The easiest speech to give is on a topic familiar to you. Easy topics include speeches about relatives, hobbies, things you did as a kid, or your opinion on a topic. Talking about things that are embedded in your brain, things from your past, require the least amount of effort to present to a group. Who knows this topic better than you? And if you made a mistake, who would know the difference? Besides, the information will almost certainly be new to everyone else as they come from your experiences and activities.

Narrow the topic so you can cover the relevant information in the time allowed. A complete biography of your favorite uncle would quite likely take too long. A couple of humorous incidents that occurred when you were on a trip with your uncle when you were young would be easier to fit into the allowed time frame.

Determine the purpose of your speech. It may be to entertain, to inform about something you consider important, or to convince folks to take your point of view. You should be able to state your purpose in a single sentence, for instance "The purpose of my speech is to convince the audience that every household needs an eggbeater."

A good way to start a speech is with an "attention-getting" statement such as a question. This catches the interest of the audience immediately so they do not miss those first things you tell them. It is usually best not to start the speech by repeating the title … the audience already heard it when you were introduced.

The opening of the speech usually prepares the audience for what you plan to tell them. The body usually covers the details, and if necessary, is supported by facts. The conclusion wraps up the speech and usually summarizes the points made.

It is good to conclude the speech with a phrase that would work well as a title for the speech. For example, if the speech ends with: "Peaches or cream, you decide" … this identical phrase would be an excellent title for the speech.

Outline your speech in an effective order then practice the speech as you plan to deliver it. See how long it takes to give the speech and, if necessary, adjust the speech to meet the time limits.

Be familiar with your speech so you can deliver it without seeming to read it. Do not try to memorize it, but know the order of your material so that you do not lose your place. If notes are needed, use note cards with a few key words to jog your memory.

You will be introduced just prior to giving your speech. The Toastmaster for the Day should be in contact with you during the week prior to the meeting. After you are introduced, approach the lectern as quickly as possible, before the applause stops. Shake the hand of the Toastmaster for the Day (who should be waiting by the lectern), then step to the lectern. If necessary, get everything in order such as adjusting an overhead projector or getting props from under the lectern before uttering a single word.

Begin the speech by addressing the person who introduced you and the audience, "Madam Toastmaster, ladies and gentlemen" or "Mr. Introducer, members of Prairie Winds, guests" or some other variation. Continue with an "attention-getting" statement (such as a question or an explosive statement) and then move into the rest of the speech.

Do not start the speech with the speech title. Deliver the speech with confidence, looking your audience in the eye and persuading them that you are worth listening to. Lock eyes with one individual for a short period of time (not less than 3 secs) and then lock eyes with another. This helps personalize the speech. It is OK to be nervous. Most first time Speakers usually are.

Timing lights will help you keep track of your time. Typically you will see a green light at five minutes, a yellow light at six minutes, and a red light at seven minutes (the time requirements vary from speech to speech in the manual). When you see the yellow light, start to wrap up your speech so you are finished before the red light comes on.