Making a First Impression at PRSSA National Conference Washington, D.C.
Networking and making a first impression work hand in hand. When I meet someone new, I am constantly brainstorming new techniques and strategies of how to build authentic relationships with them. This is to show you a bit of the thought process I go through to think up ideas of how to make a nice impression at #PRSSANC
1. Appearance
I am a plus size queen. It's hard sometimes to stand out in an industry dominated by mostly gorgeous women! Since the PRSSA National Conference last year, I haven't lost my winter weight. I was struggling to know what to wear to the conference without having to put a dent in purchasing lots of gorgeous new clothes since I've moved up a size.
I decided to have these two amazing online rental stores take care of me. Gwynnie Bee is a website for extended sizes, size 12-32. Rent the Runway is a website that rents all sizes of amazing hollywood brand apparel.
PROS:
- DON'T WORRY WASHING THEM
- FREE SHIPPING
- FREE MONTH TRIAL
- CHEAPER ALTERNATIVE
- HIGH QUALITY, NAME BRAND
The plan is to have the free shipping labels with me and to ship the dresses back to the online stores giving me lots of luggage space for the plane ride home.
Here's a sneak peek of all the beautiful clothes I'll be sporting in Washington, D.C.
(Don't worry, I'll remember to bring my cardigan and blazers to complete the #PRPro look.)
2. Business Cards
Business cards are a major part of your presentation at conference and how others are going to remember you. Professionals will come prepared with their cards, ready to trade them with you. Think back to the time all your friends eagerly traded Pokemon cards at school-- it's like that. Here are my cards that I designed for the conference to leave a lasting impression.
3. Conforming with Apple Products AKA Getting the Iphone 6
I didn't buy my first Apple product until I went to the conference last year in Philadelphia. The reason that I bought it, as silly as is-- a large number of public relations professionals trust and love apple products. I've always heard the quote, "dress for the type of job you want to have." I think it's important to also be familiar with or to use similar technology that others use in your industry. So, I got an Iphone six this week. (Don't worry, I got a good deal with my Sprint plan)
4. A Memorable Gift
Cleverness, thoughtfulness, and authenticity are key traits that I value, especially when it comes to picking out gift for others. As part of the conference, it's important to bring a small gift from your home state. Utah is known as the 'beehive' state. While, I was pondering gifts-- I decided of something unique to give out each time I make a new connection. Honeysticks, AKA Honeystraws. Honeystraws come in various flavors of raw, creamy honey. I contacted a local seller here and have lots of yummy flavors of honey I'll be bringing with me.. 300 honeystraws to be exact.
5. Listening and Having a Desire to Learn From Others
Although this is listed as number 5, this is the MAIN INGREDIENT into making a first impression. Yes, you can bribe someone with honey (possibly), catch an eye by wearing designer clothes, look like a PR Pro with an iphone six, or make someone smile with a brilliant business card-- but all of these fade quickly if there is a lack of execution to truly get to network and know someone. I challenge you as you meet people next week at the National Conference to listen, truly engage--ask questions. I assure you, you will be happy that you did.
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