1. Know your subject, audience and equipment. Preparation is the key. Take responsibility for providing or requesting the equipment you will require. Mics, visual aids etc.

• Thank whoever introduces you, by name. Also repeat your name and position
• Emphasise your key points, and make them compelling, within the first 60 seconds
• Personalise by complimenting and naming members of your audience

2. Refrain from drinking caffeine related liquid, as this only speeds up the nervous process and can cause the mind to race, as well as the heart. 

3. Refrain from consuming dairy produce as this affects the mucous glands, and can cause you to constantly clear your throat. 

4. Drink plenty of water and always have plenty on stand by.   

5. Go somewhere private and warm up your voice and facial muscles. Practice saying the first 60 seconds of your presentation out loud.

6. Breathe deeply, evenly, and slowly for several minutes, as this not only oxygenates the blood, to keep you alert, but also helps you keep calm.   

7. Find a mirror and check out how you look, as you only have 5 seconds to make a first impression and it begins with the visual impact.

8. Make a positive entrance with good upright posture, as that projects confidence and composure.

9. Engage with good eye contact and a warm smile. Use your voice well, with plenty of volume, pitch, rhythm and tone.

10. Leave plenty of time for questions and…never run over time!

Keep in mind…it’s not what you say; it’s the way that you say it

• 7% Verbal = words
• 38% Vocal = volume, pitch, rhythm, tone
• 55% Physiology = body language, facial expression, silent messages

Enjoy yourself!