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.
As an Upper Cervical Chiropractor, Toastmasters provides me with the safe and supportive environment to improve my communication and leadership skills. I am thankful to be growing through Toastmasters as I am recent graduate, working as an Associate Doctor at Upper Cervical Centers (Cedar Falls), and gaining the tips, tools, and strategies to be an effective communicator of Chiropractic to my community and the world.
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.
Why I love Toastmasters? I love Toastmasters because hands down it is the single best encouraging organization I have ever come across to attribute my consistent personal and professional growth. I have been able to bust through glass ceiling after glass ceiling due to the tools I have acquired right here in my own back yard. It is the single greatest investment I have ever made in myself, Theresa Mickelson, Club Growth Director – 3rd ranking officer in Toastmasters International District 19. AND, the greatest news is, it is available for you, too. Come join us, have fun and become a better you!
My goal in joining Toastmasters was to become more comfortable speaking in front of a group of individuals – whether it was at a department meeting or giving a toast at a friends’ birthday party. I was not familiar with the speaking options for Toastmasters, so it was a pleasant surprise to learn I did not have to give a speech every week and that I was able to customize my journey to fit my personal and professional goals. One of the unintended side benefits that I have had with joining Toastmasters is the ability to network with various people across the company and other Toastmaster clubs. This group is very supportive and wants to help you reach your goals.
Being in Toastmasters has created for me the support in learning about speaking that was missing from my personal growth journey. It has grown my confidence and courage to share opinions without hesitation due to prior thinking “what if I sound stupid?” I reflect on questions asked, with more thoughtful and deliberate responses. I sound like the leader of myself, not a follower. I am most grateful for the skills I’m learning in leadership and conveying my messages. Lastly, it’s a great value for a minimal cost. People on a personal growth journey are truly missing out if they skip joining Toastmasters!
*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.
