Presenting my research at the national conference was a massive challenge, but fortunately the feedback afterwards was very positive.  The atmosphere was supportive and friendly and I was thrilled later in the conference to be awarded best oral paper.  I'm glad I controlled my nerves and rose to the challenge.

Rebecca Hart, Infection Prevention 2011 Best Oral Paper Winner

Having the opportunity to share our work with colleagues has been very rewarding. The feedback and ideas from others has also enabled us to further develop avenues of work locally. Whilst it was hard work it was worth it.

Debbie King, Infection Prevention 2010 Oral Paper and Poster Presenter

I encourage any ICP to participate when an opportunity to present arises. The IPS Conference was relatively easy to undertake, the only issue I had was which project I was going to submit!! I found once I chose the topic and used my abstract as the basis for creating my presentation; it was relatively easy to collate a PowerPoint to present on the day. I thoroughly enjoyed the chance to talk to my fellow peers and also to network about not only the topic I presented but other outcomes from my research. As ICPs we need to encourage each other to present our good and bad days, our research, and our resources and share the great work we do within healthcare.

Marija Juraja, Infection Prevention 2010 Oral Paper Presenter

Initially I was daunted with the task of submitting my abstract for oral    presentation, but with a little help from colleagues and friends the task was made simple. Their advice which I found helpful included:

1. Select a subject that you are passionate about, the passion will make the writing and presenting easier! 
2. Practice the presentation but not to death...
3. On arrival to the conference find out where you are presenting and who is to chair your presentation.
4. Before you start the presentation, look out at the audience and smile! It will reduce the tension and get the audience on your side.
5. Don’t panic! If it doesn’t go to plan or  you get lost, keep calm and carry on- speak clearly and slowly.

I did it! It wasn’t as bad as I thought it would be, in fact I would do it again, I actually enjoyed it!

Emma Fulloway, Infection Prevention 2010 Oral Paper Presenter