Workday Rising is around the corner. For some, it’s familiar territory - for others, a large conference can feel overwhelming. You might even be wondering how to make an argument for the investment. The answer: set clear goals and tie them directly to organizational outcomes. When I attended my first Rising, we were mid-implementation and juggling our day jobs. I didn’t know how I’d learn a new system, make it great at go-live, keep up with work and make the most of the event. I dove right into workshops, keynotes and the customer appreciation party—but still felt like I could have gotten more out of it. Over time, my goals shifted—sometimes driven by company priorities, sometimes by my own growth. The big lesson: when you know the value you’re after, you can maximize your time at Rising. While every attendee’s focus is different, the aim is the same: get the most out of Workday and the Rising experience. Now, I’d define a goal tied to company objectives, network everywhere I could, and leave more room for fun. Oddly enough, stepping outside your comfort zone leads to the best connections.
