Jesse Friedman has been part of the WordCamp RI organizing team since the beginning, even stepping up as the Lead Organizer in the past. This year Jesse is our Speaker and Sponsor Wrangler.
He reflects on the annual WordCamp RI.
Q-
Jesse you’ve been active in helping with the Rhode Island WordCamp from the beginning. This is our 6th WordCamp. What keeps you coming back?
A-
We’ve built something pretty amazing here in Rhode Island, and I love watching it continue to grow and change every year. WordCamp Rhode Island helps people reach their online goals through education, and advisement, and it’s amazing to be a part of that.
Q-
What are you hoping to achieve this year in organizing the speaker roster?
A-
I have two goals. The first is to help those who have something really important to share but may be a little nervous or apprehensive about speaking. WordCamps are a great floor for those experienced individuals who want to get their start speaking. My second goal is to find some really experienced speakers from outside the WordPress industry to come and talk about the Internet as a whole.
Q-
When someone applies to speak, what are you looking for?
A-
Passion to share what they know!
Q-
You’ve been a speaker yourself at WordCamps around the world. What tips and tricks have you picked up from attending so many WordCamps in so many places?
A-
WordCamps are usually held in Universities or public spaces so you don’t always have the glamour of stage, and a spotlight. This sometimes makes speakers a bit nervous that they have to out perform the best talks to make up for standing in a class room. The truth is, if you leave attendees with 3 really good “a ha moments!” while sprinkling in some humor and good stories you’ll have given an amazing talk.
Q-
Where have you attended WordCamps?
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New York, London, Chicago, Orlando, Boston, Portland, Connecticut, Minneapolis, DC, and of course Rhode Island.
Q-
What advice would you give someone to get the most out of WordCamp RI?
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Don’t try to do it all, set some goals before you come and focus on reaching those. There are a lot of opportunities to network, learn, get hired, but if you try to do everything you might miss out on just enjoying the conference.
Q-
Is someone too advanced or too much a beginner to attend WCRI?
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We have tailored our tracks to cater to everyone of every skill level.
Follow Jesse on Twitter: @professor