Don't be nervous
This can be hard if you are asked to GM a group that is very familiar with the rules and setting of the game you are playing. More often than not though this is not the case. Chances are if you are a new GM then you are going to be running a game with new players as well. When running a game of new players remember they only know you screwed up if you tell them. For example if you have a player roll a skill check for the wrong skill or calculate it wrong they will never know the mechanics are wrong, only what the results are. As long as everyone is having a good time don't get hung up on the fact that you botched a rule, just make note of it and change it the next time that situation comes up.
Don't get hung up on rules
This almost coincides with my first piece of advice. The idea behind playing a role playing game is to have fun and ultimately tell a good story that your group will remember for years to come. That being said, don't let yourself fall into the trap of flipping through the rulebook whenever a conflict or situation occurs. If in doubt have the players roll some dice and determine the out come on your own. This keeps the flow of the game going and prevents down time while you are sifting through a few hundred pages of text.
Engage Your Player
Many times players, especially new players will be nervous about role playing. To overcome this interact with your players and make sure that you as the GM are role playing your NPCs as well. When the players watch you doing this it will help encourage them to get into their characters as well and make the entire session more entertaining to all. Keep in mind that you do not have to be a trained actor to get in character, some of my most memorable NPCs spawned from the horrible attempts I made at certain accents.
Don't Get a GOD Complex
While it is true that you are the GM and you are in charge of the world the players are playing in don't let that go to your head. Forcing characters to do things simply because you are the GM and you say so is bad form. Let your players feel that they are the ones making the choices and give them as much control over their characters as possible. This will allow your players to create a bond with their character and they will look forward to playing them again.
Don't Railroad Your Players
This goes hand in hand with the last tip. While it can be upsetting to see hours of work go down the drain because your players do not feel like going into the deep dark mines to rescue the princess, don't let it get you down. If the players choose to stray from the adventure at hand don't force them back to it. Doing this takes away choice from the players and they will eventually stop trying to think up inventive ways to accomplish tasks and just let you direct them, which is no fun for you or your group. As a GM you cannot prepare for every idea that a group may come up with and there are going to be times that you need to make something up on the fly. Don't get stressed over it just make it up and go with it, you might be surprised what great moments come out of the unexpected.
I know these tips do not seem like much but they will help you become a better GM and help you get through those first couple of games if you keep them in mind. I have found that these are the most common mistakes that new GMs make. Avoiding them will keep your players engaged as well as make sure a good time is had by all.
UPDATE: I have also composed a list of some tips for players new to the world of table top role playing. They can be found by following this link.
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