When joining Toastmasters, you may feel a little bit out of your depth. Don’t Panic! This is completely normal, and you are not alone.
I remember attending a meeting as a new member and putting my name down for Table Topics. For those of you who are not familiar with this…it’s impromptu speaking. Yip…I freaked out a little inside too, I mean what on earth was I thinking!?!
Okay but no turning back now…here we go. I was asked to talk for 1 – 2 minutes about my favourite song. I still remember blubbering on about how it depends on my mood as to which songs I love most, but that is all I remember. I don’t remember one detail of my impromptu speech. What I do remember is winning the award for best table topics. Winning! Yes please!
But that is only one of the many things you will learn as a Toastmaster. How to speak on your feet. Another is how to deliver impactful speeches.
But let’s start at the beginning.
I am a member, now what?
Your first official speech in Toastmasters is to deliver an Ice Breaker – this is your opportunity to introduce yourself to the group and share something personal about yourself. It is also an opportunity to get your feet wet and plan a speech in front of an audience.
So where to from here?
- Log in to the Toastmasters International website and click on pathways and go to base camp.
- Click on your pathway.
- Open the curriculum.
- Select Level 1.
- Launch ice breaker.
- Follow the step-by-step as this will guide you through the entire process.
- Download your project checklist.
- Download your evaluation resource (as you will need to send this to your evaluator on the day).
Preparing to present
Write your speech out, memorise the opening and conclusion as every speech needs to have a strong opening and closing. Rehearse until you feel comfortable. The more you rehearse the more comfortable you will feel.
Remember your outline by creating a few notes or bullet points – try and avoid writing it all down on a piece of paper as you will most likely throw yourself off when you lose your place. The goal is to rather remember your outline as opposed to trying to say your speech word for word.
Connect with your audience by looking at them. It will give your speech far more impact. In light of virtual meetings, look at the camera as this will make your audience feel like you are looking directly at them. When giving a speech at an actual face-to-face meeting you should look around the room and try to make authentic (not creepy or forced) eye contact with each of the attendees.
Final Thoughts
Breathe. Remember that everyone started here. Each and every speech you deliver will make you stronger and more confident. Every evaluation received will help you to improve your skills. You got this!