Tomorrow's Business Leader (Winter 2015)

FBLA-PBL Week 2015

FBLA-PBL Pride Day

Each One Reach One Day

Community Service Day

Adviser Appreciation Day

Choosing a Competitive Event

Running for National Office

National Staff

National Board of Directors Ted L. Harshbarger, Chair

Chris Pendleton

Karen Heslep, Chair-elect

Lisa Weeks

Nebraska PBL State Adviser Peru State College tharshbarger@peru.edu Mountain Plains Region

PBL Adviser Arkansas State University Mountain Home kheslep@asumh.edu Southern Region

Zulema Garcia

KPMG LLP zgarcia@kpmg.com Business/Industry Representative

Lisa Hofstetter

FBLA Adviser Linn County Area Career and Technical Center lhofstetter@brookfield.k12.mo.us North Central Region

Lee C. Marcoux

FBLA Adviser Hidden Valley High School chris.pendleton@threerivers.k12.or.us Western Region FBLA-PBL State Adviser Alabama State Department of Education lweeks@alsde.edu Southern Region

Kelly Wilkerson

FBLA Adviser Warren Township High School kwilkerson@wths.net North Central Region FBLA-PBL Division Presidents

Sam Kessler

FBLA National President fblapres@fbla.org Pennsylvania

FBLA State Director Connecticut State Department of Education lee.marcoux@ct.gov Eastern Region

Beau Cobb

Shea Padilla

David Jones

FBLA-PBL State Chair Arizona Department of Education shea.padilla@azed.gov Western Region

Deb Parman

PBL Adviser Colorado Mesa University dparman@coloradomesa.edu Mountain Plains Region

PBL National President pblpres@fbla.org Rhode Island Professional Division National President pdpres@fbla.org Maryland

ADMINISTRATION Jean M. Buckley President and CEO ceo@fbla.org Elena R. Daly Executive Assistant eassistant@fbla.org Becky Grant, CMP Programs Coordinator programscoordinator@fbla.org Mary Ait Staff Accountant finance@fbla.org Colin Murphy Customer Service/Reception Associate general@fbla.org Jim Spence Customer Service/Mail Associate custsvc@fbla.org MEMBERSHIP Troy D. White Director, Marketing & Membership marketing@fbla.org Lisa Smothers Membership Director membershipdir@fbla.org

Ex-Officio Members

Tom Payne, CPA Director, PBL College/University Relations phibetalambda@fbla.org

Georgia FBLA Executive Director monty@georgiafbla.org Southern Region

Ashley Witherspoon Customer Service/Database Associate custserv@fbla.org

Jean M. Buckley

CONFERENCE Richard Bowen Conference Director conferencedir@fbla.org

Monty C. Rhodes, Past Chair

FBLA-PBL, Inc. President and CEO ceo@fbla.org

2014–15 FBLA National Officer Team

Robert Smothers Conference Manager conferencemgr@fbla.org

Sam Kessler

Sarah Niederee

Annika Mulaney

Nick Crawford

FBLA Southern Region Vice President Ringgold High School, Georgia fblasrvp@fbla.org

Stephen Lock Education Associate education2@fbla.org

Ruben Torres

Ian Mullane

COMMUNICATIONS Laura Morgan Communications Manager communications@fbla.org

FBLA National President Wissahickon High School, Pennsylvania fblapres@fbla.org FBLA National Secretary Bartow High School, Florida fblasec@fbla.org FBLA National Treasurer Warren Township High School, Illinois fblatres@fbla.org

Hiral Patel

FBLA National Parliamentarian Castle Rock High School, Washington fblaparl@fbla.org

Sabrena Sabet

FBLA Mountain Plains Region Vice President Great Bend High School, Kansas fblampvp@fbla.org

FBLA Western Region Vice President Centennial High School, Arizona fblawrvp@fbla.org

EDUCATION Carla Boulton Education Director education@fbla.org

FBLA-PBL, INC. 1912 Association Drive Reston, VA 20191-1591 P 703.860.3334 F 866.500.5610 www.fbla-pbl.org

FBLA Eastern Region Vice President Lakeland High School, New York fblaervp@fbla.org

Tomorrow’s Business Leader Winter 2015 Volume 45, Issue 3 (ISSN 0279-9685). Published quarterly (summer, fall, winter, and spring) by Future Business Leaders of America-Phi Beta Lambda. Periodicals postage paid at Herndon, VA and at additional mailing offices. SUBSCRIPTION: $1.25 of the national dues pays for a one-year subscription. Editorial and advertising sales offices at FBLA-PBL, Inc., 1912 Association Drive, Reston, VA 20191-1591 703.860.3334. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: Tomorrow’s Business Leader, 1912 Association Drive, Reston, VA 20191-1591. Materials may be reprinted with prior permission of the editor. Editorial submissions are encouraged and should be addressed to the editor. All FBLA-PBL, Inc. publications use the Chicago Manual of Style. Publisher: Jean M. Buckley.

