1. Be certain every speech, seminar and pitch for business has a clear, concise message.
   
2. Kick up your energy before you start. Remember that motion drives emotion, which drives attention, which drives memory and learning.
   
3. Anticipate answers to tough, sensitive questions. Tell bad news quickly, then focus on the positive.
   
4. Relax by exhaling several times before beginning your presentation. Do it often throughout the presentation, too.
   
5. Be sure to rehearse in front of an audience at least two days before the event. You can then adjust materials, visuals and timing if necessary.

Barbara B. Miller ( bbmiller@bbmcom.com) is President of Barbara B. Miller Communications, providing skill-building courses that help people present themselves more effectively. She lives in Austin, TX.