These are a few things I learned from my first attempt at SxSW.
1) Smart footwear
Do not ignore when people say ‘wear comfortable shoes’. Thankfully I paid attention – and was still surprised at how much I walked!
2) Device charging strategy
Don’t forget to charge your phone/iPad/laptop each night. Also – if you can purchase a dedicated charger that doesn’t need a plug/wall you’ll be set. The conference hosts lots of companies that offer free charging, but that takes time (30 mins for the secure locker ATT version) or hanging in the Chevy charging lounge – where I met lovely people, but “wasted time” – the best bang for the buck charging/networking was the Samsung Blogger Lounge – lots of spacious tables, TONS of plugs, a fridge full of ________ (namebrandsponsoredsoda). and lovely sxsw-ers to network with.
3) Plan, but be flexible
I could have read the schedule a little more closely. I saw a ton of great panels, and caught a bunch of great parties/networking Happy Hours, but still missed a few things here and there that I regret. Keep in mind that now there are multiple campuses hosting panels – so you’ll need to prepare to catch shuttles between venues, and allow for that transition time.
4) RSVP to everything
If nothing else, just to keep track. Use apps/sites like foursquare & Plancast to keep tabs on what’s happening. I recommend using 4square since checking in to a panel won me tickets to see an amazing free concert. Also search the web to find other non-sponsored sites that are tracking cool events or learn about apps that give insight to ‘hotspots’ throughout the event.
5) Introduce yourself freely
Where ever you are that you see strangers – if circumstances allow, introduce yourself, pass your card (tactfully). Many many times I was near interesting and relevant people by chance and unknowingly introduced myself to very cool people who I’m now connected with. If you have a project or product that you’re interested in talking about – have a practiced ‘elevator speech’ ready. You care much more about your ‘thing’ than the other person. Having a digital networking strategy also could help – Hashable was helpful this year for those Twitter enabled people.
6) Moisture/water/vitaminC
Carry chapstick and water. You will become dehydrated, it’s uncomfortable. Also – invest in EmergenC packets – you’ll be surprised how a packet or two a day will change your experience.
7) Heed the ‘don’t drink to much’ warnings – but apply the advise appropriately
You won’t pay for many (if any) drinks at SxSW (if you’re doing it right), however, that is easy to ‘abuse’/'take advantage of’ so be sure that on the nights you want to do so, you’re not thinking of pitching/connecting with important new people/doing business. #commonsense
8 ) Go with the flow
You’ll find yourself in the oddest combination of business/social at the conference, so while you’re still figuring it all out – go along with what the most senior/influential/mentor-worthy person is doing and hope for the best.
9) Be stylish
Remember that your outfit is your ‘landing page’ and if you look like you just rolled out of a friends hotel room in the start-up tee and jeans from the night before, you aren’t making the first impression you want.
10) FOOD: Bring snacks/have a food strategy
There is a LOT going on – so having a protein bar in your bag isn’t a bad idea. Also – BBQ is great, but the easier thing will be a ‘Bacon Cone’ or a grilled cheese sandwich from the conference offerings. So, mapping a few good healthy restaurants or a place where you can at least know a salad exists is not a bad plan. Remember, Whole Foods is HQ’d in Austin and depending on where you hang – the Fifth street location isn’t all that far.
11) Taxis/transportation
Taxi service pretty much sucks in Austin – esp. if you’re coming from SF (where they are required to pick you up). Leave bars before 1:30a.m. and understand which direction is south/north because taxis are fussy about which way they travel at late hours. Buses are $1/one way – $2 24 hour day pass (score!) if you’re on a route. Your Google maps app on your smart-phone will help you find buses easily – it was my saving grace.
12) Support local business
This stems from basic karma…don’t ‘check in’ at Starbucks when there is an amazing café near your hotel/housing. The citizens of Austin love/hate SxSWers but appreciates that you support Local while you’re there. Also remember… the citizens/wait staff/hotel staff appreciate what SxSW does for the economy, but not so much that they’ll love tolerating douchy behavior. Respect, and have love for these folks who are working twice as hard to accommodate the masses who ascend upon the city for the conference. You are owed nothing – be gracious.
SxSW is fun no matter how you attack it, however, there is a way to do it with comfort, style and grace – hopefully, you will benefit from some of these ideas and have a fabulous time!
13) Follow up
For all those fun amazing people you met, the effort is worthless if all they represent is a pile of business cards on your desk. If possible – do some #FollowFridays on Twitter while at the conference, when you return maybe connect via LinkedIn and then the Monday following email your new found connections mid-day to solidify that introduction in Austin.
