On deck: The workplace track at SXSW is all about DE&I and AI

When thinking about Austin’s famed South by Southwest (SXSW) conference, what usually comes to mind is keynotes from amazing orators like Barack Obama, the chance to rub elbows with Kara Swisher, and epic musical performances.

This year, however, we’re particularly excited about one of the conference’s 21 tracks, which is all about the workplace. I’ll be reporting from SXSW, which runs March 8–16, but in the meantime, here are a couple of trends HR Brew has spotted already.

AI takes center stage. Amid never-ending speculation that tech is taking jobs from humans, as well as changing how HR leaders work, AI is on (and maybe in) everyone’s mind. At SXSW, leaders from the Boston Consulting Group, Slack, and Greenhouse Software will discuss AI’s potential impact on the employee experience. I’m also looking forward to a panel led by SHRM, IBM, and Handshake on how AI will change the job search.

DE&I’s future. Many businesses have either cut budgets, adjusted language, or doubled down on DE&I over the last year, as the politicization of diversity rages on. SXSW has noticed too, responding with conversations about predicting the industry’s future, hiring people with a justice system history, and navigating DE&I post-affirmative action. I’m also excited about a conversation between Reddit and Workhuman executives on examining DE&I through a global lens.

Beyond AI and DE&I, I’m also looking forward to conversations on workplace well-being, talent development, and how HR leaders can build a great place to work.

Feel free to say “hi” if you see me in Austin, and stay tuned for more SXSW HR takeaways!