Did your debut in freshman speech class go something like this? You walked up to the podium, palms sweaty, legs feeling like Jell-O, and the more you tried to stop shaking, the worse it got. You tried to remember the words to your speech that you had written so meticulously, but as you opened your mouth, you drew a blank. You're not alone. Many people have a fear of public speaking, but you can overcome your anxieties and become a strong, engaging public speaker.Merriam-Webster defines public speaking as “the art of effective oral communication with an audience.” There are four types of public speaking: persuasive, informative, motivational, and inspirational. Persuasive speeches are used to change people's minds or behaviors in a specific area. Informational speeches simply teach the audience about a topic. Motivational speeches are used to convince listeners that they must take action to improve in an area of work or life. Inspirational speeches are given to convince listeners that they can succeed. The audience and their interests will determine what type of speech you will use.There are practical benefits to being an effective public speaker. Strong communications skills help you in the job market. Hiring managers often say that the ability to communicate effectively is one of the top skills they look for in an employee. When you learn to communicate properly, you also learn to listen properly, which helps you really remember conversations. When your communication skills increase, your interpersonal skills grow as well.So how do you develop good public speaking skills?There are other points to keep in mind. When speaking to a group, you must have proper vocalization. Don't speak so softly that the audience must strain to hear you. However, don't project so loudly that audience members conversational, and speak with clarity. Articulate your words, and make sure there's an easy flow to your speech. Put different weight on different words, so that your speech isn't monotone.Many times, the audience's interest in a speech is determined by your pace as a speaker. If they can't keep up with the speech, they'll stop listening. And if you're speaking fast, chances are you're mumbling, too. But don't go too slow. That's also a turnoff. Maintain a good pace that keeps people engaged.Practice your speech, including at least one time in front of a mirror. This way, you can see what your gestures look like and appreciate what the audience will see.Above all else, be yourself. These tips shouldn't be taken as suggestions to reinvent yourself. Rather, it's about bringing out your personal best. Trying to be someone else will come through as phony.Whether you're having a group meeting in the plant, presenting documents at an U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) inspection, or even coaching youth soccer, these tips will help you improve your communication. Communication is an integral part of your future success—personally and professionally.