Long before the day of your talk, check on all of the most important details about the location and plan to arrive just a little early. This extra time gives you an opportunity to look at and think about a number of issues regarding the location and setup of your presentation room.

Date, time and location. Where are you supposed to be? When is your talk scheduled to begin? If you are unfamiliar with the location, find out as much as you can about it in advance. Figure out the best route to your speaking location. Find out where to park and where the room or auditorium for your presentation is located.

Room layout. Walking into the room with no idea of how it will be organized is unwise. Don't depend on others to set up the room to your satisfaction, either. If possible, arrive early and arrange the room the way you like it. It's your speech, take charge of the room.

Microphone and acoustics. Try out the sound system in advance. If you have to wear a wireless mike, find out exactly what you need to do to make it work. Decide beforehand whether you are willing to speak without a sound system if it fails or wait for someone to repair it.

Visual-aids. Check out the screen, the placement of your projector and the system you plan to use to support your talk. Make sure the image is focused, centered and visible to the people in the back row.

Stage. Take a moment to find out how to get on and off the stage, where the sound projection limits are in the room; and location of the trap doors, cables and high-risk footing. Figure out where the perimeter of the stage is and how close your podium is positioned to the edge. More than one professional speaker or performer has literally fallen off the edge of a stage or raised platform because he didn't pay attention to the boundaries. A raised platform with a curtain behind you is particularly dangerous and deserves your close attention before you begin the presentation.

Time limits. Double-check with your host on the time limit for your talk and then abide by it. Don't disappoint by ending your talk early or by speaking beyond your allotted time.