By Elise Mills
This is thee official Elise-approved all-inclusive* packing list for a networking/conference trip.
1. A professional business outfit you rock
You only need one full on business outfit for the weekend, preferably on the day when you do the most networking (most likely Saturday). Whether it’s a power suit or not, you should bring something you feel great in, and something you can rock for 8+ hours.
2. An extra sweater
With weather being undependable (at least in Ohio) and messes being unplanned (unless you are me, I always spill) it is a good idea to bring a back-up sweater. Just in case the conference like to mimic ice age temperatures.
3. Two business casual outfits
For Friday and Sunday, unless specifically stated otherwise, Business casual is the way to go. So those new jeans you love? Bring ‘em. Just make sure you emphasize the business not the casual.
4. An extra pair of pants
What if it’s raining? What if you rip your other pair? What if an alien takes your pencil skirt back to its home planet? You can never be too careful. That being said don’t take your closet.
5. Two pairs of shoes (and both cannot be heels)
As cute as heels go with your professional wear, practicality demands you bring a pair to wear after the heels cause blisters. No one will want to network with the person rubbing his or her naked feet at the dinner table.
6. An outfit for a night on the town
If you are staying in any sort of city, most likely you will be exploring the town after the conference. Who wants to go out in their business suit? For extra space, use the extra pants and sweater as part of this outfit and just bring a cute blouse.
7. One pair of pajamas/ comfy clothes
Not only do you need clothes to sleep in, but also if you are traveling a distance you will want a pair of sweatpants to use before and after the conference. A pair of sweatpants and a T-Shirt will satisfy all of these needs.
8. A simplified version of your makeup
As great as you want to look, you only need less than half of your makeup to look presentable; makeup can take up a lot of space in your suitcase. If you’re going with friends, each brings a couple of items to make a complete set.
9. Pad folio with business cards and resumes
The business cards and resumes are to hand out to potential employers and new friends, so make sure they are updated. The Pad folio is so you can write things down and look smarter.
10. Your PR charm
We all have that charisma that makes us PR Stars! Don’t be afraid to use it to dazzle the professionals or PRSSA brothers/sisters, you never know when it can come in handy!
* Does not include basic hygiene items such as toothbrush, razor, etc.…
Elise is a sophomore majoring in Strategic Communication and minoring in Business Administration. She is hoping to purse Global Leadership Certificate as well. After graduation, she wants to do brand/image management and travel wherever her bank account can take her. Follow Elise on Twitter at @itsELISElove!
