oct 1

Features of this sponsorship

  • Opportunity to introduce the speaker or introduce host of the Great Maine Leaders presentations on both Tuesday and Wednesday morning breakfast.
  • Opportunity to play a short, pre-approved video prior to the keynote presentation.
  • Logo/message inclusion on the theater screen prior and after presentations
  • Opportunity to provide all Great Maine Leader attendees with a mutually approved gift or gift bag (items can include a pen, flash drive, company brochure, etc.).
  • 1 push notifications through the conference app, noting your sponsorship.
  • 1 mobile banner ad in the conference app.

Booth Package

  • Your display includes 6’ skirted table, 2 chairs, Booth ID sign, waste basket, wireless access, and power outlet with multi plug cord.
  • Company listing on website & mobile app.
  • Linked logo and listing with 700-character description on the Conference website.
  • Receive 3 Exhibitor Conference passes for representatives from your organization. Exhibitor Conference Passes includes access to:
    • Keynotes
    • Breakfasts
    • Lunches
    • Refreshment breaks
    • Receptions
    • Conference entertainment
  • Opportunity to purchase additional Exhibitor Conference Passes at the discounted rate of $200 each.
  • Access to pre-and post-conference attendee list with full name, title, organization name, and email address.
AVAILABLE | HR Basic Training Sponsor | FULL PRICE: $7,000 | Renewal Price: $6,500 by Oct 1

Features of this sponsorship

  • Opportunity to introduce the speaker or introduce host of the presentation on Tuesday & Wednesday
  • Opportunity to play a short, pre-approved video prior to the start of the session.
  • Logo/message inclusion on the session screen prior and after presentation.
  • Your company’s logo branded on all emails sent to these attendees.
  • Opportunity to provide all Basic Training attendees with a mutually approved gift or gift bag (items can include a pen, flash drive, company brochure, etc.).
  • On-site signage prominently displayed.

Booth Package

  • Your display includes 6’ skirted table, 2 chairs, Booth ID sign, waste basket, wireless access, and power outlet with multi plug cord.
  • Company listing on website & mobile app.
  • Linked logo and listing with 700-character description on the Conference website.
  • Receive 3 Exhibitor Conference passes for representatives from your organization. Exhibitor Conference Passes includes access to:
    • Keynotes
    • Breakfasts
    • Lunches
    • Refreshment breaks
    • Receptions
    • Conference entertainment
  • Opportunity to purchase additional Exhibitor Conference Passes at the discounted rate of $200 each.
  • Access to pre-and post-conference attendee list with full name, title, organization name, and email address.
2 of 3 AVAILABLE | Workshop Sponsor | FULL PRICE: $7,000 | Renewal Price: $6,500 by Oct 1

Features of this sponsorship

  • Exposure for chosen day includes (2) morning and (2) afternoon workshop sessions.
  • Opportunity to introduce the speaker or introduce host of the workshop presentations on the chosen day.
  • Opportunity to play a short, pre-approved video prior to the workshop.
  • Logo/message inclusion on the theater screen prior and after presentations
  • 1 push notifications through the conference app, noting your sponsorship.

Booth Package

  • Your display includes 6’ skirted table, 2 chairs, Booth ID sign, waste basket, wireless access, and power outlet with multi plug cord.
  • Company listing on website & mobile app.
  • Linked logo and listing with 700-character description on the Conference website.
  • Receive 3 Exhibitor Conference passes for representatives from your organization. Exhibitor Conference Passes includes access to:
    • Keynotes
    • Breakfasts
    • Lunches
    • Refreshment breaks
    • Receptions
    • Conference entertainment
  • Opportunity to purchase additional Exhibitor Conference Passes at the discounted rate of $200 each.
  • Access to pre-and post-conference attendee list with full name, title, organization name, and email address.
SOLD | Registration Sponsor | FULL PRICE: $6,500 | Renewal Price: $6,000 by Oct 1

Features of this sponsorship

  • Your company’s logo will be displayed and hyperlinked throughout registration website process.
  • All attendee confirmation letters will feature your hyperlinked logo.
  • Branding & signage prominently displayed at the onsite registration table.
  • 1 push notifications through the conference app, noting your sponsorship.

