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Tips for first-timers?
It's almost time for MW2011, and I'm started to get really excited as I watch the tweets from people packing and beginning their journeys to Philadelphia. For me, it's a chance to see friends, follow up on projects I've heard about over the last year and immerse myself in the world of cultural heritage online. You can see throughts from previous attendees on Museums and the Web: What do you get from being there? - but what if it's your first time at MW and you don't yet know many other attendees? I thought it could be useful to share tips for first-timers at Museums and the Web, and to encourage people to ask questions.
My tips would be: rest up beforehand, because you'll need plenty of energy!
If you're shy (like me, believe it or not) you shouldn't let that stop you talking to people - it's a lovely crowd, and hopefully most people can remember what it's like going for the first time and not really knowing anyone yet... There's usually a reception for first-timers, and that's a great place to chat to others.
The programme lists various other receptions, and you can also start planning which sessions you want to go to in advance.
If you've got access to a mobile device (smart phone, ipod, tablet, netbook), bring it (and chargers and plug adapters) - a lot of conversation happens on twitter, and it'll help you find people with similar world views and interests.
Finally, on a practical note - if you're not from the US and are vegetarian or have other special dietary needs, it pays to check food labels - e.g. gelatine seems to turn up in some really unexpected places like dips and yoghurt. And if your organisation is funding you, keep track of your receipts and claim expenses back as soon as you return!
I'm sure there's a lot more - what's your top tip for first-timers? Or what was your biggest question before you went?
I blogged my tips: https://conference.archimuse.com/blog/ryand/spinni...
But I will add some additional tips below:
1. Don't be shy. By day three, when you finally engage with everyone, you'll wished you'd done it sooner. Seriously. We don't bite.
2. Yes, many of us are extending the back-channel to the bar. Sometimes, that's when we're the most productive.
3. The smokers' un-conference session meets at the nearest receptacle to the conference hotel entrance.
4. Plenty of coffee. Bring a mug, it's more eco, or, green, or whatever.
5. Any whitespace on your name badge is a perfect place for:
<img src="http://i.imgur.com/NJIbE.png"><br>
Ryan Donahue (<a href="http://www.twitter.com/ryand">@ryand</a>)
The "Birds of a Feather" breakfast is a great way to meet others interested in talking about a particular topic. The informal breakfast is an easy way to get know some new people, especially if you're new to the conference.
The conference agenda is packed, so the evening events are a way to still see some of what the city has to offer and talk over the ideas from the day.
I second Ed's suggestion of going to the fitness center. The swimming pool is a nice way to give your brain a much needed break.
I second MIa's and Jennifer's suggestions. It's about the people. One of the great things about MW is the Proceedings. If you miss a session, chances are you can still gather most of the content. It's not lost like a sudden conversation in a hallway.
I make it a point to go to the hotel fitness center everyday I'm at a conference. Nothing takes it out of you like sitting and talking all day. You gotta treat it more like a mountain climbing expedition. I recall one MW years ago bumping into a German colleague on the last day who looked like he'd been hit by a bus. When I asked him what was worng, he said "I am soaked ni this conference!" It really can feel that way. There are so many bright people and great ideas floating round it can really max out your receptors.
The other thing I always try to do is come up with a list of 1-3 people I don't know whom I want to meet, something I want to say to them, and then go find them and make sure I introduce myself. When you have a subject, it's always easier to launch into a conversation with a complete stranger. Try it!
i'm still teased about saying this during an MW plenary – but i'll repeat it because it's true!
if you feel you have to choose between an interesting conversation with a new person and a session that's starting, choose the conversation.
being at MW is about the people. if you're a bit late for the session, the paper and the presentation will be online: you can catch up on what you missed. but if you walk away from that conversation, who knows.... maybe that could have been the collaboration that will change ...
you get the idea!
what other conference chair advises you not to go to the sessions?
/jennifer
j. trant co-founder Museums and the Web | partner archives & museum informatics www.archimuse.com
That's what I should have said, and it would have saved on verbiage.
My other tip is that probably everyone feels slightly overwhelmed at some point, and that's ok. Take a break to recharge, then come back and enjoy the ride...
A few years ago I picked up an external battery for my iPhone in order to keep going through the night. While I could usually get through the day on the internal battery, I was often left unconnected as we rolled into the evening when finding a plug (at receptions, etc.) is hard. The backup battery gave me the power to keep rolling throughout the evening.
Sorry I won't be at the MW in my home-town, please give http://www.monkscafe.com/ my love.