Top Tips

Speaking at a conference is a brilliant opportunity to share your insights, showcase your expertise, and make meaningful connections with your peers and potential collaborators. A great session doesn’t just deliver information—it inspires, creates conversation, and leaves a lasting impression.

Here are some practical tips to help you prepare for your session and make the most of your time at the event—before, during and after.

Before the Event

Know Your Audience

  • Find out who’s attending—what industries or roles will be in the room?

  • Think about what they care about and tailor your content accordingly. Focus on insights that are relevant, useful, and thought-provoking.

Define Your Message

  • Be clear on what you want your audience to take away. What do you want them to do, think or feel after your session?

  • Avoid cramming in too much. One clear, memorable message is more powerful than ten vague ones.

Craft a Compelling Presentation

  • Keep slides visually clean and engaging—use imagery, charts, and short phrases to support your message.

  • Avoid reading from your slides. Use them as prompts, not scripts.

  • Add real-life stories, case studies, or humour to connect with your audience.

  • Include your contact info or social handles on your final slide to encourage post-event follow-up.

Send Us Your Presentation Early

  • Please send your slides to us as soon as you can so we can:

    • Provide friendly feedback or suggestions (if you’d like),

    • Share it with our AV team to ensure compatibility and smooth delivery on the day.

Promote Your Session

  • Announce your talk across LinkedIn, Twitter/X, and other platforms.

  • Share what attendees will gain from your session and use the event hashtag.

  • Use Gleanin or other social media tools provided by the organiser to create branded posts.

  • Add a line to your email signature like: “Speaking at The Education People Show – Yorkshire – join me for a session on [Your Topic]!”

Practice Makes Perfect

  • Rehearse out loud and time yourself. Aim to finish slightly early to allow time for Q&A.

  • If you’re using tech (slides, audio, videos), double-check all files, test everything in advance & send to us early so our AV team can check all functionality.

  • Practice in front of a colleague or record yourself to improve clarity, pace, and confidence.

Start Networking Early

  • Connect with other speakers, exhibitors and attendees ahead of time via LinkedIn.

  • Even a simple message like “Looking forward to speaking at #TEPSYorkshire – see you there!” can open doors for conversations.


During the Event

Deliver with Confidence

  • Be present and authentic. You don’t need to be perfect—just clear, passionate and engaging.

  • Make eye contact, smile, and use natural gestures to connect with your audience.

  • Don’t worry if you feel nervous—your audience is rooting for you!

Encourage Interaction

  • Ask a thought-provoking question or invite a quick show of hands to involve the audience.

  • Leave time for Q&A—and repeat any audience questions before answering for clarity.

Maximise Visibility

  • Mention your social handle, website or resources for attendees to follow up with you.

  • Stick around after your session to chat with attendees—some of the best conversations happen in the hallway.

Be Active on Social Media

  • Post photos or quotes from your session and tag the event account or other speakers.

  • Share key takeaways, thank your audience, and respond to any mentions or feedback.


After the Event

Follow Up

  • Connect on LinkedIn with attendees who engaged with your session.

  • Share your slides with us so we can share them with the delegates.

  • Keep the conversation going by inviting people to your newsletter, blog, or next event.

Reflect and Review

  • What went well? What would you change for next time?

Share Your Experience

  • Post a short reflection on the event: what you spoke about, your favourite moments, or key things you learned.

  • This helps extend the life of your session and shows you’re an active, thoughtful voice in your field.


📌 Remember: Great speaking isn’t about being the loudest voice in the room—it’s about creating value, connection and momentum. The more you prepare and engage, the more impact your session will have.