Booth Package

  • Your display includes 6’ skirted table, 2 chairs, Booth ID sign, waste basket, wireless access, and power outlet with multi plug cord.
  • Company listing on website & mobile app.
  • Linked logo and listing with 700-character description on the Conference website.
  • Receive 3 Exhibitor Conference passes for representatives from your organization. Exhibitor Conference Passes includes access to: Keynotes, breakfast, lunch, refreshment breaks, receptions, and conference entertainment.
  • Opportunity to purchase additional Exhibitor Conference Passes at the discounted rate of $200 each.
  • Access to pre-and post-conference attendee list with full name, title, organization name, and email address
1 of 3 AVAILABLE | Reception Sponsor | FULL PRICE: $6,500 | Renewal Price: $6,000 by Oct 1

Features of this sponsorship

  • Podium time on the main stage during the reception.
  • Logo will appear on table tents and at the bar.
  • 1 mobile banner ad in the conference app
  • 1 push notifications through the conference app, noting your sponsorship
  • Opportunity to offer branded drink tickets to attendees (to be purchased directly with venue)
  • Signage acknowledging your sponsorship during reception

Booth Package

  • Your display includes 6’ skirted table, 2 chairs, Booth ID sign, waste basket, wireless access, and power outlet with multi plug cord.
  • Company listing on website & mobile app.
  • Linked logo and listing with 700-character description on the Conference website.
  • Receive 3 Exhibitor Conference passes for representatives from your organization. Exhibitor Conference Passes includes access to:
    • Keynotes
    • Breakfasts
    • Lunches
    • Refreshment breaks
    • Receptions
    • Conference entertainment
  • Opportunity to purchase additional Exhibitor Conference Passes at the discounted rate of $200 each.
  • Access to pre-and post-conference attendee list with full name, title, organization name, and email address.
SOLD | Barista Sponsor | FULL PRICE: $6,000 | Renewal Price: $5,500 by Oct 1

Features of this sponsorship:

  • Signage prominently displayed at the Barista table.
  • Opportunity to disperse materials at the Barista table.
  • Opportunity to provide branded coffee cups for the Barista to serve their beverages in.
  • 1 push notification during the conference app, noting your sponsorship.
  • Company listing on website & mobile app.
  • Linked logo and listing with 700-character description on the Conference website.

Booth Package

  • Your display includes 6’ skirted table, 2 chairs, Booth ID sign, waste basket, wireless access, and power outlet with multi plug cord.
  • Company listing on website & mobile app.
  • Linked logo and listing with 700-character description on the Conference website.
  • Receive 2 Exhibitor Conference passes for representatives from your organization. Exhibitor Conference Passes includes access to:
    • Keynotes
    • Breakfasts
    • Lunches
    • Refreshment breaks
    • Receptions
    • Conference entertainment
  • Opportunity to purchase additional Exhibitor Conference Passes at the discounted rate of $200 each.
  • Access to pre-and post-conference attendee list with full name, title, organization name, and email address.
SOLD | Breakfast Sponsor | FULL PRICE: $6,000 | Renewal Price: $5,500 by Oct 1

Features of this sponsorship

  • Opportunity to disperse information at breakfast tables on sponsored day.
  • Signage prominently displayed during breakfast.
  • 1 push notifications through the conference app, noting your sponsorship.

Booth Package

  • Your display includes 6’ skirted table, 2 chairs, Booth ID sign, waste basket, wireless access, and power outlet with multi plug cord.
  • Company listing on website & mobile app.
  • Linked logo and listing with 700-character description on the Conference website.
  • Receive 2 Exhibitor Conference passes for representatives from your organization. Exhibitor Conference Passes includes access to:
    • Keynotes
    • Breakfasts
    • Lunches
    • Refreshment breaks
    • Receptions
    • Conference entertainment
  • Opportunity to purchase additional Exhibitor Conference Passes at the discounted rate of $200 each.
  • Access to pre-and post-conference attendee list with full name, title, organization name, and email address.
AVAILABLE | Evening Entertainment Sponsor | FULL PRICE: $5,500 | Renewal Price: $5,000 by Oct 1

Features of this sponsorship

  • Opportunity for podium time during the entertainment on Tuesday & Wednesday nights.
  • On-site signage prominently displayed.
  • 1 push notification through the conference app, noting your sponsorship.

