What I found helped me in situations where I had to speak in public was know the subject. Inside and out. Pro and Con side of the issue. Keep it simple and explain it in everyman's terms. No technical jargon or abbreviations. Breathe. If you think you getting stumped on something, pretend cough and get back on track. Look around the room and engage your audience. Don't use the podium as a crutch...walk away from it. Use your hands. PRACTICE your speech.
For God's sake don't go up there and use "Ummmm's", "Ya know's" or "Uh Uh Uh's". If you have to take a page from the Great Communicator. Practice your speeches in a mirror, write the key points you want/need to emphasize on a 3x5 index card. Put it on the podium and glance at it if you feel you're getting stuck but don't read from it.
I'm sure with enough practice you'll find what style works for you in public speaking. It's a gift that some people naturally have and others have to work at it. You should ALWAYS be prepared to give at least a 10 minute brief if you're called in from your boss, or his boss. Hit 'em with a non-offensive ice breaker joke to get them smiling and go from there. Keep it fluid without going rigid. Think of a stand-up comic or rockstar vs a robot or a machine. Engage the audience and personalize it. Make them feel what you're telling them. Don't point or stare at anyone either. Think gorilla in a cage...don't stare them in the eyes...you'll enrage them.
I'm sure there's other tricks, but that's what's worked for me. Good luck. PS for your classes, if you can...keep it informative and something you're knowledgeable on like...CIGARS!
