Each meeting lasts 1-2 hours, depending on the number of participants and offers a supportive, feedback-oriented space to grow your skills. Meetings are usually in person. Online sessions can be arranged upon request.The maximum number of participants is 15.

Working language is English,, but some exercises and presentations can be done in German if preferred. During registration, we ask whether you’d like to practice a prepared presentation for a specific occasion (e.g., conference, job talk, interview).

Typical meeting structure:

1. Ice-breaker activity

2. Short prepared presentations (max. 10 minutes)

3. Feedback session

4. Practical exercises based on the meeting’s theme

 

Typical themes include:

• impromptu speaking

• self-introduction

• interviews

• challenging conversations

• Q&A sessions

• communication tips and tricks

• networking (small talk, follow-up etc.)

• negotiations

• ...

Everything shared during the meetings istreated confidentially. We want you to feel safe experimenting, trying new approaches and learning from each other.

Please register at least 24 hours before each meeting by emailing asc@wu.ac.at. Spots are assigned on a first come, first served basis.

Include the following information: 

• full name

• position (e.g., prae-doc, post-doc, research assistant, administrative staff, etc.)

• Indicate whether you'd like to practice a prepared presentation/job talk/interview at this meeting
  (Please note: Presentation slots are also assigned on a "first-come, first-served" basis.)

• You can join any meeting. Participation is non-binding.

• Attending one meeting does not commit you to future sessions or guarantee a presentation slot.

• What is discussed during meetings stays in the meeting.

• We are all about creating a friendly, relaxed, and inclusive space where everyone can feel comfortable practicing their presentation and communication skills – no pressure, no judgment.

• If you cannot attend, please inform us at least 2 days in advance so we can offer your spot to someone else.

Open to all WU employees - researchers at all levels and administrative staff.

The ASC is for you if you want to:

• Feel more confident in various communication situations

• Gain practical experience and receive feedback on your presentation style

• Practice prepared or impromptu speeches and interviews

• Connect with colleagues across WU and benefit from diverse perspectives

The Academic Speakers’ Club was founded in 2019 by six researchers from various departments who wanted a space for regular presentation practice. Over time, it evolved into a peer-to-peer mentoring community supported by the Personnel Development Office and various coaches.

After a break in Winter Semester 2023, the club is now being relaunched in Winter Semester 2025/26 under the leadership of Diana Lauer. Today, ASC is coordinated by a dedicated core team of WU colleagues who organize meetings, foster collaboration, and ensure each session provides real value.

But ASC is more than just events – it’s about building connections and collaboration among WU colleagues. Our long-term vision is to grow this community and bring together people who want to:

• Support each other’s personal and professional development

• Raise awareness of the importance of strong communication skills

• Create a culture of exchange, learning, and mutual growth at WU

If you share this vision, we’d love to hear from you – join us, contribute your ideas, or simply come and experience the ASC spirit.