NCPTW 2019

Presenting in front of an audience is not easy, even if you've done it before. Below then are some tips and suggestions for how to make the most of your presentation.

 

• Practice.

• Practice.

• Practice.

• Nothing is more obvious than if you're not prepared, or underprepared. Plan to go over your talk at least five times before your session. Ask some friends and colleagues to sit in and offer suggestions, too.

• If you are more comfortable reading a paper, then do that. Just remember to look up and make eye contact, and be sure that the paper is meant to be heard.

• Use slides if they help further your talk, but do not feel that you must.

• Do NOT go over your time--that's not fair to your co-presenters or the audience.

• Try not to talk negatively about your institution or colleagues.

• If there is a microphone, use it.

• If you can do so comfortably, stand during your presentation.

• Bring a few extra copies of your talk for those who appreciate taking in the information that way.

• If you do show slides, describe them for the audience.

• Dress comfortably. It can also be helpful to create your outfit as if you were going to a job interview. Show off your best self. 

• Think of creating a handout (with your name and email) so that people have something to take away and a way to connect with you after the conference.

• HAVE FUN! The people in your room value writing centers as much as you and want your talk to be successful.

• Did we also mention you should practice?

 

For some thoughts about attending the conference, please see this excellent piece from Jasmine Kar Tang and Katie Levin.