Maximising Your Workday Rising EMEA Experience: A Guide for Beginners
Whether it’s your first time or you’re returning to get even more out of the experience, Workday Rising EMEA is the premier annual event in the Workday ecosystem. Partners, customers, and experts gather to unlock the full potential of the event to share insights, and forge new connections.
This year, it's happening in the iconic city of Amsterdam, known for its historic charm, vibrant art scene and winding canals – at the impressive RAI Convention Centre. Having attended Workday Rising EMEA for many years, I know just how invaluable (and sometimes overwhelming) this event can be, especially for a first-timer. So, to help you make the most of your time, here are my top tips.
1. Book sessions early
Sessions are the heart of Workday Rising, offering workshops, breakout sessions, and talks that delve into every aspect of Workday's capabilities. Popular sessions fill up fast, so if you haven’t already, dive into the Content Catalogue and book your top choices.
Prioritise sessions that align with your specific challenges - whether it’s deployment, testing, or learning about a specific module. Trust me, early planning now will pay off massively when you’re there.
2. Build connections before you arrive
Connections are as valuable as any session. From casual meetups to one-on-one workshops, building relationships with partners, like us at Kainos, can provide insights and resources you’ll value long after the event. We’re offering focused 1-2-1 workshops aimed to tackle your Workday challenges and explore the latest innovative solutions.
Start connecting early on LinkedIn with other Rising EMEA peers to make the most of these opportunities. Establishing these connections now can set the foundation for ongoing support and collaboration during the event.
3. Pace yourself: Leave time between sessions
The RAI Convention Centre is enormous, spanning over 100,000 square meters. Don’t underestimate the time needed to get from one session to another! Map out the venue in advance and leave room in your schedule to avoid missing keynotes or high-priority sessions. Use breaks strategically and consider spacing out your sessions each day so you can fully absorb and enjoy each one.
4. Give it your full attention
For the best experience, make Workday Rising your sole focus. Set your “Out of Office” (OOO) message on and let your team know you’ll be away for this learning opportunity. This is your chance to dive deep into Workday’s ecosystem and take-home strategies that will directly impact your organisation. By being fully present, you’ll maximise the value you bring back to your organisation.
5. Don’t skip the social events
Workday Rising is as much about networking and socialising as it is about learning. The customer appreciation events, mixers, and parties are a great way for meeting new people and reconnecting with old colleagues.
These events have led to some of my most meaningful connections and best memories from past events!
6. Pack the essentials
Between walking, networking and note-taking, you’ll want to be well-prepared. Bring comfortable shoes, a portable charger (you’ll likely need), and maybe even a refillable water bottle to stay hydrated – if you’re lucky, you might grab some free merch!
And of course, don’t forget your camera for snapping memories. You’ll want reminders of all the insights, connections and fun!
Whether you’re a first timer or a seasoned attendee, Workday Rising EMEA is all about maximising the Workday ecosystem and building valuable relationships. With a bit of planning and an open mind, you’ll walk away with insights, connections and memories that will impact your work long after the conference ends.