Public speaking is said to be near the top of the list when it comes to things people fear. It therefore makes sense to prepare well and remember that courage is not the absence of fear, but feeling the fear and doing it anyway.

1. Have a good introduction for someone else to read. Your introduction establishes your credibility and should make people think - wow this person could be worth listening to.

2. Wait until you have everyones attention before you start speaking.Remember that silence is ok.

3. Have a clear beginning. What will make them stop whatever they are thinking and focus on you? Make it a definite start.

4. Asking a question usually prompts people to engagement.

5. Have a middle. Present information that supports what you said at the beginning and will lead to a strong ending.

6. Be funny - people actually enjoy laughing.

7. Try to be the speaker - not your powerpoint.People can read powerpoints anywhere but they have come to hear you.

8. Allow people time to think. You may have to move fast through some other parts of your presentation to emphasise the times you want them to think about what you just said. Pause is good.

9. Have an ending. Signal you are about to end.

10 Make it a definite ending so people know that you have finished and so that you know it is time to finish.

The beginning is the most important part for you as you only have one chance to make a first impression. The end is the most important part for your audience - for many reasons.

Kia kaha kia maia, Be strong and of good courage - you can feel the fear and do it anyway.