It’s funny, there were a few prominent questions that were asked during conversations which really told more about the person asking the question, than the person who gives the answer. For instance, I was so giddy, I kept asking, “What do you do?” People kind of roll their eyes or look at you like you just pissed yourself. Not only was I pointing out the fact I was a complete n00b to the conference, I was asking a question as obvious as, “What’s your major?” in a college atmosphere. Great way to pick up chicks.

Another question people (me) asked was “Is this your first time here?” This wasn’t so much of the giveaway as the previously mentioned, but it still is a subtle detector of a person’s conference going experiences. A more relaxed approach to this question is, “How many times have you been to SXSW?” This isn’t as assuming in a negative way as the first question and can be answered with a, oh this is my first time. And usually a conversation can be engaged after that.

Just a few surface level tips, from a surface level guy.

The Takeaways - In no particular order

Standards
We all have to set standards for ourselves and live by them. While lowering ones standard price to get that client may seem like a good idea up front (how else will you get the business) it has the adverse effect of lowering your perceived value. That means clients won’t EVER give you what you want. Whereas maintaining ones standard not only gets you what you want monetarily, it also allows you to have more influence over the direction of the project. Currently there is a project on my plate where this topic resonates heavily. You are worth how much you accept for, not how much you ask for. This was a very insightful message that I am all too happy to gain.

It’s about the conversations
In my opinion, 75% of attending SXSW is about the people you meet and the conversations you have. Everything discussed is relevant to either the job one is experiencing or the panel one attends. Many of the discussions I have with coworkers about the issues in our industry get discussed the entire conference. I can’t even describe the value of this type of intense discussion. I walked away feeling like I had the inspiration to conquer those things that bug me most.

** Colin Devroe from Viddler says it’s 100% the conversations (Reads -> Free Alcohol)

Balance
As with anything, balance is most important. The internet industry is no different. I attended a really good panel that discussed the merits of having a balanced business. The three balancing points described were; Business, Development, and Users. To launch anything successful, there has to be a balance of all these levels. Too much of any results in a friction that doesn’t need to be there. One needs to be really objective when analyzing whether or not they are achieving this goal. This is another topic that resonates heavily with some recent experience I gained.

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There are more takeaways and it will probably take me a little while to get them up. I’ve had a long two weeks and I think it will take some rest to really let it all soak in. As of now, I feel like I am equipped with the right tools to really start pushing good ideas.

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