Your stomach is tied in knots and your palms are sweaty. The last thing you want to do is stand up in front of a crowd of people to give a presentation.

Public speaking is often ranked as one of the top fears; so feeling this way before a big speech is normal. But regardless of industry, perfecting the ability to command a room is an invaluable career skill.

Becoming a great public speaker is an art, not a science. And while it’s possible to teach yourself, it’s more effective to work with someone who already has the experience and expertise.

By working with a mentor, you not only have someone to practice with but also someone to guide and coach you through the entire process. A mentor will review your slide deck and provide feedback to strengthen your presentation. Before you know it, a mentoring experience will turn you into a confident public speaker.