What to Expect at INBOUND 2024: What Marketers Need to Know

Some have “back-to-school” on their minds, but it’s “back to INBOUND” for our team and clients! Whether you're just starting with HubSpot or have years of experience on the platform, one thing is sure: the annual INBOUND conference is truly something special, especially in today’s hybrid work environment.

This in-person event is remarkable because of the energy and camaraderie among the thousands of marketers (over 11,000 attended last year) who share a passion for learning. With HubSpot’s expansion beyond marketing into sales and customer service, the conference offers something for everyone.

INBOUND’s three-day conference is packed with inspiring keynotes, breakout sessions, product launches, and endless networking opportunities. If you’re a first-time attendee, you are in for a boatload of excitement, so be prepared to walk away inspired, perhaps a bit overwhelmed and energized!

What's New This Year?

Rest assured, there will be many sessions on practical strategies, the latest technologies, and digital transformation similar to INBOUND 2023; in addition, HubSpot introduced two new stages for INBOUND 2024:

Content & Creators Stage

This brand-new stage is dedicated to exploring the art and science of content creation, offering insights into crafting narratives that engage and convert. This suggests a greater emphasis on content marketing strategies and tactics in 2024.

Community & Culture Stage

Another new addition, this stage will likely explore topics such as building and nurturing communities, fostering positive company culture, and leveraging the power of connection in business.

In addition to the two new stages, here are a few other notable changes you will see:

Emphasis on AI and its Practical Applications

While AI was present in 2023, it is taking center stage in 2024. There's a dedicated track for AI sessions, focusing on its impact on marketing, sales, content creation, and customer service. Expect to see talks about leveraging AI for personalization, automation, data analysis, and generating creative content.

Revamped HubSpot Heroes Stage

This stage has been redesigned to showcase customer success stories and provide exclusive previews of new HubSpot product features and updates. This indicates a stronger focus on practical use cases and how businesses leverage HubSpot's platform to achieve their goals.

To get the most out of your time in Boston, however, you need to have a plan. As INBOUND veterans, this is what we suggest.

1. Pre-register for Must-Attend Sessions

Marketers will benefit significantly from INBOUND’s diverse tracks, which cover everything from content marketing to CRM strategy. Register early to secure your spot in the sessions that align most with your team’s goals. Popular sessions fill up quickly, so plan ahead by reviewing the agenda and picking your top choices. Keep an eye out for encore sessions, often added for the most in-demand topics.

Use the HubSpot conference app to plan your day. It’s an invaluable tool for staying organized and ensuring you don’t miss out on key sessions. Head to the app store (Apple / Google Play) to download the app now.

Once you download the app, start exploring. There will be tips for beginning your agenda.

2. Network Like a Pro

INBOUND is the place to network. It's like a marketer's paradise! Whether you're into structured meetups or prefer bumping into folks over coffee, you'll have many chances to connect with people who get your marketing struggles.

3. Let Loose and Have Fun

INBOUND isn't all work and no play. We're talking big-name entertainment here! In past years, we have seen headliners like Trevor Noah and Cyndi Lauper, and this year, David Spade is taking the stage. So, take a break from the sessions, enjoy the show, and unwind with your new INBOUND buddies. Ladies, a little tip: pack comfy shoes for those late-night dance-offs!

4. Get Ready For a Jam-Packed Schedule

INBOUND is a whirlwind! You'll be hopping from early sessions to late-night events. Make sure you're well-rested and ready to soak up all the knowledge. Be sure to bring portable chargers and an extra notebook. You'll want to capture every brilliant idea!

5. Focus on What Matters

Once the conference is over, take some time to go through your notes and figure out what's most important. What ideas can you put into action right away? What needs more discussion with your team? Having a plan will help you turn all that learning into real results. We like to schedule “Lunch and Learns” with our team to share ideas, especially for team members who may not have had an opportunity to attend.

6. Catch-Up with On-Demand Content

Making all the sessions on your list is impossible, but no worries! HubSpot records a lot of them and makes them available on-demand. It's a great way to catch up on anything you missed or revisit your favorite talks.

7. Get Social

Use the conference hashtag (#INBOUND24) to join the online conversation. It's the perfect way to connect with speakers, ask questions, and stay in the loop. Plus, it's a great way to virtually network with other attendees.

8. Clear Your Calendar

To get the most out of INBOUND, clear your work schedule as much as possible beforehand. You may have good intentions to work between sessions, but trust me when I tell you that time will be spent getting from one end of the conference center to the other! Set aside specific times to check in with your team, but avoid distractions during the sessions. You'll want to be fully present!

Attending INBOUND 2024 is an investment in yourself and your organization. With the right preparation and a strategic mindset, you'll leave with actionable insights, new connections, and inspiration.

I'm looking forward to seeing you at INBOUND! If you're going, let our team know—we’d love to meet up. The first cocktail is on us!