Chairing is a skill. One that is learnable. Follow my tips below and you will have a conference that is focused, with the right tone and one that everyone will have enjoyed.

Dress code – find out the tone of the conference and dress appropriately
Introduction – remember to cover:
   o Objectives of the conference
   o What the delegates will get from the conference
   o Agenda and any last minute changes
   o Reinforce the timings
   o Cover and Health & Safety notices
   o Be upbeat and positive!
Awareness – be alert and aware of the conference surroundings. For example:
   o Delegates are not too spread out or cramped
   o Room temperature is comfortable
   o There is adequate water / sweets on each table
   o Comfort breaks are well spaced and planned
   o Lighting and sound are correct
   o Delegates have their delegate pack and paper to make notes on
   o Speakers presentations can be clearly seen
Map the delegates – draw a mind map of the seating and write down the delegates name. You can then address them by name during the Questions and answer or discussions. Very effective!
Time keeping – make sure you keep to time throughout the conference. Good to synchronise your watch with that of the delegates!
Tone of voice – sound authoritative yet personal and friendly. Speak clearly yet not too loud
Balanced and fair – especially during Questions and answer and discussions
Mixing – circulate amongst delegates during breaks and lunch. Great way to find out how your event is received!
Plan for the unexpected – rehearse in your mind for the unexpected for example a fire alarm or delegate taken ill. In one conference, I had a false bomb scare!
Interruption strategy – both from the floor and how you will interrupt a speaker who has run out of time
Thank you – thank the speakers and delegates at the end of the conference.

Tips on effective chairing of a conference