The event, sponsored by Barclays, was attended by more than 150 delegates representing organisations from across the private, public, and third sectors.
Commenting on the conference theme of finding the ‘competitive edge’, Julia said:
“What is the competitive edge? It’s you. And having the confidence to be the best of you. As human beings we react emotionally to feeling exposed and judged by people. So it’s easy to be in a reactive place.
“If we don’t feel confident inside, it’s likely that will tell on the outside. Can we control this? Yes we can. What we need is a magic coat to wrap ourselves in to keep us safe and true in those situations where we feel exposed, vulnerable and judged.”
The conference was organised by the IoD Young Directors Forum.
Newly appointed Young Directors Forum Chair Naoimh McAteer said:
“The Young Directors Conference is the flagship event of the IoD’s Young Directors Forum and each year presents an unrivalled opportunity to meet together to learn and develop our skills.
“Confidence is vitally important in business relations, so it was tremendous to gain insights from Julia on how to make a first-class impression in the boardroom and the wider corporate world.”
In addition to the keynote session, the conference, which was also sponsored by Grant Thornton, MCS Group, and SONI included a networking lunch, and panel sessions featuring emerging and established business leaders.
Speakers included Conall Laverty, CEO, Wia, named on the Forbes 30 Under 30 list, David Whelan, CEO of Clarity Telecom, Colin Walsh, Founder of Crescent Capital, Dr Aislinn Rice, CEO, Analytics Engines, and Caroline Dowling, former Group President at Flex.
Gavin Campbell, Barclays Corporate Banking Relationship Director, added:
“The Young Directors Conference, for which we are proud to act as headline sponsor, has once again proven why the future of the Northern Ireland economy is in safe hands.
“It was a great pleasure to see so many talented young directors in one room and I know the lessons gained from what was an impressive line up of speakers will help them to hone their skills as they grow and lead businesses long into the future.”
Julia Goodman, a celebrated stage and screen actress, founded Personal Presentation 30 years ago, building up a list of blue-chip clients with whom she seeks to transform their understanding, ability and enjoyment of personal communication.
Julia Goodman, centre, was the keynote speaker at the IoD Young Directors Conference at the Merchant Hotel, Belfast. She is pictured with Naoimh McAteer, IoD Young Directors Forum Chair, and Gavin Campbell, Corporate Banking Relationship Director at event sponsor Barclays
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