From Good to Great: Improving Your Lecture Quality

It was my privilege to speak with Dr. Shorok Hassan. Dr. Hassan is well-known nationally as a dynamic speaker and for the superb quality of her lectures.Thank you, Dr. Hassan, for taking the time to participate in this interview.

What was your magical moment when you knew you were destined for speaking greatness?

SH:I would have to say during intern year when I had to present for the CPC (clinical pathology case) competition, which was the first time I lectured for a large audience. It brought out my creative side as I realized my slides needed to be unique in order to engage the audience and stand out from the other lectures. It forced me to take it up a notch which, apparently, seemed to resonate positively with the judges since I ended up winning that competition. From that point on, I was hooked. I found my voice and started to hone my skills to become a great speaker and, in turn, impart those lessons to future lecturers.

Many lecturers are hampered by a fear of public speaking. Is this something you’ve experienced and, if so, how did you overcome it?

SH: For sure! Getting up on that stage those first few times triggered my fear of public speaking. However, I was able to overcome it with some good ‘ole “mind over matter.” I would practice countless times and remind myself that, having put in the hard work, I was confident that I knew the content of which I spoke. Also, being passionate about the topic you are discussing and the art of speaking, in general, has helped. More importantly, I allowed myself to have fun with the process. Focusing on all of that, instead of the fear of being in front of an audience, freed me to enjoy the moment. In doing so, I found myself excited to be able to share useful information. I like to think that that enthusiasm has been contagious.

What is your process for developing a lecture?

SH: For me, it is important to start by choosing a topic which could be most beneficial and that I would truly enjoy presenting. Then, I build upon the topic by developing key take home points. From there, it is a matter of constructing slides with high quality images to serve as cues to re- ally drive home my points. After that, I practice and, at times, even record myself to see how I can improve. Finally, after perfecting my timing and even more practice, it’s “Go time!”

What opportunities would you recommend junior learners take advantage of to improve their lectures?

SH: Watch and learn from your EM lecturers and peers. Do something different to stand out. But, ultimately, remember to just BE YOURSELF. Let your personality shine! We all have something unique to bring to that stage. You want people to remember you and what you have to share.

Also, challenge yourself to accept the opportunities around you despite any fear. Perhaps start with lectures with audiences you may find slightly less intimidating. For example, try lecturing to medical students and grow from there. Lecture at your home institution(s) and then expand to other hospital conferences. Take part in various lecture competitions as this can be an excellent opportunity to learn and become more creative. After giving any lecture, don’t forget to ask for feedback. These are just some suggestions which hopefully can help you along the way to developing your skills as a lecturer.

Aside from those excellent tips, are there any resources that you would recommend?

SH: For one thing, don’t underestimate the power of learning from other lecturers. You can learn from watching those you find inspiring and even those you may find less so. There are plenty of helpful videos online which discuss how to be an effective speaker. You can also see examples of how lectures can be given on a multitude of topics such as by watching TED talks and going to national conferences. You may also want to consider attending, or watching, workshops which offer pointers as to how to be creative with your presentations. I would also recommend investing in a stock images service that gives you access to high quality photos, which can make a noticeable difference in your slides.

What do you love most about lecturing?

SH: That’s a tough question to answer with just one reply. There are so many ways I benefit from giving lectures. In preparing for every lecture, I learn something new each time. It excites me to see when I am able to reach my audience. The hope that they can leave the experience with a deeper understanding and, possibly, a spark of inspiration is an honor. And, who knows? Maybe it will help them get the motivation to step on stage and lecture, as happened to me. That is a feeling I will never forget.

What are your top 10 pearls for improving your lecture quality?

1. Just be yourself!

2. Be passionate about your topic.

3. Narrow your topic. “Less is more.”

4. Organize your thoughts by jotting down your major take home points.

5. Place this framework onto your slides. No bullet points!

6. Avoid making busy slides. Use those HD images.

7. Maintain good eye contact.

8. Avoid hiding behind the podium; be interactive while presenting.

9. No reading off the slides or pieces of paper. This is one of the fastest ways to lose your audience.

10. Again: PRACTICE, PRACTICE, PRACTICE. And be open to feedback.

Bonus tip! This can’t be stressed enough: Always remember to have fun with this process!