Can you believe that Quickbase has been hosting Empower since 2015?!
Much has changed since then (even how we spell "Quickbase") but Empower is still Empower: the best place to connect with others who use and love Quickbase.
Today we hear from Sharon Faust, Qrew Legend, also known as the QuickBaseJunkie!
Sharon Faust, the eponymous Quickbase JunkieWhat are the top 2–3 “can’t miss” experiences for first-time Empower attendees?
Firstly don't skip the opening keynote presentation. It may be tempting to focus on just the sessions... DON'T. The product keynote is the best way to get the Cliff Notes version of new product features, the roadmap, and many little nuggets of information that may influence your plans for the event and beyond. Between sessions there are demo booths, product labs, and support staff where you can talk one-on-one with Quickbase Product Managers and Customer Support. This face time is sooooo valuable! 🙌 Have a feedback request or ticket you're anxious to get traction on? This is your opportunity. And of course there are all the sessions which are not one size fits all. Choose wisely because what's best for me may not be what's right for you.
How should newcomers plan their agenda when everything looks valuable?
Start by understanding who you are and what you want to get out of the event. A newbie at a mid size company that just started using Quickbase is going to have very different goals from a Quickbase expert leading a small team at a large corporation. The beauty is both can come away with fresh inspiration, skills, and insights. The Empower agenda page includes different filters and information about every session, so take some time to review it before heading to Houston.🤠 I share more thoughts on the Empower Agenda in my latest Quick Base Junkie Blog Post.
What’s your best advice for making meaningful connections quickly at the event?
As an introvert myself, 'networking' is not my favorite pastime and working from home suits me just fine. That being said, there is something about being around people who are all passionate (or at least interested) in the same thing I am... QUICKBASE! Everyone knows I can talk about it for hours, but rarely am I in a conference size room with other people who feel the same 😍. Try sitting with different people at meals, chatting up the panelists whose stories resonate with you, and asking the other attendees what exciting projects they've been working on.
What do experienced attendees do differently to get more value out of Empower?
Experienced attendees come prepared. 🤓 They've reviewed the agenda, planned what they can't miss (and can miss), and most importantly they've thought about what questions they want to ask. Most sessions will include Q&A at the end so if you have questions ask them. And if you don't have questions stick around because someone else may bring up something very interesting. They also engage with Quickbase staff between sessions and chat up other attendees to pick up additional insights and tips.
What’s one thing first-timers should do before arriving to be fully prepared?
My first Empower was in 2018 in Austin, TX. Feels like a million years ago now! If this is your first Empower, take note of all of the above. And if I can add a few more random tips... If possible, stay at the event hotel for an easy commute. Wear comfortable shoes. You don't have to lug your laptop around. At least one session is hands-on, but most are not. I tend to take copious notes with good old pen & paper (a computer would work too 😉). Don't expect to find recordings of the sessions after the event. And try not to get overwhelmed. There will be A LOT going on and in some sessions you may feel lost. That's okay.
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