FAQ: How to be an Awesome WordCamp Speaker

FAQ

So you’ve seen our call for speakers, and you keep clicking away from it.

Returning.

Clicking away.

As soon as you read it, you had an idea of what you’d like to say pop up in your head.

But you think you aren’t good enough. Trust us, you are.

We’ve had engaging presentations from long-time developers and simply even fans of WordPress. That’s what WordCamp is all about.

So here are a few misconceptions about speaking at WordCamp.

My talk has to be 45 minutes of hardcore WordPress speak.
Nope. Last year, I talked about my path to freelancing after leaving corporate life, and I shared some of me favorite WP plugins. Attendees want to know about every facet surrounding WP, including writing, blogging and design.

I have to be the absolute best in my field.
No. If you have a passion for WordPress, you are more than qualified. You don’t have to be labeled a “guru” or an “expert” to apply.

I should have lots of speaking experience.
This is also not true. In fact, this would be a great opportunity to break into public speaking, as WordCamp Birmingham attendees are friendly and welcoming.

My story is too insignificant to inspire others.
Never think that way about your WordPress story. Everyone’s introduction to WP is unique. Every one has a different talent or skill set. Even if you simply blog for your own personal benefit, there will be a WordCamper who wants to hear your story.

Are you ready to apply? Fabulous. Here are some tips and guidelines. 

Before WordCamp:

  • Slides will add a lot of value to your presentation and give your attendees a chance to take notes. Send over your slides to WordCamp as soon as you finalize them.
  • The presentation has to be relevant to WordCamp attendees and not simply a sales pitch for your product or plugin. Also, no inappropriate language or risque slides. WordCamp Birmingham and Wordcamp.tv are family friendly.
  • For speaking tips, the fine folks at WordCamp Asheville suggest using Speaking.io.

During WordCamp

  • Microphones and video cameras will be available. We will have more details about A/V when we receive them. Be sure to bring an A/V adapter, power cord, and what ever else you think you may need.
  • You will have 45 minutes to speak. It’s good to allow around 15 minutes for questions from the audience.
  • Introduce yourself and talk about how you incorporate WordPress into your life.
  • Chat with attendees, be enthusiastic and have a good time!

After WordCamp

  • Provide links (when available) to WordCamp organizers so attendees can check them out later.
  • If you have free time, and want to assist other attendees with WordPress queries, feel free to volunteer at the Happiness Bar.
  • Take a deep breath. You did it! Enjoy the rest of WordCamp.

We hope this gives you a good overview of your experience as a speaker. Apply now. We will make decisions the week of July 13. Contact us if you have any questions.