This would be my 8th time to the US Vmworld my 14th overall.
So I was thinking that I would make a short post of why I’m going every year (well every year since I convinced my Boss that every other year is not enough) 😀
Well, what are the benefits of visiting Vmworld.
For me it is definitely the networking. VMworld is a great opportunity for you to network with a lot of your peers.
With about 22k attendees there are a lot of people to talk with.
My best advice if this is your first VMworld and even if you are a long time participant.
Go and talk to people you haven’t met before. Don’t be afraid to approach the Guru’s.
I have never been disappointed in their willingness to answer questions or point you in the right direction.
Okay, now you are at VMworld, what should you do?
There is of caurse a lot of sessions available but keep in mind that these sessions are also available online the you get back home.
Look at he vBrownbag Techtalks.
These sessions are community sessions in lightning format running for about 10 minutes each.
TechTalks are a great way to share how you solved a problem or show a cool way to solve a problem.
Like all vBrownBag activities TechTalks are a friendly place where the community supports and learns from it’s members.
Visit the Labs.
Even though the Hands-On-Labs always are available it is nice to be able to talk with the lab crew or try out an Instructorled lab.
Also event though sessions are available online later it could be a good idea to participate if there is a topic that is especially interesting for you.
I recommend to get to the Discussion Panel session and get involved.
Then you are at the conference do wear comfortable shoes,
you will be on your feets a lot. Bring a Hoodie, it can be cold at the sessions or at the lab.
Remember to hydrate and use the snack stations sometimes you will not be able to get lunch becaurse of sessions being back to back.
Last advice though I have mentioned it.
Get involved, go talk to people you have never met before.
Meet the people you only know online in person and most important.
Enjoy VMworld.