Being an introvert and at a conference, not as hellish as you think it is

Presented by JJ Asghar | @jjasghar | jj@chef.io

"crippling introvert"

Extroverts are energized by interacting with people, while introverts are drained by interacting with people.

Disclaimer

First

These are my tactics, this is how I've learned over the last 2 years of conferences around the world to coupe and get the most out of it

Disclaimer

Second

These may work for you, but you need to find it in yourself to make conferences enjoyable, no one likes a crabby-conference goer.

Disclaimer

Third

Your first technology conference is always the hardest. It gets easier, less awkward, and so so much more enjoyable.

Disclaimer

Fourth

Assuming this isn't your first conference, these tactics can work for you from now on.

Tactics

Carry around a game or two in your bag. For example: Coup, Resistance, Exploding Kittens are easy and perfectly sized.

Tactics

Tactics

Booze helps, it really does.

Tactics

Do you best not to open your laptop or notebook, you'll want to play or work, it's really hard to have a conversation over a laptop.

Tactics

Sneak looks at what people are huddled around, who knows it might be something you're interested in.

Tactics

Be willing to start an open space about something so off the wall that people will be curious.

Tactics

Find a conference buddy, ideally not someone you work with.

Tactics

Take breaks, you aren't at school, you can skip a session if you need to recharge. Naps are awesome too.

If you identify as an introvert, it's not an excuse not to enjoy tech conferences. You just need to figure out how to make yourself comfortable.

You'd be surprised how many other people identify as introverts too, and use similar tactics.

Seriously, carry around a game or two, it really does help break the ice.

There's a huge chance I put this talk together so people would come up to me, instead of me having to make the first move.

Thank you, and any chance anyone wants to play a game?