Dreamforce ’24: My FOMO, Your Gain

With Dreamforce a matter of hours away, I’m feeling some serious FOMO.

Last year’s event in San Fran’ was one for the ages — from big keynotes, to Foo Fighters rocking out, to the raucous expat Aussie night at Foley’s (if you know, you know…), it delivered bucket loads of inspiration and entertainment.

This year though, I’ll be watching from the comfort of my living room in Australia.

While it’s the right choice for me with a new baby in our little crew and more than my fair share of travel under my belt this year already, it’s still going to be tough knowing what I’m missing out on.

But, all is not lost!

If, like me, you’re tuning in virtually, there are still plenty of ways to make the most of it. And if you’re heading to San Francisco, here’s a sneak peek at what you can expect.

Joining from Afar: Catch the Action Online

First thing first — the modern Dreamforce experience means you have the ability to tune in virtually from anywhere in the world. If you’re not attending in person, Salesforce has you covered with online streaming of keynotes, sessions, and workshops. This means you can catch all the latest insights and innovations from the comfort of home, whether you’re looking to dive deep into AI, discover new tools, or just stay in the loop on industry trends.

What I’ll Miss the Most: The Salesforce Community

Without a doubt though, one of the best things about being there in person is the sense of community and camaraderie.

Dreamforce is more than just a tech conference; it’s where friendships are forged and renewed, new connections are made, and you’re surrounded by like-minded professionals from all over the globe. Whether it’s sharing stories over coffee or striking up a conversation in a session line, the global Salesforce ecosystem really comes to life.

If you’re attending in person, make the most of this. It’s a once-a-year opportunity to build relationships that could last a lifetime.

Networking at Dreamforce: Where Real Conversations Happen

For those lucky enough to be attending, Dreamforce is a networking powerhouse. But with such a massive event, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. This year, I’ve heard that Salesforce has made networking even easier with the Connection Hub, where you can book in-person or virtual meetups. Skip the small talk and dive into meaningful conversations with peers, product experts, or even potential hires.

Another tip? Take advantage of Braindates, where you can schedule one-on-one or small group discussions based on shared interests. Whether you’re solving problems or brainstorming ideas, these meetings offer real value beyond typical event networking.

Don’t shy away from introductions — you never know who you’ll meet!

Build Your Perfect Dreamforce Schedule

Dreamforce can be overwhelming — there are over 1,500 sessions to choose from! But you don’t have to wing it. Agenda Builder is your best friend. You can explore, view, and save sessions by date and time, creating a personalised schedule to make sure you hit the ones that matter most. Add keynotes, like the Marketing and Commerce Keynote: Build Lasting Relationships (Sept. 17, 11 AM PST), to your agenda now so you don’t miss out.

And remember, some sessions — especially Breakouts and Theatres — fill up fast, so arrive early and always have a backup session in mind. This year, Salesforce has also introduced seat reservations for select sessions like roundtables and workshops. So if you see something that piques your interest, don’t hesitate — lock in your spot early!

Stay Organised with the Salesforce Events Mobile App

Once you’ve got your agenda set, the Salesforce Events Mobile App is your go-to tool for staying organised on the ground. You’ll find maps, session details, and even live audio from sessions, making it easy to stay on top of your schedule. Plus, if you’re juggling meal times, last-minute meetings, or simply trying to find your way around, the app will keep you on track.

Keynote Speakers You Can’t Miss

To state the obvious, Dreamforce 2024 boasts an incredible lineup of keynote speakers. I’m keen to catch Dr. Jane Goodall, renowned ethologist and environmental activist, who will share her insights on conservation and how technology can play a role in protecting our planet.

Kerry Washington, Emmy-nominated actor and social justice advocate, will speak on leadership, diversity, and the power of individual action to drive change.

Additionally, Vipul Ved Prakash, Founder and CEO of Together AI, and Parker Harris, Co-Founder of Slack, will be sure to bring valuable insights into the latest advancements in AI technology and its real-world applications.

From big Hollywood names to CEOs of cutting-edge tech companies, there’s plenty of inspo on the agenda to help you stay ahead of the curve.

Dreamfest: Unforgettable Entertainment

And what would Dreamforce be without Dreamfest? This year, attendees can look forward to performances by P!NK and Imagine Dragons. Not only is it set to be an unforgettable night of entertainment, but it’s also supporting the UCSF Benioff Children’s Hospitals, a cause close to the heart of the Salesforce community.

Final Thoughts: Make the Most of it

Whether you’re attending in person or joining virtually, Dreamforce 2024 is an event packed with opportunities to learn, grow, and connect. For those on the ground in San Francisco, be a sponge—absorb all the knowledge and make the most of the people around you. And for the rest of us tuning in online, we still have the chance to experience all the big announcements and insights right from home.

BONUS TIP: Aussie Attendees: Don’t Miss Foley’s Monday Night Party!

Finally, if you’re one of the Aussies flying over to San Francisco, there’s one event you absolutely can’t miss: the Monday night party at Johnny Foley’s. It’s the perfect chance to unwind after a long day of sessions, and it’s always packed with familiar faces from back home. Whether you’re new to Dreamforce or a seasoned pro, this is the spot to connect with your fellow Aussies and share a few laughs and singalongs.

Happy Dreamforce 24!

– Garth