Plan the Speech

• Prepare for the speech by charting out the beginning, body and conclusion. Charting out the speech in large sections helps give clarity to the main points. Prepare a solid introduction that emphasizes the key sections. Mentally assign a corner of the room to each section, this is called the Method of Loci used by Greek philosophers and helps move from one section to the next. Plan at what point to use transitions to help you move from one section of the speech smoothly into the next.
  
  

Memorize It

• Take time to memorize every word of the speech. This task may seem mundane but is in fact extremely effective as it helps one become an expert on the most important phrases, knowing which phrases to emphasize and when to be more theatrical, expressive or serious. Dan Pallotta, President of Advertising for Humanity and frequent speaker, argues, "When you memorize it, it stops being about getting the words right and starts being about getting the feeling right."
  
  

Practice

• Take a couple of weeks at least to begin practicing before the speech. Practice in front of the mirror to see posture, gestures and expressions. University of North Carolina Communications School recommends to ask a relative or friend to hear your speech and see how they react. Are they bored? Do they look interested? Make sure to be emphatic where you planned and see how they respond. This is an effective exercise to prepare for connecting with the audience. Ask if your listener felt confused about any part of the speech or if something could have been done differently or better.
  
  

Connect With the Audience

• Arrive early the day of the speech and look at the different parts of the room, mentally assigning it a section of the speech. When it comes time to speak, wait for a few seconds to get the full attention of the audience. According to Dan Pallotta, "Silence leaves time for reflection." Note the furthest person in the room and make sure he is be able to hear you. Begin your speech and look at various audience members in the eyes as you speak. Speak clearly and try to feel your audience response. Keep looking at various people in the room so they all feel connected and attentive.