Welcome, we all had a first time once.
Walking into State of Social for the first time can feel like stepping into a room where everyone already knows the rhythm. This guide explains how SOS26 works for first-timers and what to expect so you can spend less time figuring it out and more time getting value from it.
Welcome to Country
Every year, State of Social opens with a Welcome to Country. We believe it’s essential to start by acknowledging the land we gather on—Whadjuk Noongar Boodja—and the people who have cared for it for millennia.
We are privileged to be welcomed by Barry Winmar, a Whadjuk Noongar man with connections to the Ballardong region. This ceremony is more than a protocol; it’s a moment of reflection that sets the tone for the days ahead. As communicators, it’s a powerful reminder of the deep history of storytelling that exists right here where we stand.
Keynote
A main-stage session delivered to the whole room. Keynotes are all about big, topical, often challenging ideas, exploring emerging trends, game-changing case studies, and seismic shifts in the digital and social marketing landscape.
Breakout Session
Shorter, focused sessions that run concurrently in different rooms. This is where you choose the topics that matter most to you – intensive education and inspiration directly from specialists spanning a host of disciplines.
Deep Dive
Longer, hands-on sessions designed to go beyond ideas and into application. Deep Dives also run concurrently, enabling you to create your own deep-dive program. Expect focused sessions that unpack big concepts, embrace complexity and get into the practical nitty-gritty of the ‘how’, not just the ‘what’.’
Concurrent sessions
Multiple sessions occurring simultaneously, giving you a host of choices and the freedom to create your custom State of Social program. All Access and Online ticket holders have access to recordings of every session, so you won’t miss a thing.
Attendee guide
The State of Social bible. Everything delegates need to know about SOS26. Check your email once you’ve registered.
Networking for the first time
Networking at State of Social is informal and optional. Conversations happen in queues, lounges, sessions, and over coffee. You do not need a pitch. Curiosity is enough.
Name badge and wristband
Your badge is your ID. Your wristband is your access pass. Wear both from the moment you arrive at SOS26.
MC
The Master of Ceremonies keeps the event running on time, introduces speakers, and shares essential updates. At State of Social, that role belongs to Robbie Figg.
Robbie has been our MC for years and is very much part of the SOS furniture. He is sharp, funny, deeply familiar with the event’s rhythm, and brilliant at reading the room. If anything changes, Robbie will let you know. If the room needs energy, he will lift it. If things need to move along, he will make it happen without you even noticing.
In short, you are in excellent hands. 😉
Slido and Q&A
How we handle questions. Rather than roaming microphones, we use Slido so you can submit questions from your phone during a session without the stage fright.
Activations
Sponsor-led experiences woven throughout the venue. Worth exploring during breaks.
Food and coffee
Barista-made coffee (thanks to Hunt and Brew) plus food and snacks throughout the day. Breaks are built into the program.
The chillout lounge
A quieter space to decompress, check in with yourself, or just have a coffee without the noise. Use it as much as you need to.
The sundowners
End-of-day networking drinks where conversations continue in a relaxed setting. A great place to debrief, reconnect, and meet new people.
The Barkout Session
Rescue puppies, a gold coin donation, and a very good reason to smile at the end of day one. All proceeds go to Dogs’ Refuge Home, our long-standing charity partner.
Unexpected Joy at SOS26
Not everything at State of Social is on the run sheet. There are moments of delight scattered throughout the program. A surprise. A laugh you did not expect. A conversation that changes your thinking.
Let those moments happen. They are part of the design.
#StateofSocial26
Use the official SOS26 hashtag to share insights, photos, and takeaways across LinkedIn, Instagram, TikTok, and Threads. It is also how standout content is discovered and shared during the event.
A few things worth knowing
You do not need to attend everything. It is okay to change rooms. It is completely normal to arrive solo. Most people are open to a conversation, curiosity is enough of an opener. If you are unsure where to go or what to do, ask. Everyone was new once!
If you want help planning your days, the full program and session labels are available here.
If you need support, quieter spaces, or assistance on the day, our team is always happy to help.
Welcome to your first State of Social. We’re glad you’re here.
