In today's fast-paced medical landscape, it is vital to support young physicians in achieving academic success and avoiding burnout. This article aims to offer guidance, mentorship, and resources for aspiring academic doctors to help them reach their objectives. International conferences serve as a crucial platform for medical professionals to gain insights from colleagues and obtain feedback. Presenting at these conferences not only enhances visibility but also builds a scientific reputation. Nonetheless, young doctors may feel daunted by the prospect of public speaking. For effective communication, employing accurate language, well-grounded arguments, and a comprehensive understanding of the topic is essential. Moreover, addressing inquiries from a diverse audience can be a considerable challenge. To tackle these issues, the author presents practical advice aimed at improving academic presentations and fostering a more fruitful exchange of ideas. Following conferences, it is recommended to publish research in scholarly journals to reach a broader audience and further one's career. Regular practice in writing research papers with attainable goals is crucial. Focusing on areas of personal interest during the early stages of an academic career is also advised. By presenting a series of studies at global conferences and publishing them in scholarly journals, researchers can hone their skills, broaden their impact, and solidify their standing in the research community. In summary, this article emphasizes the significance of international conferences, effective communication, research publication, and the pursuit of personal interests in empowering young academic doctors and propelling their careers forward.
In my medical school days, I was constantly exposed to stories about alumni who had made significant achievements in the international academic community. I was deeply intrigued by the journeys that led to these individuals’ achievements. How have they overcome countless obstacles and become leaders in their fields? However, few resources were available to guide young doctors down this path. Neither medical school nor professors could prepare us for the long and arduous journey ahead [1-3]. This lack of support has left many young doctors feeling disillusioned and burnt out, leading them to abandon their academic aspirations [4].
Every individual has the potential to make significant contributions to their respective fields, regardless of whether they are destined for international recognition. The aim of this article is to provide mentorship, guidance, and resources to young doctors so that their passion and drive can lead to a successful and fulfilling academic career. A support system will enable the next generation of doctors to compete successfully in the academic world [3].
I have come to acknowledge the paramount importance of participating in and presenting at international conferences. Guided by the sage advice of seasoned mentors and engaging in intellectual cross-pollination with colleagues hailing from diverse corners of the world, I have realized that these gatherings are indispensable for gaining global acclaim for one's contributions [5].
In my own journey, I have discovered that international conferences afford unparalleled opportunities for medical professionals to gain insights from their counterparts. Concurrently, these forums facilitate networking with eminent individuals possessing a diverse array of expertise. By sharing research findings or dissecting clinical cases, both researchers and clinicians can obtain constructive feedback, enhance their understanding, and garner acknowledgment [6]. Such interactions may sow the seeds for future collaborations or employment prospects [7].
Undeniably, the prospect of attending international conferences can be intimidating and financially burdensome, particularly for young medical practitioners. Therefore, it is essential to explore funding opportunities, such as scholarships or travel grants, and plan ahead to maximize the utilization of conference resources [8]. I firmly believe that international conferences are a vital component of a thriving medicine career.
The dissemination of research findings and ideas through scientific conferences serves as an effective and prompt approach to establishing a scientific reputation and increasing visibility within the academic community [9]. However, for many individuals, mastering the art of public speaking can be a daunting challenge [10-12]. Fortunately, I was able to surmount this obstacle with the assistance of esteemed mentors during my residency in the Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery at Taipei Veterans General Hospital. Under their guidance, I presented my research at nearly 40 conferences, both domestically and internationally, where I delivered two papers at most events. This presented an excellent platform to exhibit my scientific contributions. Consistent exposure to diverse international audiences enabled me to perfect my stage presence, polish my presentation skills, and ultimately overcome my initial apprehension about public speaking.
In the medical field, it is essential for young doctors to begin their conference presentation journey within their native countries before expanding their reach overseas. By doing so, presenters can communicate their findings effectively and alleviate pressure by delivering presentations in their native language. To maximize the impact of conference presentations, it is recommended that presenters begin by focusing on case reports and case series, which underpin medical advancement by enabling the detection of novel diseases, unforeseen effects, and mechanism exploration [13]. These studies also enrich medical education and provide presenters with an opportunity to highlight their diagnostic and therapeutic skills while gaining an in-depth understanding of disease processes and treatment options within a specific population [14]. Compared to original research papers, case studies are more accessible [15] and require comparatively less literature review, usually involving 10 or fewer papers.
