If you are speaking in front of business delegates then you must look professional and I suggest that you wear a suit and tie and I know this might sound funny – have a hair cut and make sure your shoes are clean or new!

The best prop to use for a business speech is software like Microsoft PowerPoint, which is a useful tool for prompting you about what is coming next…but DO NOT simply read from the screen, as your audience will know and you will not inspire confidence.

With a business speech or a presentation you should normally:

- Tell your audience what you are going to talk about by way of an introduction;

- Tell them what you want to say about your subject;

- Summarise by telling them what you have just told them.

As mentioned earlier, timing is vital, especially if you are one of a number of presenters. No body likes it when a speech runs over time and that is not just the audience, but also the person that is going to speak after you, as you will be eating into their time. Allow time for your speech and practice this to get the timing right and then always allow time for questions either during the presentation or at the end.

It is always a good idea to explain to your audience how you prefer them to ask questions and whether you are happy to take questions during your speech or not…if you are about to present then good luck!