Original Message:
Sent: Tue August 06, 2024 10:34 AM
From: Libby Ingrassia
Subject: Tell Us: What makes a great presenter at a conference session?
@Jose Arias CISSP, ITIL, DORA
Oh, I love this response. Both around humor and the value of non-native speakers.
Humor has always been a challenge for me - and particularly when I'm speaking outside of the US. Finding something that is humorous across cultures and languages is not my best skill and it killed me the very first time I tried this. I was speaking in Germany - presenting outside the US for the first time - and I used a little piece of humor that had made audiences giggle previously - and knowing enough German I thought it might translate.... but it got NOTHING but blank stares for the German audience. I was quite young so this did throw me a bit - I think I recovered well enough, but it did get me trying to second guess the entire rest of my presentation as I was speaking....
So I guess I'd add, be prepared for how your words will affect audiences outside your native language/country and know what will be funny or how to handle it if a joke falls flat. :-)
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Libby Ingrassia
Program Director, IBM Champions
IBM TechXchange
IBM
Original Message:
Sent: Tue August 06, 2024 03:28 AM
From: Jose Arias CISSP, ITIL, DORA
Subject: Tell Us: What makes a great presenter at a conference session?
A great presenter at a conference session possesses the ability to connect with the audience on a personal level, and humor plays a crucial role in this connection. Humor breaks down barriers, creates a relaxed atmosphere, and makes the content more relatable. When used effectively, it engages the audience, making the session memorable and enjoyable. A presenter who can skillfully weave humor into their narrative demonstrates confidence and a deep understanding of their topic, which in turn fosters trust and rapport with the audience.
Humor also humanizes the presenter, transforming what could be a dry, technical session into an interactive and dynamic experience. It helps to emphasize key points, making complex concepts more accessible. Additionally, humor encourages audience participation, as people feel more comfortable asking questions or contributing to the discussion when the atmosphere is light and engaging.
The Added Challenge for Non-Native English Speakers
For presenters who are not native English speakers, the challenge of connecting with the audience and using humor effectively is often heightened. Navigating a presentation in a second language requires not only fluency but also a deep cultural understanding of how humor is perceived and what resonates with the audience. Non-native speakers may worry about miscommunication or that their humor might not translate well, adding a layer of stress to their presentation.
However, the extra effort required by non-native English speakers to present in English often translates into meticulous preparation and a strong command of their content. This thoroughness can lead to a more structured and coherent presentation, which audiences in IT and other technical fields often appreciate. Moreover, the diversity of perspective that non-native speakers bring can introduce fresh, innovative ideas that challenge the status quo, adding significant value to the session.
Interestingly, being a non-native English speaker can also be an advantage, particularly in the global IT world. Non-native speakers often bring a unique perspective that can bridge cultural gaps and resonate with an international audience. Their experiences can offer insights into how different markets or regions approach technology, providing valuable context that native speakers may not be able to offer.
Furthermore, audiences may appreciate the effort and dedication of a non-native speaker presenting in English, which can enhance the presenter's credibility and relatability. This effort signals to the audience that the presenter is not only knowledgeable but also deeply committed to sharing their insights, regardless of the linguistic challenge.
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Jose Arias, CISSP, ITIL
Mainframe Security Specialist
Mainframe & Security Blog in Spanish: https://blog.jfarias.com/
Original Message:
Sent: Thu August 01, 2024 04:17 PM
From: Kathryn DuPont
Subject: Tell Us: What makes a great presenter at a conference session?
As we ramp up for the IBM TechXchange Conference in Las Vegas, presenters are preparing their decks and demos.
Our question to you is - what makes a presentation most useful, engaging, and memorable.
Give us your tips and tricks here!
/kd
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Kathryn DuPont
Advocacy Engagement Leader, IBM TechXchange
IBM
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