Conference Presentations

• Cut back on details
  
  • Focus on essential points
  • Choose a few compelling details/examples
  
  
• Use visual aids
  
  • Reinforce main points
  • Illustrate the details/examples
  
  
• Provide a short handout
  
  • Replicate your slides, but with added detail
  • Create a one- or a half- page abstract of your paper
  • Always include contact information
  
  
• Note that 8 typed pages equals about 20 minutes of speaking--going over-time is considered very rude.
  
  
• Rehearse to test the rhythm, speed, etc.
  
  • Rehearse alone to see if any part feels awkward to say
  • Rehearse with a partner to time you and give feedback on speed
  • Rehearse with a small group to get used to speaking in front of people
  
  
• Consider how you present yourself
  • Dress professionally
  • Speak in a personable and friendly, but respectful way.

Attending conferences is the best way to find out what is expected, what works well or poorly, and to generally get more comfortable with the idea of speaking before an audience.