Tech Community Reporters Control the Burn at Microsoft Ignite
With more than 700 sessions and a sea of announcements, Microsoft's sold-out Ignite conference (which kicks off on Sept. 25) challenges even the most seasoned event-goer to stay on top of it all.
There is so much going on, in fact, that it would take a dedicated team to effectively help you set priorities and hit all the highlights. Fortunately, Microsoft has assembled an all-star team of Tech Community Reporters who will be positioned in the field to help you cover it all...starting now.
Microsoft Ignite's Tech Community Reporters
The 10 Microsoft Most Valuable Professionals (MVPs) serving as Tech Community Reporters are recognized community influencers and technical experts. The team will be focused on helping partners make the most of the week in Orlando, Fla., calling out key announcements and "don't miss" opportunities. For partners not attending Ignite, the reporting team will provide an on-the-ground perspective from Orlando.
Microsoft's Ignite Tech Community Reporters team includes (left to right, starting at the top row):
Within their profiles, linked above, each MVP offers practical advice and recommendations for people to follow during the conference. To help attendees set priorities as they make final plans, members of the Tech Community Reporters shared sage advice, accumulated through years of attending events.
Don't Hesitate To Ask Questions
"We are all human beings, so do not be afraid to ask for clarification or a question. There is no such thing as a dumb question. As panelists and speakers, we value your input. In fact, that's exactly what we want. There's nothing more disconcerting to a speaker than a quiet room. The more you, the attendees, engage, the more we want to help and share our knowledge. It's a win-win situation. So please, if you have something to add or ask, raise your hand. Don't be afraid." --Alistair Pugin, Office Servers MVP
Sit Up Front To Make More Connections
"Sit up front when you go to a session and arrive early enough to introduce yourself to the people sitting around you. You already know you have a shared interest because you are at the same session so especially for partners, you just never know what type of networking connection you might make! Plus, you get the added benefit of walking out at the same time -- and if you are sitting up front, that's a longer time to have a more meaningful conversation." --Susan Hanley, Office Servers and Services MVP
Think Social
"Bring extra battery pack for your phone! Make sure to keep up to date with the scheduler and social events at and near Ignite. Follow #msignite!" --Magnus Mårtensson, Azure MVP
Make Personal Connections and Follow Up
"While there is always great content at these events, spend time talking with other attendees and partners, especially within the expo hall. Ignite provides the largest gathering of Microsoft technology practitioners in the world -- use the week to get to know some of them, make new connections, and expand your personal and professional network. Spend time in the Community Hub or live video/podcast recording, and get involved. And this is old-school, but still relevant in making connections on the fly at a major event: Bring plenty of business cards, and follow up within a week with everyone you meet. Most of my business has come through these connections at events, not through a marketing campaign or sales call." --Christian Buckley, Office Servers and Services MVP
Focus on Networking
"Networking and building relationships with IT pros is key to success and information. Sessions are recorded and can be viewed later if you did not get the chance to attend a session or a few. Attendees at Microsoft Ignite come from all backgrounds, have different skillsets, have varied expertise, they travel from all over the world and are diversely rich. Make the time to talk to the next person and learn about what they do and where they come from, whether it's in a session, in a food line, while you're getting a cup of coffee, or while you're on the shuttle bus to and from the hotel. Speak to vendors and inquire about their evening social events which provides you with another great opportunity to meet new people. These networking opportunities are essential for staying current in technology, for technical resources, and for future support mechanism between peers. And best of all, you've made some new friends for future conference connections and for long term friendships." --Harjit Dhaliwal, Windows and Devices MVP
Whether or not you are attending Ignite, take advantage of the experience of the Tech Community Reporters to filter the firehose and help you focus on the highlights. You can follow the aggregated team's Tweets here.
How are you making the most of Ignite? Send me an e-mail and let's share your story.
Posted by Barb Levisay on September 13, 2017