If you work in HR and have a Twitter or Facebook account, stop what you’re doing and thank John Jorgensen. He’s the godfather of the modern day HR movement, an early adopter, and someone who deserves your admiration and recognition.

John was an HR director before the Great Recession. Over the past ten years, he’s weathered the storm by doubling down on his personal development and leveraging his role as a SHRM volunteer to push a new generation of human resources professionals to embrace social media and connectivity.

Long story short, HR professionals used to hate being on social media. They were hostile to connecting with one another, they made fun of early adopters, and they were hesitant to develop personal brands. John was like — Knock it off. This technology is going to change the world. If I can see the promise, you can come around.

John was also instrumental in the development of my speaking career. While the world saw me as a snotty blogger, John treated me like a true professional. He invited me to participate in ILSHRM activities and used his reputation to clear a path for me at SHRM National.

I can’t say enough nice things about John Jorgensen, and, because today is the opening day of SHRM18, it’s also John Jorgensen Day. Activities include being kind to John, thanking him for his volunteerism, and offering to buy him a drink or dinner if you’re in Oakbrook Terrace, IL.

John Jorgensen makes HR better, and he helped make connecting with other HR professionals easier. He’s not the kind of guy who toots his own horn, but he’s an essential part of the story behind the transformation of human resources.

I love and appreciate what John has done for our community, and I hope you do, too.

H A P P Y J O H N J O R G E N S E N D A Y

Have a great conference, John!

Category: Work