Three rapid-fire tips for getting the most out of KubeCon

Right then, here's my 3 tips for an epic KubeCon experience...

 1. Network and socialise

The best thing about KubeCon is the people. Yeah yeah, the tech is cool. But guess what... the people are cooler! 

So, be brave and reach out and connect with people. 

For example. I'll be there from the Monday, I gotta eat lunch and dinner every day, and I'm more than happy to spend some of that time with you. Just drop me an email or message me on the socials and I'll do my best to respond and hopefully we can meet up.

On the topic of meeting up, I'm running a Getting Started with K8s workshop and a CKAD Exam Cram workshop while I'm there. Both are on the Tuesday before the main event starts on the Wednesday. They're an additional $250 and fill up fast, so make sure you register ASAP (you can find them under co-located events on your registration page). Not only are they jam-packed with info, they're also a lot of fun and a chance to connect.

 2. Plan your schedule

Yes, the people are the best thing about KubeCon, but the sessions come a close second. However, some sessions can fill up fast, and if you don't arrive early you could be disappointed.

 So... check the schedule now and plan out the sessions you want to attend.

 3. Check out the social media feeds of sponsors (seriously)

 This one might seem silly, but it's not.

Lots of the sponsors give away prizes and do other fun stuff at their booths, and one of the easiest ways to find out is to monitor their social media streams.

Two quick examples.

• I'll be at the Linode booth signing free copies of my books. I'm also hosting a fun Kubernetes quiz with some really cool prizes (think Apple AirPods Max and Lego sets). And guess what... we'll be announcing details of both via social media. 
• At KubeCon in Valencia, Liz Rice was signing free copies of her very cool eBPF book. I only realised when I saw the long line, and by that time it was clear they'd all be gone by the time I made it to the front. I should've checked her social media stream!

Let's connect

Here's a little-known truth... 

Lots of us find it hard to reach out and connect with new people. However, my experience attending many KubeCon events has been that most people are down-to-earth and very approachable.

So, I'm @nigelpoulton on most of the social media channels, and even though I look miserable and unapproachable, I'm pretty laid back and very approachable :-D