Training Course on Advanced Public Speaking for Health Professionals

Module 1: Foundations of Effective Public Speaking
Understanding the Role of Public Speaking in Healthcare
Why health professionals must be effective communicators.
Public speaking for education, advocacy, leadership, and research dissemination.
Overcoming Fear and Anxiety
Psychological roots of stage fright.
Breathing, grounding, and visualization techniques to build confidence.
Verbal and Non-Verbal Communication
Posture, gestures, facial expressions, and eye contact.
Voice projection, clarity, and articulation.
Identifying Speaking Contexts
Scientific conferences.
Media and press briefings.
Patient/community education.
Advocacy with policymakers.
Activity: Guided self-assessment of speaking strengths and areas of improvement.

Module 2: Structuring Powerful Health Presentations
Clarity in Health Messaging
Simplifying technical language for non-medical audiences.
Avoiding jargon while maintaining accuracy.
Speech and Presentation Frameworks
The “3-part speech structure” (Introduction, Body, Conclusion).
Storytelling arc (problem, journey, solution).
Persuasion frameworks (logos, ethos, pathos).
Using Evidence and Data
Presenting statistics in understandable and compelling ways.
Visualizing complex health data.
Openings and Closings
Crafting memorable hooks.
Ending with a call to action.
Exercise: Transform a journal abstract into a short, engaging oral presentation.

Module 3: Engaging Different Audiences
Audience Analysis
Understanding demographics, knowledge levels, and expectations.
Tailoring tone and depth to suit professionals, patients, policymakers, or the public.
Storytelling in Healthcare
Patient-centered narratives to humanize data.
Balancing emotional appeal with scientific credibility.
Cultural Sensitivity in Speaking
Avoiding bias and exclusionary language.
Inclusive communication across diverse cultural backgrounds.
Handling Q&A Sessions
Responding to tough questions with diplomacy.
Managing interruptions and misinformation.
Role Play: Simulated press conference with unexpected or hostile questions.

Module 4: Enhancing Delivery with Tools and Technology
Presentation Tools
Slide design principles (simplicity, visuals, readability).
Avoiding clutter and “death by PowerPoint.”
Multimedia and Digital Tools
Incorporating videos, animations, and infographics.
Engaging remote and hybrid audiences effectively.
Delivery Techniques
Voice modulation, pacing, and pauses for emphasis.
Practicing rhythm and storytelling cadence.
Technology in Practice
Using microphones, teleprompters, and cameras effectively.
Managing technical glitches with professionalism.
Workshop: Deliver a 3-minute talk using slides and multimedia for peer feedback.

Module 5: Mastery, Feedback, and Real-World Application
Techniques for Lasting Impact
Crafting memorable soundbites and key takeaways.
Using humor and emotion appropriately.
Building Authority and Presence
Establishing credibility through delivery style.
Positioning oneself as a thought leader in healthcare.
Feedback and Continuous Growth
Giving and receiving constructive feedback.
Recording and reviewing speeches for self-improvement.
Real-World Application
Preparing for upcoming conferences, community events, or press interviews.
Networking and speaking opportunities for health professionals.
Capstone Activity: Deliver a final 5-minute keynote-style talk on a chosen healthcare issue, with peer and trainer evaluations