Conferences, summits, and annual general meetings are exciting — whether you’re there to share your work or you’re the one making it all happen. But here’s something many people forget: success isn’t just about a great presentation or a busy booth. It’s about making sure everyone can follow along and feel included. 

Here are a few easy ways for you to get conference-ready and get your message across. 

1. Get your materials audience-ready 

Whether you’re handing out flyers or creating the full event program, clear and accessible materials make a big difference. 

• If you’re attending: keep brochures, program overviews and slides short, clear, and easy to read. 

• If you’re hosting: provide programs, speaker bios and schedules in the most common languages of your audience. 

2. Make signage work for everyone 

Good signs guide people without them having to ask. 

• If you’re attending: make booth banners and table signs easy to spot and read. 

• If you’re hosting: translate or simplify directional signs and on-screen schedules so guests can navigate with ease. 

3. Help your presentations to succeed 

Small tweaks can make your talk more engaging for everyone.  

• If you’re attending: share handouts or a short summary in your audience’s preferred language. 

• If you’re hosting: consider captions, translations, or a quick overview in multiple languages for your main sessions. 

4. Give your team a helping hand with language 

A friendly greeting in someone’s first language can go a long way. 

• If you’re attending: learn a few key phrases and practice saying them naturally. 

• If you’re hosting: train volunteers or staff to greet and help guests in the most common languages. 

5. Follow up in their language 

The real magic happens after the event.  

• If you’re attending: send your thank-yous and follow-up offers in your audience’s language. 

• If you’re hosting: share recordings, slides, or post-event surveys in more than one language to keep the conversation going. 

Whether you’re stepping up to the mic or welcoming guests at the door, a little preparation when it comes to language makes your event warmer, friendlier and more memorable for everyone.   

P.S.: Got a conference, summit, or AGM on the calendar? I can help you make it more welcoming for every guest. Let’s create a plan that works for you.