Public speaking is a great way to develop personally on many levels, since improving communication skills is helpful in almost every area of life. Whether your goal is to engage in political debate, make a career as a motivational speaker or gain confidence in front of an audience, public speaking can help you meet your goal. Your confidence levels will increase as you go from speaking to small groups of people up to large audiences. Effective public speaking skills can help with career advancement. Public speaking is an excellent way to build critical thinking skills as well.