Pointers for presentations to Medics

Advice from Paulina Baume. (Paulina Baume Holistic Training)

• When accepting the invitation to speak, ask what is required of you:
• Is it a lecture/talk?
• Is it a lecture/talk and demonstration?
• If there is to be a healing demonstration, give a clear list of your requirements such as a volunteer, chair/couch, pillows etc. It is important to arrange for a volunteer to be found before you begin the talk, as medics like to observe rather than participate in the healing.
• Is group participation required? i.e. Do they prefer an experiential session?
• How many people approximately are expected to attend?
• How large is the room in which you will be working?
• How long do you have for your presentation?
• Is ther an OHP, video, flip-chart etc. available, if so use them.
• If they have initiated the contact with you - is there a fee for your time? (They will expect to pay between £25 - £35 per hour) and/or will you be reimbursed for your travelling expenses? (currently 25-27p per mile)
• If you have volunteered to give the talk, it is usually presumed you do not expect a fee, however accept any reimbursement of travelling expenses if offered.
• Request written confirmation of the booking, outlining the above points, together with a map and directions of how to find the venue, check parking facilities or nearest public transport details. Check the time they would you to arrive before the talk and who you should ask for at reception.
• Reply in writing confirming date, time, place, title of your presentation and any special requirements. (Keep it a simple as possible, they will not appreciate having to do more than the basic preparation for you)
• Telephone and speak in person to your contact again confirming details 7-10 days prior to your presentation.
• Dress smartly. Dress simply and do not wear jewellery, purple, open-toe sandals. If you have long hair, tie it back. This is because jewellery, sandals and loose flowing hair is seen as unhygenic.
• Presentations must be carefully prepared - if using quotes from newspapers etc., read them from notes to be sure they are accurate.
• Introduce yourself and give a brief description about your work.
• The title of the presentation is important to give focus.
• Tell them what you are going to do in the session - chapter headings.
• Explain what healing is as simply as possible.
• Assure your listeners that healers are not in competition but are complementary and the universal aim for both medics and healers is in the compassionate caring, relief of pain and the ultimate well-being of patients.
• Avoid anecdotes unless appropriate in questions at the end.
• Statistics carry weight as does the printed word.
• Speak with confidence and a belief in your ability.
• A display of relevant information is useful. (Photo-copies of printed articles about healing is always well received)
• Wear your NFSH badge and mention your organisation. Take a few copies of the Code of Conduct and inform them about your insurance cover and NFSH disciplinary body to which all healer members are answerable.
• Close with a quick recap (Chapter headings, again) and assurances about co-operation and any questions - allow ten minutes for this. DO NOT GO OVER TIME!!! (Medics are busy people.)
• Good Luck.

You can email Paulina: paulina.baume@which.net

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