As presenters gain more experience and confidence, they can explore presenting their own original research papers. However, this requires much greater preparation and expertise, including reading at least 20 to 30 papers and gaining a comprehensive understanding of the topic and various perspectives and arguments. To field questions with poise and confidence, presenters must prepare meticulously. In conclusion, beginning one's conference presentation journey with case reports and case series is a valuable step towards becoming a successful presenter in the medical field.
In medical education, the art of delivering a polished oral presentation remains an elusive skill that has not been systematically or effectively taught [16]. This knowledge gap poses significant challenges for novice physicians, particularly when confronted with complex questions from seasoned colleagues. Interactions of this nature can be overwhelming for those without a comprehensive understanding of clinical complexities. In order to alleviate this pressure, a focused approach to presentation preparation is recommended. A thorough draft of the research prior to presenting serves as a strong foundation for answering audience queries with confidence and poise. Alongside careful preparation, a comprehensive literature review is also critical to the success of a presentation. Effectively engaging an audience necessitates careful preparation and a well-founded argument. By dedicating the necessary time and effort to research and organizing a presentation, an individual can assuredly address any intricate or demanding questions posed by their audience. This essential skill is applicable across all professions and can contribute significantly to career advancement and establishing oneself as an esteemed thought leader in their industry.
The esteemed American physician and poet, Oliver Wendell Holmes Sr., eloquently proclaimed, "Language is the blood of the soul into which thoughts run and out of which they grow." Holmes' statement underscores the indispensable function of language in human cognition and expression. Analogous to the circulatory system that transports nutrients and oxygen, language serves as the bedrock of human communication and intellectual exchange, fostering connections and facilitating the sharing of ideas and viewpoints.
Proficiency in language is a pivotal determinant of success in international conferences, particularly within the medical domain. Non-native English-speaking researchers frequently face disadvantages due to their limited English competency. This linguistic hurdle can hinder their ability to effectively communicate ideas and address critiques from their peers in discussions. Despite thorough preparation, numerous young physicians continue to grapple with language-related anxiety at international conferences. For non-native English-speaking scholars, presenting before a worldwide audience and struggling to articulate their thoughts can be immensely stressful. In a time where global collaboration is vital for medical research, ineffective communication in English poses a significant barrier for these scholars. Consequently, addressing language-related anxiety among non-native English-speaking scholars is an urgent issue to enhance effective communication and collaboration.
Informed by my extensive participation in a multitude of conferences, I recognized that confronting scholars proficient in English within unfamiliar settings may not lead to the most favorable outcomes. As a result, I meticulously assessed and reformed my approach to embrace a more holistic strategy. In anticipation of presentations, I assembled a collection of crucial topics from my literature review, identified potential audience questions, and crafted pertinent speaking points in English. In developing presentation slides, I emphasized the use of succinct and clear language to convey the intended message effectively. To underscore key points and support audience comprehension, I integrated a considerable number of images that corresponded to the presentation's theme. Through diligent rehearsal and consultation with my advisor and field experts, I honed my speaking points until I could articulate them with ease, independent of slides or notes. To guarantee optimal performance, I practiced the presentation between ten and twenty times.
During the presentation, I maintained a consistent pace while incorporating vocal modulation to avoid monotony and employed hand gestures to enrich the presentation's quality. Appropriate attire is essential for projecting a professional demeanor. In conclusion, my experiences have illuminated the importance of strategic preparation and effective execution. Presenters can successfully communicate their messages by adopting an all-encompassing approach that involves rehearsal, vocal modulation, hand gestures, and well-structured content.
The art of public speaking requires a deep understanding of the subject matter, combined with the ability to present concise and compelling arguments that address the concerns and questions of the audience. Critical thinking skills, supported by relevant evidence, are crucial during the delivery of a presentation (Figure 1).
