The Society for Industrial and Organizational Psychology (SIOP) hosted its 39th annual conference April 17-20, offering the event both in-person and online. More than 5,000 registrants participated in the conference to gain insight into the latest research on the science of work and the workplace.

“This year, there was a significant emphasis placed on how organizations can implement AI, machine learning (ML), and HR technology to enhance HR offerings and analytics capabilities. In addition to AI technology, implications, and ethics, there was a strong focus on the future of work/return-to-office policies, and the evolving DEI landscape.” states Jessica Roberts, Lead Analyst for Employment Technologies.

Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning

AI and Machine Learning emerged as pivotal topics. Discussions centered around AI’s impact on recruitment, assessments, and leadership development, including ethical considerations surrounding AI, such as fairness, transparency, and bias mitigation.

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI)

DEI remained a critical focus area, emphasizing the imperative of fostering inclusive workplaces. Sessions underscored a broadened perspective on diversity, highlighting its role in driving organizational innovation, employee engagement, and overall business success.

Remote and Flexible Work Environments

The shift towards remote and flexible work arrangements continues to be a prominent theme. Insights were shared on optimizing digital workspaces, redefining talent acquisition strategies, and maintaining organizational culture in hybrid work environments.

Leadership and Talent Development

Discussions emphasized the evolving nature of leadership in a globalized and digitally-driven economy, including the need for adaptive leadership skills, inclusive leadership practices, and the role of AI in personalized leadership coaching.

Ethics and Fairness in Assessment

Sessions examined regulatory frameworks for AI-driven assessments, ethical guidelines for implementing AI technologies, and strategies to mitigate biases in hiring and performance evaluations.

The Society for Industrial and Organizational Psychology (SIOP) is an international professional association with an annual membership of more than 9,000 industrial/organizational psychologists who research and apply scientific principles to the workplace. SIOP’s mission is to enhance human well-being and performance in organizational and work settings by promoting the science, practice, and teaching of industrial/organizational psychology.