So you want to say a few words or you have been asked to make a speech for a special occasion? You are terrified that you are going to sound like a prat and that the whole experience is going to be a complete disaster? Have no fear, here are my top handy hints and tips that, if followed, should make sure that the speech you make is a success and you leave everyone wanting to hear more.

My own speech making experience is quite varied. I have spoken on behalf of people at weddings (four including my own), birthdays, leaving do's and engagement parties. I actually enjoy making speeches and have often been complimented on my public speaking skills. I do think that there are certain do's and dont's when it comes to making a good speech. I have also heard enough speeches to get a fair idea of what I think makes a good speech and what makes an awful speech. So here goes:

1. Look like you're enjoying yourself. This makes all the difference. There is nothing more uncomfortable than watching someone make a speech who is an absolute nervous wreck. It is not enjoyable. Relax, breathe and remember that if you look confident your audience will be able to relax and enjoy the speech more. Even if you are crapping yourself try and look like you aren't. ACT confident.
2. Keep it short and to the point. I mean this. Some of the best speeches have been ruined by being far too long. I have seen so many best man's speeches start very strong and then go down hill rapidly due to the length. I think 10 minutes is a good length, after that you are in serious danger of losing your audience.
3. If you have been asked to say a few words last minute. I think of splitting the speech in three: start, middle and end. Follow this structure and you shouldn't go far wrong. For longer speeches where you have more time to prepare, I split the speech into 2 minute chunks. I do this because I don't like to read my speeches off paper, so if I split into five I usually try and remember the trigger words for each section and the rest usually comes back to me. If you aren't feeling confident enough to go without paper to prompt you, I would still try and learn the speech and refer to the paper if needed.
4. Learn the speech. Not completely word by word perfect, but know the structure and what you are going to say.
5. Rehearse in front of people if you can. I usually have the speech finished about a week prior to delivering and practice in front of people who know the person or who are going to be at the event to get their feedback.
6. In the drafting stages be very clear on what you want to say. Why are you making the speech? Who is it for? What can you not leave out?
7. Try and keep it semi-clean. Will there be children there or easily offended relatives? Maybe keep the more embarrassing incidents for smaller audiences. Everyone likes to laugh at people but think before spilling too many beans.
8. Talk to the back of the room so everyone can hear what you are saying. Start the speech by asking if everyone can hear you. That way you can adjust your volume according to the room.
9. Make eye contact with your audience if possible. This makes the speech a lot more engaging and interesting. Do not look at the ceiling, this is very odd and distracting. I've seen quite a few people do this, amusing to watch but for the wrong reasons.
10. Say thank you at the end.
11. Be yourself! You have been asked to make a speech for a reason. Let your personality shine through and talk about your experiences with the subject/subjects.
12. Don't get drunk before you make the speech. It is very uncomfortable watching someone who's drunk make a speech. Get drunk afterwards but not before. Have a glass but not a bottle.

So there are my top tips for making a speech. You may think that there seems like a lot to remember but most of it is common sense. I know that public speaking can be very difficult for some people but remember the audience is with you. They want you to do well and they are usually incredibly generous. I hope this has been helpful and if there is anything I've missed don't be afraid to let me know. Good luck!