Sandgate Toastmasters

Why do people join Toastmasters?


John says....

"The question is often asked,"Why do people join Toastmasters?" No one answer can suffice. The reasons are varied and many. I joined Toastmasters in 1972 because of my involvement in the local Parents and Citizens Association. when our eldest started school. I realised after a period of time that I was not contributing because of lack of confidence in what I had to say. I also realised that the meeting after the meeting was far easier to participate in.

"Why didn't someone say...?" "Why doesn't someone do...?" were often heard in these discussions which rightly, should have taken place in the official meeting. I realised I needed help to allow me to say my bit.

My Toastmasters training allowed me to eventually fill the position of President of Wavell State High School P & C as well as chair the school's Speech Night function. It has also helped in many ways over the years in my work environment. After 30 years with Sandgate Club I still leave the meetings on a high. My wife Doris now expects me to relate who said what and who did what on my arrival home."
 

Marlene says...

 I used to read articles about Toastmasters in the local paper and think, 'That sounds like fun, but I could never speak in public..."  I thought it would probably be just for professional people, not ordinary people like me. Then someone gave me some Toastmasters magazines. The articles made me think it must be my kind of club - but it still took me several years to pluck up enough courage to attend that first meeting.  I loved it, even though I was so nervous I felt dizzy and was relieved that the meeting finished a bit early. I attended several more meetings before I was brave enough to ask if I could join. 

I was so nervous when I made my first speech, I didn't know if I'd get through it without passing out. But I went home on such a "high" after receiving positive feedback from my evaluator. 

I find the meetings exhilarating and never miss one if I can help it. The communication and leadership skills I have learnt have helped me to develop confidence in other life situations. People who knew what I was like years ago have remarked on the change they see in me.

Oh...and it's fun!
 

Caroline says...

My job entails training and over the last few years, I have had to coordinate and chair meetings as well as present to large groups of people.

I have always experienced considerable nerves whenever talking to a large group of people, so coming to Toastmasters has given me guidance about techniques to improve my presentations and presentation style. Evaluation of each presentaion means that improvements can be made, and my toastmaster colleagues are less brutal than my colleagues in the workplace.

While I still get nerves, I know that if I prepare and practice thoroughly then the total process of presenting to a group can be infinitely less stressful. And that is why I joined Toastmasters, to reduce stress!!!!!
 

Liz says...

I joined Toastmasters as I wanted to overcome that inadequate or shy feeling I had whenever confronted with a group of people. I just didn't know what to say or do.

Thankfully Toastmasters has helped me use strategies to at least appear to be in control and confident. Being a Club member has also given me much pleasure with the fellowship we enjoy. I have learned so much from my fellow Toastmasters.
 
 
 
 

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