A fantastic week. I presented my second Education from the Successful Club Series – Going Beyond Your Club.

Purpose

This presentation, part of Toastmasters International’s Successful Club Series, will provide information on furthering your Toastmasters experience beyond the club level. There are many activities that provide continuing learning activities in between the meetings times of our club.

Toastmasters “Fitness”

The more we exercise, the more likely they are to improve. Therefore, using skills outside of our club is an important part of “Toastmasters fitness.” Every day provides a myriad of occasions to hone your skills – business situations, social interactions, personal relationships, etc. Greater participation means increased changes for learning.

Speech Contests

Although competition against other Toastmasters is prominent, the most important competition is always against one’s own abilities. Contests need the support and participation of all Toastmasters. Contests provide opportunities to hone your abilities, learn by observation, meet and network with other Toastmasters, and have fun!

Main Contest Roles

• Contestant
• Emcee
• Judge

Support Roles

• Counters
• Timers
• Sergeants at Arms
• Audience Members

Greater participation means increased chances for learning. When each member says “YES” to helping out, rather than leaving the responsibility to one or two people, all events will benefit. At first, taking on additional roles and responsibility may seem daunting, but soon the advantages of increasing involvement will become clear.

Leadership Opportunities

• Area level
• Division level – link between Area and District
• District level – Governor, Lieutenant Governor Education and Training, Marketing, Public Relations, Secretary, Treasurer)
• Board of Directors
• Conferences – Seminars, Contests, Camaraderie

Looking to the Future

Where do we go from here? Many of us get into a routine of attending (most) meetings, but do we think of going beyond this? Start thinking OUTSIDE THE BOX!