Tickets, accommodation, business cards and itinerary organised. These items are ticked off the checklist in preparation for my upcoming trip to Manila for the Association of Image Consultants International global conference. I’m looking forward to going and seeing many fabulous speakers in action, connecting with my colleagues and learning skills to advance my profession.
But one dilemma – what to wear?
Attending will be people who work in all aspects of image management from stylists to social media specialists, colour consultants, etiquette experts and executive leadership coaches. Even though we are all in the business of managing impressions, for many of us, and I’m sure you’ve faced this problem, it is always hard to know what to pack when attending a conference. Hope these few tips help.
Where and when is the first consideration. You might be attending a weekend conference on a tropical island or beach location or it may be mid-week in the city. Work out what would be appropriate for that setting.
You still want to consider that you are usually attending a business conference so maybe smart business casual pants and top or dress shorts for men. Business wear is usually the choice for mid-week in the city.
My outfits will be slightly elevated from business casual with mainly pants and tops and one dress.
This is one outfit and it is quite bold and does stand out in the spotlight, but why not? Style and pizzaz will be on show at this conference.
Plan your outfits according to the program. If you are there for two days, two nights and on one of those nights you have a dinner or awards night, check the dress code. An LBD or other evening attire is often a safe choice to pack.
Don’t forget to pack your active wear or swimwear to reenergise before or after the sessions on each day. Or if you’re staying on for sightseeing factor that in.
My gala evening frock is sorted, and Mr. has his tuxedo ready. We’re also heading further afield to Vietnam so have packed the lightweight linen and cotton holiday clothes.
The temperature of where you’re going may differ to your hometown, so check what that is and dress accordingly. Often conference rooms get a bit chilly so a lightweight jacket or wrap to go with your clothing choices is advisable. It could also be worn on the plane on your travel day.
Dress for comfort but also style it up. Choose shoes you can wear all day and that look good. Pack accessories. A statement necklace or colourful scarf can liven up even the plainest of outfits.
Your brand image is on display even in a casual environment so dress to enhance and express who you are. Professional, creative, leader, someone who takes pride – what would that look like?
Extra stuff. You’ll want to take notes of course. Choose what works for you – iPad, laptop or plain old note pad. Pens, chargers, power board and adaptor/s and plenty of business cards.
I like business cards and have new ones in line with my updated branding. Most conferences use an app now where you can digitally connect with others and have all information on the app or online.
Often, I’ll take one of my own compendiums for notes and to put a copy of the program in (again often now digital) plus any handouts and my room card.
You can also photograph everything; use Evernote or other myriad tech tools. I have copies of all our travel docs in Dropbox – as you never know what might happen.
It goes without saying to pack your toiletries and cosmetics but keep to the minimum.
Pack light. Lay everything out, ensure that you have all you need and remember mix and match can go a long way. Carry or wear your bulkiest items while travelling and put everything else into one carry on cabin bag (if you can manage!).
If you are travelling to two different climates, use plastic zip lock bags or travel cubes to separate the major items and then only unpack what you need.
My trip is a little longer and requires a suitcase. Note the (tweaked) photo – taken before attending a previous AICI conference.
Read more about being in the spotlight, in The Secret to Your Personal Brand Revolution. Get Your Free eBook Now!
Sue Currie is an image entrepreneur who guides and empowers business leaders and entrepreneurs to have “Spotlight Confidence”. She is passionate about helping professionals elevate their personal and professional brand through her speaking, coaching and training programs on Self Brand, Style and Speaking Skills, providing a multi-faceted approach to gain high transformation for her clients.
