When you are at a conference, you not only want to make sure that your research study is thorough and contributes to the overall body of knowledge in the field, but you also want to make sure that it is memorable for positive reasons.  Whether it is the way in which it is presented or the materials passed out at your poster session, or in some cases – what you wear makes a statement in itself!  This is what Mom, Kristin, and I did for the APS conference in Boston in May.  Our study was focusing on “Snakes in Suits” with CEOs by using the Q-sort, and we were thinking of how we could best represent this effectively and uniquely to APS attendees, fellow professors and researchers, and students.  Well – our family totally loves the Harry Potter books and movies, and so we thought – hey!  Why don’t we wear Slytherin shirts at APS?

The result of wearing these shirts was very positive – we got a lot of traffic during the conference and we got our picture taken at one of the receptions.  We were contacted by the APS Observer on the back story of the three of us wearing these shirts, and we shared with the editor our story.  As a result, our picture was featured in the issue that discussed and showcased the APS Convention.  How fabulous!

So, what this shows that it is not only important to make sure that you have a good presentation and research study, but if you go the extra mile in making yourself stand out from the crowd that is unique and fabulous – you will be remembered and recognized as being cutting edge.  We first did this last year for our Loneliness and Facebook study, and now we had Slytherin shirts.  Next year – who knows!  I am sure that it will be fabulous! 🙂  Congratulations again to Mom and Kristin, and for Dad as being our avid supporter and marketing guru!  I would also like to thank Karla for her excellent snake drawing for our poster at APS as well – it was definitely a hit!

Hope you all are having a great day!

Best Wishes,

Karen