From Proposal to Presentation. 10 ways to help ensure that your proposal makes it to the top of the pile

Transcription

1 From Proposal to Presentation 10 ways to help ensure that your proposal makes it to the top of the pile

2 43RD ANNUAL CONFERENCE NATIONAL WELLNESS National Wellness CONFERENCE NAVIGATING WELLNESS MAPPING A POSITIVE PATH JUNE 18-20, 2018 ST. PAUL, MN

3 Thank you for considering submitting a breakout session proposal for our 2018 National Wellness Conference. The inspiration and participation that you bring to our conference and our organization are what help the NWI family to be the best that we can be, together. While there is no guarantee of acceptance, following these guidelines will assist you in submitting your best possible proposal to the 2018 National Wellness Conference Review and Planning Committee.

4 #1: Read The Proposal Guidelines First Make a checklist of required materials. Understand the selection criteria and benefits. Anticipate changes in the proposal guidelines from year to year. You can view 2018 guidelines at: NationalWellness.org/NWCProposals

5 #2: Consider the Theme Although not required, you are encouraged to incorporate the NWC 2018 theme: Navigating Wellness: Mapping a Positive Path. The theme can be loosely interpreted but may provide inspiration for your proposal. How can your presentation help attendees navigate the current wellness landscape?

6 #3: Keep It Simple... Yet Detailed Include enough information in your description so the reviewers understand exactly what you ll be covering during the session. Use terms new wellness professionals will understand; define any highly technical terms. If you ve coined a phrase, please don t assume the reviewers (or potential attendees) will know what you mean without explaining it.

7 #4: Know Yourself... And Your Audience Keep your résumé/c.v. easily accessible throughout the year and update it when you complete a new task, obtain a certification, give a presentation, or have a success. Include dates of work/education on all materials so your dedication and experience are evident. Learn as much as you can about the conference (and attend!), the attendees/target audience, and the hosting organization before writing your proposal.

8 #5: Include a Detailed Outline Demonstrate the thought you have put into the presentation by being VERY specific. Include details of every step. (e.g., instead of simply Intro say Introduce a. b. c. ) Note specific references, studies, examples, etc. that legitimize the presentation.

9 #6: Keep It Current Don t repeat a session you ve previously presented; if the topic is similar, give it a fresh, new title, update the references, and give it a new spin. Describe how the topic is applicable today. Help the reviewers understand why this needs to be presented now.

10 #7: Back Up Your Claims Include up-to-date, current references and research and best or promising practices examples. Include a variety of references from multiple sources. Reference peer-reviewed journals.

11 #8: Proof, Proof, and Proof Again Type up your proposal and spellcheck (and verify character limits) before copying and pasting it into the submission form. Have an editor or colleague proof your proposal materials. Would you submit a book manuscript without having someone read through it? Did you miss any important details? Check one more time.

12 #9: Check for Completeness Incomplete proposals will be not be considered. Have you checked everything off your submission requirements list? Even if you have presented previously, have you submitted your proposal as if you and the topic are brand-new to the conference? This is best. If you see lots of white space, ask yourself if you missed something or could have included more details.

13 #10: Be Aware of Deadlines Start compiling your materials early so you have time to review and ask questions, if needed. Proposals for NWC 2018 must be submitted online by Oct. 16, NWI will begin notifying Breakout Session applicants via of proposal acceptance status Nov. 20, 2017.

14 Thank you again for taking the time to send in your ideas for a captivating breakout session. We look forward to seeing them! NationalWellness.org/Conference