In the midst of all the busy madness that is Dreamforce, there’s a short time where people can catch their breath, sit back and be inspired. Keynotes by a variety of world-renowned influencers and experts of their craft, ranging from civil rights leaders to astronauts (!), spice up the DF agenda. If there’s one thing you should know about Salesforce, it’s this: everything they do has an added value to it.
Benioff &co. have refined their picks with each year, and the result is an impressive, diverse list of more than 20 speakers. After a series of long debates with myself, I’ve finally narrowed this massive number to a list of 4 personal picks. These keynotes focus on topics I’m personally fascinated by, and really excited to hear the expert’s take on. Ready? Let’s go!
1. Marc Benioff + Special Guests
Well duh… but on a serious note, Benioff’s keynotes are consistently high quality- with a great combination of interesting guest appearances, insightful, highly quotable speeches and exciting new announcements. All of these are paced wonderfully, creating a very enjoyable keynote that is an absolute must for every Salesforce user.
When: Wednesday, 5.10, 1:00 PM (2 hours)
Where: Moscone North, Moscone North Hall D
Follow him on Twitter: @Benioff
2. NASA astronauts Captain Mark Kelly and Captain Scott Kelly
They’re both decorated US Navy Captains, NASA astronauts and played an integral part in a groundbreaking study with the latter. They also share the exact same genes. Identical twins Mark and Scott Kelly are often called “American Heroes”, and for a reason.
When: Tuesday, 4.10, 11:30 AM (1 hour)
Where: Moscone West, Moscone West Level 2
Follow them on Twitter: @StationCDRKelly, @ShuttleCDRKelly
3. Daniel Goleman
Psychologist, bestselling author and highly inspiring speaker, Dr. Goleman’s keynote is bound to leave audiences wanting more. His works offer new and exciting approaches to leadership and business, focusing on the power of emotional intelligence and effective way to use it to its full potential. Highly recommended!
When: Friday, 7.10, 11:30 AM (30 min)
Where: Moscone North, Moscone North Hall D
Follow him on Twitter: @DanielGolemanEI
4. Deborah Dugan
Working with Bono and Bobby Shriver, Deborah is the Chief Executive Officer (RED), engaging both businesses and consumers to help fight disease in Africa. Under her leadership, (RED) has pushed the envelope on social media’s positive influence, and has partnered with many leading brands to combat AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria. She’s truly a leader, and I’m interested in hearing her point of view on management, social media and important causes.
When: Wednesday, 5.10, 4:00 PM (1 hour)
Where: Yerba Buena Center for the Arts, Yerba Buena Theater
Follow her on Twitter: @debdugan
Which ones are you planning to attend?