Introduction to Anna Morgan
In this episode of Is This Still A Good Time?, host Mike Peditto welcomes Anna Morgan, a former full-cycle recruiter turned career strategist and job search expert. Morgan is also the founder of Evolve, a talent acquisition and HR event that has gained considerable attention in just two years. Morgan describes herself as "a former full-cycle recruiter who was also a career strategist and job search expert" > I am a former full-cycle recruiter who was also a career strategist and job search expert. — Anna Morgan.
The Birth of Evolve
Anna Morgan recounts the inception of Evolve, which arose from her desire to create an event that was different from the traditional, often repetitive conferences in the HR and recruitment industry. "I want more. All my friends are speaking on stage. Like I have something to say," Morgan states, highlighting her motivation to start Evolve > I want more. All my friends are speaking on stage. Like I have something to say. — Anna Morgan. The event is designed to be inclusive and interactive, focusing on building community and belonging among its participants.
Overcoming Challenges
Morgan faced significant challenges in launching Evolve, especially with the need to fund and organize a conference from scratch. She shares how her background in recruiting placements initially funded the project. "Luckily, operating as a boutique recruiting agency behind the scene and coaching, recruiting placements are what funded Evolve originally," she explains > Luckily, operating as a boutique recruiting agency behind the scene and coaching, recruiting placements are what funded Evolve originally. — Anna Morgan. Despite skepticism from others, Morgan persevered, driven by the question, "What if it worked?" and the desire not to have regrets.
Creating Inclusive Spaces
Evolve is not just about the talks and panels; it's about creating a space where attendees can feel seen and heard. Morgan emphasizes the importance of intentionality and community in the event's design. "I want you, like, in the seats with people, like, getting in the thick of it," she says about the speakers' involvement with attendees > I want you, like, in the seats with people, like, getting in the thick of it. — Anna Morgan. This approach differentiates Evolve from other conferences, making it a unique space for learning and connection.
Lessons Learned and Future Plans
Morgan reflects on the lessons learned from organizing Evolve, noting both successes and areas for improvement, such as adding an executive track for future events. Despite the challenges, she remains committed to evolving the conference and continuing to build a community that supports HR and talent acquisition professionals.
