I’ve now been a member of Toastmasters for one year. So far I’ve delivered three prepared speeches, participated in dozens of table topics sessions and completed several roles from the Competent Leader manual.
I’ve observed massive personal improvement. From my first table topic where I was shaking with nerves and looking at the floor, to my latest speech which is far from perfect but demonstrates a marked improvement in stage presence and story telling.
I have the privilege of attending an excellent club which is full of experienced speakers, including professional speakers and national speaking contest winners. I’ve received vast amounts excellent feedback from my personal mentor who has devoted many hours to my development. I’ve also benefited from the friendly environment in the club where constructive feedback is abundant.
I think the best way to improve at something is to practice often with people who are better than you. Toastmasters definitely allows me to do that.
During the next Toastmasters year I am looking forward to developing further. I have been appointed as Sergeant at Arms, a role that requires me to set up the meeting room, greet the guests and give them the opportunity to introduce themselves during the meeting. The nature of this role will mean I’m unlikely to miss many meetings. I’m also hoping the regular interaction with guests will improve my inter-personal skills. At the moment I am very bad at small talk. In addition to this role I hope to deliver at least three more speeches making progress towards my Competent Communicator award.
So far I’m really enjoying my “Toastmasters Journey” and seem as it’s my one year anniversary I might treat myself to one of the £4.50 pints at the club’s very swanky location five minutes from Buckingham Palace.
3 Comments
Hi Andrew: congrats on making the end of your first year. The Cardies are a great club and I am not surprised to hear that you are learning so much there. Keep up the good work on this blog too – I am enjoying following your progress! Cheers F
Happy TM Birthday, Andy.
I’ve enjoyed our many discussions about Toastmasters over the last year and look forward to many more… especially now that you have been graced with the Sergeant at Arms role.
Seconding Freddie’s comment about the blog, too.
I can’t believe it’s been a year! Must feel very satisfied with the progress and the commitment. I second that point that you must practice with people who are better than you. It’s funny because I was saying to one of my friends that I hope I’m not in his class next year for German language because he’s half Austrian but he said that was silly because the only way you learn is by being with those who know more. So true. It’s the same with tennis. I always play better against those who challenge me. Guess it’s the competitive streak in humans.