Figure 1. Flowchart illustrating the critical and analytical approach for presentation delivery. The process of reasoning involves articulating personal beliefs, values, and assumptions that shape an individual's conclusions. Disagreements may arise due to different premises, but it is crucial to understand these premises to facilitate a fruitful discussion. Effective communication of conclusions supported by evidence is necessary, and the use of authoritative sources holds greater persuasive power. Unambiguous and lucid terminology is essential in avoiding misinterpretations, and accurately presenting evidence is key to sound reasoning. Causal relationships must be analyzed to ensure the validity and reliability of any conclusions drawn from presented reasons. Other potential causes should also be considered, and multiple conclusions may be possible. By considering these factors, one can enhance the quality of evidence presented and ensure the credibility of their reasoning.
Individual beliefs are shaped by personal history, values, and assumptions, which create a complex tapestry that can lead to disputes without resolution. Therefore, it is vital to explicitly convey these premises and remain aware of them to facilitate productive dialogue.
In rational discourse, effectively conveying the evidential foundations of our deductions is paramount. It is crucial to distinguish between anecdotal evidence and authoritative sources, with the latter carrying more persuasive weight. Clear and unambiguous language is the foundation of effective communication, preventing misunderstandings. For example, when citing subject matter experts, it is essential to define the criteria that designate an individual as an expert in their field, enhancing the credibility of the evidence presented. It is imperative to avoid distorting or overstating cited evidence, as this may lead to fallacious or deceptive conclusions. Presenting evidence with accuracy and transparency is a fundamental aspect of cogent reasoning.
When examining the correlation between reasons and conclusions, establishing the presence of a causal link, discerning whether the relationship is reversible, or identifying if it is bidirectional is critical. Moreover, alternative explanations for the observed phenomenon should be considered, ensuring that the proposed reasons are not mere confounding variables. Lastly, acknowledging the multiplicity of potential conclusions derived from a set of reasons is essential to guarantee the validity and dependability of the resultant deductions.
In conclusion, effective orators must possess a comprehensive understanding of the subject matter, use precise language, and present well-founded arguments supported by solid evidence. Furthermore, successful communication entails recognizing the distinct premises that underlie one's reasoning while meticulously examining the connections between reasons and conclusions. By adhering to these principles, speakers can enhance the integrity of their reasoning and skillfully address any uncertainties or queries raised by their audience [17].
Navigating Ambiguity
The proficient communication of research findings is crucial for gaining recognition within the scientific community. Nevertheless, the presentation of research outcomes at global conferences frequently involves the challenging responsibility of addressing questions from a varied audience, which may provoke apprehension among many speakers [18]. A failure to provide persuasive answers during question-and-answer sessions can undermine the audience's impression of the speaker's expertise and consequently, the validity of the research [19].
In the context of scholarly discourse, it is essential for presenters to effectively comprehend and address inquiries from a diverse audience. However, two specific situations may hinder this ability. The first occurs when the question is vague or indistinct. In such instances, it is vital for the presenter to remain composed and request that the questioner rephrase their inquiry. By doing so, the presenter can gain a more lucid understanding of the question and provide a suitable response, thereby preventing any potential confusion and reinforcing the credibility of the research.
Navigating Accented English
In international conferences, language barriers and differences in accents may pose a challenge to effective communication. While the first scenario involves the presenter's failure to comprehend the question, the second scenario pertains to the questioner's inability to articulate their inquiry due to a thick accent and a rapid pace of delivery. A case in point occurred at a conference in South Korea, where a Japanese scholar struggled to understand an English question posed by an audience member with a thick accent. Despite the intervention of the American chairperson, the exchange proved unfruitful, and the questioner withdrew from the discussion.
This instance highlights the frequency of misunderstandings that may arise due to accented English and the possibility that the questioner's level of English proficiency may impede effective communication, rather than the listener's comprehension skills. To navigate such potentially unproductive conversations, it is advisable to offer an answer, even if it is not directly related to the original question, to optimize the time allocated and avoid unnecessary discussions. International conferences prioritize the exchange of ideas and dynamic presentations, rather than a rigidly academic atmosphere. Although comprehensive discussions and inclusive responses may be desirable, time constraints may prohibit such an approach. Therefore, encountering perplexing questions should not elicit undue concern, as a lengthy and meticulous analysis is uncommon among audience members. If the audience is intrigued by the research presented, further inquiries may arise outside the session, warranting a more comprehensive response.
