Internet Governance Forum(IGF) is a dream for many and for some its a way of making your voice heard, no matter on which side you are you always have to be very specific about the objective and goals for yourself. IGF may sound like a normal event but if you do not plan your way then it can be as complex as it gets.
I think IGF is not just a platform for sharing information and networking but its a great platform for sharpening your skills. On every step you are tested with your skills and you have to be smart and diligent to overcome the obstacles, especially if you are coming from a developing country then you have to be prepared in terms of testing your skills and passion.
here are few of the things that will help you to overcome IGF fear :
1. IGF is not just about visiting and having fun, it’s about what you bring to the table. I mean to say you are being financed to share your thought of school and practices so u have to be prepared in terms of basics and current events in your region
2. One should be aware about the current situation or should be prepared. I would suggest to prepare a report on the country’s status in terms of practice of overall IG Process as it helps to communicate in the context related data's
3. IGF is a platform of not just cooperation but a learning and networking platform.
There are more opportunities available to individuals who are more active and have a different though of school. Always try to focus on one problem with a strong argument and opinion
4.Participating in various working groups eases the pressure of understating how the multistakeholder group works but one really needs to be picky about the core issues and always be confident about what you are speaking or thinking .
5.Try to share your own thought process and mechanism not just from the problem perspective but with a positive and solution perspective
6.It’s quite hectic to manage the sessions, try to sort the sessions in the morning prior visiting the venue, just be open as at times you might consider something important and at times something that you missed might be very interesting and useful always keep your eyes open and keep your sense sharp
7. Pre event is a must as it familiarizes you with the process and give you the confidence to stand up for the day. It’s a big conference where preparation and confidence marks your presence
8. I think the most important part is how you convert the knowledge about the learning. I mean to say there are more ways to market yourself writing your experience in blogs and article taking in reference of the people you listened and shared your experience with
9. Familiarization and networking is a part of the IGF but one should know your strengths and weakness, too much is never good as people are observing you and you are being recorded
10. For a new comer IGF at times can be intimidating one has to be very very smart in terms of what is being spoken and relayed You just need to be Sharp and be communicative in terms of understanding the behaviors and how things work in IGF as it’s a professional platform ?
11. The IGF is a never ending process you have be dynamic and progressive in terms of accepting the thought process and communication that goes on. It’s more of a new process that always starts from the end
12. Use social media like twitter and facebook in terms of being updated and relaying your thought process with hashtag as it certainly gets noticed