Editor: Laura Morgan

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TOMORROW’S

Business Leader

Table of CONTENTS President’s Message ........................................................ 2 Step Up to the Challenge with FBLA President Sam Kessler March of Dimes ................................................................ 3 Raising Money, Saving Babies

Calendar of Events

Poster Design Contest ..................................................... 3 Submit your entry for the 2015–16 membership poster

FEBRUARY 1–28

Personal Development .................................................... 4 #StopSettingGoals, #StartAchievingThem

2

Member Recognition ....................................................... 6 Step Up with FBLA Programs

FBLA-PBL Week ................................................................ 7 Get ideas for your chapter’s celebration Competitive Events .......................................................... 8 Choosing the right FBLA competitive event for YOU! National Officers ............................................................ 10 Step Up to the Leadership Challenge Fundraising .................................................................... 11 Check out the latest FBLA fundraisers PBL Perspective .............................................................. 12 Social Media Do’s and Don’ts Competition Corner ....................................................... 13 Dress to Win

8–14 9 10 11

12 13 14 20

MARCH 1

Chapter Highlights ........................................................ 14 See projects and activities from chapters across the country

Sponsors & Partners ...................................................... 16 Discover FBLA sponsors & partners

4 31–April 4

National Career and Technical Education Month LifeSmarts Spring Competition Virtual Business Finance Spring Challenge Virtual Business Management Spring Challenge FBLA-PBL Week National Presidents’ Forum & Fight to the Finish Each One Reach One Day Adviser Appreciation Day Professional Dress Day Career Awareness Day FBLA-PBL Pride Day Community Service Day Tomorrow’s Business Leader—spring issue copy deadline

National dues deadline eligibility date for FBLA voting delegates, and competitive events National dues deadline to receive spring publications National Awards Program Committee: Application receipt deadline FBLA Business Achievement Awards: Receipt deadline (Future, Business, and Leader Awards) Receipt Deadline: FBLA CSA Awards (Community and Service Awards) Webinar: Who Wants to Be An Officer?

NBEA Convention—Chicago, IL

Membership Benefits .................................................... 17 FBLA member discounts & coupons

Follow FBLA-PBL @FBLA_National

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Welcome from the President

by FBLA National President Sam Kessler Greetings FBLA members and advisers!

The first half of this year has been one of the most successful in FBLA history! We saw an impressive number of attendees at the National Fall Leadership Conferences in D.C., Minneapolis, and New Orleans, where members gained leadership skills, networked with members across the country, and even met with senators! You have raised thousands of dollars for the March of Dimes, and your recruitment efforts have sent membership numbers soaring in comparison to past years. In the second half of this school year, there will be even more opportunities for you to Step Up to the Challenge, and make the most of your FBLA experience!

As we enter the new year, it is important to reflect on how we have taken advantage of our FBLA membership this school year. Check out www.fbla-pbl.org for information on national programs like the Business Achievements Awards (BAAs) and the Community Service Awards (CSAs). These and other national programs will reward you with valuable leadership, business, and community service experience, and will leave you with a portfolio that will look great to colleges and future employers.

The new year is the perfect time for chapter officers to evaluate member engagement within your local chapter. Remember, February is Career Technical Education (CTE) Month! Throughout CTE Month, make a point to recruit new members, and engage your local membership through activities, speakers, and community service events. Make sure to check the national website for daily event ideas during FBLA‑PBL Week, which takes place during the second week of February.

Local chapters are the core of our organization. Dedication and creativity continue to make FBLA membership a life-changing experience for countless students around the world.

State Leadership Conferences (SLC), the National Leadership Conference (NLC) and Institute for Leaders (IFL) are fast approaching. This year’s IFL/NLC is in Chicago from June 28–July 2. This once-in-a-lifetime opportunity gives you the chance to come together with over 12,000 FBLA members from around the world. In addition to competing, networking, and exploring one of the world’s largest cities, you are guaranteed to come away from this conference more prepared for the business world.

To secure your spot at this year’s SLC and NLC, make sure to participate in a competitive event. Don’t be afraid to try an event that is unfamiliar to you; you may surprise yourself and find a new interest!

Congratulations on your success with FBLA so far this year! The time ahead holds even more exciting opportunities for you and your chapter. I am excited to watch our membership flourish as we continue to Step Up to the Challenge.

Follow Sam 2

Tomorrow’s Business Leader

@FBLAPresident

FBLANatPres

March of DIMES

Raising Money, Saving Babies

by FBLA National Parliamentarian Hiral Patel

An estimated 15 million babies are born too early every year—that’s one in 10. More than one million of these babies don’t survive and many of those who do survive face serious health complications throughout their lives. By raising awareness, educating society, equipping clinics, and funding research we can help stop babies from being born too soon. This year, your FBLA national officer team set a goal for FBLA-PBL to raise $500,000 for the March of Dimes. You can help us reach this goal by organizing and participating in various fundraising activities.

