Poster development and presentation
Poster presentations are an integral part of academic conferences.
- They are an opportunity for you to meet others in your field, get feedback on your research, and promote yourself.
- Poster presentation involves two key aspects: creating a poster and presenting it in person.
- Both of these tasks require preparation and skill, as much if not more than a 20-minute conference talk.
1. Poster creation
Your poster:
- is usually hung in a space within the conference venue
- must tell a clear and compelling research ‘story’.
Watch this YouTube video about making an effective poster:
American Journal Experts (2016, September 19). Making a better research poster [Video file]. Retrieved from https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AwMFhyH7_5g
Looking for something different? Follow the YouTube links to other videos on academic posters.
Technical issues:
- Discuss with your supervisor/HDR Coordinator about funds to support printing costs.
- Poster layout is essential to success. You may need technical assistance.
- Give yourself time to print the poster before the conference.
- Carry it in a weatherproof sheath or cylinder marked with your name and contact details.
- Make sure you also have a USB or cloud back-up file.
2. Poster presentation
Presenting your poster at a conference involves:
- a ‘semi-structured’ conversation with conference delegates
- explanation of the research captured in the poster.
Here’s some excellent advice about presenting your poster:
There are many other YouTube videos about poster presentations. Find one that suits your particular needs.
Interpersonal issues:
- Be open and friendly but professional. Smile, and encourage delegates to stop at your poster.
- If they do not open the conversation, say, “Hello, I’m…. and You?….” “Can I tell you about my research?”
- Dress professionally.
- Invite questions from your ‘visitors’: don’t talk at them; talk with them by answering their questions.
- Point to the key visual information in your poster, and explain its significance.
- Acknowledge feedback: give thanks and, if relevant, say what you will do to follow their suggestions.
Other resources
Check out these RMIT University resources:
