Congratulations on being selected to present! Whether this is your first talk or your tenth, a little preparation goes a long way. Here are some simple tips to help you feel confident and deliver your best presentation.

  • Upload your slides early. Submit your presentation at least 24 hours in advance and bring a backup on a USB drive, just in case.

  • Use the meeting laptop. All presentations run from the provided computer, so plan to use that setup. If you’d like feedback ahead of time, feel free to send your slides to the organizers for review.

  • Remember, sessions are recorded. Your presentation will be available for later viewing, so make sure your slides only include content you’re comfortable sharing.

  • Get comfortable on stage. A small “confidence monitor” near you will show your slides. Use it to stay oriented to the audience rather than turning to the main screen. Keep your voice steady and speak naturally into the mic.

  • Design for clarity.

    • Use a 16:9 aspect ratio for the best display.

    • Choose simple, readable fonts, such as Arial or Verdana.

    • Avoid placing key content at the very bottom of slides, as it can be difficult to see from the back of the room.

  • Test media in advance. If you’re using videos or animations, ensure they play smoothly and are stored in the same folder as your slides.

  • Do a quick run-through. Practice your timing, transitions, and key points to ensure effective delivery. A short rehearsal can make a huge difference.

  • Ask for help if needed. The tech team is happy to assist with setting up or reviewing your slides before the session.

What to Expect as a Speaker

Here’s how your presentation will run, so you can focus on sharing your work with confidence:

  • Introduction: Sit near the podium, and when it’s your turn, the session chair will introduce you. Once your name is called, your presentation will begin automatically from slide #1 on the meeting computer.

  • Getting started: Walk up to the podium, take a cleansing breath, and begin speaking at a comfortable, natural volume. The tech team will adjust the sound as needed. Try to maintain a steady distance from the microphone.

  • Advancing slides: As with every PowerPoint, use the arrow keys on the laptop or the presentation remote provided at the podium to move through your slides.

  • Wrapping up: When your talk ends, your presentation will be closed, and the next one prepared. If time allows, the last slide may stay open for questions. If your deck is closed and you feel you need content from the presentation, simply offer to continue the discussion offline after the session.