Dreamforce is more than just a conference; it’s the annual family reunion of the global Salesforce Ohana. It’s where innovation meets inspiration, and where the world’s most passionate Trailblazers come together. If you’re a first-time attendee, the energy of Dreamforce 2025 can be daunting. You’ve got keynotes to attend, sessions to participate in, a campus, and much more to explore. But among all the learning, the most valuable part of the experience is the connections you make.
Networking at Dreamforce isn’t about collecting business cards or making a quick sales pitch. It’s about building genuine relationships, finding new connections, and opening doors to new opportunities. So, let’s dive into how to network at Dreamforce that will turn you from a networking newbie into a pro.
Plan Your Strategy, But Be Ready to Pivot
Before you even land in San Francisco, a little planning goes a long way. Download the official Salesforce Events app (available on the Apple App Store and Google Play) to capture details in real-time. Use the agenda builder to identify sessions, keynotes, and workshops that are most relevant to your goals. This isn’t just about learning; it’s about strategically placing yourself in a room with people who share your professional interests.
However, here’s a pro tip: Don’t over-schedule. The magic of Dreamforce often happens in the in-between moments. Leave open slots in your schedule for spontaneous hallway conversations, impromptu coffee breaks, or just a few minutes to decompress in the Trailblazer Forest. These unplanned interactions can be some of the most impactful.
Perfect Your Elevator Pitch (And Your “Why”)
You’ll be asked, “What do you do?” countless times. Instead of a robotic recitation of your job title, craft a simple, engaging answer. Think of it as your “Trailblazer Story.” For instance: “I’m a Salesforce Admin at a nonprofit, and I’m here to find new ways to use Flow to automate our fundraising processes.” This is a perfect conversation starter because it’s specific, memorable, and gives the other person an easy entry point to ask follow-up questions. It’s a great way to start building a connection.
Equally important is knowing your “why.” Why are you here? What problems are you looking to solve? Be prepared to share your challenges and successes—it shows vulnerability and makes you more relatable and approachable.
Network Beyond the Sessions
Networking isn’t confined to formal events. The most fertile ground for conversation is often found in the most unexpected places.
- In Session Lines: Everyone is waiting for the same thing, which gives you an instant shared interest. Instead of scrolling on your phone, turn to the person next to you and strike up a conversation. “This is my first time here. Have you been to a session by this speaker before?” or “What are you hoping to get out of this session?” are great, low-pressure icebreakers.
- The Expo Floor: Don’t just grab swag and run. The Expo Hall is where Salesforce partners and vendors showcase their latest and greatest. Use this as a networking opportunity. Instead of just hearing a sales pitch, ask questions like, “What kind of customers do you work with?” or “How does your product solve [your specific problem]?” The people at these booths are experts in their field, and they are an invaluable resource for information and connections.
- Happy Hours and Evening Events: Dreamforce is famous for its legendary parties and networking mixers. These events provide a more relaxed atmosphere. It’s the perfect time to follow up on a conversation you started earlier in the day or to meet people you didn’t have a chance to connect with at the Moscone Center.
Don’t Just Talk, Listen
The best networkers are often the best listeners. Instead of waiting for your turn to speak, show genuine interest in the person in front of you. Ask open-ended questions and listen to their answers. What are their biggest challenges? What sessions are they excited about? What’s their favorite part of the Salesforce ecosystem? People appreciate being heard, and a good conversation leaves a lasting impression.
Leverage Your Trailblazer Badge
Your official Dreamforce badge is your secret weapon. For Dreamforce 2025, many badges will have QR codes linked to your LinkedIn profile. Use this feature! It makes exchanging contact information seamless. A quick scan and a follow-up message are all it takes to solidify a new connection.
Stay Connected After the Event
The real work of networking begins after the event. Set aside time in the days following Dreamforce to send personalized follow-up messages to the people you met. A simple “It was great chatting with you in the line for the AI keynote. Let’s stay in touch!” can go a long way. Mention a specific detail from your conversation to show you were truly listening and to jog their memory.
Consider creating a small LinkedIn or Salesforce community group with the people you met at Dreamforce. This keeps the conversation alive and turns a one-time meeting into a lasting professional relationship.
Final Words on How to Network at Dreamforce
Remember, everyone at Dreamforce is there for a reason, and many of them are first-timers just like you. The Salesforce community is welcoming and inclusive, so be open, be curious, and most importantly, be yourself. The connections you forge here could be the most valuable takeaway from the entire experience.
So, get ready to dive in, learn a ton, and discover that the most impactful lessons at Dreamforce 2025 often come from the people you meet along the way. Your networking journey starts now.
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Mayank Sahu
I’m a Salesforce enthusiast passionate about CRM solutions, automation, and integrations. As a continuous learner, I stay updated with the latest Salesforce trends, tools, and innovations to share valuable insights and best practices. My goal is to help businesses and professionals maximize their Salesforce potential through actionable tips, industry updates, and strategic guidance.
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