Grand Central

# re: Speaking/Presenting - How do you get started?

If you are a Microsoft guy I suggest giving presentations at .NET user groups and Code Camps. It's where I got my start and the community is very supportive. Just learn enough about a topic to give an hour long presentation. Practicing at work or with friends beforehand helps.

If not there are things like foocamp and barcamp. I know there are a bunch of user groups around but I don't think they are organized in any way. 4/21/2009 2:55 PM | Rick Minerich

# re: Speaking/Presenting - How do you get started?

I have been trying to break in to this area for a long time. Community user groups only gets you so far IMHE, and you need exposure at some events to get up to the level of presenting at MS events, TechEd, etc. At TechEd this year they are supposed to be having Speaker Idol, so that's another avenue for trying to break through and get in front of people. 4/21/2009 4:35 PM | Chris Haaker

# re: Speaking/Presenting - How do you get started?

Many user groups are on the lookout for new speakers, so that is definitely an option. Local and regional code camps are another good choice. (These also feed into eventually becoming an MVP, as does blogging.)

Another piece of advice I can give is to develop a relationship with your local MS Developer Evangelist. These guys have a lot of discretionary pull on getting people into the spotlight within a given region. Just don't expect to do TechEd right out of the gate. ;) Start with user groups and lots of blogging. 4/21/2009 6:31 PM | Chris G. Williams

# re: Speaking/Presenting - How do you get started?

I'd start off with user groups and code camps. Cut your teeth there. Work your way up to small conferences, such as Devlink.net. If you have the opportunity, go to Tech Ed as a worked in the TLC. See if you can get involved doing some webcasts. Opportunities will come for larger conferences, but it does take time. 4/21/2009 10:15 PM | Mickey Gousset

# re: Speaking/Presenting - How do you get started?

Thanks to you all for the comments! 4/22/2009 7:30 AM | Adam