Coin War: Hold a coin war between different classes in your school to see which class can raise the most money for the March of Dimes. Be sure to publicize this event in announcements, on bulletins, and other means of promotion for maximized involvement.

Sell Something: Hold a bake, candy, or card sale at your school or in your community. Work with a reputable business in your community that will provide merchandise for the fundraiser. This is a great way to build partnerships with businesses in your community and support a great cause.

March for Babies: A great way to support the March of Dimes is by signing up for a March for Babies walk near you. Here are the four steps to a successful March for Babies: 1. Organize: Set up a team page at marchforbabies.org, find a walk near you, and assemble a core team consisting of friends, family, etc.

2. Recruit: Reach out to other organizations, your school district, and anyone else you know to grow your team.

3. Fundraise: Work with your team to create fundraising goals. Utilize social Include the FBLA media, online fundraising tools, and reach out to businesses to help reach fundraising form when your fundraising goals. sending donations to your state March of Dimes office.

4. Walk: Bring your enthusiasm and energy on walk day to raise awareness for bit.ly/MOD_fundraising the March of Dimes. Be sure to thank everyone who helped make your team and fundraising a success.

However your chapter chooses to raise money, you will be helping save the lives of babies!

Download the 2015–16 theme logo and the official FBLA-PBL logo (see submission form for download link).

. SU

2015–16

IGN

DES

HOW TO ENTER

BM

POSTER DESIGN CONTEST

Design a poster incorporating 2015–16 theme and capturing the conference and membership experience. Include official logos and social media links.

IT. W

Submit designs online by March 1. Visit bit.ly/2015-16poster for the submission form, complete submission guidelines, and contest rules*.

IN !

Win recognition at the National Leadership Conference and have your poster seen by thousands of members across the nation! * All entries must follow the rules to be considered.

Winter 2015

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#StopSettingGoals #StartAchievingThem!

by Hoan Do Setting a goal is easy; accomplishing it is difficult. As you work toward achieving your goals for 2015, below is a simple, yet practical, three-step process that will help you to stack the odds in your favor to achieve your most important aspirations this year.

Get Yourself a G.P.S. 1. Have Specific Goals Imagine we are going to hang out at Starbucks. Rather than telling you which one to meet at, I say “Just put Starbucks, Los Angeles, California, into your G.P.S. and I’ll meet you there.” How many Starbucks locations will pop up on your G.P.S.—a little or a lot? A lot! Why? The search was too vague.

Unfortunately, that’s the same mistake that a lot of people make when setting goals.

If you aspire to place in your competitive event at the NLC, is your goal to make top 10 or to win 1st place? Does getting into a good college mean that it provides a lot of scholarships and financial aid, or that it offers a specific major or program? Setting specific goals is the equivalent of me providing you with a specific street address for the Starbucks.

When you have clear and measurable goals, your brain, a.k.a. your G.P.S., understands the exact destination where you want to go; therefore it can find a route to help you arrive at your destination.

2. Know Your Purpose or Why Your Goal is Important When setting goals, people often don’t understand why they really want it or their purpose in achieving it. Knowing why you want something keeps you motivated when the going gets tough.

While preparing to compete on NBC’s show American Ninja Warrior, I was on the road speaking and there were many times I didn’t feel like waking up early or staying up late to train because I was tired from traveling. In those moments, I had to remind myself why pursuing this goal was important to me, why this temporary discomfort would be worth it in the end, and what it would feel like if I didn’t do my best when on the show due to a lack of preparation.

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After establishing your specific goals, take a moment and ask yourself these questions for each goal:

How would I feel if I accomplished this goal?

What would it mean to me to achieve this?

What would I be saying to myself if I didn’t do my best or gave up?

By answering these questions, you’ll discover additional motivation to help you during challenging times.

3. Have Multiple Strategies Imagine that you are driving to school and you notice a car accident in front of you. You need to go straight but can’t so you take a right turn. If you are using a G.P.S., what will it do when you make take the right turn? It will reroute. Let’s say that after you took the right turn you need to take the next left at the light, but there is construction on the road. You can’t take a left, so you continue to go straight through the light. What will your G.P.S. do? Right! Reroute. This is the same approach that you need to have when pursuing your goals because as you’ve probably experienced, everything in life doesn’t go according to plan so the key is to be flexible.

After you determine the specific goals that you want to pursue and your reasons for wanting to achieve them, take a minute and brainstorm everything you could possibly do to support you in attaining them.

Let’s pretend that you are struggling with a challenging class at school and your specific goal is to earn an A in that class. Some ideas or strategies that you could try are: Get a tutor, ask your teacher for additional help after school, create a study group with students in your class that are doing well, and invest an extra hour each week in studying.

After trying one idea from your list, if that doesn’t work, try something else. If that doesn’t work, you try something else. If you haven’t achieved your specific goal yet, keep rerouting until you reach your end destination.

As you think about what you want to accomplish in this new year, ask yourself “Are my Goals specific?

