It really depends on the child, but I'm a firm believer in talk first, spank second.
My Dad only raised a hand to me bottom once (and it was very well deserved both times) when I was growing up. But he reminded me regularly what would happen if I "crossed the line". In hindsight, it was all talk but I didn't know that at the time - I respected and somewhat feared me 'da. The thought of him kicking my ass was enough to make sure I thought twice before crossing my folks in some way.
I swore at my Mom once... Once...
