What is Toastmasters?

Everyone in a Toastmasters meeting was once at the level you are now. The environment is fun, friendly and supportive, and the self-paced programme allows you to build confidence with each speaking assignment.

Richard Foster-Fletcher doing his speech

 

  • A typical club has between 20 to 40 members who meet either weekly, biweekly or monthly. An evening meeting normally lasts around 90- 120 minutes.
  • There is no instructor in a Toastmasters meeting. Instead, members evaluate one another’s presentations, pointing out the strengths and suggesting improvements. This feedback process is a key part of the program’s success. Members also give impromptu talks on assigned topics, conduct meetings and develop their leadership skills.
  • Members learn communication skills by working through manuals such as the Competent Communication manual, a series of 10 self-paced speaking assignments designed to instil a basic foundation in public speaking. There are then 15 Advanced Communications manuals to choose from, covering areas from humorous speaking to Speeches by Management.

One thing that you’ll love at Toastmasters meetings is the applause. At first you’ll be applauded for your effort; later you’ll be applauded for your skill.

Why join?