By Luna Dominic, @deca.luna_ | Florida Atlantic University, FL
DECA season is officially underway and as state conferences approach, chapters across the nation are preparing for one of the most exciting times of the year. Through it all, it’s important to keep the fundamentals of competition in mind.
To better understand these key elements, we asked DECA advisors in Florida DECA District 8 for advice they would give to members.
Confidence is Key
Staying confident is critical to both staying focused during your pre-competition preparation and your performance during presentations. Cristen Magaletti from St. Andrews High School emphasized the importance of channeling nerves into high-performance outcomes while competing.
“A lot of people are going to have nerves, so use that nervous energy to fuel a really dynamic and exciting presentation to show off all the work that you’ve done and to give this feeling to the judges or whoever you're working with that you're excited to share that information.”
While judges evaluate you based on performance elements, the delivery of your presentation also plays a role in the overall impression you leave. Ms. Magaletti also reminds competitors to enjoy the experience, saying,
“Remember that you’re here to have fun…really lean into the event.”
Echoing these ideas, Tracy Marhefka from Olympic Heights High School spoke on staying focused on one’s own performance and blocking out external distractions.
“I would advise [competitors] to not be distracted by the other competitors that are around them or in the same room and to just focus on what they’re best at doing.”
Practice and Preparation
When it comes to practicing, Alain Bazile from Spanish River High School explained the importance of being intentional and shared various ways to receive feedback.
“My biggest piece of advice is just practice. Make sure you pay attention to what you’re specifically being told, so looking at those performance indicators…practice with your peers, your teachers and then some adult that's going to give you real feedback.”
In addition, Mr. Bazile explained how competitors can provide themselves with feedback through recording, saying,
“...even just recording yourself because you can see tendencies that show that you’re nervous, so just that practice and seeing yourself do it – it’s going to make you better when you’re in front of an actual judge.”
Feedback is a powerful tool you should use to enhance, reflect, and develop strategies to improve your communication skills. Want to minimize filler words? Preparation doesn’t have to be tedious; turn it into a fun activity by speaking for one minute straight without using filler words – bonus points if you do this with friends and family.
Doing these revisions in advance can also help you get in “the zone” and master your delivery technique, so when it comes time to sit in front of the judge, you’re ready to perform your best!
Dressing the Part
Adam Richardson from Jupiter Christian High School advised competitors to “dress to impress.” Dressing professionally helps create a lasting impression, shows you respect the competition and helps characterize your personal brand. A polished appearance also helps boost your own confidence – look good, feel good!
Need help putting together the perfect competition outfit? Check with your advisor for DECA dress code guidelines.
Building Connections
Lastly, Cristen Magaletti reminds competitors to branch out and make connections while at conferences.
“And remember it's for the experience…to get to meet people and network too, so while you’re there, say hello to kids from different schools, say hello to kids from your school, and practice some of those networking skills as well.”
Reflection
From advice on how to dress to impress, practice for competition and make new connections, all the advisors’ tips resonate a shared message: mindset. Staying positive and focusing on what you can control will help reinforce individual strengths and help you grow. Trust in your preparation and let your personality shine throughout competition season!
