Cruising to Competitive Success: Florida FBLA Competition Toolkit

CRUISING TO

COMPETITIVE

SUCCESS

FLORIDA FBLA COMPETITION TIPS OFFICIAL TOOLKIT

INTRODUCTION

WELCOME TO YOUR COMPETITION TOOLKIT Embark on a cosmic journey through the Florida FBLA Competition Resource Toolkit – your mission control for competition success. Curated by seasoned Florida FBLA officers, this toolkit propels you through the universe of competitions, offering insider tips, expert strategies, and cosmic wisdom. It's not just a toolkit; it's your guide to navigating the constellations of competition, from selecting events to mastering procedures. Whether you're a rookie or a seasoned spacefarer, this toolkit ensures meticulous preparation for your interstellar journey, with state officers as your co-pilots.

Harness the boundless power of cosmic knowledge, elevate your skills in diverse testing formats, and soar to unprecedented cosmic altitudes in the fiercely competitive arena. Just as spacecraft require meticulous preparation for interstellar journeys, your competition endeavors merit the same dedication. The Florida FBLA Competition Resource Toolkit serves as your launchpad to achieve greatness, propelling your dreams beyond infinity and paving the way for a future that gleams like distant galaxies.

Gear up, embrace the cosmic excitement, and let the exhilarating power of competition fuel your journey toward an interstellar future. Thrusters engaged – ignite the spark that will propel your cosmic trajectory!

Sincerely, Fabio Fabbiani, State Reporter flfblarep@gmail.com

Anika Prasad, State Parliamentarian

flfblaparli@gmail.com

Sophia King, Region III Vice-President flfblavp3@gmail.com

Macie Sullivan, Region IV Vice-President flfblavp4@gmail.com

Florida FBLA | Cruising to Competitive Success

1

TABLE OF CONTENTS

A MAP TO YOUR TIPS FOR COMPETITIVE SUCCESS Introduction Table of Contents General/Introductory Tips Competitive Event Rules Procedures Objective/Production Testing Presentation Events Case Study/Hybrid Events Presubmitted Events Chapter Events Toolkit Appendix List of Competitive Events (MS/HS) Links to National Event Rubrics & Guidelines Links to Test Practice Questions & Competencies Link to FL FBLA Competition Guidelines Contact Information for State Officers & Adviser

Florida FBLA | Cruising to Competitive Success

2

GENERAL OVERVIEW

TIPS & INFORMATION FOR ALL EVENTS By: Anika Prasad, flfblaparli@gmail.com

Information for all Event Categories For all the event categories that will be reviewed in this toolkit, check out your event's details on the FBLA National Competitive Event Guidelines. If you have any further questions, please feel free to email your State Officers!

At the start of each page, the email address of a State Officer (who is knowledgeable in that event category) is listed for questions. When signing up for FBLA related events or information, please use your personal email (not your school email). For all events, ensure you start studying early! The earlier you start studying or practicing, the better you will do at conferences.

Additionally, studying hard for Districts will help you out in the long run when you revise that knowledge for SLC.

Choosing an Event To choose an event, think about what your strengths are. If you feel studying and memorizing information is something you excel in, go for an objective test! These are multiple choice tests on certain event competencies. If you tend to do better on tests when you learn hands-on, a production event would be great for you. Production Events have a hands-on segment where you demonstrate your knowledge in a certain processing system, then a separate objective test. If performing and presenting is more your forte, presentation, case study, and hybrid events can be for you. Presentation Events are a premade script with an interview period afterwards which you present to a judge panel. Case Study Events give you a scenario and you must make a presentation on the spot after a preparation period. Hybrid Events are a combination of presentation events and objective testing. Chapter Events are similar to presentation events, but represent your entire chapter rather than only yourself or your team. These are great if you are trying to be more involved in your chapter!

Florida FBLA | Cruising to Competitive Success

3

GENERAL OVERVIEW

TIPS & INFORMATION FOR ALL EVENTS By: Anika Prasad, flfblaparli@gmail.com

Information for all Event Categories (cont.)

Technology Guidelines

For details about technology, please refer to the Guidelines for specifics (like internet access). In general, during preliminary rounds, competitors present from a laptop or other device and cannot use screens/projectors.

Ensure your device fits on a small table in front of the judges. Members also do not receive power access, so keep devices charged the day before and have a backup device if possible. During final rounds, you do receive power, screen, table, and projector (but do not need to utilize them). If your device does not have an HDMI port, you will also require your own adapter. When practicing, follow these guidelines to make sure you don’t run into technical difficulties during your event.

