How do you highlight your expertise and credibility in your conference proposal?

1 Know your audience

Before you start writing your proposal, you need to understand who your audience is and what they are looking for. Research the conference theme, goals, and topics, and check the previous editions to see what kind of presentations were accepted and well-received. Identify the main challenges, questions, and interests of your potential attendees, and tailor your proposal to address them. Use clear and specific language that matches the level and tone of the conference, and avoid jargon and acronyms that might confuse or alienate your audience.

2 Highlight your contribution

One of the most important aspects of your proposal is to demonstrate how your presentation will contribute to the conference and the field. What is the main problem, gap, or opportunity that you are addressing? What is the main argument, message, or outcome that you are delivering? How is your presentation different, innovative, or relevant to the current context and trends? Provide evidence and examples that support your claims, and show how your presentation will add value, insight, or impact to the conference and the field.

3 Showcase your expertise

Another key element of your proposal is to showcase your expertise and credibility in your topic. Why are you qualified and suitable to speak about this topic? What is your background, experience, or credentials that relate to your presentation? How have you developed, applied, or tested your ideas or methods in your practice or research? How have you engaged with other experts, sources, or perspectives in your field? Provide details and references that demonstrate your knowledge, skills, and authority in your topic, and highlight your achievements, awards, or recognition if relevant.

5 Solicit feedback

Before you submit your proposal, it is a good idea to solicit feedback from someone who can give you an objective and constructive opinion. Ask a colleague, mentor, or friend who is familiar with your topic or field, or who has experience in presenting or reviewing conference proposals, to read your proposal and give you suggestions for improvement. You can also ask them to check your proposal for clarity, coherence, and persuasiveness. Soliciting feedback shows that you are open to learning and improving, and that you care about delivering a high-quality presentation.

6 Be confident

The last tip to highlight your expertise and credibility in your conference proposal is to be confident in yourself and your presentation. Show enthusiasm, passion, and curiosity for your topic, and convey a clear and strong voice in your proposal. Avoid using tentative or apologetic language, such as "I hope", "I think", or "I'm sorry", and instead use assertive and confident language, such as "I argue", "I demonstrate", or "I propose". Be confident in your proposal shows that you believe in your presentation and that you can engage and inspire your audience.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?