As a longtime Workday professional and author of “Workday Gold Software Support Edition,” I’ve experienced firsthand the incredible value that both Workday Rising and regional user groups can bring to your Workday journey. In a recent podcast episode, my co-host Christian Delcid and I dove deep into how you can leverage these events to build relationships and enhance your Workday expertise.

The Power of Regional User Groups

Regional user groups (or “RUGs” as we affectionately call them) offer unique opportunities for learning and networking in a more intimate setting. From my experience leading the Florida user group, I’ve found that the most valuable aspects include:

• Round table discussions organized by functional area (recruiting, payroll, integrations, etc.)
• Customer-led presentations sharing real implementation experiences
• Opportunities to build lasting relationships with local Workday professionals
• A chance to volunteer on the organizing committee and deepen your network

For remote workers, don’t let distance deter you. Find the closest regional user group and make the effort to attend. The relationships you build could prove invaluable for your career and problem-solving needs.

Workday Rising: The Ultimate Workday Experience

Think of Workday Rising as the ultimate pep rally for Workday enthusiasts. With 18,000+ attendees, it’s an incredible opportunity to:

1. Attend strategic keynotes and product-specific sessions
2. Learn from customer success stories and implementation experiences
3. Get hands-on experience in labs (pro tip: sign up within 24 hours of registration opening!)
4. Connect with product managers and Workday experts
5. Explore solutions from partners and vendors in the expo hall

    

Making the Most of Your Time at Rising

To maximize your Rising experience:

• Prepare a list of questions before attending
• Don’t hesitate to skip sessions to spend quality time on the expo floor
• Schedule breakfast or lunch meetings with key contacts
• Take advantage of quieter times on the expo floor during sessions
• Choose a mix of sessions led by customers and those led by Workday
• Document your learnings to share with your team and justify future attendance

   

Creating Your Own User Group

Can’t find a user group nearby? Start your own! It doesn’t have to be formal – even a monthly video call with a handful of other Workday customers can provide immense value. I’ve been running a specialized nonprofit user group for four and a half years, and it’s been incredibly rewarding for everyone involved.

Investment in Your Future

Remember, attending these events isn’t just about immediate problem-solving – it’s an investment in your career and your organization’s Workday success. The relationships you build and knowledge you gain will pay dividends for years to come.