FBLA National Leadership Conference: Preparing for Success in Anaheim, California

Claire Harte, Northern Area State Vice-President

​The National Leadership Conference (NLC) in Anaheim, California, is the pinnacle of our FBLA
experience. It’s a place where the best and brightest gather to showcase their skills. Competing at

NLC is a tremendous honor, but it also requires preparation, determination, and a little bit of
strategy. To help you make the most of your NLC journey, here are four essential tips to ensure
you succeed while enjoying the experience.

​1. Read the Rubric

Success begins with understanding what’s expected of you. The rubric for your competitive
event is your ultimate guide. It outlines everything judges will evaluate, from content and
presentation skills to formatting and professionalism. Use the rubric as a checklist to ensure that
you’ve addressed every element. Missing even a small detail can make a big difference.

2. Take Others' Advice

Leverage the experience of those around you. Reach out to past competitors or adult mentors in
your chosen event field. They can provide valuable insights, share feedback, and highlight
common problems to avoid. Seek advice on everything from crafting a polished presentation to managing nerves on competition day. Their guidance can make all the difference.

3. Continue Working

Qualifying for NLC is a huge achievement—but it’s not the finish line. Use the time between
qualifying and NLC to refine and perfect your project or presentation. Seek constructive
feedback and rehearse often to ensure you can adapt to unexpected challenges during your event. Remember: your competitors are also improving, so stay ahead by continuing to elevate your
work.

4. Have Fun

The NLC experience is about more than just competition. While it’s natural to focus on winning, remember to enjoy the journey. Anaheim offers exciting opportunities to meet new people, explore a new city, and learn from fellow leaders. Stay relaxed, soak in the moment, and celebrate your accomplishments with your chapter and advisors. By focusing on preparation, collaboration, and perseverance, you can make your NLC experience in Anaheim unforgettable. Whether this is your first time at NLC or you’re a returning competitor, these tips will help you excel both in and out of the competitive events.