Have you ever “frozen” in front of an audience? Have you heard a speaker whose delivery made you feel sorry for him? Have you endured a boring meeting that you thought would never end? Being able to communicate effectively is an important part of any success strategy. Whether speaking on the phone with a potential client or in front of an audience as a workshop presenter you want to make your best impression so people will feel comfortable with the products and services you have to offer. Toastmasters can help you become the successful, confident person you want to be. It is an investment in yourself that will help you:

Give constructive feedbackImprove your leadership skillsListen to others carefully Organize your thoughts & present them clearlyThink and respond confidently

When I first heard the word Toastmaster, I thought it had something to do with cooking or giving a toast. The latter is correct. This educational speaking organization has nothing to do with cooking and everything to do with articulating and expressing yourself well. You may have been asked to give a toast or a eulogy on the spur of the moment. Most people hate being put on the spot but in a Toastmasters meeting, being put on the spot is one of the ways we learn to speak well without the benefit of rehearsal. Table topics are given at each club meeting. A member may be called upon to speak impromptu about a topic drawn from a hat by the Topics Master. The “volunteer” would have one to two minutes to deliver an organized presentation of his or her thoughts and opinions on the topic. It may be scary at first, but you will learn these skills in a positive, friendly and supportive environment where you will have fun, meet new people, and form friendships that will last a lifetime.

For an investment of about $6 and an average of three hours per month Toastmasters can help you discover communication abilities you didn’t know you had. Active participation will bring you to the point where you feel comfortable expressing yourself in public with the confidence that your listeners clearly understand you.