As we step into 2024, the world of Salesforce is already buzzing with exciting upcoming Salesforce events. If you've been to any of the Salesforce events before, you know how fun and rewarding they are!
We've had a great run in the previous year, and things are set to get even better. If you're into Salesforce tech, you know how crucial it is to keep up with the latest trends. That's where Salesforce events come in. In this guide, I'll give you my list of top virtual and in-person Salesforce events of 2024.
Forget boring classroom lectures – these events are all about hands-on experiences, cool networking people, and picking up skills that can make a difference in your Salesforce-led career. Ready to jump in? Let's go!
Salesforce Live is a series of virtual events offered throughout the year, catering to customers, partners, employees, and communities globally. The events cover diverse themes, from new and strategic insights to product-specific presentations.
Salesforce Live events were originally initiated as a response to the travel restrictions imposed by the COVID-19 pandemic, but they have continued to date. The recordings of these events are also available on demand.
You don't need to spend money on traveling and hotels to attend Salesforce Live events. These are pocket-friendly and accessible to your couch! By attending these events, you can:
Dreamforce needs no introduction. Initiated back in 2003, Dreamforce stands as Salesforce's annual flagship conference, offering a platform for global community connection, idea sharing, and innovation. With up to 170K participants, it is one of the largest tech conferences globally, focusing on customer success stories.
The event showcases Salesforce's technological breakthroughs and new features and fosters community through networking opportunities and an expansive expo. More than business discussions, Dreamforce offers Dreamfest, an epic concert featuring top-tier artists.
Dreamforce, being the event it is, tends to be pricy. In 2023, tickets began at $1,499 and increased to $1,899 after the early bird phase. However, you can also attend Dreamforce online through Salesforce+.
Highlights from the event include:
As it is one of the largest tech conferences in the world, you don't need a specific reason to attend. Yet, here are some reasons why:
TrailblazerDX is an anticipated Salesforce event focusing on the latest advancements in Salesforce technologies, including CRM, cloud computing, and data science. With over 200 tech sessions and insights from over 400 experts in Salesforce, MuleSoft, Slack, and Tableau, it's a deep dive into CRM, cloud computing, and data science.
The event adopts a dual format, allowing both in-person and virtual participation. Whether you're a pro or just getting started, TrailblazerDX is the go-to for boosting your Salesforce skills and expanding your network.
Salesforce Connections is an annual event with a customer-centric approach focusing on marketing and commerce. Recognized for its comprehensive blend of industry knowledge, networking opportunities, and innovative inspiration, Salesforce Connections is an indispensable occasion for individuals and businesses seeking to maintain a competitive edge in the Salesforce ecosystem.
London's Calling is Europe's largest community-led Salesforce event, held annually in London, UK. Established in 2016, it gathers Salesforce professionals, Developers, and Trailblazers to share best practices and build a robust community.
This Salesforce Trailblazer Community event offers a unique blend of learning, networking, and fun, creating an enriching experience for attendees. With a focus on community building, London's Calling provides a platform for individuals to enhance their Salesforce knowledge, connect with like-minded professionals, and stay updated on the latest trends within the ecosystem.
Midwest Dreamin' is a community-led Salesforce event in Minneapolis, MN, USA. Originating as a 'Super User Group' meeting in 2011, it has grown into a notable gathering for Salesforce Administrators, Developers, and community members from across the United States.
This event offers a unique, personal, and community-driven experience, focusing on learning opportunities and networking with other Salesforce enthusiasts. With a history of positive testimonials and a commitment to the cooperative spirit encouraged by Salesforce, Midwest Dreamin' remains a valuable platform for professionals to deepen their Salesforce knowledge.
WITness Success is a transformative Salesforce event held in Louisville, KY, USA. Tailored exclusively for Women in Tech (WIT), the two-day event focuses on empowering, supporting, and investing in women within the Salesforce ecosystem.
Beyond being an educational experience, WITness Success catalyzes women to excel in their Salesforce careers, fostering mentorship and community building. With a commitment to inclusivity and success, this event stands as an influential movement within the tech industry, advocating for gender diversity and equality.
CzechDreamin' is the first Salesforce conference organized by the Salesforce community in the Czech Republic. This annual full-day event, established in 2019, attracts Administrators, Developers, and Consultants within the Salesforce ecosystem.
