Hi C.J.,
This sounds like a great opportunity! It's great that you want to be well prepared ahead of time. Here are some tips to help:
Before the conference, do some research on what companies will be there, who will be speaking, what workshops are available, etc. Make sure you schedule your time so that you can attend the specific events that are most important to you. For example, if you are interested in non-profit leadership, make sure you attend a workshop that relates to that and/or listen to a speaker who will be speaking about non-profits.
Make sure your resume is up to date and have at least two other people read through and edit it. Print out some copies to take with you. You never know when someone might ask for your resume or if there will be an opportunity for you to give it to someone you meet at the conference. If you have business cards, bring those as well.
Bring a nice folder or notebook and pens so you can take notes during the conference. If you have a recording device, bring that along too so you can record some of the workshops or speakers. Make sure you ask a conference official if it is okay to record before you do though. The folder/notebook can also hold your resumes!
If you don't already have an "elevator speech," create one. An elevator speech is basically a 30 second summary of yourself. It is a way for you to quickly and succinctly answer the question "tell me about yourself." Practice your elevator speech and repeat it to friends/family to get comfortable with it and get their feedback. If you need ideas, you can google "elevator speech" for some samples and suggestions.
Have a great time at the conference!
Best,
Amber George
LIC Advisor