What is my Purpose in attaining these goals? And, do I have multiple Strategies to achieve these goals?”

By having a G.P.S. you’ll stack the odds in your favor to achieve your aspirations in 2015.

Hoan Do is a student success coach, acclaimed author, 2014 NFLC closing keynote speaker, and competitor in NBC’s hit show American Ninja Warrior. Recognized as the best youth mentor by the International Examiner, Hoan travels across North America speaking at colleges, high schools, middle schools, and student leadership conferences where he shares practical advice that helps students to succeed in and out of school. Get more tips and connect with him at HoanDo.com.

Winter 2015

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FBLA Member RECOGNITION

Step Up with FBLA Programs

by FBLA Mountain Plains Region Vice President Sarah Niederee With so many national recruitment and retention programs, it can be easy for members and advisers to be overwhelmed. When used correctly, national programs can be the key to a chapter’s success.

Chapter officers can assist your adviser and local members by setting them up to succeed with the numerous national programs available to members.

Each day of the week can be set aside to accomplish a different activity. Host a career day, community service day, professional attire day, March of Dimes Day, FBLA pride day, or recruitment day. Great advertising can get nonmembers excited about joining FBLA before competition season or even for next year. Check fbla-pbl.org for more ideas.

Membership Madness and Membership Mania are two of the easiest programs to achieve.

To attain Membership Madness, a member simply recruits five new chapter members and Membership Mania requires recruiting 10 new members. Chapter advisers must submit the online award forms for each of these. The submission deadline is April 1, 2015.

It’s not too late to recruit members this year, and it is never too early to start for next year. Make sure all of your members are active by participating in programs such as the Business Achievement Awards and Community Service Awards. A great local chapter must have great leaders. Participate in one or more, and tell your national officers how you are participating.

Seven Up recognizes FBLA chapters that increase membership by seven members over last year’s total. Chapters completing Seven Up will receive ribbons at National Leadership Conference (NLC).

The top seven states with the largest membership percentage increase will be recognized at the NLC.

Questions? Contact Mountain Plains Vice President Sarah Niederee at fblampvp@fbla.org.

Chapter Challenge encompasses three programs.

Super Sweeps focuses on recruitment and retention from August to October. Non-Stop November focuses on membership involvement during November. Action Awareness highlights FBLA awareness. All three programs require chapters to complete specific tasks and submit them online. Sign up your chapter to complete Action Awareness from January 15–March 1.

All members of chapters completing all three of the Chapter Challenge components attending the NLC will receive pins. Chapters will receive a certificate of recognition at the National Leadership Conference.

FBLA-PBL Week (February 8–14, 2015) is a great time to get members excited about FBLA. 6

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FBLA-PBL Week February 8–14, 2015 The second week of February is FBLA-PBL Week. Chapters are encouraged to publicize their activities, boost their membership, and gear up for spring events. FBLA-PBL Week also coincides with National Career and Technical Education (CTE) Month. This is an excellent opportunity to inform the public about the purpose of school-to-work activities and programs.

Monday February 9

National Presidents’ Forum & Fight to the Finish All three division national presidents (FBLA, PBL, and Professional Division) host a live Internet broadcast to kick off FBLA-PBL Week. The Fight to the Finish contest recognizes the top 10 states with the most completed Business Achievement Awards.

Each One Reach One Day Talk to peers and community members about your FBLA-PBL experiences. And, of course, ask them to join!

Wednesday February 11

Adviser Appreciation Day/Professional Attire Day Dress for success and share your appreciation for those that teach, lead, and mentor your chapter.

Career Awareness Day Get involved with your Professional Division and connect with community leaders.

Friday February 13

Tuesday February 10

Thursday February 12

FBLA-PBL Pride Day Show your FBLA-PBL pride by posting a group photo to Facebook.com/FutureBusinessLeaders.

Community Service Day Choose a community service project to support. Suggested activities include working with the March of Dimes, volunteering at a homeless shelter, or conducting a blood drive.

Saturday February 14

Tell us how your chapter celebrated at bit.ly/fbla-pbl_news Winter 2015

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Competitive EVENTS

Choosing the right FBLA co

START Would you like to work on a project or report that showcases your business or technical knowledge?

Do you feel comfor front of a sma

YES

NO

Would you like to work as part of a team?

Individual Speaki

Impromptu Spea Public Speaking I (9 Public Speakin

YES

Interview Ev

YES NO Events that require a project or report developed on a given topic or competencies.

Chapter Event Local Chapter Annual Business Report Individual Events Desktop Application Programming Electronic Career Portfolio Individual or Team Events 3D Animation American Enterprise Project Business Financial Plan Business Plan Business Presentation Community Service Project Computer Game & Simulation Programming Digital Design & Promotion Digital Video Production E-business Mobile App Development Partnership with Business Project Public Service Announcement Sales Presentation Social Media Campaign Website Design 8

Tomorrow’s Business Leader

Future Business Leade Job Interview

Interactive Role P Team events requiring a role play type performance covering a variety of topics.

