Last week I attended my first of many ERE conferences to come. Here's a few of my takeaways:

1. Marvin from Microsoft. He uses many tools and techniques to recruit and the only one he plugged in his hour long session: Jobs2Web. They must be doing something right. Way to go Doug. And kudos for an informative, flawless presentation, Marvin.
2. Kevin "the News is the News" Wheeler. We might not have liked what we heard: the evaporation of manufacturing, outsourcing, and the giant sucking sound to China, but I'd rather choke down the truth than guzzle the Koolaid.
3. Adidas' Steve Duo. Cool claymation. And good point: know your Difference in Kind. It's more powerful than differences in degree (e.g. more vacation, higher pay, bigger office). And bonus points to JobFox for a brilliantly loaded question.
4. Indeed, they seem to know their stuff.  And that includes how to throw a good party. Nice job folks.
5. Talk about parties. Jason, Maren, Josh and the rest of the RecruitingBlogs friends, family and fans... the wine was some VGS (any Mt Veederians know the acronym?) but the company was the killer. Looking forward to RecruitFest next week.
6. Tony from DaVita. You're not poaching from your competitor until you get a cease-and-desist order. And that just means you have to start being discreet about it. In my book you achieved your goal. Anyone who didn't walk away from your session with one thing they could apply wasn't listening. Great leaders balance head and heart. You demonstrated that balance, and a passion for what you do.
7. Mike from Wal-Mart. Look around you. If you're sitting next to someone you know, you're not doing your job. Amen brother.

I flew solo to Fort Lauderdale. I arrived at a stunning hotel in a spectacular setting and kicked myself. My husband and a bathing suit were home. Nevertheless the event was fantastic. My objective was simple: to meet people, listen to their ideas, and learn something. Thank you ERE. Well done.