Designing and submitting a session proposal is one of the most important activities in the fields where papers are presented on various aspects of a common topic. As a proposer it is your task to design a proposal which brings out your aim in clear and precise terms which can attract speakers on related work. The proposal clearly indicates the what, why, who, where, when and how of your session. I have listed a few guidelines for you to design an effective session proposal which will give you an edge and greatly improve chances of selection.
1. Topic Selection
Select a topic which will excite the target audience; and rouse media interest. It should be able to engender debate and discussion. The topic should have take-aways for the participants and audience.
2. Panel Selection
Aim to have an international panel of speakers. A theme spanning across disciplines and a clear unambiguous format will attract the right mix of panelists. Your proposal should convey that the session would be engaging and enjoyable, informative and interesting. Show your proposal to someone not connected with the field – if he finds it interesting, you are on the right track.
3. Funding
Check how your session will be funded. What arrangements are being made for the travel and accommodation expenses of the speakers and contributors? What other organizational arrangements have to be made? These are relevant questions which you will have to answer as the proposer.
4. Confirm Attendance
Get in touch with the speakers before you send off that proposal. Confirm that they will be attending the session. Remember that you are responsible for their stay, transportation and other needs. Aim to give your invitees an occasion to remember.
5. Take Help
Read and understand the requirements of the call for proposal. Discuss with your seniors, peers and mentors about your proposal if in doubt. Learn from their experience and heed their advice. Check up formats of successful proposals from the net. You can also collaborate with other panelists if required.
6. Revise and Re-revise
Before submitting your proposal, go through it thoroughly. Mentally sit on the selection committee and question each aspect of your proposal critically. Check the title and description for clarity and aptness. Does your abstract cover everything clearly, precisely and comprehensively? Have you allotted sufficient time for the speakers and for a question and answer session? If your panelists are international, have you catered for their specific needs? Be wary of trying to be humorous – it may not be understood, and at worst could be culturally offensive.
Go through your proposal several times till you get everything right. Imagine the session as you would like it to take place. Submit your proposal only when all angles have been covered and you are completely satisfied. Moreover it would be wise to get suggestion from experts before submitting your proposal.
Then submit your proposal!
Leave a Reply