FAQs

 

What is Toastmasters?

Toastmasters International is a non-profit organization governed by a Board of Directors elected by the membership. The first Toastmasters club was established on October 22, 1924, in Santa Ana, California, by Dr. Ralph C. Smedley, who conceived and developed the idea of helping others to speak more effectively. Toastmasters is devoted to making effective oral communication a worldwide reality. Through its member Clubs, Toastmasters International helps men and women learn the arts of speaking, listening and thinking – vital skills that promote self-actualization, enhance leadership, foster human understanding, and contribute to the betterment of mankind.

 

 

How Will Toastmasters Help Me?

The skills you learn in Toastmasters will help you at work and at home! Table Topics prepares you for thinking on your feet, a useful skill in interviews and when the boss comes by with that "quick question" for you. Evaluating speeches will help you develop active listening skills, and objective evaluation techniques that help with interpersonal skills at home and work. Practicing speeches will help you deal with nervousness and learn how to avoid strings of "ums" and "you knows"! Lastly, Toastmasters gives you a chance to develop leadership skills as a club officer!

 

I want to attend a meeting as a guest, what should I do?

You are welcome to attend the meeting. Just come in on the day of the meeting. The date and time are listed on the home page. You can observe the meeting and participate in Table Topics.

 

How much does it cost?

Please click here to take a look at the cost information.

 

What are the benefits of joining a Toastmasters club?

You will become the speaker and the leader you want to be. Our district's theme is "Where Leaders Are Made." To achieve this, you can take the Communication track and/or the Leadership track. By completing 10 Competent Communicator and Advanced Communicator projects, you can become an exceptional speaker. By taking various leadership roles to help with the club operations or at the club meetings, you can become the leader you want to be. The highest level of achievement is DTM (Distinguished Toastmaster)

 

What do you get for your new member fee?

Within a couple of weeks after joining, you will receive a New Member Packet from Toastmasters International in Mission Viejo, CA. This packet will contain: Communication and Leadership Program Manual, which is the core of the program. Effective Speech Evaluation Manual (tips and techniques for giving helpful evaluations). Your Speaking Voice Manual (tips for adding strength and authority to your voice). Gestures: Your Body Speaks Manual (how to become skilled in nonverbal communication).

 

What is special about Art Of Speaking toastmasters club?

In our club you are assured of a chance to give speeches. You will be evaluated by the expert speakers. The meeting happens in two of Edison Libraries. This gives you an opportunity spend your time reading after/before the meeting.

Our club was President's Distinguished Club for 2003-04, 2007-08, 2008-09,2009-10 and 2010-11. It was also Select Distinguished Club in 2006-07.

 

What type of support will I receive?

You will receive positive, friendly support helping you gain self-confidence. A mentor can be assigned to assist you with your first few speeches. You will have access to educational materials to help you work on specific skills. There are educational modules, videotapes, audiocassettes and books available.

 

How often will I have to speak?

There are lots of opportunities to practice public speaking with Toastmasters. You are given the opportunity to speak for at least two minutes each meeting during the Table Topics impromptu speeches. You will be giving your prepared speeches to complete your goal of becoming a Competent Communicator in the time frame you set. In addition, members rotate through the different roles needed during the meeting.

 

How soon do I have to give a speech?

Toastmasters is self-paced so you determine when you are ready. After you have attended a few meetings and have participated in table topics and club meeting duties you will have practiced in a variety of communication experiences preparing you for your own speech project. When you are ready you will contact the Vice President of Education to schedule your first speech.