Questions & Answers
We strongly encourage all employees to attend HG United in person to benefit from the opportunities to network, team build, and collaborate. We understand there may be extenuating circumstances that prevent on-site participation. We will have a virtual option, however, it will be a different experience. Please speak with your manager to determine what would be best for you. If you need further guidance, you can speak with Bethany Kasmar in HR. Rest assured, your attendance, whether in person or virtually, will have no impact on your employment status.
Due to high demand for hotel rooms in Santa Barbara, we are unable to extend hotel reservations beyond the room block dates listed above.
If you are planning on extending your stay, you will need to obtain approval from your manager and book your own hotel room for the additional nights. Extended hotel stays without written manager approval accompanying receipts will not be reimbursed.
We’re fortunate to be headquartered in scenic Santa Barbara, as it's one of the most picturesque places on the planet and we understand that you might want to share this with family members. We are supportive of this, on the assumption that during the HG United event – including formal sessions, meals, team building events, etc. – you are focused 100% on your work life and participate in all activities. If family members are accompanying you to Santa Barbara, we’re happy to recommend a variety of dining options and activities they can enjoy while you are making the most of your time at HG United. Our room block at the Hilton Santa Barbara is standard rooms and while we will consider your preference of a king or two queen beds, we cannot guarantee that we can accommodate your preference. If you need special room accommodations, please indicate those in the hotel preferences field of the registration form so we may try to accommodate your request. And please remember, any extra costs associated with bringing family member to Santa Barbara is at your own expense.
The Hilton does not offer free parking to hotel visitors. If you are a remote employee driving to HG United and staying at the hotel, please use the self parking as we have negotiated discounted rates for hotel guests. If you are a local, please utilize street parking, park at HG Insights and enjoy a short 11-minute walk to the hotel, or arrange for a ride share with your teammates.
Parking your car at the office overnight is permitted in HG Insights spots, but is not recommended. So if you need to leave your car overnight, park at the hotel. For those travelling to Santa Barbara by train or airplane, please avoid renting a car, and use a ride sharing service or taxi to avoid paying parking fees.
Submit a registration on behalf of each new team member. Please try and get their dietary restrictions, if any. If you are unable to get this info, the HG events team will follow up prior to HG United. If the new team member needs air travel to attend HG United, please contact Kelly Chackel to assist.
The wellbeing of our team members is of the utmost importance to us. As such, we will follow any and all guidelines from the appropriate agencies regarding health and safety. At this time, we encourage everyone to attend HG United in-person; however, if you are uncomfortable or have extenuating circumstances, you may participate virtually. Please reach out to your manager or Bethany Kasmar in HR if you have any questions or concerns.
Suggested attire for HG United is Comfortable Casual.The team building event may involve being outside. Please wear appropriate footwear. Since the coastal fog may linger a bit it is best to dress in layers.
Suggested attire for HG United is Comfortable Casual.The team building event may involve being outside. Please wear appropriate footwear. Since the coastal fog may linger a bit it is best to dress in layers.
Yes. Professional headshots will be available for people who want to refresh their photos. When getting a professional headshot taken it's a good idea to avoid clothing with patterns like checks or stripes, as well as shiny fabrics. In addition, dressing in something you're comfortable wearing will make for a great photo, but it is best to avoid overly casual clothing or floppy collars.