Public Speaking Tips! 🗣️

 Hi Delegates! 

We are almost at our two-week countdown until BMUN 72! *yayy*

As you all prepare for the conference, please know it's completely normal to feel excited, nervous, or feel any kind of way toward public speaking!

Whether it is your first or last time attending a conference, please maintain full respect and understanding toward the progress of others and yourselves. BMUN is ultimately a learning conference more than anything, and we value your growth over all else. 

As you prepare for Conference, here are some pointers for public speaking: 

  • Know your country's position prior: Before conference, research the country you'll be representing and familiarize yourself with its stance on the topics to be discussed. Be ready to present some of the issues raised in your position paper! This will allow you to speak with authority and conviction.
  • Prepare an opening speech: Write out a short speech that you can use to introduce yourself and your country's stance on the topics being debated. Rehearse this speech several times to make sure you are confident and comfortable with it.
  • Engage in active listening: During the conference, it's important to listen to what others have to say and respond appropriately. Showing interest in others' perspectives will help you build relationships and find common ground.
  • Use formal language: MUN conferences are formal settings and it's important to use appropriate language. Avoid slang or casual language and instead, refer to exigent and academic speech. 
  • Posture and Tone: Keep in mind the posture and tone of confident speakers; standing up straight, projecting your voice for the room to hear, and maintaining a formal tone allow you to excel in your speaking skills!
  • Be persuasive: The goal of MUN is to negotiate and find solutions to global issues. When speaking, use persuasive techniques such as using facts and statistics to support your arguments, making concessions, and proposing compromise.                                                                                        
Last but not least, it's important to note that at BMUN, we welcome delegates of all different levels of experience and grades. Please remember to practice ideals of kindness, humility, and respect with your peers. If you would like feedback or pointers on how to improve your speaking skills, please do not hesitate to approach the dias at any point of the conference to discuss some ways to improve! 

We are here to see you have a successful BMUN. Remember to stay confident and stay true to your country's position, and you'll be sure to make an impact. 

Sincerely, 
Madelyn Diaz, Vice Chair 
UN WHO Committee, BMUN LXXII 

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Pictured: a biker passing through University Drive and the Valley Life Sciences Building, with the seasonal bloom of UC Berkeley's cherry blossoms. Courtesy of UCB Student Affairs Commission

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