Toastmasters International is a world leader in communication and leadership development. Our organization has more than 332,000 memberships. Members improve their speaking and leadership skills by attending one of the 15,400 clubs in 135 countries that make up our global network of meeting locations.
Every Toastmasters journey begins with a single speech. During their journey, they learn to tell their stories. They listen and answer. They plan and lead. They give feedback—and accept it. Through our community of learners, they find their path to leadership.
The reason why I like Toastmasters is because it helps you to be more mindful of your speaking allowing you to become more aware of what is and what is not proper when engaged in a conversation. But most importantly, you develop new relationships.
I have been with Toastmasters for just over a year now. Since I have been involved, I have learned some extremely useful skills in leadership and communication that I use in my day to day position as a Quality Manager with Wells Fargo. In my role I have to be able to effectively communicate to a wide range of individuals and Toastmasters has helped to further develop this skill.
Toastmasters have provided me with more than just an opportunity to hone my skills as a public speaker. It has given me insight in to how the organization has impacted the people it touches and how it really changes people’s lives. To me, that is a bigger drawing force than improving myself as a professional.
Toastmasters is about discovery. Who are you? What do you really want? What is the best way to go about getting the life that makes you happiest? Once this is mapped in your mind, Toastmasters gently, with love and affection, mentor you on your journey. In the meantime you will meet people so amazing that just knowing them will change your life forever. That is what Toastmasters has done for me.
Where else in my world could I find that little bit of magic experienced in a weekly Toastmaster gathering? We share the fun of learning about each other and the world we live in; there’s no place like it.
*Note: Members pay Toastmasters International dues of US $60 every six months. (Some clubs may charge additional fees.) All new members also pay a one-time US $20 fee.
