12 Tips to Navigate Genealogy’s Biggest Event
Picture this: You’re about to dive into the world’s largest family history celebration, where technology meets tradition and where thousands of genealogy enthusiasts gather to share, learn, and connect. Welcome to RootsTech! Whether you’re attending in person in Salt Lake City or joining virtually from your living room, here’s your guide to making the most of this incredible event.
Before the Conference: Plan Ahead Like a Pro
RootsTech is brimming with sessions, workshops, and exhibitor booths—so much to see, so little time!
1. Before the conference, download the RootsTech app – it’s your best friend during the conference. Use it to create your personalized schedule, bookmark sessions you don’t want to miss and connect with other attendees. Think of it as your digital compass for navigating the genealogical wonderland ahead.
Are you headed to Salt Lake City?
2. Be prepared! Comfortable shoes, a refillable water bottle, and a notebook or app for jotting down ideas are essentials.
3. Bring a portable charger—there’s nothing worse than your phone dying right before you snap a photo of that amazing vendor booth.
Joining from Home?
4. Create a dedicated space for your RootsTech experience. Set up a notepad (digital or physical) for capturing those “aha!” moments and brilliant ideas. Take breaks between sessions to stretch and process what you’ve learned. Virtual attendance gives you the unique advantage of being able to watch sessions on your own schedule – use this flexibility wisely!
5. Make sure your tech setup is ready. Double-check your internet connection, update Zoom (or whatever platform is being used), and create a comfy, distraction-free zone.
During RootsTech: Dive In, But Don’t Drown
The beauty (and challenge) of RootsTech is its abundance of opportunities. With hundreds of sessions available, it’s tempting to try to do it all. Don’t. Instead, focus on your “genealogy joy” – those aspects of family history that make your heart sing.
Try Something New
6. RootsTech is the perfect time to stretch your genealogy wings. Attend a class on a research method you’ve never tried, explore a tool you’ve never heard of, or challenge yourself to tackle a family history puzzle that’s been on the back burner.
Don’t Skip the Keynotes
7. The keynote sessions at RootsTech are not to be missed! They are legendary for their inspiring stories and world-class speakers. These sessions often blend personal history with universal themes that remind us why family history matters.
Even if you’re tight on time, make room in your schedule for at least one keynote. It’s a chance to recharge your passion and maybe even shed a tear or two (don’t worry, we’ve all been there).
Embrace the Unexpected
8. RootsTech is full of surprises, from impromptu storytelling sessions to amazing keynote speakers. Keep an open mind, and don’t be afraid to deviate from your schedule if something exciting catches your eye. Those spontaneous moments often become the most memorable.
The Secret Sauce: Engage with Speakers and Fellow Attendees
9. RootsTech isn’t just about learning – it’s about connecting. The relatives you might meet could be sitting right next to you in a session or attending virtually from across the globe. Use the Relatives at RootsTech feature to discover potential cousins attending the conference. It’s like a family reunion you didn’t know you needed!
Take advantage of the chat features during virtual sessions. Some of the best insights come from fellow attendees sharing their experiences and tips in real time. Don’t be shy – join the conversation!
Recharge Your Batteries (Literally and Figuratively)
10. RootsTech is exciting, but it’s also exhausting. Make sure to pace yourself. Take breaks between sessions to grab a snack, chat with a new friend, or simply enjoy some quiet time to reflect on everything you’re learning.
For those attending in person, take advantage of nearby coffee shops or lounges for a quick reset. Virtual attendees, schedule breaks into your day to avoid screen fatigue.
Explore the Expo Hall
11. The Expo Hall is full of resources, tools, and innovative products. From DNA testing kits to historical research software, it’s the place to explore what’s new and exciting in the genealogy world.
Make a game plan to visit vendors you’re interested in, but also leave room for discovery. Don’t forget to ask questions and grab brochures—future you will thank you!
We’d love to meet you! Swing by our booth or explore our virtual booth to discover how Storied can help you bring your family history to life. We’ll have demos, giveaways, and some surprise goodies you won’t want to miss.
After the Conference: Keep the Momentum Going
12. Don’t let your RootsTech experience end when the conference does. Take time to review your notes, implement new research strategies, and connect with the people you met. Many sessions will be available to watch after the event – perfect for catching those presentations you couldn’t fit into your schedule.
Conclusion
RootsTech is a celebration of stories, connections, and history—all the things we at Storied hold dear. Whether you’re diving into workshops, networking with fellow genealogists, or simply soaking in the inspiration, we can’t wait to see how you make this event your own.
Here’s to making this year’s RootsTech unforgettable. Let’s write history—together.
There’s still time to register…visit RootsTech.org to attend online for FREE or in-person at Salt Lake City.