Competitive Events: Tips & Tricks!

By Reventh Poondru, Illinois FBLA State Vice President, Central Northern Area

Competing at your area, state, and national level is an incredible experience and provides many future opportunities. This blog post will detail tips and tricks you should always keep in mind as you progress through your competitive events journey because they’ll allow you to succeed at all levels of competition. 

Tip #1: Pick an event that you find enjoyable! 

• Competing in an event that you just picked randomly will end up causing you a lot of trouble in the long run if you're not actually interested in the event. You’ll find it tremendously easier to practice and prepare for the competition if what you’re learning is actually enjoyable and exciting. With over 80 competitive events to choose from, you’re all but guaranteed to find an event that you will enjoy. So use resources from the State officer team and your local chapter to find an event you enjoy and can excel in!
  

Tip #2: Practice! Practice! Practice!

• As with all things in life, practicing beforehand will allow you to showcase your peak performance on the day of the competition. Use resources such as practice tests to practice for the big day! If you have questions, try to contact someone who has competed in the event in the past since they might be able to help you! If you are doing any type of speaking event, practice your speech with people like your family, friends, or even teachers. They can offer you valuable advice and critiques!
  

 Tip #3: Have Fun! 

• As with all things in life, be sure to have fun with competitive events! They’re an amazing way to get involved in FBLA, meet new people, and gain valuable experience. But remember that traveling to conferences, making connections, and other parts of the FBLA experience are all opportunities for your own enjoyment. Ensure that you are making choices that will eventually contribute to your own success and growth! 
  

With these tips, you’ll be ready to succeed in the Competitive Events Series. We’ll see you at your respective area conferences, so be sure to say hello! If you’re not a senior, look into getting more involved with FBLA through board positions! If you are a senior, look for FBLA Collegiate chapters! 

Have fun!

Sincerely,
Revanth Poondru