Next, you'll build a fence around your idea in a way that distinguishes it from other ideas (and helps your audience avoid confusion).

For example, you might acknowledge that there are similar products to yours on the market, but yours is unique because of x, y, and z.

No matter how skilled a speaker you are, it's inevitable that some of your audience members' minds will start to wander

Gving a brief summary of what you've covered so far, invites the audience to refocus on your presentation. Do this every 5-10 minutes to ensure everybody stays with you.

Another way to help your audience "get back on the bus" is to ask a question.

Avoid asking a question that's so simple someone would be embarrassed to answer it. At the same time, you should also avoid asking a question so difficult that no one will be brave enough to answer it.

You can't expect to capture the attention of your listeners if they're sleepy or sluggish.

If possible, choose a time mid-to-late morning when your audience is most likely to be alert and receptive. It's also vital to speak in a well-lit room, as dim lighting leads to drowsiness and mental fog.

The medium(s) you use to present your ideas play a major role in how engaged your listeners become -- and how much information they retain.

When teaching or informing, using some type of board is preferable, because the speed you write on a board is approximately the same speed that your listeners can absorb ideas. Watching someone write also activates the brain's "mirror neurons," which increases the chances of your audience remembering your main points.

The most effective communicators know that simply conveying information isn't enough. They also need to inspire their audience to take action.

People feel most inspired when they witness someone who's passionate about what they're doing. In other words, your enthusiasm (or lack thereof) is contagious to your listeners.

Whether you're talking about an innovative idea, a new product, or groundbreaking research, be enthusiastic.

You have no more than five minutes to convince the listener that your ideas are worthy of their time and attention.

Compelling storytelling not only drives home the main points but also persuades and convinces your audience that you've done something worthy of their consideration.

Remember: Facts and figures win minds, but stories win hearts.

Your introduction and the way you build your argument are important, but your audience is more likely to remember your conclusion than any other part of your speech.

For that reason, it is recommended that after you summarize your take, you salute the audience -- that is, you tell the audience how much you value their time and attention and what it says about them.