Open and Pilot Events Open Events occur at NLC and are online objective tests. All members registered for the National Leadership Conference are eligible to compete and the top scorer is recognized at the Awards of Excellence.

Pilot Events are events occurring for the first time and being piloted. Typically, competitors can compete in a pilot event alongside an individual or team event and the top five scorers place for pilot events.

Check the FBLA National Competitive Event Guidelines for details on these events.

Florida FBLA | Cruising to Competitive Success

4

EVENT PROCEDURES

GENERAL INFORMATION FOR ALL EVENTS

By Sophia King, flfblavp3@gmail.com

Ties Objective Tests Ties are broken by comparing the correct number of answers to the last 10 questions on the exam. If a tie remains, the competitor who completed the test in a shorter amount of time will place higher. If this does not break the tie, answers to the last 20 questions will be reviewed to determine the winner.

Objective & Production The production test scores will be used to break a tie.

Objective & Performance

The objective test score will be used to break a tie based on the tie-breaking criteria of objective tests.

Reports/Projects and Performances The report/ project scores will be used to break a tie.

Performances Judges must break ties and all judges’ decisions are final.

Disqualifications Unauthorized videography or photography Sitting in on your competitors performance Cheating on an objective test Violation of any of the competitive event guidelines

Florida FBLA | Cruising to Competitive Success

5

EVENT PROCEDURES POTENTIAL POINT DEDUCTIONS By: Sophia King, flfblavp3@gmail.com

DRESS CODE Males Business suit with collared dress shirt and necktie; or Sport coat, dress slacks, collared dress shirt, and necktie; or Dress slacks, collared dress shirt, and necktie.

Dress shoes and dress socks are required.

A banded collar shirt may be worn only if a sport coat or business suit is worn.

Females Business suit; or Business pantsuit (must include a jacket and pants); or Business dress; or Skirt with blouse or sweater.

Closed toe and heel business dress shoes are required.

Males & Females No jewelry in visible body piercing, other than ears, on men or women.

There is a 5 point deduction for dress code violations on performance events.

Competitors will not be permitted to take an objective test out of dress code.

BEING ON TIME

If competitors are late for a competitive event, there are no guarantees they will get to compete. Competitive event schedules cannot be changed.

Florida FBLA | Cruising to Competitive Success

6

TESTING EVENT

A GUIDE TO OBJECTIVE TESTS By: Anika Prasad, flfblaparl@gmail.com

Objective Testing Objective Testing is one of the most common competitive events members participate in. It includes a 100 question multiple choice test to be taken within 60 minutes on certain competencies. You can find details on each event at the FBLA National Competitive Event Guidelines, which will also list your event competencies you need to excel in. At Florida’s State Leadership Conference in March, the top five scorers in each objective testing event will come on stage and receive an award, but only the top four scorers qualify to NLC. At the National Leadership Conference in summer, the top 10 scorers place and receive an award. Some tips for objective testers are to use Quizlets to study - they are the same formatting as your actual test and will have very similar questions as they are based off of the event competencies.

Speaking of event competencies, ensure you are studying all of them well in advance of conferences so you know them well. For the actual testing part of these events, it is recommended for you to bring your own laptops if testing is online (on paper at SLC and online at NLC) as you know how to use it quickly and have it in case a laptop isn’t available at NLC. For SLC’s testing, be sure to bring many pencils and photo ID to your testing location. Be sure you are on time and in proper FBLA Dress Code (previously discussed) to not risk losing any penalty points. Closer to all of the conferences you’ll find the date and time of your testing.

Florida FBLA | Cruising to Competitive Success

7

TESTING EVENTS

A GUIDE TO PRODUCTION EVENTS By: Anika Prasad, flfblaparl@gmail.com

Production Testing Production Testing consists of two parts. The first is a test taken at a school site and the second is an objective test following all of the details above. The production test is a practical test of your knowledge about certain processing systems. It tests if you are able to prepare documents according to the set standards you learn about in your event competencies. Be sure to review the FBLA National Competitive Event Guidelines because the objective and production event competencies differ. For these events, production testing scores are 85% of the final event score. Additionally, in the case of a tie, production scores break the tie. Again, placing is the top five at SLC with only the top four scorers proceeding to NLC. At NLC, the top 10 scorers place and go onstage. Review the tips for objective tests above as well for these events!

