Meet The Disruptors: Holly Nowak of DisruptHR Buffalo

Who are the people that are taking the lead in disrupting the future of work?

They’re the official Disruptors (Organizers) of DisruptHR events held in cities around the world.

Each week, we’ll introduce you to one of these intelligent, inspiring, and beautiful people (okay, pick two) who have stepped up, and volunteered to organize a Disrupt HR event in their city.

Meet Holly Nowak – DisruptHR Buffalo (Disruptor #79)

Website – HMN Resources

LinkedIn – Holly Nowak, MBA, SPHR

Twitter – @HollyMNow

Who are you, and what do you do in your “day job”?

Holly Nowak – President and Lead HR Developer at HMN Resources.

How did you first hear about DisruptHR?

A blog post from Laurie Ruettimann and then through FourSight‘s sponsorship of a DisruptHR Chicago event (months later).

The universe kept bringing it back to me.

Why did you decide to raise your hand and become an organizer for DisruptHR events in Buffalo, NY?

I believe in the impact of creativity and entrepreneurial spirit to spark changes in the way that HR is perceived. DisruptHR encompasses both of the those ideals.

I also believe true, effective change comes from within – go for it and only worry about the obstacles when you hit them. DisruptHR is an amazing vehicle to demonstrate real thought streams in HR, to change it up and hear from those that are and believe in the new future of HR. It begins from within. Lead your own transformation.

How many events have you organized?

We’ve held one event so far – the first ever in Buffalo, NY – and we had 90 attendees from the entire Western New York HR community.

What types of people/industries attended your event?

HR professionals, whole HR teams and executives.

Holding the event at d!g in the Innovation Center on the Buffalo Niagara Medical Campus allowed the HR professionals to gain some exposure to the start-up scene, and to get some of the start-up community involved, as well as entrepreneurs from all sectors.

What are you most proud of that has come out of being involved with DisruptHR events?

It’s been a conversation starter. We’re hoping to have informal events between the DisruptHR events each year, where the conversation can continue around how to transform HR.

What kind of feedback did you receive from those who attended the first DisruptHR Buffalo event?

The responses were overwhelmingly positive. The Buffalo HR community definitely appreciated this event, and many asked to be included in future events as volunteers, speakers or sponsors. We’re excited to get some more help for the next one!

What is your favorite DisruptHR Talk, and why?

I can’t pick one favorite from the Buffalo event – the Speakers all did a great job and each of them brought their passion!

One of my long-standing favorites has been “Idea Sex In Talent Management” by Greg Roche, from DisruptHR Denver 4.0.

Idea Sex in Talent Management | Greg Roche | DisruptHR Talks from DisruptHR on Vimeo.

Creativity is all about making connections, and gaining exposure outside of your industry is a great way to make more novel connections and innovate!

Based off of the Talks and conversations at your event, what do you feel are the areas with the biggest opportunity for disruption?

For everyone to start getting real. Let’s stop all the theory and have a real conversation about what needs to get done. This begins with realizing that HR is a business function – so think like a CEO, recognize the whole person in the employee, and offer real work challenges and growth to engage workers.

Foosball fluff won’t keep your employees productive and “engaged”. You have to walk the walk.

What excites you or frustrates you about the future of work, your career and/or DisruptHR?

HR is the coolest role to be in – we just can’t talk about it.

DisruptHR gives us that opportunity!

Follow What’s Happening With DisruptHR Buffalo:

DisruptHR Buffalo Community Page

DisruptHR Buffalo Facebook Page

DisruptHR Buffalo Twitter Account (@DisruptHRBFLO )

#DisruptHRBFLO Twitter mentions

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