Calling All Presenters!

As you prepare for presenting educational programs at AFA, take a look at some words of advice and encouragement from leading presenters in the field of Fraternity and Sorority Life.

“A successful presentation in my opinion is one that challenges participants to think critically about the topic, provides clear guidance on how to apply the knowledge gained, and ends with participants feeling that session was about what it was marketed as.”
~Kim Novak

“Practice. Know YOUR stuff, understand the RESEARCH or PRACTICAL implications, be able to talk about it in a way that engages people, but don't sacrifice content for entertainment. I would much rather sit through something a little more "dry" or less "interactive" than be doing team builders for an hour. I want to LEARN.”
~Dan Bureau

“Actually prepare. Too many in our field prep the week before...or on-site...and it shows. Don’t waste my time or the others in the workshop.”
~Mike McRee

“As a presenter, make sure the topic is something you feel comfortable with and have credibility in this area. Be very deliberate on what points you want to get across and what you want participants to leave with.
I never (ever) think of myself as a speaker. I am facilitator who can engage hundreds of people in a conversation. As the presenter, think of yourself in that light. You are there to facilitate the conversation.”
~Lori Hart Ebert

“Although it is quite the old saying, I believe being you is the most important part of delivering a good program. If you are passionate about the topic and if that shines through that is ok. What one should never do is not be open to differences of opinions. In fact, if there are people at your program that don't agree with your perspective on the topic asking them how and/or why they disagree is a great way to engage the participant and enhance the level of discourse among the participants.”
~Monica Miranda Smalls

For more tips from our experts, click here.