David Hayden [MVP C#]

David,

I agree with your statement that code camps are about building community, I don't think any one was saying anything different.

Personally I am very happy they posted.  They are posting are about their experiences and their wisdom which is something the code camps are for as well.  As a new presenter (giving 1, 1 more planed, and hopefully more after that) I am soaking this up.

You talk that 80% of battle is getting over the fear, but the battle is also to get the experience and if you don't have the chance to speak often, you can at least gain experience via the wisdom of others.

Derik,

I think we all agree that code camps are about building community. However, even though they were not saying anything different, they also weren't saying it. Therefore, I thought it needed to be said so that any potential speakers didn't get intimated and think that anything but a flawless presentation was unacceptable.

There are many posts out there giving presentation tips, but very few encouraging first-time speakers to present at code camps. I thought I would add one to CodeBetter :)

@David,

Understood.

Actually, as someone who is trying to break into speaking, I am finding it a little discouraging.  I have been able to setup dates for local users groups, which rocks.  But it seems to me (as someone on the outside looking in) that that various events like code camps (but not limited to code camps) are 'boys clubs'.  Meaning that if you don't know someone you will not be able to present.  I could be completely wrong (actually, I hope I am), but this is my feeling.

The reason for this feeling is because by time events are announced all speaking spots are taken.  Thus limiting the amount of changes for would be presenters.

Derik

@ Derik,

Chances are that if you have that perception, there are probably many others in your community that feel the same way, too. Whether it is true or not, hopefully that perception is something the community as a whole is trying to eliminate. I have enjoyed your blog for some time now and think you would be a great asset to the community.

I remember having a similar feeling when I first tried to present at various code camps in our community. It turns out we have a great and open community, but could use a few more proactive community champions trying to build up local talent as well as help first-time speakers at the various events. In the beginning, there were times when I felt completely alone, as sappy as that sounds :)

Speaking at user groups is an excellent way to start and build confidence. I think you'll find yourself a regular code camp speaker in no time. I recommend building a close relationship with the local Microsoft Evangelists and Community Champions and asking them the best way to assure yourself a slot at the next code camp.

@Derik Here in the UK our closest equivalent to a Code Camp is DDD. We hold an open submission and voting process prior to the event to help determine who will speak. This does help to avoid the 'club' pattern where only folks in the know get to present. It can have its critics, particularly around those folks focused on quality of speakers over building community, but I think the openness of the selection process is a vital part of our offering.  

I would also suggest that speaking at user groups is not second-fiddle. For sure you don't necessarily get the same 'big stage' but I believe that the people who speak regularly at user groups are doing far more for community than the rock star speakers who only do big events a couple of times a year.

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@Ian,

I totally agree with your statement about user groups not being second fiddle. I prefer user group speaking.

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@Derek

I can only speak to my experience at the Portland and Seattle Code Camps, but they've both been exceptionally open as to who can present. Personally, I'd think that any CC organizer who told someone they couldn't present for any reason other than time constraints needs to be replaced.

Are there opportunities to speak at work?

@Scott,

Ok, now I feel like a total ass.  Because not an hour after I posted that comment, I got a reply from the Iowa Code Camp, I am going to speaking there now.  

And yes, I have found User Groups both very open and very supportive of new presenters.

Thanks,