improve my public speaking skills

I’ve been in Toastmasters clubs for five years. It really helps. It’s less scary than important talks at work. You get to try new techniques, styles, organization. For example, one talk focuses on vocal variety; people give you good feedback about whether you were over the top or too boring.

I joined Toastmasters (several clubs, actually) and got to really know what part of the preparation for speeches is important—I used to spend way too much time. I got used to a room full of people looking to me not just for words but for the tone of the whole meeting. This has been agreat way to practice managing people, especially since I am an introvert.