Sue Jacques

Speaking in front of an audience doesn't come naturally to very many people, which is why so many talks and presentations are boring and routine. This is particularly true in the healthcare world, where practitioners are usually noted for their technical skills, not their orating talents.

Still, it's expected that physicians who take the stage are confident in their ability to share their research findings, practical experiences, and medical know-how. Whether you're preparing to present a paper at a large conference or gearing up to address a small group of colleagues, here are seven ways to turn your next speech into a memorable audience experience.

How to give a great speech

When it comes to public speaking, preparation is the key. Knowing the room layout, audience makeup, technical details, and each of your points like the back of your hand enables you to ad lib a bit, creating a more conversational, fluid, and natural presentation. Always know at the beginning of your talk precisely what you're going to say at the end, because that's what people will remember.

is The Civility CEO®, a veteran forensic medical investigator turned corporate civility expert, keynote speaker, and author. Jacques helps individuals, businesses, and medical practices gain confidence, earn respect, and prosper through professionalism. She can be reached at

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Whether you are presenting a paper at a large conference or addressing a small group of colleagues, here are seven ways to make your next speech memorable.

The Best Ways to Show Gratitude to Patients and Staff

Thanksgiving is a special time of year. Families, friends, colleagues, and even strangers go out of their way to gather together to share gratitude, reminisce about positive accomplishments, and feast on the bounties of life.

But why reserve appreciation for one special weekend? Especially since extending expressions of sincere gratitude on a regular basis can go a long way toward enhancing the general tone within professional, domestic, and community environments year-round.

The results of feeling gratitude extend beyond the recipients of thoughtful feedback, though. Expressing spontaneous and genuine words of kindness can have a positive impact on the benefactors of such sentiments, as well.

Here are six simple civility suggestions that will inspire you to genuinely - and generously - share your thankfulness.

a veteran forensic medical investigator turned corporate civility and professionalism consultant, speaker and coach who helps individuals and businesses gain confidence, earn respect, and create courteous corporate cultures.

Sharing kind words with patients and staff is critical to building strong relationships. Here are six ways to show gratitude more effectively.


Freshen Up Your Practice Waiting Room

One of the negative consequences of spending countless hours at your office is that it can lead to a unique type of vision loss - one where you overlook the obviously drab decor that your patients see with startling clarity.

From reading material to wall color, keeping your reception area contemporary, clean, and comfortable is one more way to demonstrate that your medical skills are up to date. Why? If your surroundings are antiquated, patients may deduce that you are, too.

Here are seven budget-minded ways to refresh the atmosphere at your practice:

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From reading material to wall color, keeping your reception area contemporary, clean, and comfortable is one more way to demonstrate that your medical skills are up to date. 

Strong social abilities are crucial for personal and professional success. Patients, colleagues, and the medical community all benefit from a physician's ability to network and communicate with confidence. Moreover, mastering such skills enhances relationships, ultimately leading to increased career satisfaction and job security.

Socializing doesn't come naturally to everyone, though. Many people, including highly skilled doctors, can become paralyzed by feelings of discomfort in everyday networking situations. While networking and teamwork are commonly referred to as "soft" skills, they can be some of the hardest to master.

Here are seven ways you can polish your presence, both online and off.

These “soft skills” can be the hardest to master.