Keep them interested with visuals, and don't be afraid to stress specific points. Vary your tone and pace. Speak clearly and out towards the audience. Don't mutter down at your screen and don't speak in a monotone voice, which is the fastest way of sending your audience to sleep. Open a window.
People fall asleep in stuffy rooms.
Choose a venue that's well ventilated or air-conditioned, and don't be afraid to adjust it if you see people dropping off. You'll rush it or make too many mistakes if you're nervous. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part in any form or medium without express written permission of ZDNet is prohibited. ZDNet and the ZDNet logo are trademarks of Ziff-Davis Publishing Company.