Boy do we have some offers for Usergroups right now!!!

You've already read about the Demo's Happen {Here} Competition, but there's so much more...

Microsoft Press

Firstly, we're running a special offer on MSPress Books. Once the new MSPress site goes live, all Usergroup Members will receive 30% discount on MSPress Books for 30 days.

Even after 30 days, Usergroup Members will receive 20% discount for the rest of the year.

Microsoft Learning

Secondly, we're running a Certification Competition. The first 100 Usergroup Members who pass an MCP Certification exam (any MCP) by 31 May 2008, will receive a voucher to take their next exam for free. That's $180 value.

Additionally, the Usergroup with the most certifications taken between now and 31 May 2008, will receive a hamper worth $3000 for their Usergroup.

Live Meeting

All Usergroup Leaders can get a free Live Meeting account. This is huge, it means that they can host a Usergroup Meeting using Live Meeting at no cost.

Members can attend remotely, presentations can be recorded and viewed later, and all for free.

I don't belong to a Usergroup, why should I?

If you work with Information Technology, and want to increase your skill, becoming a member of a usergroup is a great idea! You'll meet like-minded people, learn from some amazing presentations, and get inside info on the latest technologies. Plus discount on the best resources.

Where can you find out about Usergroups? Check out our interactive map here.

What if there isn't a Usergroup in your area based on the technology you work with? Some options:

  • Start your own usergroup. I'm working with enthusiasts in Wagga Wagga to start their own Usergroup in the next while, and it's easier than you may think.
  • Attend a group which discusses a similar technology (e.g. you're a Sharepoint Developer, join a .NET Usergroup) and become involved. You may find other like minded members who want to form their own subgroup or chapter.
  • See if you can attend a group from another town via Live Meeting. Note: You don't need a paid account to join a livemeeting, just to download the free client.
  • Contact your local Microsoft Evangelist, or me, we'd love to help and get you connected.

R42