The Lobby Is Open
While Live Virtual RootsCamp Kicks Off Monday - you can preview what to expect now
🌟 Virtual RootsCamp Lobby Now Open: Your Guide to Effective Networking 🌟
Great news, organizers! The lobby for Virtual RootsCamp is now open. While we're still updating some sessions and adding speakers, exhibitors, and expo booths, now is the perfect time to register, log in, and familiarize yourself with the platform before we officially kick off on Monday, March 17th.
🚪 Lobby Access & Platform Navigation
The virtual platform is your home base for the event (March 17-22). If you log in now, you'll see the full schedule of sessions so you can start planning which ones you want to attend next week when we're live! Take some time to explore:
Check out the evolving schedule
Review speaker profiles
Locate and explore the virtual expo booths
Connect with our amazing sponsors
Test your audio/video settings
Customize your attendee profile
Pro tip: Set up your profile completely with your photo, bio, and areas of interest to make meaningful connections faster!
🤝 Maximizing Virtual Networking: Your RootsCamp Strategy Guide
Let's be honest—networking in virtual spaces presents unique challenges, but it's absolutely crucial for building the movement connections we need right now. Here's how to make the most of Virtual RootsCamp:
Before Sessions Begin:
Update Your LinkedIn/Twitter/Socials: Include that you're attending RootsCamp and what topics you're most interested in discussing.
Create Your Introduction: Craft a concise, compelling 30-second introduction about who you are, what you do, and what you hope to learn/share at RootsCamp.
Research Speakers & Attendees: Review the participant list (if available) and identify 5-10 people you want to connect with during the event.
Prepare Your Space: Set up a professional background, ensure good lighting, and test your audio/video. First impressions still matter, even in virtual settings!
During Virtual Sessions:
Use the Chat Strategically: Don't just lurk! When you have a relevant thought or question, share it in the chat with your name and organization.
Active Participation: Turn your camera on when possible, nod along, and use reaction features to show engagement.
Take Notes Visibly: Mention in chat when something resonates: "Really appreciating this point about [topic]."
Follow the "Rule of 3": Aim to make at least three substantial comments or questions in each session you attend.
Making Direct Connections:
Direct Message Strategically: When messaging someone, reference a specific point they made that resonated with you rather than sending generic "nice to meet you" messages.
Visit the Expo Area: Explore the virtual expo booths and chat with our sponsors. These interactions are valuable networking opportunities and a great way to learn about new tools and resources while supporting the organizations that make RootsCamp possible.
Create Connection Points: Share a relevant resource, article, or tool related to their work or interests.
Be Specific About Follow-Up: Instead of "Let's connect sometime," try "I'd love to continue this conversation. Would you have 15 minutes next week to discuss [specific topic]?"
Session Hopping Strategy: Review the schedule and attend sessions that attract people in your target network. Remember, RootsCamp encourages session hopping!
Post-Session Networking:
Quick Follow-Up: Send connection requests on LinkedIn/Twitter within 24 hours, referencing the specific session you shared.
Create Shared Documents: Offer to compile and share notes from sessions with other attendees.
Volunteer for Collaborative Work: If breakout rooms lead to shared interests, volunteer to help organize or lead future discussions.
Join the Slack Community: Continue conversations in our new GAIN Power Slack community: and join the RootsCamp channel for questions
💬 Remember RootsCamp Rule #2: "Everyone Participates, No One Spectates"
Even in a virtual setting, RootsCamp thrives on active engagement. If you see a discussion that's missing, step up and propose it! The unconference format means your voice shapes the conversation.
Ready to join the movement? Register now and start exploring the virtual space!
See you in the virtual halls of RootsCamp starting Monday, March 17th!
P.S. Don't forget to check out previously announced sessions like "Wizards of Ops," "Building a Leadership Ladder to Organize Donors," and "Audience, Brevity, Clarity: Understanding the ABC's of Messaging" – or propose your own session if you don't see what you're looking for!
P.P.S. Please take time to visit our sponsors in the expo area – their support makes RootsCamp possible, and they offer valuable resources and tools for your organizing work!