I am sure that, like me, you have sat through more than your fair share of boring speeches and pointless presentations. You’ve probably even put together a hit list of things you would not do. I will share with you a list of things that will help you move towards giving interesting and memorable presentations every time you hit the stage.

1. Dig deep
If you have ever been to a conference hoping to learn something new only to find the presenter skimming lightly through a number of topics, then you know what I am talking about. Take your subject, choose one important part of that topic and share some in-depth information that will send your listeners home with new and interesting resources for their toolbox.

2. Breathe
Take a lesson or two with a singing or acting teacher to learn the basics of breathing correctly and where your voice should come from. This will enable you to project your voice, filling a room without a microphone. Learning to breathe correctly can also help to lessen your nerves.

3. Join a speech club
Develop your speaking skills by joining a local speaking club, such as Toastmasters International. Go to toastmasters.org to find a club in your area. There you’ll work on cutting out ‘ums’ and ‘ahs’ and other useless noises that ruin many presentations.

4. Take a private acting lesson
This will help you with your stage presence, but learning what to do before you act can be even more helpful. Your acting teacher will also show you how to warm up. There is nothing quite like locking yourself in a private room for a few minutes to jump and twist and spin before going on stage – helping you to not stand woodenly behind your microphone.

5. Involve your audience
People don’t want to be lectured at these days. Whether you are giving a presentation at work or to a crowd of strangers, think about ways you can involve those listening to you. If you have a large audience, consider asking that they be seated in round groups, and give them an activity to work on together as part of your presentation. In this way they will get to meet others, use their minds and mouths, and you will be remembered for doing something interesting and different. This also has the benefit of taking some of the focus off you, and reduces your talk time.

6. Engage your listeners
If possible, take some time before your presentation to meet a few attendees. When you are on stage, you will be talking to them. Look for them in the audience, catch their eye, and chat to them as if you are talking to friends. If the audience is very large, imagine them in different areas of the auditorium and do the same as you would if you could actually see them – this connects you to the audience, which is essential if you want to keep them engaged.

7. Set goals
Before you begin, sit down with your executive coach and set some timelines around your speaking objectives. If you don’t have an executive coach, the International Coach Federation offers a free Coach Referral Service on its website coachfederation.org. If possible, bring your coach along to your first speaking engagement, and have him or her critique you. Discuss any other areas you may need to focus on with your coach and have him or her hold you accountable to achieving them.

And finally: Have fun! If you enjoy your presentation, your audience will, too!