When should I register for the conference?
There is a separate registration process for all volunteers. Do not register on line or send in a paper registration. You will receive a special registration form after your shifts are confirmed that contains discounted fees depending on the amount of shifts you pick up.

What about Early Bird Pricing?
Volunteers are guaranteed Early Bird pricing through May 15, 2009. Volunteer registration forms will be emailed once scheduling is approved. Do not register prior to receiving the form. Volunteers who work three scheduled shifts will have complimentary registration.
Volunteer Conference Registration Pricing
Full Conference (no shifts): $1070
Complete 1 shifts: $650
Complete 2 shift: $550
Complete 3 shifts: Free Conference
Deadline for Volunteer Registration: 05/15/09

How do I register, get my badge, t-shirt, etc.?
Check into the Volunteer Lounge when you arrive. Conference Registration for Volunteers is located in the Volunteer Lounge, not at the main Registration check-in.

Are meals provided?
Yes, a meal is provided before the start of your shift, so arrive at least 30 minutes prior to your shift to check in, but even sooner if you want to eat. You can eat during briefings if you have to, or if you are booked in back-to-back shifts.

What about Volunteer training?
We've gotcha covered! We will be conducting volunteer training/orientation well in advance of the conference. Keep an eye out for emails with the specific time, date and place. We will also do a second Volunteer Orientation for out-of-towners and locals who didn't get to attend the first one. If you cannot attend, you can be trained on-the-job. Of course, this is not the preferred way to get you prepared; but, if you cannot make either of the scheduled orientation/training sessions you will need to arrive at least ½ hour before your 1st scheduled shift for OJT.

When do I report for my shift(s)?
Please report at least 30 minutes prior to your shift(s).

Where do I report for my shift?
Always sign-in and receive your assignment/location(s) from the Volunteer Lounge. Always sign-out at the end of your shift. This is absolutely critical since you will only get credit toward your registration for shifts actually worked!! If you have two shifts in the same day, sign-in and sign-out for each job/assignment, before and after EACH shift.

How do I attend my free days of the conference?
Simply sign-in and sign-out at the volunteer lounge (even if your free day is before your volunteer shift, which it is in some cases)

I'm a Session Host or Ambassador...Where do I go?
Check in at the Volunteer Lounge, as always...You'll be directed to your assigned room or to the Session Host area from there!

What do I wear?
SHRM recommends Khaki pants or shorts (knee length). You'll be provided a Volunteer Polo Shirt that must be worn at all times on the job (and we'd love you to wear it all conference, if you can). Comfortable shoes are a must. Wear a light t-shirt before you get your volunteer t-shirt (upon registering at the volunteer lounge). Remember, some meeting rooms may be cold, so pants are recommended and you may want to bring a light jacket or sweater. Please do not bring anything valuable, as there is no storage or lockers available. Whatever you bring, you will need to carry with you, so we suggest a fanny pack or cross-the-body purse with a long strap that won't impede your movement. SHRM, HRMA nor anyone in the Volunteer Lounge can be responsible for anything that you may bring or leave lying around.

What about parking?
There are a number of parking lots at the convention center and surrounding hotels. You may want to arrive early on your first day to compare rates. Street parking is not a good option as it is unlikely that you would be able to get out to “feed the meters” during your shift(s).

How do I see my schedule?
Once you have registered, you can see your volunteer schedule by visiting: "My Schedule" at:
https://www.volgistics.com/ex/portal.dll/?FROM=5431
You'll need your email address (Login Name) and the password you chose in your application to sign-in. If you forgot your password, there's a link on that page to send you a reminder via email.

What if I don't have all the shifts I applied for?
If you don't see a shift that you requested on the "My Schedule" calendar, the shift was not available. The "My Assignments" area simply shows what you requested, not what you were assigned. "My Schedule" shows the reality of scheduled shifts, which were assigned on a first-come, first-served basis.

How will I get there and where will I stay?
Volunteers are responsible for making all their own travel arrangements. You can visit the SHRM conference site for a listing of hotels. Make your reservations for flights and hotels soon. They will fill up fast!

Attending special sessions or doing additional conference activities?
If you wish to sign up for Super Sunday sessions, pre-conference sessions, the guest program, attendance at the Expo only or get additional concert tickets, you may do so on the registration form.

What happens if I don't work my assigned volunteer shift?
The Co-Chairs are required to report volunteer hours to the SHRM staff. If you don't work your assigned shift and take advantage of the volunteer discount, you will be billed the additional fees. If you do not sign in each day at the volunteer center you could be billed for days you volunteered. Be sure to sign in each day!

Will I be receiving more information before the conference?
YES. Additional information on volunteer training and other information pertaining to volunteers will be e-mailed periodically.