Thursday, March 12, 2015

Getting Ready for PRSSA’s TU Invitational

It’s that time of year again! Temple PRSSA is hosting their second annual TU Invitational next Saturday, March 21 in the Howard Gittis Student Center.  The invitational welcomes chapter members and young professionals to learn, discuss and network with professionals in the communications industry at a one-day conference. This year’s theme is Broad Street: Your Road to Professional Development.

Last year's TU Invitational program

The invitational is over a week away, but there’s still plenty you can do in the meantime to prepare. Here are just a few things you should check off your pre-invitational to-do list:
  • Order your business cards. If you put your order in soon, you’ll likely receive your custom business cards in time for the invitational. Although you’re not a professional (yet!), business cards are still a vital networking tool. You should include information like your name, phone number, email address and social media links such as LinkedIn and Twitter if they’re professional and appropriate. Don’t forget to add a special element to make them stand out from the crowd like a personal logo.
  • Do your research. Before the invitational, be sure to look up details on each of the speakers and keynote. Knowing background information like alma mater, previous position and current position will help you decide if they are a PR pro you would like to network with at the event.
  • Prepare your elevator pitch. If you decide to introduce yourself to speakers with the intention of later applying for an internship or job, it’s best to be prepared with an elevator pitch. The speaker will likely be meeting many other students so you need to make a quick impression. Don’t forget to hand them your business card too.
  • Reserve your spot! Be sure to purchase your ticket if you haven’t already. Early bird prices expire tomorrow, so the sooner your get your ticket, the better. You can get all the details and register here.
What are your best recommendations for members preparing for TU Invitational?

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