Business Ethics Emerging Business Issues

Also require a written test Banking & Financial Systems Entrepreneurship Global Business Hospitality Management Management Decision Making Management Information Systems Marketing Network Design Parliamentary Procedure Sports & Entertainment Management

Client Servic Help Desk (test

Written events open to any grade level covering a variety of topics.

Accounting I Agribusiness Business Calculations Business Communication Business Law Business Procedures Computer Problem Solving Cyber Security Economics Health Care Admininistration Insurance & Risk Management Networking Concepts Personal Finance Securities and Investments

ompetitive event for YOU!

T HERE

LifeSmarts (2 member team) Virtual Business Management Challenge

rtable speaking in all audience?

NO

ing Events

Do you use one or more pieces of office application software well (Microsoft Office—Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Access, etc.—Open Office—Writer, Calc, Impress)?

aking 9th/10th) ng II

vents

er (test also) w

NO YES

Play Events

ce also)

Are you in 9th or 10th grade?

NO

Do you like to work as part of a team?

YES

9th & 10th Grade Written Events Business Math FBLA Principles & Procedures Introduction to Business Introduction to Business Communication Introduction to Information Technology Introduction to Parliamentary Procedure

Desktop Publishing (individual or 2 member team)

YES

NO

Try

Accounting II Computer Applications Database Design & Applications Spreadsheet Applications Word Processing

For more information, visit bit.ly/FBLA_CEreference Winter 2015

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National OFFICERS

Stepping Up to the Leadership Challenge

by FBLA National Secretary Annika Mulaney Members serving in leadership positions are an integral part of FBLA-PBL. These students carry out goals to improve our organization. Holding an office comes with many responsibilities: attending all officer meetings, contributing ideas to the team, devoting many hours to FBLA-PBL each week, and representing the organization in a positive manner.

Are you interested in running for national office?

It is helpful to serve in a leadership position at the local and state levels before seeking a national office. Interested 9th, 10th, and 11th graders need to complete an application that includes basic information, reasons for running, goals for the year, and a résumé. Depending on your state bylaws, you may be interviewed by your state board and may either be selected or elected to run for national office.

You need the support of your local and state chapters, school administration, and family.

Network with members who have run national campaigns—it will help you learn about the various officer positions and what is expected.

Choose a position that aligns well with your qualifications and goals.

Once you choose an office, prepare the strongest campaign you can. Develop a theme for your campaign and connect your speech to the theme, without being too cliché. Memorize your speech so you can focus on the audience during its delivery.

Candidates for president, secretary, and treasurer will deliver their speeches at the opening session.

Candidates for regional vice president positions will present at the regional campaign rallies.

The speech is a crucial time when you have the attention of all members at the same time.

You will be assigned a campaign booth in the exhibit hall. Planning for the booth can begin as soon as you are confirmed as your state’s candidate. Follow the guidelines set in the national candidate guide. Set a budget and keep receipts of all purchases; these must be approved at the conference. To help with expenses, you can ask local businesses for monetary or in‑kind donations.

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Candidates use visual displays with their qualifications and goals and many hand out small giveaway items. Remember that all giveaway items must be labeled with your name.

The campaign booth is the only area where campaign materials may be distributed or displayed.

Because you will not be able to talk to multiple students who come up to you at the same time, ask your chapter and state members to help you at the campaign booth. They can help share your goals/qualifications and hand out giveaways.

There is a 15-minute Q & A session with the voting delegates. For president, secretary, and treasurer candidates, the Q & A session will occur on the morning of the third day of the NLC. For regional vice president candidates, the session will be conducted immediately following the campaign speeches during the Regional Campaign Rally. This session will test your ability to think and answer questions on the spot. To practice, ask your local chapter members to come up with mock questions about your goals and qualifications. During the session, try to stay calm and confident at all times.

Remember to get plenty of sleep each night of the conference so you can campaign with a fresh brain. Be prepared to talk to voters, members, and advisers about your platform and goals and answer any questions they may have. The experience of running for office is exciting but challenging. Keep in mind that not every qualified candidate will win.

Though losing can be very disappointing, you most certainly do not have to be a national officer to be an impactful FBLA member. Regardless of the outcome, the experience you take away is priceless.

Best of luck wherever your journey takes you!

For more information, check out the FBLA candidate guide: bit.ly/2015-16_ FBLAcandidateguide

National FUNDRAISERS Association Motor Club Marketing (AMCM) AMCM offers a roadside assistance program that earns profit now and on renewals. Email fbla@amcmonline.com, call 605.254.8876, or visit amcmfbla.com.

Country Meats Country Meats features fresh, smoked snack sticks that everyone loves! Sell for $1 and receive 45% profit!

For FREE SAMPLES call 800.277.8989 or visit countrymeats.com/samplepack.

Crazy About Cookies Crazy About Cookies provides FBLA-themed tubs of cookie dough in six top-selling flavors.

