A Guide to Effective Presentation Skills for Drug Information Personnel

Drug information personnel are often called upon to give presentations to inform colleagues about various profession-related topics and procedures or to defend program or budget proposals. This article provides guidelines on how drug information specialists can make their presentations most effective. The best presentations are those where it is evident that the speaker is well-prepared, thoroughly knows the needs and desires of the audience, and understands the purpose of the speaking occasion. After brainstorming for the content of the presentation, the speaker organizes the main points logically and coherently, and then gathers material, both verbal and visual, to support them. The main points and their support constitute the discussion of the presentation and comprise about 75% of the time allotted for speaking. The speaker next creates the introduction (about 15% of speaking time) to stimulate audience interest and to preview the main points. In the conclusion (about 10% of speaking time), the speaker provides some closing thoughts, summarizes the main ideas discussed, and, where appropriate, proposes a call for action. For the most effective presentation, the speaker needs to rehearse not only the content of the presentation, but also the vocal variety, gestures, eye contact, choice of language, and enthusiasm that are to accompany it. Mastery of the material and of the manner in which it is presented ensures an optimal speaking performance.