With the Call for Presentation Proposals for Ascend 2025 closing on January 24, 2025, the final week is your golden opportunity to submit a winning proposal. As your OATUG Agenda Chair, I have seen proposal submissions surge in this final stretch. These 25 tips will guide you in crafting a standout submission that voters will champion.
1. Use Your OATUG-Linked Email
Ensure you use the email associated with your OATUG profile when submitting your proposal. This simplifies identification and ensures accuracy in member classification.
2. Originality Matters
Avoid recycling past topics unless they were exceptionally well-received. Plagiarized content or rehashed presentations will lead to disqualification. Authenticity is key—share fresh, original ideas.
3. Craft an Intriguing Title
Keep your title under 125 characters and make it irresistible. A compelling title grabs attention and encourages voters and attendees to delve deeper.
4. Minimize Bias
Refrain from including your company name in titles or abstracts. This keeps the focus on content quality, eliminating bias during the voting process.
5. Maximize Abstract Impact
An 800-character abstract may seem lengthy but make every word count. Use concise, impactful sentences to maintain reader interest.
6. Keep It Accessible
Avoid jargon and technical language in abstracts and learning objectives. Assume a diverse audience—from novices to experts—and ensure clarity.
7. Steer Clear of Acronyms
Acronyms can confuse readers, as meanings vary across disciplines. Instead, spell out terms to ensure clarity and understanding.
8. Prioritize Practical Insights
Share actionable steps and practical solutions attendees can implement. Tailor your content to suit a beginner or intermediate audience.
9. Leverage Case Studies
Real-world success stories resonate. Highlight challenges and solutions without criticizing vendors or partners. A feel-good narrative often leaves a lasting impression.
10. Highlight Clear Learning Objectives
Attendees and reviewers focus on learning objectives to assess session value. Make these objectives specific, actionable, and audience focused.
11. Respect Character Limits
Ensure your content fits within submission guidelines. Truncated sentences can leave voters and attendees in suspense for the wrong reasons.
12. Polish for Perfection
Use tools like MS Word for spelling and grammar checks. Typos can detract from your credibility and diminish the impact of your proposal.
13. Use AI as an Assistant, Not the Author
Generative AI tools can refine your draft but shouldn’t replace your expertise. Combine AI’s polish with your technical depth for compelling content.
14. Avoid Overly Custom Solutions
Custom solutions may lack broad appeal. Instead, focus on standard functionality and relatable scenarios for a greater connection with the audience.
15. Let Creators Represent Third-Party Solutions
Third-party solutions are best presented by their creators. Highlight integration case studies rather than standalone solutions for broader relevance.
16. Collaborate with Co-Presenters
Joint presentations add diversity and expertise. Include co-presenters from user companies to enrich your session’s impact.
17. Choose the Right Track
Align your proposal with the most relevant education track. The right track selection increases the chances of resonating with your target audience.
18. Define Your Audience
Specify whether your session is functional, technical, or both. Clear targeting enhances your proposal’s appeal.
19. Diversify Session Content
Select from categories like “Tips and Tricks,” “Case Study,” or “Demo.” Variety keeps the agenda dynamic and engaging for attendees.
20. Highlight Your Presenter Type
Whether you’re a user, partner, or Oracle associate, make it clear. Transparency fosters trust and attracts the right audience.
21. Showcase Oracle ACE Status
If you’re an Oracle ACE, highlight it. This credential can significantly boost session interest and attendance.
22. Encourage First-Time Presenters
Ascend 2025 welcomes new voices. If it’s your first time presenting, mention it and seek guidance from OATUG Speaker Programs.
23. Seek Peer Reviews
A second set of eyes can refine your proposal and catch areas for improvement. Peer feedback often elevates the quality of your submission.
24. Submit Multiple Proposals
Increase your odds by submitting more than one proposal. With nearly 700 submissions last year, diversity in topics improves your chances.
25. Leverage Available Resources
Watch webinars like “How to Improve Your Chances of Being Selected to Speak at Ascend 2025” and “Secrets of Submitting a Winning Abstract at Ascend.” Listen to the OATUG podcast for expert tips and insights.
By following these actionable tips, you’ll create a proposal that captivates reviewers and attracts conference attendees. Best of luck, and we look forward to seeing your ideas shine at Ascend 2025!