Here's a trick I use when I sing. I focus on a spot on the back wall, just above the heads of the audience. It give the illusion that you're

looking right at them.

breathe

breathing is essential thanks for the tip

you'll be just fine!

I don't know about you, I always talk too fast, so slowing down is key for me. And just imagine them in their parents' underwear...

yikes, thats even worse DebInDenver

if you wear glasses, practice pushing them up from the sides-- NOT in the middle by the nosepiece!

have some practice runs with someone, & work on getting the 'umms' out - this helps to recall what you're saying, thus helping confidence..

Don't imaging yourself in your underwear.

I will keep that in mind too plurkdaddy.

Ozegold: Thanks for that tip. Sounds like some good sound advice. I will have to try that.

public speaking? Where?

I've never been good at public speaking. Just be as prepared as possible, so you know what you're saying.

yoonamaniac: I am speaking on Plurk at barcamp this weekend

in front of how many people?

with the new media crowd, just be yourself.

Be honest and speak from the passion in your heart

no idea to be honest, I am not on the main stage so that is good, but I know between 450-600 people will be attending total

Just have fun and relax

TW, I can only tell you to relax, be yourself, and have fun. Making eye contact is a win for the audience, and you...

If possible, go to the place where you will be speaking before the crowd arrives. rehearse rehearse rehearse

and if you are seriously nervous, eating a couple of saltine crackers right before you go on, it will settle your stomach

preparation preparation preparation ....

www.presentationzen.com/ - a blog on how to do great presentations - has some great posts

I usually try to find four people in the audience who are friendly towards what I am saying. Then I make eye contact with them when...

... I get nervous, or when I need to work the crowd. It gives the impression of you looking everywhere and are "speaking to the masses"

i usually walk the stage before i have to perform. but then i'm a kinesthetic type and have some weird experiences to relate.

Move while you are talking. That will help. Also, use your diaphram when you speak. Helps with volume and breathing.

NotAMeanGirl

just remember the cup is mightier than the words, so make sure its big!

seriously you have to speak like you know and mean what you are talking about, you have to sell what you are saying to your audience

not like a salesman but like someone who believes in their words. Confidence is the key! Good Luck, knowing you, you will do fine

a pause in speaking is never as long to the audience as it is to the speaker. Relax and smile and truly believe in the message you're giving

amateur practice until they get it right. professionals practice until they cannot get it wrong.