Booth Package

  • Your display includes 6’ skirted table, 2 chairs, Booth ID sign, waste basket, wireless access, and power outlet with multi plug cord.
  • Company listing on website & mobile app.
  • Linked logo and listing with 700-character description on the Conference website.
  • Receive 2 Exhibitor Conference passes for representatives from your organization. Exhibitor Conference Passes includes access to:
    • Keynotes
    • Breakfasts
    • Lunches
    • Refreshment breaks
    • Receptions
    • Conference entertainment
  • Opportunity to purchase additional Exhibitor Conference Passes at the discounted rate of $200 each.
  • Access to pre-and post-conference attendee list with full name, title, organization name, and email address.

 

BRONZE TIER:

AVAILABLE | Attendee Newsletter Sponsor | FULL PRICE: $4,750 | Renewal Price: $4,500 by Oct 1

Features of this sponsorship

  • Banner ad/Linked Logo prominently displayed on each email sent to registered attendees.
    • Attendee newsletters are distributed a minimum of 4 times prior to the Convention, and once post-convention
  • On-site signage prominently displayed.

Booth Package

  • Your display includes 6’ skirted table, 2 chairs, Booth ID sign, waste basket, wireless access, and power outlet with multi plug cord.
  • Company listing on website & mobile app.
  • Linked logo and listing with 700-character description on the Conference website.
  • Receive 2 Exhibitor Conference passes for representatives from your organization. Exhibitor Conference Passes includes access to:
    • Keynotes
    • Breakfasts
    • Lunches
    • Refreshment breaks
    • Receptions
    • Conference entertainment
  • Opportunity to purchase additional Exhibitor Conference Passes at the discounted rate of $200 each.
  • Access to pre-and post-conference attendee list with full name, title, organization name, and email address.
AVAILABLE | Continuing Education Sponsor | FULL PRICE: $4,750 | Renewal Price: $4,500 by Oct 1

Features of this sponsorship

  • Signage acknowledging your sponsorship at Registration
  • Linked logo anywhere recertification tracking forms are made available
  • 1 push notification through the conference app, noting your sponsorship.

Booth Package

  • Your display includes 6’ skirted table, 2 chairs, Booth ID sign, waste basket, wireless access, and power outlet with multi plug cord.
  • Company listing on website & mobile app.
  • Linked logo and listing with 700-character description on the Conference website.
  • Receive 2 Exhibitor Conference passes for representatives from your organization. Exhibitor Conference Passes includes access to:
    • Keynotes
    • Breakfasts
    • Lunches
    • Refreshment breaks
    • Receptions
    • Conference entertainment
  • Opportunity to purchase additional Exhibitor Conference Passes at the discounted rate of $200 each.
  • Access to pre-and post-conference attendee list with full name, title, organization name, and email address.
1 of 3 AVAILABLE | Lunch Sponsor | FULL PRICE: $4,750 | Renewal Price: $4,500 by Oct 1

Features of this sponsorship

  • Signage prominently displayed during Tuesday Lunch.
  • 1 push notifications through the conference app, noting your sponsorship.

Booth Package

  • Your display includes 6’ skirted table, 2 chairs, Booth ID sign, waste basket, wireless access, and power outlet with multi plug cord.
  • Company listing on website & mobile app.
  • Linked logo and listing with 700-character description on the Conference website.
  • Receive 2 Exhibitor Conference passes for representatives from your organization. Exhibitor Conference Passes includes access to:
    • Keynotes
    • Breakfasts
    • Lunches
    • Refreshment breaks
    • Receptions
    • Conference entertainment
  • Opportunity to purchase additional Exhibitor Conference Passes at the discounted rate of $200 each.
  • Access to pre-and post-conference attendee list with full name, title, organization name, and email address.
AVAILABLE | Bookstore Sponsor | FULL PRICE: $4,750 | Renewal Price: $4,500 by Oct 1

Features of this sponsorship

  • On-site signage prominently displayed at bookstore
  • Linked logo acknowledgement anywhere bookstore is mentioned in website & marketing.
  • 1 push notification through the conference app, noting your sponsorship.

