Microsoft Ignite is just around the corner and Im starting to the final preparations for travel. This year Ignite takes place in San Francisco, and this year I will be there in person as part of the Microsoft MVP community. I am really looking forward to meeting friends, customers, and colleagues from all over the world.
Ignite is always packed with great sessions, inspiring people and new announcements. But to get the most out of it a little planning goes a long way. Here are some of my best tips for preparing and enjoying the event.
Plan your sessions
Start by exploring the session catalog and adding the ones that interest you. My best advice is to add several sessions for each time slot. That way if one does not feel right when you get there, you already have a backup in your schedule. No need to search again while everyone else is already seated.
Focus on the sessions that will not be recorded. Those are often the ones with unique insights or opportunities to meet the speakers in person. The others you can add to your virtual backpack and watch later at your own pace when you have the time.
Explore the Hub
The Hub is one of the best parts of Ignite. It is where you will find vendors, community booths, and Microsoft experts. Make sure to plan some time to just walk around and talk to people. You never know what a casual conversation can lead to. Some of my best professional connections started with a quick chat at a booth. And yes, if swag is your thing, they do have it. Just don’t grab it and run. Try to talk to the people that actually have invested time and money to be present at the event.
Certifications and labs
Ignite is the perfect opportunity to take an exam. Microsoft will offer one free Microsoft certification attempt and one free GitHub certification attempt. Registration is expected to open around October 28, so keep an eye on the official channels.
If you plan to join any hands-on labs, make sure to book early. The popular ones fill up fast. And if you book, please show up. Someone else will appreciate the seat if you cannot make it. There are often walk-in spots available too, so stop by early and get in line. These reservations also open on October 28.
Know your surroundings
Since this year Ignite is in San Francisco it is worth doing some research before you travel. Make a list of the places you want to see while you are there. Maybe it is your first time, or maybe you have been before, but it always helps to plan ahead.
Also, stay safe. Especially at night. Do not walk alone if you can avoid it. Set up a simple buddy system with friends or colleagues so that everyone knows where the others are in case something happens. San Francisco has gotten a lot better lately, but there are still areas you should not wander of into. Do your research. 🙂
Even if you are not staying at a Microsoft recomended hotel, it is good to know where they are. Your Ignite badge gives you access to the official shuttles. Just walk to the nearest hotel and hop on from there.
Don’t walk around San Francisco wearing your badge. It is like putting a target on your back stating: “Hey, I am a tourist!”. Wear your badge under your jacket when outdoors and try to use another backpack than the conference bag if possible.
Network
The sessions are great but the hallway moments are even better. Say hi to people, introduce yourself, and share what you are working on. Sit down at a random table at lunch and strike up some conversation. Over the years I have met people at Ignite who have become close friends, collaborators, and even mentors.
And most importantly, have fun! It is a conference, yes, but it is also a celebration of the community. Enjoy it. Try new things, meet new people, and let yourself be inspired.
See you in San Francisco!
I’ll be sharing this with my team.
Glad you like it!