Top 5 Things to Bring to the Texas Social Media Conference

Conference time is coming around, and like always there’s an air of energy and excitement buzzing about. Just like the moments before a flight around the world or a trip to the World Series (go Cubs) it’s easy to make the mistake of leaving a crucial piece of luggage behind. So before tomorrow hits, here’s a friendly reminder of five important things to bring so you don’t fall behind at the conference.

1. Phone Charger

With how much we use our phones, chargers are the powerlines of our social lives- and, as social media researchers and coordinators, our careers. Don’t be caught two hours in the event with your battery below 20% and lose the ability to keep your loyal followers in the loop! If you have a portable charger, make sure you bring it all charged up as well.

2. Business Cards

The rise of Pokemon in the 1990s has taught us that simple cards can hold a lot of power. Likewise, your business card can be the deciding point in getting you that job you’ve been working so hard for- so don’t miss out on a crucial networking opportunity! Business cards can start a conversation that brings a new beginning in a promising career field. Always bring your business cards.

3. Snacks

That’s right- bring snacks! Studies have shown that a hungry mind is a distracted mind, and being focused on food can hinder your ability to learn material being presented right in front of you. Of course, don’t be that guy struggling to open a 200 decibel bag of chips right in the room- a small bag of peanuts or trail mix will suffice. Meals are provided by TSMRI and its sponsors throughout the event so if you do forget this one, don’t worry. We won’t let you starve. (Our swag bags are also stuffed with goodies!)

4. Business Casual

We’ll cut you some slack here- different conferences request different types of clothes for their events. So we won’t turn you away at the door if you wear a Led Zepplin t-shirt. But the age-old adage “dress for success” has a lot of merit we advise you take in. This conference is a great opportunity to network, and while business cards can start a conversation, underdressing can quickly end it. So bust out that business casual and the social-professional swagger will come with it.

5. Attitude!

Alright, alright. Maybe this one goes without saying- but we’d be remiss not to remind you! We here at TSMRI are honored to have your attendance at the conference, and want to see everyone prepared to grab life by the reins and dash headlong into success. Like your business casual dress, a good attitude can take control of a conversation, and a bad attitude can not only end one, but can prevent others from happening in the future. Leave a positive lasting impression on both us and potential business connections by smiling, shaking hands, and being polite and courteous at every opportunity. You put on your best demeanor and bring everything else on this list, and this can be a conference for the books.


By Jack Cochran
TSMRI Social Media Coach

The Texas Social Media Research Institute (TSMRI) is a group of faculty, staff, and students at Tarleton State University with a mission of conducting social media research; sharing social media best practices; and providing social media education for students, non-profit organizations, state agencies, school districts, and higher education institutions.


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Texas Social Media Research Institute
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texassocialmediaresearch@gmail.com