Conferences usually gather an audience that already knows a lot about the topic being presented. This makes it essential to consider this fact when planning your presentation and deciding how much background information to include.
If possible, get to know the room you are giving your presentation in ahead of time. This will help you avoid nasty surprises on the day of your talk.
Know Your Topic
While it is impossible to know exactly what will be asked at any given presentation, it is helpful to prepare for some likely questions. For example, it is not uncommon for attendees to ask for a specific factual piece of information or to question research methodologies that are complex. It is important to not berate yourself if you are unable to answer these types of questions. Instead, you can simply say that you will look into it further and will respond to them after the talk.
Likewise, if there is any background information that you feel would be useful for the audience, consider adding it to your slides. This can help the audience follow your presentation more easily and reduce confusion if any information is unclear. Check out more at presenting at a conference.
Know Your Audience
Knowing your audience is an important factor in creating a compelling presentation. It allows you to tailor your message to the audience’s perspectives and interests, which increases relevance and engagement and fosters a stronger connection.
You can learn about your audience by reviewing conference materials, such as participant lists and abstracts. You can also ask participants about their background and experiences. For example, if your audience includes graduate students, you may need to provide more background information than if your audience is comprised of professionals.
You can also find out if your audience is familiar with your topic by asking them questions during the presentation. Be sure to include time for audience questions in your Script Map. Asking your audience questions will help keep the session moving while allowing you to address specific concerns and strengthen your argument.
Know Your Materials
Depending on the nature of your presentation, you may have to provide handouts and evaluation forms. Conferences typically supply a box with these materials, which presenters check in when they complete their session. In addition, some conferences offer continuing education credits, which participants use to maintain their professional license or certification.
Know your slides well, and practice rehearsing them aloud to make sure you can deliver them without visual aids. Practice also helps identify areas where you may have trouble phrasing or need to clarify concepts.
It’s always best to prepare for the unexpected. It is not uncommon for technology to fail at the most inconvenient times, so be sure to back up your files in several locations and share them with a colleague for easy access.
Know Your Time Limits
Going over time is not only disrespectful to your audience but also to the conference organizer. The conference may be running behind schedule or there may be a scheduled break or presentation after yours that you need to attend.
It is helpful to practice your presentation with a timer and to adhere to the allotted conference presentation time limit. Practicing will also let you know if your written paper needs to be shortened in order to fit within the allotted presentation time.
It is often recommended that you begin your presentation with a brief literature review. This will provide context for your research and help the audience understand what you are talking about. Lastly, be prepared to skip any slides that do not support your argument and keep your talking points short and concise.
Know Yourself
Whether you’re an experienced academic or a first-time PhD student, it’s normal to feel nervous about giving a conference presentation. But there are ways to reduce your stress and make sure that the conference ppt goes smoothly.
It’s best to start preparing your talk by making an outline. This will help you to structure your ideas logically and ensure that your message flows well.
It’s also important to keep checking your time – it can be easy to go over your allotted speaking slot when you’re in the thick of things. Finally, it’s worth remembering that even the sharpest criticism from your peers can be turned into something useful if you approach it in the right way. Ask for feedback after the event to gain insight into your strengths and weaknesses.