Tips for attending online WordPress meetups
I’ve been attending so many online WordPress meetups since the pandemic started. I feel like I’m a pro at it now! I just wanted to share a quick blog post on the tricks I use to get the most out of online group meetings.
- Most meetings start with introductions so make sure you’ve practiced your elevator speech. Who you are and what you do in a couple of sentences. Being respectful of everyone’s time is important. Keep it under one minute.
- Use two screens. I was late to the game on this but it’s vital for saving links/taking notes and still being present in the meeting.
- Sign in to WordPress.org to save favorites when people mention plugins. This is a great way to remember the tips people share with you.
- Create a bookmark in your browser for tips that aren’t a plugin or WordPress related. These meetings are full of great tips.
- When you mention or share a tool or plugin you can’t live without, have a link ready to share in the chat.
- Have a headshot on your static screensaver.
- Liven things up with a fun background. I’ve been using The Breakfast Club for months. I also have a Godzilla, a bar, and a Laverne & Shirley background.
- Be upright. This sounds obvious, but people are always showing up lounging, sometimes in bed. Remember, you’re in a meeting! You wouldn’t show up in-person in your PJs, would you?
- Speaking of camera placement, the best angle is slightly above eye level. Looking down is never your best look.
- Finally, be mindful of pronouns. Some may share their preferred pronouns in their display name, but if someone doesn’t, “they/them” is always the best fallback.
I hope you’ll sign up to attend a WordPress meet up in your area or ANYWHERE you want to! While things are closed for in-person meetings right now, the opportunities are abundant to connect with other WordPress enthusiasts around the world through online Zoom meetings.
RESOURCES:
WordPress Meetups
https://www.meetup.com/topics/wordpress/
And don’t forget about WordCamps