For many, one of the hardest challenges you can face in a MUN conference is having confidence. But, it’s important to remember that feeling confident and sounding confident are two different things. It’s absolutely possible to sound confident, without necessarily feeling the part– no one would be able to tell the difference. “Fake it til you make it,” as the saying goes. Feeling confident will come in time, with practice and ease. But for now, here are some tips to help you sound confident to others.

 

Speak with purpose

 

There is a common misconception that the louder you are, the more you talk, the faster you talk makes you sound more confident. This isn’t necessarily true, in fact, it would probably hurt your ability to communicate with others at a conference. Instead, speak purposefully. This means speaking like you have something important to say. Speak with decisiveness and firmness that lets others know that you have something to contribute to the conversation.

Do your research

One of the most helpful things you can do to sound confident is to know your stuff. Before the conference, make sure you research thoroughly, both the topic of the conference, and how to conduct MUN procedure. I guarantee, knowing these things, and prepping them ahead of time, will absolutely help you sound more confident in the conference. And don’t forget to share what you know with your fellow delegates!

Avoid filler words

Avoid using common filler words like um, er, like, etc. These words can make you sound like you're struggling to insert yourself in a conversation. By avoiding these words, you can sound more decisive, more in-control, and more confident.

Be careful of your tone

When you are speaking make sure you are paying attention to your tone. People have a tendency to sound like they are apologizing for speaking and occupying attention, communicated through the tone of their voice. Instead, try to be aware of this, and use a tone that communicates that you demand to be heard, that you have something valuable to say, and that you aren’t apologizing for sharing it.

Project confidence 

Sounding confident is about more than just what you say, it's how you project yourself. So, pay attention to your body language. Shoulders tucked inwards and slouched position communicates that you don’t want to occupy too much space, almost like you are hiding. Whereas, shoulders down and out, good posture, chin slightly up, back straight, can help you communicate that you are a worthy and confident delegate. 

Participate!

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Ultimately, the best way to sound confident is to just get involved. Instead of sitting and waiting for someone to include you in a conversation, take initiative and do it yourself. Signing up to join the speakers list, creating alliances, and just participating in general will help others view you as a more confident candidate.

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Hopefully, these tips and tricks will help you sound and ultimately feel a little more confident at your next conference. And remember, just because you don’t feel confident, doesn’t mean you don’t project it to those around you.