Get the Best ROI from Salesforce Dreamforce

#Dreamforce 2024 is round the corner and all you who are attending it would be very excited. You all have invested in it and would like to get the maximum out of it. Here some some suggestions from my personal experience of attending @Salesforce Dreamforce:

1. Plan Ahead: You only have 2 and Half days of productive time in your hand.

Set Clear Objectives: Define what you want to achieve—whether it’s networking, learning about specific products, or finding potential partners or clients.

Focus: List your top priorities and identify all related sessions, #partners, #technologies, customers, Salesforce #product teams etc. Draw a realistic schedule which you can do.

Prioritize Sessions: Review the agenda in advance and prioritize sessions, keynotes, and workshops that align with your goals. Schedule these in your calendar. Gap between Sessions: Keep ample time between selected sessions. Many a times the next session might be in next building 2 blocks away.

Meetings and Connects: #Connect well in advance with key people from your identified focus list. Keep some free time and pre-schedule one-to-one meetings.

2. Leverage the Dreamforce App: The official app is invaluable for managing your schedule, navigating the event, and connecting with other attendees. Use it to get real-time updates, locate sessions, and book meetings.

3. Network Proactively:

Attend Networking Events: Join networking lunches, evening socials, and partner events to meet key people. Don’t shy away from introducing yourself to speakers, Salesforce executives, and other attendees.

Connect: Dreamforce is all about making connects. So keep your business cards ready with a one liner about your company. Immediately after the meeting follow it up with connect on LinkedIn. Don’t pile it up for later; you won’t be able to remember and do it.

Take notes: Remember your conversations. One easy way is to send yourself a short message after the meeting. Others are, write on the back of the business card, jot in your notebook etc.

Use Social Media: Engage on platforms like #LinkedIn and Twitter using the event hashtags to connect with attendees and start conversations before the event.

Partner Lounge: If you are a partner; make use of partner lounge to relax, recover and network.

4. Be Ready to Pitch: Remember elevator, 30 second, 1 minute, pitches. Be ready with a concise and compelling pitch about your company and offerings. Be prepared to articulate how your solutions complement Salesforce and solve specific customer problems.

Don’t feel shy to hand out a one-page flyer or a small gift to someone you’d like to engage with further.

5. Engage in Hands-On #Training: Take advantage of hands-on sessions and workshops to deepen your knowledge of Salesforce products and get certified. This will add value to your offerings and expertise.

This is also a good way to identify and connect with Salesforce teams which can support your and your organizations learning goals.

6. Visit the Expo Hall: Explore the Expo Hall to discover new technologies, tools, and partners. Use this opportunity to learn about the latest innovations and how they can enhance your solutions. Identify synergies with other partners. It could be #sales, product/ solution, #support etc.

7. Follow Up Post-Event: Categorize your new connects that you made into buckets to articulate a more personalized message.

After the event, promptly follow up with the contacts you made, whether it’s for partnership discussions, client opportunities, or simply to continue the conversation.

Don’ts:

1. Don’t Overload Your Schedule: While it’s tempting to attend as many sessions as possible, overloading your schedule can lead to burnout. Prioritize and leave time for spontaneous opportunities and networking.
2. Don’t Ignore Smaller Sessions: While keynotes are important, smaller, more focused sessions often provide deeper insights and more direct engagement opportunities. Don’t overlook these.
3. Don’t Be a Passive Participant: Engage actively during sessions. Ask questions, participate in discussions, and connect with speakers and other attendees afterward.
4. Don’t Skip the Breaks: Use breaks strategically to recharge, review your notes, and connect with other attendees. It’s also a good time to explore the event space casually, often leading to unexpected opportunities.
5. Don’t Forget to Take Notes: With so much information being shared, it’s easy to forget key takeaways. Take notes during sessions and meetings to ensure you can act on your learnings post-event.
6. Don’t Miss Out on Evening Events: Dreamforce’s evening events are not just fun—they’re prime networking opportunities. Don’t skip these, as they often lead to meaningful connections in a more relaxed setting.
7. Don’t Stay in Your Comfort Zone: Step out of your usual circle and engage with new people and ideas. This is your chance to expand your network and gain fresh perspectives.

Final Tips:

• Pack Smart: Comfortable shoes are a must, as you’ll be on your feet a lot. Also, bring plenty of business cards and a portable charger for your devices.
• Health: Keep yourself hydrated all the time. Keep some nuts, chocolates and snacks in your bag.
• Stay Flexible: Be open to changing your plans if new opportunities arise during the event.

Do you have a tip for Dreamforce? Share it. Drop me a line if you want any support in planning your Dreamforce.

?Salesforce Dreamforce 2024 Official webpage