[Z-man]

My tips:

- Be yourself. Most folks are uncomfortable on stage, and they are also uncomfortable trying to be someone they are not. So remove one of the uncomfortable factors, and don't try to be someone you are not.

- Read the crowd. If your approach is not working, change your tact. This means you have to be flexible, and be prepared with multiple approaches to how you MC the event.

- Regarding jokes & funny comments - here's a great rule of thumb: if 1/3 of the audience 'gets it,' you have succeeded. That way, the remaining 2/3 of the audience will strive to listen closer so they don't feel like they missed out the next time you throw out a zinger.

- I never was a fan of humiliation-based joking - either directed towards the crowd or the performers. In my book, that's a sign of an insecure MC. Your event is not a gong show, and many of those folks on stage can be very nervous -- humiliating them will make them feel like dirt.

- If you have trouble with making eye contact with the crowd, just look at the wall or space right behind the last row - it will appear that you are looking at everyone in the crowd.

- keep your hands out of your pockets and avoid the fig-leaf position! (Hands held together infront of your crotch)

- Only move from one point to another when the movement is necessary - ie to make a point. There is nothing more distracting than an MC who paces back and forth.

- Speak louder and slower. Much louder and much slower than you think. Emphasize your words clearly.

- Be prepared. Know the line-up and what comes next.

- When a performance is happening - pay attention to technical details. If the music is too loud, signal the sound guys to turn it up. If the lights are too low - get them turned up.

- Have water available - or if your voice gets dry quickly, have cough drops in your pocket.

- Smile and convey excitement for the event -- the audience will mimick your attitude.

- If possible, interact with the crowd, or engage them. Audience participation helps set a positive mood.

- Do not be afraid of silence and pauses. If you stumble on words, pause, regroup, and continue.

- Have fun and enjoy the experience!

BTW: I find public speaking to be thrilling and take every opportunity to do it, so I'm a bit different than most. I have MC'd many types of meetings including church college groups, Porsche Club monthly meetings, & weddings. I've given presentations to large groups (2000+) as well as smaller groups (executive summaries..etc). I guess I just get jazzed up by the energy of the audience!

Enjoy!
-Z-man.