Stand up straight
Keep your head held high
Look around at your audience
Make eye contact as you look around.
All this will help disguise any feelings of nervousness.
Don't stand or sit with your weight to one side or legs crossed
Why? Because this gives the impression of being imbalanced which can lead to your audience thinking, sub-consciously, you are unsure of yourself and what you are saying.
Don't lean into or slightly over the podium or hold your notes tightly.
Why?Because this can make you seem nervous and unconvincing.
Do use your eyes
Why? Because this makes you connect with your audience, it keeps their attention and makes you appear more convincing.
Do 'visual sweeps'
Why?This involves looking all round the room, into the furthest corners and to the front row and back again. Catching people's eyes for a seconds will keep people interested and listening.
Why? A monotonous voice will send the audience to sleep so allow your voice to rise and fall naturally during the delivery and try to inject enthusiasm and emotion into your voice to convey the point.
Do use arm and hand gestures to emphasis your point
Why? If you want the audience to agree with you open your arms in an expansive gesture.
A downward gesture will reinforce the point you want to get across.
Do keep the delivery of your speech strong and captivating to the end
Why? Keep your voice slow - don't be tempted to speed up on the home-front
Keep your voice strong and clear and keep maintaining eye contact with your audience
Do finish your speech with a hand outstretched 'over to you' gesture and a smile.
Why? This indicates to your audience that you've finished speaking and that you expect a positive response from your audience.
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