Virtual vs. In-Person Conferences: Including Original Locations on Your CV

In the ever-evolving landscape of conferences, some events are initially planned as in-person gatherings but later converted to virtual formats due to unforeseen circumstances. This raises the question: should you include the original venue in your CV when presenting at a fully virtual conference? This article explores the best practices and considerations regarding this issue.

General Acceptance and Context

It is generally acceptable to list the original intended location on your CV. Doing so provides potential employers and reviewers with accurate context about the event. Even though the final format was virtual, the important aspect is that you attended and presented at the conference, regardless of its mode of delivery.

Important Considerations

Whenever you mention the original location, it's crucial to make it clear that the event was ultimately virtual. This ensures that your audience understands the context and the format of the conference. For example, you might write:

Original venue: XXX City, XXX Country. Presented as part of the [Virtual Conference Name].

Is It Warranted?

Whether or not to include the original location can vary depending on the nature of the event and the conference's name. If the location is integral to the identity of the event (for example, Lindau for Nobel laureates or Davos for economic discussions), it might make sense to use the location in the name of the conference. However, for most events, simply noting the virtual nature is sufficient and may be more appropriate.

Examples

Original venue: Chicago, IL, USA.

Virtual presentation: APA 2021 Convention [Chicago, IL, USA; virtual meeting].

Original venue: Berlin, Germany.

Virtual presentation: European Economic Summit [Berlin, Germany; virtual event].

What Does It Add?

The only additional information the original location might provide is historical reference. If the event's name includes the venue, it can clarify the past context for those reading your CV. However, for most professional purposes, it's more important to highlight the fact that you presented and the name of the conference itself.

In Conclusion

For most conferences, simply noting the virtual aspect is sufficient. Including the original location can be useful for context, especially if the conference is known by its location. However, unnecessary details can sometimes create confusion.

When presenting at a virtual conference, consider the following:

Incorporate the original location if it is crucial to the event's identity. Clearly label the event as virtual. Focus on the content and your contribution to the conference.

By following these guidelines, you can present your CV effectively while maintaining clarity and relevance.

Further Reading

For more in-depth information on conference presentations and virtual engagement, visit the APA Convention 2021 - American Psychological Association.