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Before Your Presentation
- Prepare a 30 second and a 60 second speech about your research poster. Considering how quickly observers interact with research posters, it is best have something prepared.
- Memorize your poster structure. This can help you quickly point out notable sections or sections of inquiry.
- Find information on the size of the presentation room and your poster location.
- Determine accessibility practices that can be taken to promote equity when presenting.
- Make sure that your poster is the right size and orientation for the session.
- Have a trusted friend, mentor, and/or peer proofread your poster.
- Become familiar with the theme of the conference in case it impacts your presentation.
- Prepare business cards or another form of contact information.
- Acquire a notebook for the session (observer comments and considerations).
- Acquire push-pins to bring to the session.
- Review your poster to be sure that there are a limited number of acronyms.
- Practice speaking to someone with knowledge of your subject.
During Your Presentation
- Make eye contact when speaking to observers.
- Speak to small groups to avoid repeating yourself throughout the session.
- Speak slowly and with a clear tone.
- Don't chew gum.
- Know your subject material.
- Highlight your findings and discussion as this may inspire your observers to conduct research in your area.
- Try to explain your research in the simplest terms.
- Take notes on recommendations from observers.
- Connect your research to popular research in the field.
- Handout business cards or any other contact information.
- Bring a bottle of water.
- Create small handouts that explain your research or point to the location of your research in an online space.
After Your Presentation
- Follow-up with any contacts made at the poster session.
- Discuss your experience with your research advisor.
- Discuss preserving your research poster with a librarian at your institution. There may be ways to save your work for future use and viewing.
- Determine what to do with your physical poster. Remember, you may continue your research in the future.
- Share your work in your professional group, including on social media
- Discuss your research and poster experience with aspiring researchers
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