Hey there! Are you thinking of attending a WordCamp? Stop thinking and buy that ticket right now 🙂
But seriously, what to expect after buying that ticket? We’re going to tell you everything you need to know about attending WordCamp.
What To Expect At WordCamp
WordCamps are casual in-person events held over 1-3 days. There are a few happening every weekend all around the world. It’s a great way to learn about WordPress in a social and hands-on way. Every event is different, but usually include a conference track, networking and social events.
The content of a WordCamp is all about WordPress. You can expect to hear topics such as SEO, marketing techniques, WooCommerce, social media, code and business-related talks too.
The conference track is where speakers share their knowledge via presentations on stage. Many WordCamps have more than 1 conference track and even workshops, so you have to decide which talk you want to attend and move to the correct room.
Meeting other people is another the big attraction of attending WordCamp. WordCamps are aimed at everyone from beginners to experts, and you’ll find bloggers, freelancers, business owners and marketers at these events.
WordCamps offer lots of opportunities for networking in between sessions, during coffee breaks and sometimes during social events too. It’s a great opportunity to meet up with like-minded people, potential clients and business partners.
On top of all that, WordCamps may also include a Contributor Day. These are supplemental and optional to attend. The aim of Contributor Days are to introduce people to getting involved in the WordPress project. There will be team leaders who will help guide participants. If you have been wanting to be more involved in WordPress, be sure to look out for Contributor Days.
How To Make The Most From Attending WordCamp
So now you have a ticket to a local WordCamp, and you know what to expect. Let’s talk about making the most out of it.
WordCamps often have multiple presentation tracks, or multiple activities happening simultaneously. You will not be able to attend all presentations, so spend some time studying the event schedule and highlighting which talks and workshops you want to attend. Note that the schedule may not be announced till later so subscribe to the mailing list to be notified.
If you want to attend a workshop with limited spaces, add a reminder to your to-do list to register as soon as registrations open.
Another thing I like to do to prepare is to update my social media profile. I update my profile picture and bio and maybe even add the event hashtag to my bio. This makes it easy for others to find you and connect.
Next, reach out to your existing contacts. If you work with other WordPress developers, website owners, or businesses, invite them to attend the WordCamp as well. WordCamps are a great chance to meet up with people you’ve only ever communicated with online.
If you’re shy or a little introverted, it might help to practice introducing yourself too. Meeting and connecting with people at WordCamp is a major part of attending, so it’s worth getting out of your comfort zone for a day. It might feel silly to practice introducing yourself, but it will help you feel less shy and make it easier to make new friends.
On the other hand, if you’re the extroverted kind, why not consider being a volunteer? Every WordCamp needs volunteers to help register attendees, direct speakers, keep time during presentations and many other tasks. Contact the organizers to ask about volunteering, they will definitely appreciate it.
What To Bring To WordCamp
Notebook and pens for taking notes during speaker presentations and workshops.
Comfy clothes and shoes. You’ll be on the go the whole day, so be sure you are comfortable.
Battery pack to charge your phone or tablet that you will be using all day for photos and social media the whole day.
Business cards. You will meet lots of people at WordCamp, so give them an easy way to remember you.
A backpack to carry all of the above, plus the swag and goodies that event sponsors are sure to give out.
A positive attitude. Remember that WordCamps are put on by volunteers and therefore may not be very polished. Be forgiving and thank the organizers if you have the chance. They will surely appreciate it.
See You At The Next WordCamp!
And there you have it, you are all set for WordCamp. Which one will you attend soon?
Visit central.wordcamp.org to find a WordCamp near you!
Hi,
how do i go about volunteering in helping making your event a success?
I’m a WordPress user, love it. it easy to work with.
Hi Taufik, we will be putting out a call for volunteers soon and you can find details on how to apply. If in the meantime you see something you think you can help improve (marketing, photography, event organizing, etc) please email kualalumpur@wordcamp.org. Thank you!