When you need to make a point and make it stick - less is more. 

• B.L.U.F. - give the bottom line up front 
• Make 1 point at a time - avoid stacking messages...K.I.S.S. 
• Use a tone that fits the message - joking about serious matters is a mixed message
• Use pauses - let your message sink in...silence focuses attention on what you're saying next 
• Make eye contact - this holds your audience's attention
• Use body language - this is how people read your emotions 

PRACTICE TIP - you should always rehearse important messages up front