Are You Making These Rookie Mistakes? No one talks about this, and why not?

Remembering my days in the competition circuit brings back a flood of

This is what a National Winner Looks like

memories, especially the unwavering support from my mom. She had this philosophy: seize every opportunity a pageant offers because each one could be your ticket to a national

title. Her mantra was simple yet powerful: the more they see you, the more they remember you.

This is what a National Winner Looks like

And here's the golden nugget of wisdom: don't shy away from any opportunity. Whether it's ad sales, People's Choice, or optional events, dive in headfirst. Maximize your exposure by featuring your photo with your crown and sash in every ad space available. Your presence in the program, where judges often look first, reinforces your name and face in their minds.

Some may argue it's unfair, but really, it's about familiarity. Every contestant has the same opportunities, but not everyone seizes them. Some may cite financial constraints, which are valid, but it's the effort and the support system you build that truly counts.

Before you cry foul, remember this: visibility matters. Those extra efforts in a pageant tell a story about your dedication and commitment. Judges take note of who goes the extra mile, who's truly invested, and who's likely to carry that

National Winner

dedication forward if crowned.

Sure, performance in events matters, but those "extras" could tilt the scale in your favor. It's not just about doing enough; it's about doing more than enough. Playing it safe might have cost you titles in the past. Judges often give extra attention to contestants who go above and beyond.

Of course, looking the part is crucial too. No matter how many ads you feature in, if you don't present yourself well, it could backfire. It's a delicate balance.

Psychologically speaking, familiarity breeds favorability. The more you resemble a national winner in the eyes of others, the more favorably they'll perceive you.

So, in your next pageant, go all in. Embrace ads, People's Choice, and optional events. Strive to stand out, to shine brighter than the rest. Elevate yourself to a level above the crowd.

National Winner

Think of singing contest shows—they're a prime example. Many contestants have vocal talent, but the winners? They possess that extra spark, that connection with the audience. A pageant queen must do the same in a condensed timeframe. So why not up your odds?

Sure, you can win without these strategies, but why not give yourself every advantage? Don't just aim to compete; aim to excel. I've consulted with other directors, and they echo the sentiment: those who seize every opportunity often reap the rewards.

So, to all the Tourism Girls out there, remember: when you need help, just ask. Together, let's elevate each other and chase those crowns with unwavering determination.