Booth Package

  • Your display includes 6’ skirted table, 2 chairs, Booth ID sign, waste basket, wireless access, and power outlet with multi plug cord.
  • Company listing on website & mobile app.
  • Linked logo and listing with 700-character description on the Conference website.
  • Receive 2 Exhibitor Conference passes for representatives from your organization. Exhibitor Conference Passes includes access to:
    • Keynotes
    • Breakfasts
    • Lunches
    • Refreshment breaks
    • Receptions
    • Conference entertainment
  • Opportunity to purchase additional Exhibitor Conference Passes at the discounted rate of $200 each.
  • Access to pre-and post-conference attendee list with full name, title, organization name, and email address.
AVAILABLE | Health & Wellness Sponsor | FULL PRICE: $4,750 | Renewal Price: $4,500 by Oct 1

Features of this sponsorship

  • Opportunity to lead Wellness activities in the morning and in the afternoon. These will be promoted to attendees.
  • Opportunity to lead a Convention Wellness Challenge.
  • Podium time on the main stage during a key moment to mention Wellness options.
  • 1 push notifications through the conference app, noting your sponsorship
  • Signage acknowledging your sponsorship.

Booth Package

  • Your display includes 6’ skirted table, 2 chairs, Booth ID sign, waste basket, wireless access, and power outlet with multi plug cord.
  • Company listing on website & mobile app.
  • Linked logo and listing with 700-character description on the Conference website.
  • Receive 2 Exhibitor Conference passes for representatives from your organization. Exhibitor Conference Passes includes access to:
    • Keynotes
    • Breakfasts
    • Lunches
    • Refreshment breaks
    • Receptions
    • Conference entertainment
  • Opportunity to purchase additional Exhibitor Conference Passes at the discounted rate of $200 each.
  • Access to pre-and post-conference attendee list with full name, title, organization name, and email address.
AVAILABLE | Post-Conference Survey Sponsor | FULL PRICE: $4,750 | Renewal Price: $4,500 by Oct 1

Features of this sponsorship

  • Your company will be thanked in Mobile App.
  • Your branding and hyperlinked logo to be included on the Post Conference survey sent to every attendee.
  • 1 push notifications through the conference app, noting your sponsorship.

Booth Package

  • Your display includes 6’ skirted table, 2 chairs, Booth ID sign, waste basket, wireless access, and power outlet with multi plug cord.
  • Company listing on website & mobile app.
  • Linked logo and listing with 700-character description on the Conference website.
  • Receive 2 Exhibitor Conference passes for representatives from your organization. Exhibitor Conference Passes includes access to:
    • Keynotes
    • Breakfasts
    • Lunches
    • Refreshment breaks
    • Receptions
    • Conference entertainment
  • Opportunity to purchase additional Exhibitor Conference Passes at the discounted rate of $200 each.
  • Access to pre-and post-conference attendee list with full name, title, organization name, and email address.
SOLD | Mobile Hub Sponsor | FULL PRICE: $4,750 | Renewal Price: $4,500 by Oct 1

Features of this sponsorship

  • Recognition as a Convention Sponsor on social media marketing before, during, and after the event.
    • Includes: feature on social media page profile pictures & headers
    • 2 dedicated social media posts featuring your organization
  • Opportunity to disperse materials at the charging stations in the Mobile Hub
  • On-site signage prominently displayed at the Mobile Hub
  • 1 push notification through the conference app, noting your sponsorship.

Booth Package

  • Your display includes 6’ skirted table, 2 chairs, Booth ID sign, waste basket, wireless access, and power outlet with multi plug cord.
  • Company listing on website & mobile app.
  • Linked logo and listing with 700-character description on the Conference website.
  • Receive 2 Exhibitor Conference passes for representatives from your organization. Exhibitor Conference Passes includes access to:
    • Keynotes
    • Breakfasts
    • Lunches
    • Refreshment breaks
    • Receptions
    • Conference entertainment
  • Opportunity to purchase additional Exhibitor Conference Passes at the discounted rate of $200 each.
  • Access to pre-and post-conference attendee list with full name, title, organization name, and email address.

 

EXPO:

LIMITED SPACE AVAILABLE | EXHIBITOR | FULL PRICE: $3,750 | Renewal Price: $3,500 by Oct 1

Exhibitor Package

  • Your display includes 6’ skirted table, 2 chairs, Booth ID sign, waste basket, wireless access, and power outlet with multi plug cord.
  • Company listing on website & mobile app.
  • Linked logo and listing with 700-character description on the Conference website.
  • Receive 2 Exhibitor Conference passes for representatives from your organization. Exhibitor Conference Passes includes access to:
    • Keynotes, breakfasts, lunches, refreshment breaks, receptions, and conference entertainment.
  • Opportunity to purchase up to 5 additional Exhibitor Passes at discounted rate.
  • Access to pre-and post-conference attendee list with full name, title, organization name, and email address.

