Speaker Preparation Guide

Feel confident. Sound clear. Stay connected.

A great presentation starts with a clear message—and a microphone that is used correctly.

This guide will help you prepare for your presentation, understand how to use your microphone, and know where to stand on stage. Following these simple guidelines will help the audience hear you clearly and allow the production team to provide the best possible sound.

Where to stand

Whenever possible, remain inside the designated presentation area shown to you during the sound check. This area is selected so that:

  • The audience can see you

  • The lighting reaches you properly

  • Cameras can capture you

  • Your microphone remains clear and stable

  • You stay away from areas where feedback is more likely

You may move naturally within the presentation area, but avoid wandering to the far sides of the room or stepping off the stage without first checking with the production team.

Stay in the presentation area

The main loudspeakers are normally positioned near the front of the stage and aimed toward the audience.

Remain behind the front edge of the loudspeakers whenever possible.

Walking directly in front of a loudspeaker while wearing or holding a live microphone may cause a loud ringing or squealing sound known as feedback.

Stay behind the main speakers

Avoid standing:

  • Directly in front of a loudspeaker

  • Directly underneath a loudspeaker

  • Between a loudspeaker and the audience

  • Beside a floor monitor unless instructed

  • Near another active microphone that is not being used

If the production team places tape marks on the floor, use them as your guide.

Do not stand directly beside a loudspeaker

Before Your Presentation

Please arrive early enough to complete a brief microphone and sound check.

During the sound check, the production team may:

  • Fit or position your microphone

  • Confirm how your name should be pronounced

  • Check the level of your voice

  • Review where you should stand

  • Confirm how slides, videos, or audience questions will be handled

  • Explain how the microphone will be turned on and off

Speak at your normal presentation volume during the sound check. Whispering or speaking unusually loudly makes it difficult to set the microphone correctly.

Once your microphone has been checked, please do not move, adjust, mute, unplug, or exchange it unless a technician asks you to.