I watched a wedding guest who'd been asked to deliver a toast. As he spoke, the microphone drifted slowly down toward his stomach.

If you're uncomfortable speaking, and especially if amplifying your voice also amplifies your nerves, watch out for the mic drop.

This subconscious hiding technique will render your speech inaudible—and though that's the point, on-stage self-sabotage will not help you honor the groom, congratulate the new graduate, or send a loved on their way to their last resting place.

Whether you're nervous or not, holding back will help neither your confidence nor your message. Hold the microphone just below your chin—don't hide behind it, either—and go for it!

Be aware of your hands, your posture, and any subconscious efforts to crawl under the table and hide!