LLAMA/NMRT New Leaders Discussion Group invites the submission of proposals for "Discussion Starters" at its meeting at the 2013 ALA Midwinter Conference in Seattle, WA, for a discussion titled "Speak Up: Developing Effective Public Speaking Skills."  A Discussion Starter is a short and informal presentation that aims to provide a starting point for lively conversations.

We look for enthusiastic Discussion Starters to share their experience (it could either be a positive experience or a lesson learned), helpful tips, and advice on the topics. A panel discussion format will be used for this part of the program. Each Discussion Starter will have 8 minutes to present their topic. We will then break into small groups (joined by Discussion Starters) for in-depth discussions of the topics and ideas raised.

At this year’s Midwinter conference, we are interested in topics focusing on how to develop public speaking skills to engage people and to effectively convey our message. We seek proposals for discussion starters that address this topic from a variety of angles, including (but not limited to):

 - Techniques that have contributed to your successful public speaking experience
 - Learning and growing from harrowing public speaking experiences
 - Advice and tips based on experience

Proposals are due by November 30. Notification of acceptance will be made by December 20.