171 – Benefits of Attending WordCamps

Benefits of Attending WordCamps

Just a few days ago, we wrapped up WordCamp Dayton. It was a blast to help organize an event that brought a few hundred WordPress enthusiasts to my local town.

In today’s episode, I highlight some of the benefits of attending community meetups like WordCamps.

What is a WordCamp?

A WordCamp is a community organized conference centered on the WordPress publishing platform. These events are held all over the world and are organized, paid for, and attended by the local WordPress communities.

History
The first WordCamp was held in San Francisco in 2006 and each year the events appear in more cities and participation grows in size in repeat cities.

Who is it for?
Anyone who uses WordPress or should use WordPress:

• Bloggers
• Designers
• Developers
• Authors
• Marketers
• Photographers
• Business Owners
• SEO Consultants
• Entrepreneurs

What to Expect?
WordCamps are all about WordPress. The content is focused on using or developing WordPress. Topics around blogging, business and social media that are related to WordPress are normally included as well.

WordCamps are not meant to be fancy, expensive events. Rather, they are meant to be low key gatherings that allow everyone to attend, meet, share and learn WordPress together.

Be prepared to have fun with other people just as obsessed with WordPress as you are (or just as NEW to WordPress as you are). Casual dinner / after parties are held to meet new friends, business partners, employees, etc.

What Are the Benefits?
Learning – There are a lot of WordPress experts in attendance. Feel free to ask them questions about anything WordPress related. You’ll find they are extremely helpful

Connections – There are often sponsors that you can connect with at WordCamps. You can meet future business partners.

Jobs – There are always people who have a project that are looking for WordPress developers / designers to help out. These events are perfect for freelancers who want to find new clients

Community – There are always new things going on in the community. By attending WordCamps, you get to learn more about the larger WordPress community, future developments and diverse web publishing culture of WordPress fans.

Find a WordCamp Near You
Interested in attending a WordCamp? Head on over the WordCamp Central and find a local event.

What’s Your Favorite WordCamp?

Have you been to a WordCamp? Which one is your favorite?

I’m always looking for other places to travel to and I’d love to meet you at your local WordCamp 🙂