Academic conferences present a fertile ground for attendees to engage in fruitful networking activities, particularly during the intermissions between presentations. This is especially crucial for early career medical professionals, who aspire to cultivate their reputations and establish themselves as prominent figures in their respective fields. These breaks afford a unique platform for burgeoning practitioners to interact with established experts and visionaries, exchange ideas, and gain valuable insights that can prove instrumental in shaping their career trajectories.
To leverage these opportunities, young doctors must conduct thorough pre-conference research, sifting through the conference itinerary to identify notable speakers and distinguished authorities within their areas of specialization. By attending their lectures and engaging with them during networking sessions, these aspiring medical practitioners can forge meaningful connections with seasoned experts and learn from their vast experiences and expertise.
In these interactions, exchanging business cards is a common custom. However, young doctors must travel the extra mile and personalize their cards, by including a photograph of themselves. This thoughtful gesture helps the recipients recall their interactions with the young doctors, enhancing the likelihood of future engagement.
Taking Photographs for More Than Simple Keepsakes
Expanding on this topic, it is noteworthy that conferences provide a critical platform for young doctors to showcase their research and engage with distinguished experts in their field. However, due to the overwhelming number of attendees and the brevity of these interactions, making a lasting impression can be challenging. Therefore, establishing a personal connection with international scholars through capturing photographs and promptly following up via email within three days after a conference can prove instrumental in facilitating future collaborations.
In addition to sending follow-up emails, it is essential to ensure that these communications are personalized and impactful. For instance, one may consider highlighting specific aspects of their research that align with the interests of the foreign scholar and demonstrating how their work may complement or build upon the scholar's existing research endeavors. Furthermore, expressing a genuine interest in the scholar's work and inquiring about potential opportunities for collaboration can demonstrate a level of commitment and passion that may help one stand out in their memory.
Importantly, these strategies are not limited to conferences alone. In the age of virtual conferences and remote communication, similar tactics can be employed to foster meaningful connections with scholars from around the globe. By investing time in building personal relationships with international experts, young doctors can position themselves for long-term success and make valuable contributions to their field.
To sum up, conferences offer early-career medical practitioners an exceptional opportunity to establish relationships with established professionals within their respective fields. By conducting extensive research beforehand, participating in targeted sessions, and cultivating meaningful personal connections, young doctors can propel their careers to greater heights and cement their places as influential figures in their fields.
Academic conferences provide a gateway for scholars to enter the international academic arena. However, simply presenting at these events is insufficient to garner recognition within the scholarly community or effectively disseminate research findings. Moreover, the plethora of conferences held globally presents logistical challenges for scholars seeking to attend every event. Hence, publishing research in academic journals has become imperative for scholars to advance their careers and reach a wider audience.
Publication of research offers additional advantages, such as increased global visibility, which allows peers to gain insight into a scholar's research and academic achievements. Nevertheless, despite the presence of numerous innovative medical scholars, their heavy clinical workload has impeded the timely publication of their pioneering discoveries in academic journals. Consequently, many significant "firsts" uncovered by these scholars have remained obscure, enabling other researchers to gain prominence in these areas.
To establish their position in the international academic community and ensure broad dissemination of their research findings, scholars must prioritize publication in academic journals. This critical step maximizes the impact of research, enabling scholars to advance their careers and reach out to a wider audience beyond the constraints of academic conferences.
Scholarly publication requires strict adherence to standardized formats, which necessitates the use of clear, unambiguous, and consistent language in manuscripts. For young medical professionals seeking to establish their research careers, regular practice in drafting research papers with achievable goals is crucial. The primary objective should be to secure publication, followed by diligent efforts to enhance manuscript quality. Overreliance on high-impact factor journals may increase the likelihood of rejection, dampening motivation to continue writing. In this regard, aspiring authors should adopt a measured and steady approach while considering the submission of their manuscript to lower or non-impact factor journals as an alternative option. These journals may prove more receptive, boosting authors' self-assurance and impetus to pursue research writing. As a result, authors' research acumen is likely to flourish, culminating in greater interest and success in the scientific community.
