Don't assume anything

Even the most well-meaning program chairperson cannot always be counted on to arrange conditions that are favorable to the speaker or to provide all the information the speaker should have. The chairperson might feel that her responsibility is over once you have made a commitment to speak. It is up to you, the speaker, to inquire about details of the event. It is perfectly appropriate to do so.

Let's consider some of the details you will want to know after you have accepted and before you start to prepare your remarks. To use a phrase popularized during the national debate on healthcare legislation in 1992, the devil is in the details.

Obviously, you will get all the necessary information, such as date, time, and place. I suggest you ask for this kind of information to be confirmed in writing to eliminate any possibility of a mix-up. Don't forget to ask for the name, address, and telephone number of the president, program chair, or someone else in the organization whom you can call or write for additional information. Be certain you know how to pronounce any names you might use in your speech.