156. Listen To This If… You Need To Introduce A Speaker

Been asked to introduce a speaker: at a conference, on a panel, or at an event big or small,  and want to get it right? In this short episode, Jen and Michael share how to do that job well, starting with a reminder of what it’s actually for: warming up the room for the speaker, not showcasing yourself. They talk through the things that make all the difference - speaking to the person beforehand (and checking how to pronounce their name and their pronouns), finding one warm, human detail that no bio would give you, resisting the urge to read out a long list of accolades, and setting a calm, generous tone that the speaker can step straight into.

You can find more great advice here:

• Introducing a speaker? Here are 5 tips: On brevity, genuine enthusiasm, and striking the right balance between personal and professional.

• How to introduce a speaker (with examples): Practical, example-led advice on opening with a hook and telling a story rather than reading a bio aloud.

• Chairing sessions: A researcher-focused guide to introducing speakers warmly and chairing a session effectively.