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If you are a consultant or representative for a direct sales company, then you might be wondering what to pack for your direct sales conference. The conference or convention is a staple of direct sales companies, and usually involves a few days of workshops, training, events, and recognition. Plus plenty of social opportunities for team bonding and networking with other reps. If you’ve never been to one before, then you may be a little unsure what to expect – or to pack. Here is your packing list.
What to pack for your direct sales conference or convention
1. Comfortable, cute layers
Direct sales conventions are often in the summer, and often in warm locations in the southern United States. The events themselves are often in hotels or conference centers that blast the air conditioning. So layers are a must – I also like to keep a pair of leggings in my bag in case it’s really freezing.
2. Something nice
There is usually at least one dinner or another event that calls for something dressier – depending on the expectations for the evening, it could require anything from a little black dress to a ball gown. Your upline should be able to guide you on this one.
3. Something themed
There may be a day or event that calls for a specific theme – glow in the dark, a team shirt or icon, or something else. So be sure to grab something that fits the bill for that part of the conference.
4. Treats for your team/roommates
If your downline team is coming with you, then a team gift is a nice gesture. If you don’t have a downline (yet!) or your team isn’t traveling with you, then a snack bag, or pair of fun, comfy socks for your conference roommates is also a great idea.
5. Cute, comfortable shoes
You will likely be walking a lot – from your hotel room to the sessions, from session to session, to events, to dinner – not to mention in the airport. My favorite comfy, cute shoes are Rothy’s. If you haven’t tried them yet, you are missing out. Here is a link to save $20 on your first pair.
6. A fresh mani
Of course, you want to put your best foot (and hand!) forward with a fresh manicure – do you have a personal brand or team color? Your Color Street manicure can be the perfect way to share that with the other conference attendees.
7. A Portable Charger
No matter where you are, there are simply never enough outlets to go around. This is doubly true at direct sales conferences where you might be going live on your phone to share news and updates, snapping pictures constantly, and trying to manage and update your social media accounts, emails – and whatever else is happening at home- all while on the go. A portable charger like this one is key to keeping your devices going all day.
8. Extra room in your bags
If you’ve never been to a conference before, you may not think about this, but there are always freebies and giveaways. So, depending on what product(s) you sell, think about packing an empty carry-on bag, or choose a slightly larger suitcase than you need and leave home with some spare room in it.
9. Your Business Credit Card
Your expenses on this trip are all business expenses, so be sure to bring whatever card you use for those costs. Having a separate card makes it simpler to keep track of deductions at tax time.
10. Your business card, QR code or another way to network
You will meet people from all over the country, and, depending on your company, the world. Not everyone may use the same social media platforms, so find an easy way to share your info – and gather other people’s – to stay in touch after the conference ends.
So are you ready to pack for your direct sales conference? What are your must-haves? I’d love for you to share them in the comments below.
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