Tips for speaking at a business conference

Here at Glen Clova, we’re looking forward to the opening of our new Scottish conference and events venue. The Barn is our stunning new development, coming this spring, which will be available for meetings and conferences for up to 150 guests. For those planning a business event with us, take a look at our new business blogs section for some tips and advice. Today, we’re focusing on speaking at a business conference. Being a speaker is an excellent opportunity to showcase expertise, build networks and enhance professional credibility. Here are some key tips to delivering a compelling talk…

1. Do your research

When holding a conference in Scotland, it’s useful to be aware of Scottish business etiquette, such as dress code and culture. However, conferences may attract a mix of local and international delegates, so also research the demographics and professional backgrounds of the attendees. Understanding their interests and expectations will help you tailor your content to be more relevant and engaging.

2. Arrive early

Our conference venue offers state-of-the-art facilities, such as a large screen TV, projector, speaker system and WiFi. Arrive early to familiarise yourself with the equipment and ensure your presentation is set up and ready before your audience arrives. Our team will be on hand to help you with this.

3. Structure your speech

First impressions matter, so it’s important to start with a powerful hook that immediately grabs the audience’s attention. This could be a surprising fact, a compelling quote or a thought-provoking question. Structure your speech with a clear introduction, body and conclusion. To make your message easy to understand, avoid unnecessary jargon and overly complex explanations.

4. Be engaging

Encourage questions, discussions or even quick polls to make your talk more dynamic. A conversational tone can make complex topics more digestible and relatable. A touch of humour can help build rapport, but it should remain professional. Good posture, steady eye contact and a controlled pace enhance your presence. Practice beforehand to refine your delivery, and be mindful of body language to project confidence.

5. Network effectively

Your presentation is just one part of the conference experience. Engage in networking sessions, panel discussions and informal conversations to build lasting professional connections.

Find out more about our new conference venue at Glen Clova. Our business hotel is set in the beautiful Angus Glens of Scotland, providing an impressive setting for your next conference or corporate event.