Switzerland wasn’t high on my list of countries I needed to visit, but in my planning my time I figured I should do at least one thing semi-work related. A little googling and I found the Lift Conference in Geneva. I traded my time for entrance to the conference and a free place to stay. Seemed like a fair trade. I have proof I was there. These are the volunteers as we were saluted at the conference close. (Far right, near the mobile).
Now I have nothing against Lift10 and it’s mission. Enabling the discussion about the use of technology in society is a worthy endeavor. But my 3 days volunteering made me accept one thing: I don’t like conferences. Perhaps my expectations are too high. The workshops and talks with the best titles turned out to be disappointing. Where exactly does this “networking” happen? I watched 700+ a day sit behind their computers or play on their iPhones/Blackberries. I’ve been to several conferences in my career and regardless of topic, they all seem the same to me. I’m also always surprised by how quickly I want out of there.
Spring in Europe was also a bit colder than I expected. Talk about being underdressed with sandals and a jacket that I will burn because I never want to see it again. At some point, I’ll have to visit Geneva again because I didn’t see much more than the walk between the hostel and the conference center. My other big learning from Switzerland: I don’t like cheese fondue. After about four bites, you realize you’re eating a pot of melted goo that just slides down your throat and sit in your stomach. Yuck. A nice warm, gooey pain au chocolat, however, indescribable. Seriously yum.
The best part of Geneva was hearing complimentary words about a friend far, far away. Another volunteer (from Poland) had taken a course in Denmark from a friend who lives in San Francisco. His kind description and appreciation of my SF friend brought him to life. I guess that’s how you’re supposed to network.
