Disclaimer: This blog will focus only on experiences and tips for newcomers. It will not contain any information on what was discussed at the MVP Summit.
Preparation
Preparing for the MVP Summit is key. You have to build your schedule, but also try to see if product managers, engineers, and others are available to catch up over a cup of coffee. You can also read this as fast-tracking your network’s expansion.
Also, try to plan a different activity to see something other than the Microsoft campus.
Being there
In my opinion, make sure you’re on-site. That’s where the value lies. I’ve seen people attend online and try to ask questions. It’s more an exception than a rule that those questions are answered. But being there, in person, to talk to people and look them in the eye, that’s where the value lies.
Also, I know some people treat the summit as a week to party in the evenings. If that works for you, go for it. For me, I like to be as fresh as I can. I want to absorb as much of the news as possible and be fully alert when talking to the good people at Microsoft. Hangovers or being late do not fit into that opinion. Then again, you do you.
Next, being there also includes connecting with people in the hallway. Walking up to them, saying hi and starting a conversation. It keeps blowing my mind how many people working at Microsoft are actually willing to listen to me. When they reply that they’ll get back to me on my feedback, I always send them an email. Just to make sure they’ve got my feedback. And this usually triggers new conversations.
Zoning out
We’re all humans, all with different needs. MVP Summit hits hard; I can always tell by looking people in the eye. There is nothing wrong with walking away from it all to recharge. There is nothing wrong with skipping dinner with a group. There is nothing wrong with skipping a session to take a walk outside.
Mental health is a thing, and you’re in charge of that. In the past few years, I’ve learned where my trigger points are. I know what (not) to do.
The best part is, I know the MVP Data Community has my back. There are people I can reach out to for a chat, a walk, or a coffee. I know that these people do not judge but accept.
Doing something else
The last part is to try to do something else when the Summit is over. Last year, I went to the Boeing factory in Everett; this year, it was whale watching in Edmonds. The key is to get out and be away from it all. I know I’m more than happy to go into a day of MVP’ing at my laptop. But when you fly 10 hours, it makes sense to go out and see something outside the bubble. No screens, but whatever you fancy.
If you’re planning to attend the MVP Summit next year, I hope this helps. Feel free to reach out if you want to know more.
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