A ‘diverse, curious and creative profession’

It was great to see so many occupational psychologists, people working in fields that combine psychology and the workplace, those interested in occupational psychology work and practice and many students building and exploring careers in occupational psychology. 

We also have a very active Linkedin community, so let's hear from the attendees of the DOP 2024 conference in their own words:

Charlotte Axon:

"This week I've been enjoying meeting new and familiar faces at The British Psychological Society Division of Occupational Psychology's annual conference.

"I love that it's hosted in beautiful Sheffield - arguably the home of occupational psychology. I've appreciated the (stunning) venue being in walking distance from my own home, and have proudly recommended the local cuisine (which did not disappoint, phew!)." 

Lauren Salter:

"I attended the #DOP24 conference hosted by The British Psychological Society Division of Occupational Psychology, for the first time!

"It got me thinking a bit about #identity. Working in #HR, I have often attended the CIPD and other HR conferences. Attending these conferences I always felt like I didn't quite fit in, and hadn't had a 'typical' HR trajectory with my career.

"Arriving at the conference, I felt like I didn't quite fit in there either as I was definitely in the minority working in HR rather than in a more 'typical' occupational psychology job.

"By the time I left the conference, however, I had started to recognise that as an occupational psychologist, an executive coach and a HR professional, I have a blend of skills which can be applied to a multitude of situations. And my reflection is that really it's the people in the community who make the biggest difference.

"I am so grateful for how #inclusive and welcoming everyone was at the conference, and it was nice to feel like a psychologist again and that, in fact, I do belong in that group."

Kara Daly:

"I attended my first Division of Occupational Psychology conference.

"What a phenomenal community of professionals. My mind is still in overdrive processing information from all the fantastic sessions I attended.

"Thank you The British Psychological Society Division of Occupational Psychology for a fantastic day, I look forward to attending many more conferences in the future."

Dani Y:

"Occupational psychology has a wonderful community from diverse backgrounds, many of which gathered together at the conference last week to connect and share learning.

"I'm far from a pro networker or socialiser but it was a delight to see familiar faces and meet lots of new people who are working daily to improve the world of work.

"What a brilliant bunch you are and here's to all the incredible work you're doing and will do." 

Sandie B:

"It was great to hear the enthusiasm for the occupational psychology profession and the benefits of having these roles in organisational change and development - it is definitely not all about observing people work but about engaging with them, listening to them and taking everybody on a journey."

Dr Amanda Super:

"What a brilliant few days I have spent with my #occupationalpsychology colleagues at the #DOP24 conference. I arrived home inspired and uplifted, not only from all the fantastic presentations I attended, but also from the authentic and meaningful conversations I have been lucky enough to have had with my peers."

Bettina Bonell Ghio:

"The British Psychological Society Division of Occupational Psychology is more than just a membership.

"Day 2 of #DOP24 has shown that it's a community that embraces continuous learning. I sat through talks given by practitioners and academics about workplace practices using evidence-based approaches. It's not just a space for professional development; we're reminded of our professional identity and purpose." 

Sam Stone:

"So many fascinating topics and potential ways of applying learning from day one of The British Psychological Society Division of Occupational Psychology #DOP24. This is my first DOP conference as a qualified occupational psychologist, and I am so proud to be part of this diverse, curious, and creative profession.

"My brain is still ticking over all the things I've learnt and ways of embedding the new evidence and insights into my practice.

"It was great to connect with familiar faces; some people who I have never met face to face, some people I haven't seen face to face for years and a range of new faces who I am sure will be familiar faces moving forward. It didn't even feel like networking." 

DOP members are very active on Linkedin, so you can read all the updates shared by our community before, during and after the conference using the hashtag #dop24 on Linkedin!