Freelancers: here’s how to get the most out of tech conferences
Tech conference insights: AI, networking, freelance opportunities. Learn how to maximise events like Talent Arena
Do you ever find yourself feeling a bit out of sorts at those massive tech conferences? Networking a bit of a chore? Well, if you’re freelancing, it’s worth shifting your perspective.
Think of these events as a chance to really get to grips with what’s happening in your industry and to spot the new problems your clients are facing – the ones you can help solve.
If you’re working in the digital talent space, Barcelona’s Talent Arena is one conference you might want to consider. Last week, it was buzzing with 20,000 developers and other digital professionals, including SEO specialists, product leads, and managers, all there to see what was going on.
In this article, we’ll take a look at how freelancers can make the most of events like this and how to get ready for next year’s Talent Arena.
Get news, expert views and career tips you can’t get anywhere else. Sign up to the FREE Freelance Informer newsletter:
Understanding trends that will impact your target clients
According to those who attended, the Talent Arena event was useful because it helped them spot emerging market needs for clients and how they, as freelancers, could refine their service offerings accordingly.
Discussions ranged from the ethical implications of AI to practical workshops on building scalable applications, providing attendees with both theoretical insights and hands-on experience.
For example, Steve Wozniak, co-founder of Apple, one of the programme’s most highly anticipated speakers, addressed some of the main challenges and opportunities facing the technology sector.
During his speech, Wozniak referred to the debate on the use and regulation of artificial intelligence (AI), reiterating his long-standing support for such intervention. “To better judge what we consume, we must know whether the information comes from technology, how the AI has been trained, and what sources it has used”.
Still discussing the evolution of AI, he said, “Today, it is a great technology for reporting on things that have already been said, and perhaps one day, it will be able to think for itself.”
He argued that technology should move towards “more open-source code, as this would allow us to go back, review the technology created, and perhaps improve it.”
Another theory about AI came from former world chess champion and AI authority Garry Kasparov who delivered a highly anticipated keynote speech on AI’s impact on strategic decision-making. During his session, he addressed over 2,000 attendees, urging them “not to be afraid of machines” and stating, “if we misuse them, we cannot blame technology.”
He also reflected on his defeat by Deep Blue, which he called “a blessing.” Kasparov highlighted its role in inspiring numerous technological projects. He reframed AI as “augmented intelligence,” explaining, “just as glasses improve our vision, AI enhances our abilities.”
However, the main attraction was the Hackathon, which focused on the future of telecommunications, featuring Open Gateway APIs, including Number Verification and WiFi QOD. Teams presented new solutions for public administration, healthcare, and streaming, with three winners defending their ideas in a unique “boxing ring” format. The event also included sessions with 30 leading ICT experts, including the co-founder of Arduino, a former LinkedIn engineering vice-president, and a Google software engineer.
How freelancers can get the most out of Talent Arena
Firstly, getting involved early helps. You should keep an eye on the official event website and social media channels. Often, early bird tickets are released, and there might be opportunities to apply as a speaker.
Engaging with the event’s online community beforehand is also a good opportunity to see who is going. It doesn’t hurt to jump into online discussions, connect with potential attendees, and share relevant content to get your name out there.
Networking
When it comes to networking, prepare a concise “elevator pitch” outlining your skills and experience and how both of those could address client pain points.
Before the event, identify key speakers and attendees and plan to attend their sessions. Use event platforms or social media to connect with them beforehand. Active participation in workshops, panel discussions, and networking events is where the real connections are made. It’s not just about who you know; it’s about who knows you. That’s why when you do collect contacts, follow up with personalised messages after the event.
Lead generation
For lead generation and service development in sessions, listen carefully to the challenges discussed by attendees; these are potential client needs waiting to be addressed. For example, discussions around the growing demand for cybersecurity experts highlighted a clear need for specialised freelance services.
Once you understand what is likely to be in demand for the next 12 months, you can repackage your services accordingly. Then, reach out to contacts and consider offering on-site consultations or workshops to show how you can help address their problems or goals. Think about creating bundled service packages that are in demand and show potential clients how you can help. Packages can be general or bespoke to the client.
Have your online portfolio and pitch ready to go
Before you go, make sure your online profile is up to date and reflects your services. Have it ready on your mobile phone to share.
What to do each day of the Talent Arena conference
Never underestimate the power of informal networking; some of the best connections are made during casual conversations. After each day of the event comes to an end, document your event experience through social media, sharing key takeaways. Sometimes, you might want to do this right away before you head to your hotel room to unwind. Others may prefer to sound others out at the event’s daily social networking events, which often take place right after the last session or in the evening. Just make sure you don’t post anything after too many drinks!
Related articles
Job hunting: How to spot resilient AI companies – Freelance Informer
Are your @MetaAI chats on WhatsApp still encrypted? – Freelance Informer
Get more done in a day by using this mental trick – Freelance Informer