DO...

1. Get yourself introduced. It's far easier to start a speech when you already have the attention of your audience.

2. Use physical activity to really grab the audience's attention. Bang on the table/lectern. Use a sound effect. Or perform an activity, but don't over do it.

3. Make a startling statement or present a startling statistic that you can refer to later in the speech. This kind of tactic can create a feeling of suspense and anticipation of what is to come.

4. Tell a theme related joke. Humour isn't for everyone and it can be a bit risky if you aren't familiar with the audience. However, nothing wins audiences over as much as a good laugh.

5. Provide an apt quotation. In addition to framing the theme of the speech, you can generate credibility by demonstrating that you are familiar enough with the topic to know such an appropriate quotation.

6. Relate a relevant story. Most people give only a few formal public speeches in their lives, yet we all tell stories every day. Being a storyteller can be a comfortable position from which to make your speech and natural way to generate momentum.

DON'T...

1. Just start with "Hi, my name is...". The sentences most often remembered by an audience are the first and last sentences you speak. Don't throw away the opportunity to create a lasting impact by saying something truly meaningful in the opening line.

2. Make a false start. Don't make tentative statements or apologies, this sort of thing can bring your credibility in question. Typical phrases to avoid are: "Well, here goes," "Is the microphone working?" and "Can you hear me at the back?"

3. Use rhetorical questions. More often than not these result in an awkward moment. Because the audience is unsure how to react. This can 'stall' your flow and damage your confidence.

4. Go overboard. If you want your speech to be a success then it needs to be delivered in a way that is natural to you. Keep your delivery consistent with your personality and with the tone of the rest of the speech.

5. Fail to consider how you'll get to the podium. If you're not going to be speaking from where you sit you need to take this into account. Nothing destroys your impact or credibility like taking too long to get to the stand or worse still, tripping on the way. There are many famous people who have found this out, don't let it happen to you.