What does it take to plan for the Workforce of Tomorrow? Two key skills: leadership and strategic thinking. HR 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 has an ever-increasing role.

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

The answers to these and other questions will be provided at the 2007 Human Resource Leadership Conference, October 17-19 at the The Cavalier Hotel in Virginia Beach. Pre-conference will be held October 16.