Progressions

Last Minute Quick-Tips for National Conference

The event we’ve all been anxiously waiting for is just a few days away and the PRSSA 2010 National Conference Committee is looking forward to welcoming you to Washington, D.C.

Here are a few things to consider when packing and preparing for this year’s Conference.

Expectations

It is difficult to know what to expect at National Conference unless you’ve attended a National event before. Think of the public relations events you’ve had at your Chapter, but add 1,000 enthusiastic, young professionals and spread the fun over five days. Just when you think it couldn’t get any better, you and your PRSSA friends get to explore Washington, D.C., after the sessions have ended for the day.

Be mindful of some of the norms around the District. Possibly the most important is custom is to stand on the right side of the escalator, single file. If you don’t believe me watch this video. If you want to plan your metro trip or look up general tours use Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority or HopStop.

What to Bring

• Pack business attire for the sessions (professional blouses, suits, dress pants and dresses)
• Jeans and your Chapter or school shirt are encouraged for Friday’s “Bring Us Your Culture and Something PRSSA”
• A business formal, classy cocktail outfit for the “Inaugural Ball” Awards Ceremony and Dinner Monday night
• Casual clothes for exploring and going out in Washington, D.C. The typical weather is in the high 60s/low 70s during the day and cooler at night.
• Comfortable shoes — the National Mall is deceptively long.

How to Prepare

• Lots and lots of new contacts. Business cards are strongly suggested.
• Your Chapter Roll Call for Saturday.
• Sessions: All sessions are offered on a first come, first serve basis so plan your day.
• Take plenty of notes. There will be lots of ideas you want to remember to share later with your Chapters or to add to your increasing knowledge of our field.

Networking Tips

• Don’t be afraid to introduce yourself. Everyone at Conference is friendly and willing to get to know you.
• Exchange contact info and follow up after Conference.
• Introduce yourself to members from other Chapters. Don’t just hang out with your own Chapter. You see them all the time.
• Talk to as many public relations professionals as you can.
• Don’t be afraid to ask questions of the presenters.

Feel free to ask the National Committee, National Conference Committee or Conference volunteers any questions that you have about Conference or Washington, D.C. Get ready to spend five packed days discussing the most relevant aspects of public relations with like-minded students in the nation’s capital.

We are counting the days until you join us for the PRSSA 2010 National Conference.

This is a guest post from Conference Committee Communications Director, Ashley Wolos