University of Hawai'i Maui Community College Speech Department

Eye Contact 
          Using natural, direct eye contact helps your audience feel 
          connected to you. 
Gestures 
         Gestures can help you paint pictures with words, but make sure
         they don't get in the way, and they are natural. 
Enthusiasm 
         Be enthusiastic. If you don't care, why should your audience?
         Your enthusiasm builds your audience's enthusiasm.
Articulation 
        Articulate your words clearly so the members of your audience will 
        understand you. 
Breathe 
        Breathing helps you control nervousness. It also gives you time to
        gather your thoughts. Remember that a pause can be used to 
        provide emphasis. 
Posture 
        Correct posture conveys confidence. 
Tone 
        The tone of your voice can create or change a mood. 
Dress 
        Dress for success. Be neat and professional. Don't wear loud 
        accessories that will distract members of the audience. 
Language 
        Use proper language and be careful not to use non-words and fillers 
        such as "um" and "uh" too often. 
Smile 
        A smile will not only make you look and feel better, but also make 
        your audience more receptive.