Body language is key to effective public speaking.  It does not matter if you are a business executive delivering a speech or if you happen to be the mother of the bride - pay heed to this one:

THE EYES HAVE IT, THE BODY GIVES IT

Backing up your words with confident eye contact and body language can be a persuasive means of getting your ideas across. Consider for a moment some of the more successful speakers you have seen. Typically, they look completely natural addressing a crowd - as comfortable addressing five hundred people as they would be speaking to five people.

When you stand in front of a crowd, focus on standing up straight and projecting your voice to the audience. Make eye contact with individuals rather than gazing out at the back of the room. By making eye contact your speaking becomes far more intimate with your audience. And don’t be afraid to smile occasionally. If anything suggests comfort, it’s a smile. As well, gestures are a convincing way of helping emphasize the ideas in your speech. Remember, commit to your gestures - don’t restrict them or you’ll come across appearing uncertain.

And let’s not forget the lectern. Remember, it is not your dance partner. You don’t grasp it by the sides or slump over it. It is there to hold your notes, a glass of water and, maybe, a handkerchief. If you are feeling comfortable and don’t need to keep looking down at your speech, feel free to step to the side of the lectern during the course of your speech. This shows confidence on your behalf and also removes the barrier between you and the audience.