• One or more prepared speeches given by participants
• The table topic master for the day leads in a round of impromptu speeches - everyone has the opportunity to get involved
• An evaluation is given for each speech
• Speech times and a grammarian report is given
• Volunteers are taken for future role assignments
• Sample Agenda and Meeting Roles

• Elimination of Ahs and Ums
• Proper speech structure
• Utilize pregnant pauses
• Proper stance, body language, facial expressions
• Working the front of the room and the audience
• Using vocal variety, speaking with emphasis, sincerity
• Transform the jitters into useful energy that propels you to excellence

• Training material is provided to guide you through the hands-on learning process
• Speeches are prepared per the manual(s) (people usually prepare speeches on topics they are very familiar to save time and focus on speaking skills)
• Evaluations are provided - sandwich approach: what works well, things to look for in your next presentation, some more positive feedback
• Giving evaluations - improve listening, speaking, and speech knowledge
• Impromptu speeches/table topics - learn to think on your feet, eliminate the Ahs, Ums
• Lead meetings (volunteer basis)
• There are leadership opportunities as well. Please inquire if you have interest in development in this area.
• General information regarding how it works www.toastmasters.org/about.asp

• Toastmasters is a nonprofit, world wide, highly respected organization that exists for the purpose of developing communication and leadership skills www.toastmasters.org/famous.asp
• How Toastmasters can help www.toastmasters.org/help.asp
• Here is a brief history if you care to read: www.toastmasters.org/briefHist.asp
• The cost: $5.50/ month and a $20 cost for the new member kit/materials. Dues are paid semi-annually (October and April) and pro-rated.
• All training materials, your first speech manual, and your monthly magazine are all included in your dues. All future manuals are included in your dues as well.
• How long should I participate - that depends upon what you want to accomplish. This program enables incremental improvement through doing - participation and evaluation. Some people only want to get over their fears, enhance their skills a little, or become professional speakers. Toastmasters can enable all of that.
• There are many levels of accomplishment that may be attained by participants. The first level is attained after completing the 10 speeches in the first manual.
• You go at your own pace as far as giving prepared speeches - volunteer basis

Welcome to RDU Toastmasters!

A little bit over two years ago, I took a brave step and walked into an RDU Toastmasters meeting for the first time. I was there because I had been told I needed help with my oral communication skills. I am a very strong introvert and talking in front of a group of people was pretty much last on my list of things I wanted to do in life.

Do you identify with my story? If so, I invite you to visit one of our meetings and see what we are all about. We are a fun club with a casual atmosphere that fosters growth for our members and provides a great networking opportunity for people working in the RTP area. Our club meets every Tuesday from Noon to 1 PM in Nortel’s Gateway Building and guests are always welcome. You can find the directions at: http://www.rdu-toastmasters.org/directions.html. We are the best deal for a low-cal lunch hour!

For more information, please contact us at membership@rdutm.freetoasthost.net. Look forward to seeing you next Tuesday!

Silvia Pleasants
RDU Toastmasters
Club #6797 President

• Membership Application (PDF)
• Sample Agenda and Meeting Roles (PDF)
• Club Constitution Regarding Membership - Article II (PDF)