Storytelling is different in every situation. You are different, the audience is different, and the story becomes a little different each time. What do you do? Remember this mantra: Salt to taste!

Just as in cooking, you don't add salt if the food already has a high salt content. You adjust accordingly. If you don't have a mic, you may have to speak louder. If the mic is too "hot", you may need to back off a little, and even adjust your projection. If you are "popping your Ps" you should probably back away from the mic. If the audience is on three sides, vs. all in front of you, you will need to find a way to let everyone see your face and make contact with all listeners.

We've all read instructions on pre-packaged food that says, "Microwave on high for 3 minutes." But depending on the power of your microwave oven, you may need to add or reduce the time. 

So upon arriving at your venue, check out the oven, the burners on the stove, the lights, the mic, and the audience. You know how to cook your story...now just salt to taste!