Your Ultimate Guide to SHRM25: Top Tips to Maximize Your San Diego Conference Experience

Headed to SHRM25 in San Diego? Whether you’re a seasoned SHRM veteran or attending your first-ever annual conference, this is the guide you’ll want to bookmark. We’re talking tactical prep, conference culture, intentional networking—and yes, what to wear when those meeting rooms feel more like meat lockers.

In this post, I’m sharing my go-to tips from years of attending (and loving) SHRM Annual, plus updates straight from the 2025 site, insider groups, and my own breakdown on the HR Mixtape podcast.

1. Know Before You Go

📍 Location: San Diego Convention Center
📅 Dates: June 29 – July 2, 2025
🎟 Event info: SHRM Annual Conference Site (https://annual.shrm.org/)

Tips for a smooth arrival:

• Badge pickup? You’ve got options—San Diego Airport (Terminals 1 & 2), Marriott Marquis, Hilton Bayfront, and on-site.

• Pack smart: layers for cold rooms, comfortable shoes, and extra socks (yes, really).

• Get your gear: Forgot to snag HR-themed swag in advance? No worries—my HR Swagger SHRM25 Storefront is stocked with tees, tanks, mugs, and more. Shipping times vary, but it’s worth checking: https://askhrswagger.com/store/events/shrm

2. Build a Flexible Session Plan

Keynote Highlights:

• Johnny C. Taylor, Jr. (President & CEO, SHRM)

• Jason Sudeikis (Ted Lasso!)

• Jenna Fischer & Angela Kinsey (The Office)

• Former President Joe Biden

Full lineup: https://annual.shrm.org/

With 375+ sessions, you’ll want to plan—but not over-plan.

Session types include:

• Mega sessions

• Expo floor pop-ups

• Deep dives and workshops (pre-conference add-ons)

• Tracks like AI, DEI, global HR, compliance, and more

3. Navigate the Expo Like a Pro

The Expo is massive—and packed with vendors, giveaways, and surprise learnings.

Be strategic:

• Map out your top vendors before you arrive

• Focus on solutions aligned to your team’s needs

• Don’t let swag distract you from quality conversations

4. Network With Purpose

Before the event:

• Join the Unofficial SHRM Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/SHRMAC

• Join the GroupMe chat (password: SD25) for in-the-moment tips

During the event:

• Be selective with after-hours vendor invites

• Make space for real conversations, not just badge swaps

5. Plan for Wellness & Downtime

Don’t let the agenda overload you. Leave white space for breaks—and take them.

Quick self-care checklist:

• Refillable water bottle

• Power bank

• Healthy snacks

• Patience

• A quiet corner to recharge

7. Say Yes to the Extras

• Tuesday Night Concert: One ticket included, extras from SHRM only.

• Volunteer Opportunities: Local chapter or SHRM’s test panel support.

• Luggage Storage: Available at the center (times/costs TBA).

6. Maximize Your Recert Credits

• Earn 28+ PDCs toward SHRM recertification just by attending.

• Track them with the SHRM app or your own notes.

• Download speaker slides post-event: https://presentations.shrm.org/

8. Make It Stick: Bring the Learning Home

• Debrief daily: jot down key takeaways

• Follow up with new connections

Final Thoughts

SHRM25 isn’t just another conference. It’s a place to listen, challenge, connect, and grow. Show up with purpose. Say yes to meaningful moments. Represent the HR profession with integrity—and leave room for a little unexpected joy.

Grab conference-themed gear: https://askhrswagger.com/store/events/shrm

Let’s Connect

🎧 HR Mixtape SHRM25 Prep Podcast: https://open.spotify.com/episode/1mq3aJ4huctlHnSxIaFy8H
👕 HR Swagger SHRM Storefront: https://askhrswagger.com/store/events/shrm
📱 Unofficial SHRM Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/SHRMAC
📌 Official SHRM25 Site: https://annual.shrm.org/

Catch you in San Diego—badge on, notebook open, HR heart full. — Shari