Techweek 2012 Call for Speakers Deadline Extended to Monday, Jan. 23

Have you submitted your session to speak at Techweek 2012 yet? Good work! For all of you contacting us for advice on session topics or additional time to find co-panelists to fill out your session — you’re in the clear.

The deadline for Call for Speakers has been extended until 11:59 p.m. CST on Monday, January 23. If you’ve been in the throes of creating your session, take heed — here are five ways to create an awesome session. We’re talking about an edge-of-the-seat, enthralled, can’t-take-your-eyes-off the stage session:
Be upfront — title your session with passion. Be creative, original, educational and even controversial! For example, instead of “Women in Social Media”, in 2011 there was a session titled, “Social Media Magic: a Woman’s Touch”.

A great session’s greatness is understood — you don’t need to shout it. There’s no need to brag about yourself or your company. Present with confidence on a topic you’re an expert in and everyone will see it.

Awesome in numbers — diversify your speakers. Try having a panel or a dual presentation instead of a solo session. An audience loves to see multiple sides of a topic and potentially gets to see a speaker get their debate on.

Love the people. Engage with your audience. Don’t make your session topic only about you speaking. Include audience participation by asking questions, a show of hands, or adding a demonstration.

Lastly, it is all about the presentation. Don’t forget to turn on your mojo in your session description! Audiences will attend sessions that exude a passion for the topic at hand.

Voting for Techweek 2012 sessions begins on Jan. 30!