User groups have long been an important part of the technology ecosystem – although most IT pros (e.g., admins) don’t participate.
They should.
A user group is a way to have local colleagues who can help you get through problems, learn new technologies, and connect with the larger community. A user group is a big part of the difference between having a job and a career. A user group helps you network, helps you get that new job, and helps you cement the one you have.
Don’t have a PowerShell user group in your area? Start one! Work with your local Microsoft office to identify other MS customers who might be interested. The local office can often provide meeting space, too, along with presentation tools like projectors and Internet connections. Check out http://powershellgroup.org to connect with other user group leaders and get suggestions and resources.
User groups also give you a bigger voice – kinda like a business association. You can speak to companies like Microsoft, to third-party vendors, and even to book publishers, with more authority. You’ll bring more attention to your shared problems, and get solutions and answers faster.
Developers are awash in user groups, but admins take relatively little advantage of them. PowerShell is a chance to change that. With its deep hooks into everything Microsoft, these days, PowerShell user groups bring you a greater cross-section of exposure, of influence, and of opportunity.
Yes, a user group is usually something you have to do in your precious free time, usually after work. That means time away from the family, and that’s a big sacrifice, no question. But the investment pays dividends: You’ll be better-informed, better-connected, better-educated, and better-prepared. You’ll start turning that job into a career, and becoming a true IT professional – not just the guy who clicks the buttons and reboots the servers.
. We ARE recording for later on-demand rebroadcast… but if you can get in live, DO IT!!!
