MVP Open Day 2008 in Goa was one of the most enjoyable events I have attended. I have already shared detailed accounts of the three days here on the blog.
Event agenda and series index
Day 1
Day 2
Day 3
Today I received the group photograph from the event. My thanks to fellow MVP Allen Bailochan Tuladhar for sending it. Allen was Country Manager of Microsoft MDP Nepal and, at the time of this event, the only MVP from Nepal.
It was wonderful to reconnect with old friends and make new ones. For me, those connections are an important part of attending a community event. When did you last attend an event where you made a new friend or found a new job?
What I Took Home From MVP Open Day 2008
Looking at a group photo years later, I do not remember the session titles as clearly as I remember the faces. Friendships made at events like this last much longer than notes from any session, and a friend in the community is often the fastest help when you are stuck on a real problem. That is the part of any community event that lasts.
If you are going to your first conference or user group meeting, here is a little advice. Do not sit in the same corner with the colleagues you came with. Talk to at least three new people, ask what they work on, and share one thing you learned recently. Follow up after the event with a short note. It feels awkward the first time, but it gets easier very quickly.
So let me ask again: when did you last make a new friend at a technical event? If it has been a while, find a local meeting this month and go. You may walk out with an answer to a problem, and maybe a friend for life.
More from MVP Open Day 2008 in Goa
Published by Pinal Dave on SQLAuthority. More of my work at pinaldave.com.
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4 Comments. Leave new
Hello Pinal,
Congracts for being MVP… I know you deserve much more than what you got.
A question, what does it takes to become an MVP, because I saw group picture and I see most of you are very young like below 30. So just curious to know… how does Microsoft select its MVP’s and how does it identifies this talented people and their work.
What do I have to do to become a MVP. How much time does it takes to become an MVP.
I know Vijay ( Don’t know his exact name, just guessing. SQLArticles.com ) … I read his resume… seems he has just 2 years of SQL Server EXP and he is now SQL Server MVP, Wow..
Can you please guide all of us for the same.
Thanks.
Imran.
Imran, the answers to all your questions can be found over here:
I hope Pinal doesn’t mind me answering this question :)
Hi Imran,
Please refer the link which Suprotim added to the post.
I will also send you additional details very soon.
@Suprotim ,
Thanks Suprotim for perfect link. You can always answer questions here. It is OUR site, not mine.
Regards,
Pinal Dave
Perfect photo, Dugg! Lets spread the word….