How to Book Appearances & Community Service Events

As a Teen title holder I understand the struggle to find appearances and community service opportunities. Teenagers are typically labeled as immature by strangers who do not know them. In some past experiences I have found it hard to book appearances based on my age, here are some things that may help you book appearances in the future.

1. Make a connection in that field! For example if you want to work with nursing homes, start out by finding one that is willing to work with you. Once you get your foot in the door and develop a relationship with the employees they will be willing to vouch for you if you keep your commitments. Then, when you try to branch out to other nursing homes you can use the first one as a reference! If they know you have worked with one nursing home successfully, they will be more than willing to let you work with their residents if their schedule allows.

2. Go straight to the business. I always try to set up appearances by emailing or calling. However, sometimes people do not respond and your email may be lost in a sea of countless other people looking to do the same thing. If you can, try to go to the business during typical hours to meet the person you have been trying to contact in person. If you show that you are mature and confident enough to talk in person, you will be on there radar, no matter what your age.

3. This is a simple tip but, show up on time and look presentable. When I am teaching my Dancing Through the Pain classes I like to be ten minutes early. This allows me to set everything up as well as meet and talk to the “students.” Also looking presentable does not always mean a dress and heels! I could not teach in a short dress and stilettos, as long as you feel you outfit represents you and your organization well, you are presentable!

I hope these tips help you book countless appearances in the future!

"Success is not measured by what you accomplish but by the opposition you have encountered and the courage with which you have maintained the struggle against overwhelming odds." -Orison Swett Marden

Garin Harris
Miss Teen International 2016