Florida FBLA | Cruising to Competitive Success

8

PRESENTATION EVENTS A GUIDE TO PRESENTATION EVENTS By: Macie Sullivan, flfblavp4@gmail.com

Overview In competitive events, presentation stands out as a paramount platform for showcasing self-poise and abilities. Each event provides a unique opportunity to demonstrate expertise within specific guidelines. Aspiring participants navigate diverse challenges, embracing supplemental strategies like visually captivating aids and technical preparedness. The art of presentation emerges as a defining factor, entailing deliberate practice, understanding evaluation criteria, and a polished blend of confidence and professionalism.

Supplementals Designing When designing your visual aid, aesthetics are vital. The principle of "less is more" holds true, advocating for minimal text and focus on visually engaging graphics. Striking a balance between informative content and appealing design captivates judges' attention and enhances the impact. Embracing creativity and innovative design sets you apart, signaling dedication to delivering a memorable performance.

Competition Day Preparing for the presentation entails anticipation of technical challenges.

You may present from your own device or navigate projector setups.

Familiarity with your equipment and adaptability to various setups enhance your confidence, contributing to a polished delivery.

Florida FBLA | Cruising to Competitive Success

9

PRESENTATION EVENTS A GUIDE TO PRESENTATION EVENTS By: Macie Sullivan, flfblavp4@gmail.com

Mastering the Art of Presentation Preparation The rubric serves as a compass, guiding content creation to meet specified criteria, including the time requirement. Each team member should present their strongest topic. Practice is crucial; repetition hones skills without sounding rehearsed. Adapting to questions and engaging in a natural conversation with judges is key. Feedback from others, especially those familiar with the rubric, fine-tunes your delivery.

Competition Day On competition day, the social aspect of professionalism comes into play.

Greet judges with a firm handshake, express gratitude, and maintain balanced eye contact. These actions reflect respect and confidence, enhancing your overall presentation.

Final Takeaways Successful presentation events require meticulous preparation, adaptability, and confidence. Mastering these elements enhances your ability to convey expertise effectively and stand out among peers.

Florida FBLA | Cruising to Competitive Success

10

ROLE PLAY EVENTS

A GUIDE TO CASE STUDY COMPETITIONS By: Fabio Fabbiani, flfblarep@gmail.com

Event Type Overview What is a Case Study/Hybrid Event?

Case Study Events (sometimes known as hybrid events) are a form of presentation events in which the specific topic or prompt is not prepared ahead of time. This means, that the specific topic you will be presenting will be given to you 20 mins. before you present. Of course, you will know the area/category of your prompt ahead of time; but the specifics will be available only during your prep period.

This type of event tests your and possibly your team's, (depending on the event) on your ability to think on your feet, and apply knowldege about a topic in a situation.

What are the Types of Case Studies?

Case Study Events can be divided into a couple different categories, each with a slightly different set of rules and event objectives.

Hybrid/Industry Case: The most common form of case studies, in where you (and possibly your team) will take a test about a specific area of business. Then you present your case study, which is asking you to solve a problem in that area. (Ex. Business Management, International Business, ML Critical Thinking [no test], etc.)

Roleplay Case: In a roleplay case, which usually is individual, you will be given an outline of problems a customer may be having. When you present, your judge will play the role of the customer and you have to navigate through using customer service. (Ex. Client Service, Help Desk)

Florida FBLA | Cruising to Competitive Success

11

ROLE PLAY EVENTS

A GUIDE TO CASE STUDY COMPETITIONS By: Fabio Fabbiani, flfblarep@gmail.com Impromptu Speaking: Impromptu Speaking is unique as it is the only individual speech event which has the case component. This event requires participants to develop a 5 minute public speaking style speech on a topic given 10 minutes in advanced. (Impromptu Speaking) Parliamentary Procedure: Parliamentary Procedure is an event in its own category; which requires teams of 4-5 people and just like hybrid events has a test component. Members then must implement a scenario of Parliamentary Procedure into a an 11 minute role play of a chapter meeting. (Parliamentary Procedure)

Top Tips for Case Study Succeeding in Case Study Events is dependent on a couple of areas, if you follow them you can take you cruise to competitive success: Read the Topic Carefully: Each case study usually has more than one part, so reading carefully will make sure you cover all of the different parts required by the rubric.

Pay Close Attention to Details: Some of the parts of the case study have small details that may change what it wants you to do. Paying close attention and developing the small details could make your team stand out to the judges.

Develop an Outline: Due to the limited time to prep, having a set outline will help you save time and jump straight to solving the case study. It will also make the performance more sharp.

Florida FBLA | Cruising to Competitive Success

12

PRESUBMITTED EVENTS A GUIDE TO PRESUBMITTED EVENTS By: Fabio Fabbiani, flfblarep@gmail.com

Event Type Overview

What is a Presubmitted Event?

