What does it take to plan for the Workforce of Tomorrow? Two key skills: leadership and strategic thinking. Human Resource professionals must take the long view in developing programs and plans to recruit and retain the next generation of Virginia public employees.

Too often, HR is considered a “soft skill” by management, not suited to be at the table when numbers are being crunched and long-range plans developed. However, as workforce planning becomes a critical component of strategic planning, HR will play an ever-increasing role.

How can HR professionals prepare to assume the leadership role that strategic planning entails? What tools and skills are needed to develop to handle the demands of strategic thinking?

These and other questions will be answered at the 2009 Human Resource Leadership Conference, October 29-30, held in Richmond at the Monroe Building, 101 North 14th Street, Richmond, VA 23219.

Attendance is essential to keep human resource management competencies current.