CzechDreamin' provides a platform for Salesforce professionals to broaden their technical knowledge and network with others in the growing community. Attendees can expect diverse sessions tailored to their roles, offering a well-rounded learning experience.
Tahoe Dreamin' is an annual Salesforce community-led event held in South Lake Tahoe, bordering California and Nevada. Focused on learning, growth, and community engagement, the event provides a break from traditional conference environments.
Attendees can develop skills, form lasting connections, and immerse themselves in the Salesforce community against the picturesque backdrop of Lake Tahoe. Tahoe Dreamin' stands out for its emphasis on open discussions, creativity, and fostering a sense of belonging within the expansive Salesforce Ohana.
Effective budgeting for travel and accommodation is crucial when preparing for any in-person Salesforce event. Here are a few tips I personally follow to make the most of my resources when traveling:
As the event date approaches, hotel prices near the venue tend to skyrocket. Hence, consider exploring alternative lodging options, such as Airbnb, backpacker hostels, or dormitories slightly away from the event location.
These alternatives often offer more budget-friendly choices without compromising comfort. Be sure to factor in transportation costs, but the overall savings can significantly contribute to your travel budget.
Planning ahead is the key to obtaining affordable flight tickets. Use various online tools and apps to set up price drop alerts. These alerts can notify you when flight prices decrease, enabling you to make a timely and cost-effective booking.
Additionally, consider booking through reputable travel agents rather than direct online platforms. Airlines often contract with agents, providing them access to discounted rates ranging from 10% to 24%. This collaboration can result in substantial savings on your airfare.
Familiarize yourself with the event schedule in advance. Most Salesforce events feature a detailed agenda highlighting keynote speakers, breakout sessions, and networking opportunities.
Take note of sessions relevant to your interests or professional development goals. Prioritize critical activities and strategically select sessions that align with your objectives. A clear understanding of the event schedule allows you to make informed decisions and optimize your participation.
While attending sessions is essential, remember to allocate time for networking and exploration. Attending events is 50% learning and 50% networking.
Hence, schedule breaks between sessions to engage with fellow attendees, speakers, and exhibitors. Networking is a valuable aspect of these events, providing opportunities to forge professional connections and gain insights.
Additionally, explore the event venue and nearby areas during downtime. Familiarize yourself with the surroundings, discover local attractions, and make the most of your visit beyond the event itself.
As I've mentioned above, attending events is half networking. Here are a few strategic tips for effective networking before and during the event:
Most events provide dedicated apps and websites facilitating networking, allowing attendees to create profiles, connect with peers, and schedule one-on-one meetings.
Engage in discussions within online communities to introduce yourself, share insights, and establish connections before the event. This proactive approach ensures you enter the venue already connected with like-minded professionals.
Extend your networking efforts to social media platforms like LinkedIn, X, and Instagram. Many Salesforce events have dedicated hashtags that participants use to share updates and connect.
Follow event-related conversations, engage with posts, and reach out to fellow attendees. Establishing an online presence creates a virtual network seamlessly transitioning into face-to-face interactions during the event.
Actively engage with speakers and presenters during sessions. Feel free to ask thoughtful questions or provide insights related to the discussion. After the session, approach speakers to express your appreciation or seek further clarification.
This personalized interaction not only strengthens your professional network but also demonstrates your active involvement in the Salesforce community.
Q&A sessions are golden networking opportunities. Prepare relevant questions in advance and actively participate in Q&A segments after sessions and workshops.
Engaging with speakers and fellow attendees during these sessions showcases your expertise and opens avenues for meaningful conversations. Take advantage of these moments to exchange business cards or contact information, fostering connections beyond the event.
Gearing up for 2024 Salesforce events demands an intelligent approach. Careful budgeting for travel, coupled with smart accommodation choices, sets the stage for a seamless experience. Next, crafting a detailed itinerary ensures you maximize each event's offerings.
Don't underestimate the power of networking – whether through event apps, online communities, or face-to-face interactions during sessions and workshops. Ideally, your approach to Salesforce events should be networking first.
As we anticipate the top Salesforce gatherings this year, approach each opportunity purposefully. Catch every opportunity to learn, connect, and contribute, making these events not just milestones but transformative moments in your professional journey.