Presubmitted Events (sometimes known as prejudged events) are a form of competitive event where competitors submit a project before the conference. These projects often have technical components: such as Digital Animation, Web Design, Computer Game & Simulation Programming, etc.; or a report: as are the chapter events and Business Plan. Some performance events also have prejudged components, as are the resumes and cover letters for Job Interview and Future Business Leader and the Business Ethics Case Study. Procedures for each of these events vary at the State and National Level, so it is important to verify how the event is run. Some prejudged events at State for example, require presentations for the Top 5 Final Round who are given notice before the conference. At Nationals most prejudged events present in both Prelims and Finals.

Top Tips for Presubmitted Events Succeeding in Presubmitted Events is highly correlated with the quality, both visual and content wise of what is submitted.

Details Matter: Small details like formatting, placement, and grammar are extremely important in presubmitted events as they tend to be very close. A point taken away for grammar can be the difference between placing and not.

Verify Links & PDFs: It is important to verify that all links and components work. If they don‘t, projects will be unable to be graded and could result in disqualification.

Be Creative!: Do not be afraid to take risks with your prejudged projects. Judges often like projects that think outside the box and are different from the other projects.

Florida FBLA | Cruising to Competitive Success

13

CHAPTER EVENTS

A GUIDE TO CHAPTER COMPETITIONS By: Sophia King, flbflavp3@gmail.com

Event Type Overview Participation in chapter events is one of the most rewarding ways for your chapter to display all of your hard work over the past year. However, these events can take a very long time to finish, so planning ahead is crucial. Here are some tips to make sure that you are starting off strong!

Advice for Chapter Events Read the Guidelines and Rating Sheets The guidelines/rating sheets on the national website show the exact rubric that your project will be graded off of. This is a great resource since you can judge your own project and ask others to judge it against the rubric to see exactly what you need to modify before submitting it.

Start Early The earlier you start, the better. The project/report is based on what you and your chapter have accomplished that year in its respective category.

Starting early will ensure that you can maximize your fundraising, community service, social events, etc. to make sure that you fulfill all of the guidelines.

Create a Project Committee Remember the chapter events involve the entire chapter. Creating a project committee ensures that everybody has a specific role and that the project is on schedule.

Be Concise Don’t describe every event your chapter did in a lot of detail. Give a brief summary of each event and try to keep the project as short as possible.

Florida FBLA | Cruising to Competitive Success

14

CHAPTER EVENTS

A GUIDE TO CHAPTER COMPETITIONS By: Sophia King, flfblavp3@gmail.com

Make it Visually Appealing The more visually appealing it is, the more the judges are going to be interested in what you are saying or what they are reading. It will also show that you put a lot of effort into the project.

Advice for Chapter Events Read the Guidelines and Rating Sheets Toolkit Appendix List of Competitive Events (MS/HS) Links to National Event Rubrics & Guidelines Links to Test Practice Questions & Competencies Link to FL FBLA Competition Guidelines Contact Information for State Officers & Adviser

Florida FBLA | Cruising to Competitive Success

15

TOOLKIT APPENDIX

FLORIDA FBLA FAVORITE RESOURCES FBLA National Competitive Events Website Home to the National Event Descriptions, Procedures, and Rating Sheets. These will be the procedures follow by National FBLA. Event competencies shown for Test discuss the areas of examination.

Florida FBLA Guidelines Home to the State Event Administration Guidelines and Event Procedures for the State Leadership Conference. Objective Tests include a recommended Study Guide.

FBLA Connect FBLA Connect is the National Resource Bank.

Members can access sample case studies and test questions via this webpage. National FBLA is working on adding more resources to this page.

Other Resources: Quizlet YouTube Videos Posted Reports National Competitive Event Tutors Series Resources from Past Competitors The National Southern Region Council: @srfbla on Instagram, has programs that offer members feedback on competitive events.

QUESTIONS? CONTACT YOUR STATE TEAM! Fabio Fabbiani

Anika Prasad

Mater Academy High School

Strawberry Crest High School

flfblarep@gmail.com @fabiofbla

flfblaparl@gmail.com @anika_fbla

State Reporter

Middleton High School

State Parliamentarian Middleton High School

Sophia King

Macie Sullivan

Sebastian River High School

Lakewood High School

Region III VP

Middleton High School

flfblavp3@gmail.com @sophiafbla

Region IV VP

Middleton High School

flfblavp4@gmail.com @macie.fbla

Questions about specific procedures and SLC? Contact the State Adviser at flfblapbl@gmail.com

Florida FBLA | Cruising to Competitive Success

16