5 Simple Steps to Improve Your Speaking Skills for the Occupational English Test

Since the Occupational English Test was launched in 2017, many healthcare professionals are choosing OET over other English assessment exams. Most nurses find the exam more relevant and helpful for their journey abroad than other English-proficiency tests. Here are some reasons why.

• The OET exam uses terms that most healthcare professionals encounter in the medical field.
• The exam is specially designed for healthcare providers who want to showcase their abilities overseas.
• The exam includes real medical scenarios that allow students to have a better understanding of what to expect in their career abroad.

These are just some of the reasons many healthcare professionals opt to take the Occupational English Test. After learning about the advantages of taking OET, let us dive deep into its different components. This discussion focuses on the Speaking section.

All About the Occupational English Test Speaking Section

The OET Speaking Test for nurses replicates all sorts of conversations that nurses encounter in their day-to-day practice. 

I. The first part of the Speaking subtest is a two-minute warm-up conversation with the interviewer. Test-takers will be asked questions to confirm their identity. Aim to answer each question with three or four sentences to make sure that you express your thoughts clearly. 

II. The Speaking sub-test includes role plays in which test-takers will be asked to play specific roles according to their profession. Candidates will be asked to act out two role plays that each lasts for five minutes. The overall OET Speaking subtest lasts for 20 minutes.

Remember, the Speaking sub-test assesses how good test-takers are at maintaining a conversation and engaging the other person involved in the dialogue. Hence, it is best that you practice your speech well. Here are five simple steps to level up your OET exam preparation!

5 Steps to Improve Your Speaking Skills

1. Breathe
The first step toward developing your speaking skills is to learn how to manage your breathing pattern. Compose yourself, and do not let the exam pressure or the situation get into your head. Take a deep breath, and relax. Doing this will help clear your thoughts and improve the quality of your voice.

2. Expand your vocabulary
Master the different medical terms you use in day-to-day practice. Read books, watch documentaries, and listen to podcasts. These are fun activities that you can engage in to learn new English words.

3. Let your personality shine
Be yourself. This will help establish your credibility as a speaker. Letting your audience/interviewer see how you handle medical situations as a real person helps in building trust.

4. Use your voice and hands effectively
Nonverbal cues deliver most of the message. Hence, it is important that you omit your nervous gestures. Furthermore, make sure that you convey your ideas clearly by speaking with an audible voice.

5. Practice daily
Engage in English conversations even in the workplace. This will help develop your communication skills and build your confidence.

Level up your OET exam preparation by applying these tips. Do you want to learn more about OET? Subscribe to our blog, and get the latest updates about the exam! 




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