"Why do people join Toastmasters?"
People usually join Toastmasters to improve their public speaking and presentation skills, but find that increased self-confidence is a side benefit along with mentorship, networking opportunities and a supportive learning environment. One benefit that can never be understated is the ability to practice and learn communication skills in a safe, supportive environment.
"What is the time commitment to be a member of CanOrators?"
CanOrator club meetings are one hour a week. In addition to attending the meetings there will be some preparation time for those people with duties at the meeting that require you to contact people before the meeting to confirm attendance. If you are giving a prepared speech, you will spend a few hours writing and rehearsing your speech, but these few hours are a great investment in yourself as you will experience a better delivery if you are well prepared for your speech.
"What does the program entail?"
When you join Toastmasters, you will receive a manual that decribes 10 speech projects. Each project focuses on a different skill and helps build upon previously learned skills. Once you complete the 10 speeches you will have earned your "Competent Toastmaster" (CTM) designation. You can then go on to earn more advanced designations in leadership and in communication.
In addition to delivering your prepared speeches, you will learn to evaluate other people's speeches, practice impromptu speaking, and improve your meeting facilitation skills.
"How much does it cost?"
There is a one-time initiation fee of US$16 and monthly dues of US$3. Monthly dues are collected in advance and are collected semi annually (i.e. US$18 every six months) These monies are remitted to Toastmasters International and are used to cover their operating costs. Clubs usually also collect a monthly fee to help them run the club. For CanOrators it is C$3 per month, again collected semi annually.
This is a very cost-effective way of improving your leadership and communication skills. Where else can you get this kind of value today?!
"What are the benefits?"
Your success in business is based on how effective you are. Through participation in the Toastmasters Communication and Leadership program, people from all backgrounds learn to effectively speak, conduct a meeting, manage a department or business, lead, delegate, and motivate.
- As your improved communication skills become obvious within the workplace, increased visibility, recognition and promotion will follow.
- Your improved presentation skills will win you the respect and admiration of your colleagues and employees - and make them wonder what you did to change!
- Leadership skills acquired through participation in Toastmasters will increase your management potential.
- As a Toastmaster you will acquire an increased ability to motivate and persuade, making you more effective as a supervisor or manager.
- Members of Toastmaster Clubs have access to a wide range of educational materials, including books, audio and videotapes, and seminar programs available at reduced cost through the Toastmasters International Supply Catalog.
On the Toastmaster International site right on the home page is a link called "Find a club". Select your geographic area, and you will get a list of clubs in your neighbourhood. You can click on any club to find out more about them and will be given a contact name for more information. It is best to visit a number of clubs before making your decision as every club has its own unique personality.