Attending SQL Server events can be a great opportunity to learn, network, and have fun. Whether you’re attending the MVP Open Day or any other SQL Server event, it’s important to make the most of your time there. Here are some tips to help you maximize your experience:

Do:

• Make a list of the people you MUST meet and send them an email in advance to request their time and attention.
• Create a list of the topics you want to discuss with the product team, fellow MVPs, and community leaders attending the event.
• Express your feelings about the product to the product team without hesitation.
• Attend all the technical sessions related to your technology.
• Take the opportunity to meet new people when there are no sessions related to your technology.
• Share your business card when introducing yourself. It’s important to have them readily available.
• Understand that most of the sessions are usually under NDA, so avoid sharing information outside the group.
• Attend all the community and network building parties – they are a fun way to get to know people.
• Take photos of emails, phone numbers, and links shared by attendees and presenters as an accurate way to capture data.
• Make others aware of your current profession and what you do. You never know when you might need each other.
• Blog and tweet about your experience. It’s a fun way to document your learning.
• Network, network, and network – this is your chance to connect with others in the SQL Server community.

Do Not:

• Over solicit your business at the event. People usually don’t appreciate it. Let them reach out to you if they need your services.
• Verbally abuse competing technologies in public. Instead, try to balance your views with reasons and data points.
• Skip breakfast – it’s not only the most important meal of the day, but it’s also a great opportunity for conversation.
• Drink too much – no one likes to have to escort you back to your room.

These guidelines are meant to provide a perspective and not to constrain anyone’s experience at the event. The goal is to have fun and build relationships with your fellow SQL Server enthusiasts. So make the most of your time, learn, network, and enjoy the event!