Visit pinevalleyfoods.com/site/FBLA-fundraising/.

DormCo.com Provides FREE $5 DormCo.com gift cards to give to each senior in your high school with your chapter earning 15% of all sales. Call Jeff at 888.925.2899, email FBLA@DormCo.com, or visit DormCo.com/FBLA. Krispy Kreme Fundraising Krispy Kreme Fundraising offers doughnuts, BOGO cards, certificates, and coffee to help your chapter raise some dough! Visit krispykreme.com/fundraising, email fundraising@krispykreme.com, or call 800.4KRISPY. Ozark Delight Ozark Delight Lollipops are only available for fundraising. They do not sell to stores or other retail markets.

Call 800.334.8991 or visit ozarkdelight.com.

Popcorn Palace Offers premium popcorn in lots of flavors guaranteed to be fresh and delectable. Keep 50% profit upfront. To get your free information kit, call 800.873.2686 or visit popcornpalace.com/Home/Fundraising.

Pride Distributors Pride Distributors specializes in producing “Your Town”-Opoly, a custom board game. Call Pride Distributors at 800.451.5442 or visit Townopoly.net.

Schermer Pecans Offers a delicious and healthy fundraising product. Call 800.841.3403, email schermerpecans@yahoo.com, or visit pecantreats.com.

School Spirit Coffee School Spirit Coffee provides personalized packaging for their coffee fundraiser. Call 800.570.1443, email Debbie@schoolspiritcoffee.com, or visit schoolspiritcoffee.com.

Tom-Wat Fundraising Tom-Wat Fundraising features multiple fundraisers from catalog sales to cookie dough and much more. Call 800.243.9250, email sales@tomwat.com, or visit tomwat.com.

Zencaus Zencaus offers FBLA gift cards that can be redeemed for a wide selection of products. Call 888.960.6148, email customerservice@zencaus.com, or visit fblagiftcards.com.

PROMOTE YOUR FUNDRAISER

TRACK

HOLD

PARTICIPANTS

FUNDRAISER

TURN

TIE UP

EVALUATE

IN

LOOSE

THE

FUNDS

ENDS

EVENT

Winter 2015

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PBL Perspective

Social Media Do’s and Don’ts

by PBL Western Region Vice President Ashley Amundsen

F

acebook, Twitter, Instagram, Google+, LinkedIn, the list could go on and on. With so many sites that allow us to socialize and post updates about ourselves, it’s not a surprise that social networking has become a significant part of our everyday lives. It can be accessed from virtually anywhere in the world; on smartphones, tablets, and laptops. It can be used to connect with family and friends, to post photos of travels and pets, and to share whatever else pleases one’s desire. With social networking rapidly becoming the norm for millions of people, it is important to note the top ten do’s and don’ts of social media use. After all, not only do your friends view everything you post, your potential employers could too.

The Do's:

The Don’ts:

Do be selective: You don’t have to accept every friend request you receive, especially if you are not familiar with the person. It’s ok to only be friends with the people who you actually know.

Don’t be fake: It can be so easy to hide your true self behind social media, but it can be hard to keep up fake appearances. Be yourself. Remember, your friends send you friend requests based on the real YOU, so be that person online.

Do model good behavior: Think about what you post before you post it. Post things that will help your online image and presence, not harm it.

Do promote your work: Did you just create a new business? Don’t be afraid to share it with your friends on your social media accounts! Even consider creating a new page or account to share your portfolio and promote your business.

Do practice positivity: Don’t be that friend who is always posting negative statuses. Share something good that happened to you today! If you like an encouraging post or a funny video, don’t be afraid to share that too! Your friends will thank you!

Do move toward face-to-face interaction: It can be so easy to get wrapped up with our social media lives, that we forget what really matters: talking face-to-face. Use social networking to schedule meetings or events, but if you sincerely want to talk to a friend, face-to-face is always best.

Don’t share sadness: It can be so easy to share everything depressing that happens in your life with the social media world. Don’t. Keep the gloomy posts to a minimum, you don’t want social media to become your dumping ground.

Don’t believe everything you read: Not everything you read on Facebook is the truth.

Explore the source, the author, and the information in the post or article. If it looks suspect, it probably is.

Don’t avoid other tasks: You find yourself on Instagram, and before you know it an hour has passed.

You’ve got a pile of homework to finish and dinner with a friend. While social networking is great if used at the right time, it’s important to not let it take over your life.

Don’t be a know-it-all: Sitting behind a computer screen may give you a higher level of confidence, but resist the urge to be a know-it-all in your posts and comments.

Social networking is a great way to communicate with friends and update others with statuses, photos, and videos. It is a major part of everyday life.

While spending time using social media, remember these ten do’s and don’ts. You will be able to improve your online presence, and it may prove to be valuable when looking for a career.

Follow FBLA-PBL @FBLA_National 12

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Competition CORNER

Dress to Win! You have been studying and working on chapter projects all year, now it’s time for competition. Your speech is polished, your PowerPoint presentation is ready, and you have been practicing until you know you are ready to perform. But there is one more important element as you compete. What are you going to wear?

