Tips to Make the Most of SXSW

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As you pack your bags and get ready to beat a path to the film, interactive and music festivals that make up SXSW, keep these 8 tips in mind – They’ll help you make the most of your time and money in Austin, Texas this year:

1.
Talk to strangers
We know your parents told you never to do this, but SXSW is best viewed as sweden whatsapp number database a shared experience. If you want to learn and share with others, talk to strangers and make new friends! Take an empty seat at a table full of strangers, and chat it up. Put your hand out at a party (or more realistically, in line for the party) and introduce yourself to the person next to you. Opportunities are abound to meet and greet with a variety of people, and you should take full advantage. If you’re not really the gregarious type, don’t worry – people will often introduce themselves to you. Being open and friendly can lead to making some lifelong connections.

2.
Take a breather & a friend to Magnolia Café
If you need to break away from the hustle of downtown Austin during prime festival time, hit up Magnolia Cafe on South Congress Ave. It’s located just outside the SXSW bubble, which gives you more time talk and make a connection. There’s an excellent selection of food, it’s open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week (breakfast included)! If you plan on going in the morning, anticipate a line.

3.
Establish a home base in the middle of the madness.
There are several sponsored lounges within the Austin convention center where you can kick back, charge your devices, mingle with other attendees, and maybe even get a bit of work done (maybe). Many sponsors also take over nearby bars and houses throughout the duration of the festival as well. Explore the options, find one or two “home bases” where you can retreat and take a break once a day, and use it as meeting ground for friends old and new.

4.
Collect contact information and follow up during or immediately after the show.
The friends you make at SXSW are a special breed. Like summer camp, you’ll make promises to stay in touch when it all ends. Keep your promise by getting their contact information – either a business card or a mobile phone “bump” – and follow up as soon as you can. Follow your new found connections on Twitter, Facebook and of course LinkedIn. If you’d like to add them to say, your company’s email list, remember to ask if you can add them first.