Fellow speaker,
Since many people don't know the difference between lecterns (that you stand behind) and podiums (that you stand on) and often switch the terms, be very clear when requesting one of these for your speech. If you need a lectern, make it very clear what you need. For example, "Please provide a lectern for me to stand behind and put my notes on." If you need a podium, make that clear. For example, "Please provide a podium for me to stand on that elevates me at least 2 feet above the level of the chairs in the front row of the audience."
Clearly,
Tim