In pursuit of writing excellence, neophyte writers are advised to prioritize quantity over quality in the initial stages. This principle emphasizes extensive writing and rigorous practice to develop writing proficiency, ultimately enabling writers to generate written works effortlessly and with finesse. However, this "quantity over quality" concept does not advocate for a lax approach to writing, especially at the outset. While content quality is paramount, intricate research of high quality often requires significant resources, which may not be readily accessible to young medical professionals. Pursuing ambitious research objectives from the start is unwise and impractical. Aspiring writers should focus on refining their craft through persistent effort and practice while not disregarding the importance of high-quality research in their writing pursuits. By following these guidelines, aspiring writers can hone their research and writing skills, contributing meaningfully to the scientific community and establishing a reputable research career.
During the formative years of one's academic career, it is recommended to expeditiously pursue areas of personal interest and continually delve deeper into them. Presenting a series of studies on a topic of interest at international conferences and publishing them in academic journals can yield significant feedback from international colleagues. Personally, the author has applied this methodology to publish multiple articles on the topic of cholesteatoma and consistently receive constructive feedback from esteemed international peers [20-30]. Through this approach, researchers can refine their craft, hone their skills, and expand their influence in the academic community.
International conference presentations are essential for researchers to share their findings, collaborate with peers, and network with professionals. Developing an effective methodology to overcome challenges during presentations is a personalized endeavor. Cultivating self-promotion skills is critical for success, and dedication and determination can serve as viable substitutes for limited resources. Researchers can achieve their goals by identifying and implementing effective strategies to create a strong academic presence and gain recognition for their work on the international stage.
Received date: February 15, 2023
Accepted date: March 31, 2023
Published date: April 15, 2023
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The author has proficiently tackled my questions by providing detailed explanations that address the initial issues I pointed out. The modifications and improvements applied to the manuscript have substantially elevated the overall quality of the content, resulting in a more thorough and compelling presentation. Consequently, my comprehension of the subject has become more profound, and my confidence in the validity and dependability of the research findings has increased. Therefore, I endorse the publication of the revised manuscript.
ResponseWe extend our gratitude for reconsidering our manuscript and recognizing our endeavors to address your apprehensions. It gives us satisfaction to learn that our revisions and elucidations have augmented your comprehension of the topic and strengthened your assurance in the credibility and dependability of our results. We value your helpful comments, as they have significantly assisted us in refining our work.
Although the author has made a genuine effort to address the concerns that I raised by providing comprehensive clarifications, the strength of the content has not been significantly improved despite the enhancements applied. Consequently, the presentation of the manuscript remains insufficient, falling short of the expected standards of quality, validity, and reliability. Given its present state, I cannot recommend the manuscript for publication.
ResponseThank you for your feedback on our manuscript. We appreciate the time and effort you have invested in evaluating our work. We are grateful for your acknowledgement of our genuine efforts to address your concerns by providing comprehensive clarifications. However, we understand that the modifications and enhancements applied to the manuscript were not sufficient to elevate the overall quality of the content to meet the expected standards of quality, validity, and reliability. We will carefully consider your feedback and work diligently to address the shortcomings you have identified. We will make every effort to improve the manuscript to meet the required standards and ensure its suitability for publication. Thank you again for your feedback, and we look forward to your continued support as we work towards refining our manuscript.
Upon meticulous revisions and methodical refinements, the manuscript has evolved into a more lucid and captivating piece. This iterative process has fostered a profound comprehension of the research subject, bolstering confidence in the authenticity and validity of the findings. The updated manuscript now delivers a robust and comprehensive analysis of the investigation, offering invaluable perspectives and augmenting the prevailing corpus of knowledge in the discipline. These enhancements warrant my unreserved endorsement of the revised manuscript for publication. The enriched content is primed to deliver a notable impact on the scientific community. I am convinced that readers will perceive the updated version as both advantageous and informative. It is my conviction that the revised manuscript holds the potential to exert a significant influence on the scientific community. I eagerly anticipate its dissemination in a prestigious and respected academic journal.
Kuo CL. Conferencing and presentation strategies for young academics in the global landscape. Arch Otorhinolaryngol Head Neck Surg. 2023;7(1):3. https://doi.org/10.24983/scitemed.aohns.2023.00171
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