With today’s varied business environment, professional attire has different meanings to each company and organization. Luckily for FBLA members, the FBLA-PBL national dress code clearly outlines what is acceptable attire at FBLA-PBL conferences and for competition. To get the most from your conference experience, follow the dress code.

TIPS Dress traditional, not trendy. Competition is not the place to make a fashion statement. Judges are often conservative, so keep that in mind when choosing your outfit.

Not sure if your outfit meets the dress code? Ask your adviser. Rule of thumb: If you have to ask if your outfit is okay, chances are you should change clothes.

Make sure your clothes are ironed or at least not wrinkled. You can have the best suit in the world, but lots of wrinkles make it look sloppy.

Ladies: avoid super high heels, bright makeup, and flashy/noisy jewelry. You want the judges to hear what you are saying, not be distracted.

Gentlemen: avoid ties with busy or distracting patterns. You want the judges focused on your presentation, not your clothes.

If you are competing in a team event, why not coordinate your clothes? You don’t have to wear the exact same thing, but wear complimentary colors. Ladies can wear matching blouses under their suits and gentlemen can wear ties that match. Sometimes that little touch can set you apart from the competition and show the judges that you really put a lot of extra thought into your presentation.

Members competing in written-only events will be screened for dress code at event check-in. If you don’t meet the dress code, you may be allowed to change clothes, but will receive no additional time to complete your event if you return later than the testing start time.

Competitors not following the dress code can lose points in performance events. Each judge can deduct five points for a competitor who violates the dress code. Five points may not seem like much, but in a close competition, it might be the difference between you earning a spot to compete at the National Leadership Conference in Chicago and staying home!

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Chapter HIGHLIGHTS

CALIFORNIA

KANSAS

ls on Following their fina Oak High December 18, Live rs visited School FBLA membe mes four convalescent ho Hillview, (Pacific Hill Manor, Serena).

Vila Monte, and Villa d his elves, Dressed as Santa an liday cheer with members spread ho songs and gifts.

Nickerson High School FBLA members hosted a Red Cross Blood Drive in the old gymnasium on December 16 (the drive scheduled for November 10 ended prematurely due to Internet difficulties). The Bloodmobile collected 33 units of lifesaving blood. FBLA members set up the Bloodmobile, registered donors, and escorted blood donors. The chapter appreciates all the first-time donors and repeat donors that helped save the lives of others with their generous donation. FBLA adviser Mrs. Kroeker said, “We really appreciate everyone who donated blood and hope to see them again at our March 5 blood drive.”

GEORGIA Newton High School FBLA voluntee red for Rivers Alive, Georgia’s annual vol unteer waterway cleanup event that targe ts all waterways in the state including str eams, rivers, lakes, beaches, and wetland s. The mission of Rivers Alive is to create awareness of and involv ement in the preservation of Georgia’s water resources. Chapter members, with many other clubs and organizations from the com munity, collected trash along local riverbanks and roads.

“It was very much out of my comfor t zone to pick up any type of trash, but it was a great experience and lots of fun!” said chapter reporter Jameriah Clark.

PENNSYLVA

NIA

The Stroudsb urg High Sch ool FBLA cha chapter mem pter h bers voluntee red as bell rin eld a charity event in coord gers for the S ination with Members sto alvation Arm od outside of y in front of h the Salvation Army. In De locations inclu caroling and ce igh-traffic are ding Walmart ringing their as around tow mber, for an hour co bells. Membe experience fo n . llecting dona rs rais r all members tions. Volunte that participa ed over $1,000 for the Sa ers att lv ted, and Stro udsburg FBLA ation Army. This was a wo racted donors by nderfully fulfi plans to work lling with the Salv ation Army a gain.

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Tomorrow’s Business Leader

Chapter HIGHLIGHTS

PENNSYLVA

NIA

Jersey Shore FBLA is partic ipating in the The chaper is FBLA Go Gree working with n Project. the school’s C Improvemen ontinuous En t (CEI) initiati ergy ve to consumption and take step reduce school-wide energ s toward mak y environmenta ing the schoo lly-conscious l a more place.

Their biggest project thus fa r is planting fl Members pla ower bulbs. nted 350 daff odil and tulip of our school, bulbs at the fr near its entra ont nce sign, and courtyard. Th in the school ey can’t wait to see the flo spring! wers bloom in

Submit your chapter news at bit.ly/fbla-pbl_news

MISSOURI Members of Jackson High School FBLA met at Jackson Junior High to wrap presents for the chapter’s annual Operation Christmas Child event.

Members wrapped 30 boxes to send overseas to children who would otherwise not get presents.

Twenty‑six members participated in this event, and it was a huge success.

