Cisco Live is just around the corner and what better time to talk about the social aspect of the event.  Yes, Cisco Live is a big Tech Learning festival, but it is also been nicknamed Geek Summer Camp.  Cisco Live is the time of year when a bunch of super smart introverts becomes extroverts for a few days.  It does help that they are surrounded by like-minded individuals.

The big opening icebreaker for most of us is the opening TweetUp.  This is a great initial gathering where people are there to actually socialize and meet new people.  If you attend (and you should) make sure you introduce yourself to someone new.

Another great place to meet others is in the Certification Lounge in World of Solutions.  This place is open to anyone who holds a Cisco Certification.  Come and meet some of the best and brightest here – come see what new certifications are being worked on – and best of all, usually always has some snacks available!.
 

A really interesting, and actually the easiest, place to meet someone new is LUNCH! Lunch is typically served with open seating so you are able to sit anywhere and with anyone.  It is a great time to find new people to sit with and introduce yourself, share war stories, and just have a good conversation.  You can talk about anything – Cars, Technology, the sky – pick a topic and have fun!

Ultimately the Social Media Lounge is the best place to come and meet new and old friends.  It is easy to find the area in World of Solutions and there will be seating, tables, charging stations, bikes, games, and a few other things.  This really is a place to meet up and tweetup! 🙂

Oh, one thing worth mentioning if you really want to come out of your shell – #KiltedMonday.  Yes, it is a thing that has started at Cisco Live.  Bring your kilt and have a good time on Monday – you will meet new people and make new friends, that I can assure you.  Last year I think that there where some social prizes available later on in the day – not sure if they are Official Prizes, but someone usually has some fun with it.
If you make it to Cisco Live this year – be sure to stop by the TweetUps, Cert Lounge, Social Media Lounge, Lunches, or any place people are gathering and introduce yourself. Just remember to have fun and open up!
Below you will find a stroll down memory lane of some past Cisco Live gatherings. Just some of my fun memories that show the comradery that I have developed over the years.