If you’ve ever spoken at a local meetup, you know the mix of excitement and mild panic that comes with it. Will your slides work? Will you go over time? Will anyone laugh at your icebreaker?

Over the years, I’ve found that the most engaging events are those that follow a conference-style format—featuring multiple speakers, usually up to four. This setup gives more technical writers a chance to share their expertise while offering the audience a wider variety of topics and perspectives.

But coordinating several speakers at once takes planning. Below is a guide I’ve refined through hands-on experience to make each event run smoothly from start to finish.

Speaker Guide for Success

1. Avoid Live Demos

Resist the temptation to open live software or code during your presentation. Things will go wrong—Wi-Fi drops, screens freeze, or windows pop up in the wrong place. Instead, record a screencast in advance and embed it in your slide deck. You’ll stay on time, minimize stress, and keep the audience focused on your story, not your mouse.

2. Upload Your Slides to the Shared Deck

All presentations are managed through a Google Drive master deck. Add your slides to your assigned section so everything can be merged into one seamless file. This makes transitions between speakers effortless.

3. Test in Presentation Mode

Before uploading, run your slides in full presentation mode. If you built your deck in PowerPoint, note that some effects don’t render the same way in Google Slides—especially 3D transitions, custom fonts, and complex animations. Testing early avoids last-minute surprises during your talk.

4. Rehearse Your Timing and Flow

Practice out loud. A 15-minute slot disappears faster than you think. Rehearsing helps you fine-tune your pacing, identify awkward transitions, and ensure your story lands naturally within the time limit.If possible, run through your slides once standing up—it changes your energy and delivery.

5. Use the Provided Clicker

You’ll receive a wireless clicker so you can move around freely and control your slides at your own pace.If you’re unfamiliar with it, ask for a quick demo before the session starts—muscle memory helps when you’re live.

6. Dress to Impress

We’ll be taking photos and recording video throughout the event, so dress as you would for a conference or professional presentation. You don’t have to go formal—just clean, confident, and camera-ready.

7. Check Your Laptop Ports

If your laptop doesn’t have a USB-C port, please notify the organizer in advance so the right adapters can be provided.

8. Enjoy Yourself

If you’ve followed these steps, you’ve done the hard part. Take a breath, smile, and engage with your audience. Energy is contagious—and your excitement helps set the tone for the entire 

Final Thoughts

Conference-style meetups give our community more opportunities to learn, connect, and grow. Whether you’re a first-time presenter or a returning speaker, your preparation helps create an event that’s both professional and enjoyable.

So review the checklist, polish your slides, and bring your enthusiasm—I’ll handle the rest behind the scenes.