Tips for submitting chapter news: write in the third person (avoid using I, we, our, etc.)

include photos (especially action shots) photos from a camera, not a phone, are best for publication answer the 5 Ws (Who, What, When, Where, & Why) share the results (money raised, people reached, etc.) tell what makes the program/event unique

VIRGINIA George Wythe High School FBLA identified the Hull Street Festival as an opportunity for community service with the Hull Street Merchants Association.

The festival included kids’ activities, live music, racing and walking around to meet new people. Members helped with festival outreach and assisted food and merchandise vendors. They also conducted a festival questionnaire.

Chapter members met people from the stores around the area. Members did many things for the attendees and visited the newly‑renovated library.

George Wythe FBLA was pleased to Step Up to the Challenge!

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Sponsors & PARTNERS Are you looking for a fun, easy and absolutely delicious way to raise supplemental income for your organization?

Pine Valley Foods proudly announces FBLA-themed tubs of Crazy About Cookies dough. This is no ordinary cookie dough fundraiser; successful fundraising is all about innovative quality products and services. With 16 years of experience, rest assured we’ve got your back. We’re passionate about facing each day as an opportunity—of can-do’s, decisive moments, and being aware that sometimes it’s the little things that matter most. Let us help you maximize your fundraising efforts with 6 top-selling flavors of decadent cookie dough, in an exclusive 2.5 lb FBLA tub! Our dough is certified Kosher, with zero trans fat and no preservatives. Visit us online at pinevalleyfoods.com/ site/FBLA-fundraising.

National fundraiser DormCo.com offers a simple and high-reward fundraising opportunity. There is no direct selling required. Simply distribute FREE $5.00 DormCo.com gift cards to all seniors in your school and earn 15% of all purchases. You distribute the gift card, students buy the college stuff they need, and your FBLA chapter earns cash. It’s that easy! To learn more and sign up, visit DormCo.com/FBLA.

Economics for Leaders (EFL) is a selective summer program held on college campuses across the country. The weeklong residential program is open to high school students and teaches young leaders how to (1) develop the leadership skills necessary to succeed in business, (2) be conversant with the economic concepts shaping the global economy, (3) foster a commitment to continued learning about economics and leadership, and (4) become a more effective leader. EFL is a program of the Foundation for Teaching Economics, whose mission is to introduce young individuals, selected for their leadership potential, to an economic way of thinking about national and international issues. College credit is available.

Visit fte.org to learn more.

How about a degree that prepares students for success in the business world and beyond? Northwood University embraces both the dreamers and the doers. Northwood University also believes in doing things the right way, which is why business ethics is an essential part of the curriculum.

Northwood University students not only face real challenges, they also have an opportunity to collaborate with others to find the best solution.

Northwood University professors bring more than business principles into the classroom—as entrepreneurs, they also bring a wealth of perspective. If you are a student who is ready to make a difference in the world of business, Northwood is ready to get you started the moment you step on campus. Visit Northwood.edu to Own Your Future.

Immerse into college life with WorldStrides Summer Start-Up at UCLA. Explore strategies for becoming a young entrepreneur and create a fully executable business plan. Earn college credit that will impact your life and enable future career exploration.

Explore the surrounding areas and reside on campus in this keystone program. Additionally, WorldStrides offers a diverse array of travel programs to extraordinary destinations focusing on global connections, language immersion, and service learning.

WorldStrides challenges you to gain new perspectives and expand your knowledge by joining us for inquiry and adventure on our memorable programs.

Visit worldstridessummer.com or call 855.812.8219 for information regarding any of the WorldStrides Summer program opportunities.

What can a career in insurance offer me?

Deciding what’s next after high school can be difficult, but majoring in risk management or insurance may be the right path for you! Insurance industry careers offer: • A vast range of job opportunities • Career stability and growth • Work/life balance • The ability to make a difference If you are considering studying risk management or insurance, The Griffith Insurance Education Foundation, an affiliate of The Institutes, can provide you with information and financial resources for your college studies. Find out more by visiting GriffithFoundation.org.

“MyPath: Insurance. It’s Limitless.” also powered by The Institutes, is a web platform that provides: • Additional information on risk management and insurance • Career videos • Career assessments and information • Internship financial assistance and more!

Visit InsureMyPath.org 16

Tomorrow’s Business Leader

The Howe School at Stevens Institute of Technology When you reach for a snack during your next late-night study session, you might be sampling the work of a pair of student entrepreneurs from Stevens, a technologyfocused university overlooking Manhattan on the banks of the Hudson River. Seniors Jasmine Mina and Nayad Manukian are importing and marketing puff corn, a popular Egyptian snack, as part of a class project they hope to launch as a business upon graduation.

They say Stevens’ innovative business program and close ties to real-world professionals taught them the skills needed to launch a company. Stevens “gave us a path on what we should do if we want our business to succeed,” Mina said. Professors are working with the students to prepare them for the challenges they’re facing as entrepreneurs. Visit Stevens.edu/Howe to learn more.

Member BENEFITS & COUPONS

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Discount valid 1.18.2015 through 4.30.2015.

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Fall 2014