Eventually Deliver Better Presentations
Jack Simms
This talk takes on the unique challenges technical speakers face, confronting the fear of public speaking and highlighting that failure isn’t just inevitable—it’s part of the journey to growth. To demonstrate this, the speaker revisits mistakes from their first ACCU talk—a 20-minute presentation that didn’t exactly go to plan—revealing the lessons learned along the way.
They will then re-attempt a 20-minute segment within this 90-minute session. Presenting on a challenging technical topic, they purposely choose to directly trigger their imposter syndrome and fear of speaking. The goal? To show that by embracing mistakes, you can transform self-doubt into a powerful tool for connection and learning.
If you’ve ever had ideas or questions but hesitated, thinking, “Maybe I’ll just keep quiet,” this talk is for you. It’s aimed at anyone who feels anxious about speaking up—whether that’s presenting an idea on stage or simply asking a question. This isn’t a polished public speaking masterclass (they wish!); it’s an honest attempt by someone facing their fears in real time. By openly embracing and exposing their vulnerability, this talk aims to reveal how leaning into imperfection helps unlock the power of community, shared learning, and growth.
Jack Simms
After university, I moved from Portsmouth to London, taking on an IT Support role at Chesterfield Group. This role has given me the chance to apply my skills in unique ways, creating solutions that address persistent issues, often by rethinking traditional IT support approaches. I’ve enjoyed using my technical foundation from my degree to resolve challenges with creativity and curiosity.
I’m known as a "people person" and have a knack for public speaking, from tech presentations to my part-time past teaching cocktail-making at private events. I’m passionate about creating interesting, engaging talks where I hope the audience finds my topics as thought-provoking as I do.
Outside work, I’m always learning – recently about UK fungi identification, which I never expected to enjoy so much! I have an appreciation for simplicity in solutions, and I believe that sometimes, the best "engineering" answer is the simplest one, even if that means thinking outside of traditional software. I didn’t come from a typical tech background; if I could go back, I might have studied English Literature for its creative value, but software and electronics captured me with the power to create and innovate.
I thrive in conference settings like ACCU and have been eagerly thinking about returning since Gail’s invitation in 2023. I love hearing talks that challenge me and push me to understand things outside my wheelhouse – a testament to my last talk! I’m excited at the chance to bring some new ideas to the stage and to connect with more inspiring minds in the software world.