Does the thought of speaking in front of a group of people give you sweaty palms, or maybe even worse? Do you avoid speeches or wish you could become more confident in front of people?
If the answer is yes, you are not alone. Statistics show that three out of four people experience anxiety about public speaking, yet at some point in our lives most of us will eventually have to face that fear.
Or maybe you’re not necessarily afraid of public speaking, but you are looking for ways to improve your skills and learn how to more effectively engage with your audience.
A group of local Chestermere residents have come together to form the newest group called Chestermere Toastmasters Club. Toastmasters International is a world leader in communication and leadership development. They provide a supportive and positive learning experience in which members are empowered to develop communication and leadership skills, resulting in greater self-confidence and personal growth.
Although the small local group is still in its infancy, they have the help and support of some very dedicated and experienced toastmasters to get them started from District 42, which encompasses both Alberta and Saskatchewan.
Members of the newly formed Chestermere Toastmasters meet to demonstrate their leadership and sharpen their speaking skills every Tuesday from 6:00 to 7:30pm at Chestermere City Hall. Visitors are welcome to attend a meeting and see what it’s all about without obligation to speak.
Members pay a one-time $25 fee to join and then $50 every six months for dues. “This is the cheapest training you will ever receive” says John Popoff, who is a member of the Chestermere Club, “The work you put into this – you get out.”
Whether you’re new to giving speeches or are a seasoned Toastmaster, being a part of a group that supports one another in a learn-by-doing environment will allow you to achieve your goals at your own pace and hone you skills.
John Bauer is the Toastmasters Public Relations Officer for the District and says that the Chestermere Toastmasters Club is a safe place free of ridicule or embarrassment with a no-pressure atmosphere. “Toastmasters is not just for professionals, it is for those who like to be able to communicate better with their families, friends, practice English, prepare to enter or re-entry the work force etc.” says Bauer.
Members exchange valuable feedback to their fellow Toastmasters which helps to learn and grow. “I got involved with Toastmasters on the recommendation of from a friend and through a professional organization. I stay involved for two reasons, the friendship and the positive feedback.”
Bauer goes on to explain that he has seen people benefit from Toastmasters in several ways including when they have applied for and gotten jobs because employers can see that they are always learning and practicing their communication skills. “I have also seen members become more self-confident in how they speak, act and how they deal with different situations. The most important thing I have seen people get from Toastmasters is the knowledge that they are not alone in wanting to be better communicators and leaders.”
The non-profit organization just celebrated its 90th Anniversary last year and now has over 313,000 members across 126 countries. Thy offer many resources to their members including an educational program consisting of both leadership and communication training.
Contact John Bauer for more information on the Chestermere Toastmasters Club by emailing him at pro@d42tm.org or by visiting the District website at www.d42tm.org.