 

ADD-ONS:

Additional Event Pass: $250/per person*

Social Media Post: $500

Featured Content in eBlast: $550

Lunch & Learn: $3,000

 

*One event pass per person, NO SWITCHOUTS. Pass provides access to full Convention week. For Booth Representatives only. HR professionals must purchase a full Convention Pass.

For CONFIRMED Sponsors & Exhibitors:
  • Sponsor/Exhibitor Deliverables Submission Form (Available October 2022)
  • Event Registration (Available January 2023)
  • Overnight Accommodations:
    • The Samoset has a limited number of onsite rooms, just 178 rooms for our hundreds of participants!
    • Therefore, on-site rooms are reserved and prioritized for Convention attendees.
    • There are a limited number of on-site SUITES available to sponsors and exhibitors at a higher rate. Please reach out to Becky@StrategicHRus.com if you are interested in booking a suite.
    • Please visit the accommodations page for more information on recommended, nearby, off-site properties.

 

 

 

Maine HR Convention 2023 – SPONSORSHIPS
  • Katie’s Corner: Reflections

    This morning, I was browsing through some memories of the #MaineHRConvention in years past, and was overcome with feelings of nostalgia, energy, and PRIDE for the human resources community our event serves. Our return to the Samoset in May is a long-overdue homecoming for the HR professionals of Maine. This crowd has been through the wringer in navigating the health & safety, emotional wellbeing, and workload of their fluctuating workforce. It’s about time that we all get in a room and take one big (masked!) EXHALE together. I can’t wait to reunite with friends new and old, and produce an event worthy of this group’s time and energy. As you ramp up your plans for May – join the hold a seat list, book dinner reservations in Rockport, and wait patiently to book that coveted Samoset room – please consider the 2022 Maine HR Convention my team’s bottom-of-our-hearts THANK YOU to the people who take care of their people. We are truly in a debt of gratitude. Katie Jones Creative Director, COO The Maine HR Convention Katie@StrategicHRus.com

  • A Note from the Curator: 500,000. HR, Gratitude, and Hope

    For our friends in the HR orbit who deal in numbers and people. (That’s all of you!) On Monday evening, the President said, “We often hear people described as ordinary Americans. There’s no such thing. There’s nothing ordinary about them. The people we lost were extraordinary.” The HR community also has been extraordinary this past year, balancing numbers so organizations survive and recognizing that analytics matter little without seeing the people behind the numbers. There are countless stories of HR leaders rising to the occasion, tending to their employees, and reaching beyond their immediate circles. So, how do you grasp 500,000? Some draw the connection to lives lost in the wars of the last century. I imagine the combined populations of Bangor (my hometown) and Portland (which I now call home). Times FIVE. That thought nudged me from a self-defensive numbness to a gentle ache – and an elixir with two-part chemistry. The first part involves gratitude for frontline employees. Nurses jabbing arms. Clerks bagging groceries. The second part of the formula is hope – that uniquely human gift. Teachers planting seeds that will blossom into ideas. Ideas that might cool the planet, cool our heated political rhetoric, and warm the way we think about work, life, and the people we love. If you haven’t seen the Mars landing – watch this 3-minute NASA clip, which is awesome and sweetly geeky at the same time. If you want a little music to inspire – watch and listen to this clip created by “From the Top”. Here’s hoping that you are in good spirits, and that if you have lost a friend or family member, that this person resides in your heart as extraordinary. Bud Bernstein Curator for Strategic HR U.S.

  • A Note from the Curator: HR Superpower Alert

    We’ve witnessed the Maine HR community in action these past few months, and you’ve done extraordinary things, calling on your superpowers to make a difference in the lives of your employees and the continuity of your organizations. We intend to reward those efforts with an extraordinary Maine HR Convention in May; so please watch for the opening of registration next week. I’ve called on the superpowers of my Strategic HR team, a faculty scattered around the U.S., and a virtual platform in London, England called HopIn to provide you with something unique. An online experience that leaves you informed and inspired across three learning tracks, a Maine Great Leader series, six keynotes, and a journey around America to meet HR miracle workers in action. In just a few days, you’ll see what we’ve been cooking up behind the scenes. For now, here’s the start to an Emily Dickinson poem: “Hope” is the thing with feathers – That perches in the soul – And sings the tune without the words – And never stops – at all   Bud Bernstein Curator for Strategic HR U.S.