If you would like to create a presentation to doctors that is clear and persuasive, you will need to avoid the following (extremely common) mistakes.

1. NOT ASKING HOW MUCH TIME YOU HAVE!
The amount of time you have will impact the scope of your pitch story and whether you bring in details or stick to the broad strokes. Doctors are busy people. Try to stay within 10 to 15 min.

2. NOT KNOWING WHERE YOU WILL BE PRESENTING
Learn in advance the room’s setting and the screen’s dimensions. This will help you determine how to set up your slides. If possible, create two versions: for laptop, tablet, LCD (16X9) or a traditional screen (4X3).

Click here for details on slide setup

3. FAILING TO KNOW YOUR AUDIENCE WELL ENOUGH

The more you know about your audience’s preferences, the more targeted your presentation will be. So spend time researching them. How technical should your language and content be?

4. FORGETTING TO GRAB ATTENTION FROM THE START
The first 30-60 seconds are crucial in captivating the audience and turning all of their attention to you. Fascinate them or make them curious from the very beginning.

Click here for ideas to start a presentation to doctors

5. NOT HAVING A STORY TO TELL

Structure your facts in an arrangement that mirrors a good story. Make sure that your story can be understood quickly by any medical professional, and that it’s interesting. Be the ultimate storyteller.

6. HAVING TOO MANY MESSAGES ON EACH SLIDE
Each slide could include a few pieces of information, but all the information on the slide should be there to support one single point. Try to avoid using bullet points if possible (use icons and images instead) and remember to simplify data by focusing on the important takeaway

7. OVERUSING ANIMATIONS
Flashy animations tend to feel childish. Use animations sparingly and only if they complement your pitch. Use the very subtle animation styles such as fade.

8. HAVING A BORING ENDING
Wrapping up all the hard work you’ve put into your talk is a process you must take seriously. Make a memorable closing. A call to action is often a good idea.

Click here for ideas for closing a medical presentation

9. FORGETTING TO PRACTICE ENOUGH
Practice your pitch to a friend or colleague, or watch yourself on your own smartphone. Does it flow smoothly? Do you have an open, relaxed posture? Are you making eye contact and smiling occasionally? Are you using too many filler words like “ah,” “well,” and “um”?

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FOLLOW THESE RULES FOR A GREAT PITCH!