Dreamforce Networking Hacks for Every Comfort Level
Thinking of attending this year’s Dreamforce? Learn some tips and tricks on how to make the experience an unforgettable one.
Dreamforce is coming! Dreamforce is coming!
After a year off and a limited event in 2021, I’m so excited to get back to San Francisco and experience the magic that is Dreamforce. It’s truly an event like no other, with learning, mascots, and so much swag you need an extra suitcase.
However, the real magic of Dreamforce is the people.
This year, Salesforce will welcome 30,000 people to Moscone Center, up from the 1,000 that attended last year. Whether this is your first Dreamforce or your tenth, 30,000 people can be overwhelming — especially since we’ve had a couple years off from networking activities.
I’ve attended Dreamforce for many years, wearing lots of different hats: as a wide-eyed new admin, a seasoned admin, an architect, a speaker, a champion, a community group leader, and a volunteer. The first thing to remember is that these are your people — business users, admins, developers, architects, and business leaders that are all using Salesforce to solve problems, grow their business, and change the world.
Below are some of my top tips (organized by level of contact) on how to get to know the other 29,999 other Salesforce nerds in attendance.
1. Get personal
If you’re wearing a mask, make yourself more approachable by personalizing it! At Dreamforce 2021, Vanessa Grant put her picture and her name on her mask so that people would know it was her. This is a great way to get noticed if you’re active on Twitter or LinkedIn, as people will recognize your name or your avatar. But beware: this might trigger hugs or extra levels of excitement.
2. Take advantage of the lines
You’re going to be spending a lot of time in lines, whether it be for a learning session, key note, or restaurant. (Pro tip: wear comfortable shoes.) Lines are a great opportunity to turn around and get to know the person behind you. Ask them why they’re interested in this session and let them know what you’re excited about learning. If you’re going to the same session, chances are you have a lot in common. Not only is this a great way to pass the time, but also a fun way to find a brainstorm buddy or simply expand your network.
3. Maximize digital communication methods
If you’re on the shy side or simply want to minimize person-to-person contact, below are some creative, digital networking ideas:
- Add a QR code to your business card (or pin it to your backpack) that links to your LinkedIn or Trailblazer.me profile.
- Create a sticker with your Twitter handle (or other social network) that you can swap with people. (Get a $10 sticker credit with this link.)
- Build a networking app to track your new Dreamforce friends
- Keep an open note on your phone for capturing contact information.
4. Stake out the parties
Prefer to do your networking over drinks? Dreamforce has some of the best parties (usually hosted by consulting and AppExchange partners) that are great for dancing, silent discos, and other social activities. Whether you’re attending Dreamforce solo or with friends, they’re a great way to blow off steam from the day. Salesforce Ben usually compiles a list of parties, so keep your eye out for that list and get them on your calendar. And stay tuned for the best party of them all: the Slalom party!
5. Gather in smaller groups
A more intimate networking opportunity is in Community Campfire areas. Check the schedule closer to Dreamforce for the full list of offerings, but there are usually always meet-ups put on by community group leaders and MVPs for various geographic and interest areas. This is a great way to network with people who might live in the same area as you, or others who are working on a similar project or product.
6. Drop a line
If you struggle talking to new people, consider some of these tried and true conversation starters (aka Salesforce pickup lines):
- If you see someone taking selfies, offer to take their picture
- Hey, that’s a cool button, where’d you get it?
- Do you come here often?
- What was the last Flow you built?
- Who is your favorite Salesforce character?
- Dreamforce or TrailheaDX/TrailblazerDX?
- What would you talk about on the Salesforce Admins Podcast?
- I love your hoodie! How did you get it?
- Do you have any good restaurant suggestions?
- Are you going to the keynote?
7. Respect everyone’s boundaries
Lastly, try to be mindful of people’s body language and if they want to network with you or not. At recent Salesforce events, they’ve given out buttons that you can wear to display what levels of human contact you’re comfortable with. If someone is masked up and not making eye contact, it’s best to keep walking. However, if you catch someone approaching you with arms wide open, either prepare for a hug (there are a lot of huggers!) or gesture that you’d prefer an elbow tap. Either way, try your best to respect people’s social (and physical) boundaries.
Even with all the amazing networking opportunities at Dreamforce, don’t forget to take some time to yourself to digest, rest your feet, and prepare for the following day. I hope you have an amazing time at Dreamforce this year and look forward to seeing you there!
Slalom is a global consulting firm that helps people and organizations dream bigger, move faster, and build better tomorrows for all. Learn more and reach out today.
