1) Don’t act like a rabid animal
Attempting to shout down your opponent only draws attention to their message.
2) Do your homework
Make sure you understand your own argument. You look foolish if you are unprepared. Reading and understanding data is critical. Leave your emotions at the door. Challenge your opponent with substantive and rational arguments.
“I don’t care about your feelings and neither does anyone else.”
3) Stump me in the Q&A, not during my speech
Refrain from disruptions during your opponent’s speech. If you want to challenge his positions, wait your turn.
4) Whichever side resorts to violence, intimidation or aggression, loses
Self explanatory, really.
5) Your institution’s reputation is in your hands. Remember that
Remember that it’s not just you who acquires a negative reputation for your behavior, it’s the institution you represent. Some of your peers won’t be happy when you devalue their brand.
