If just the thought of speaking in front of a crowd gives you heart palpitations and sweaty palms, it’s probably worth investing time in improving your public speaking abilities.

Sure, business owners and entrepreneurs aren’t required to deliver keynote presentations at large conferences or launch side careers as inspirational speakers. But being able to deliver a polished, concise and heartfelt message to an audience greater than the people at your dinner table can make for better sales pitches and company-wide updates. Plus, a strong public presence can bolster your authority.

Ready to become a better public speaker?

Begin with these four tips as you start preparing your next presentation: