Toastmaster’s journey. My story.

I am a Toastmaster. I made a very conscious decision in 2014 to join this noble club and what a journey it has been.

Toastmasters has fundamentally changed my life and has been the best investment I have made in my professional growth. It started with a job opportunity that would see me speaking to a large number of people on a regular basis. I must admit, my initial thought was can I really do this? Will I be able to make this commitment and attend meetings regularly, prepare for my meetings and write and deliver my speeches. Can I do this? Yes, I can!

It did not take me long to become The Competent Communication, which earned me the CC designation. Fast-forward to now I am on the Pathways program and pursuing the Dynamic Leadership program and I am one level away from earning my Dynamic Leadership (DL5) designation.

One thing I can say is having a mentor or a coach will assist you on your journey. If you do not have a designated person, who is your assigned mentor, don’t be afraid to seek clarity from a member who you think would offer the support you need. You will by now realize that you will come across strong members in the club that are really great speakers. Ask questions, take notes, and learn from the pros. While you are on your journey, it is easy to get caught up in the rush to get speeches done. Instead, get caught up in mastering the art of speech. What a difference it will make.

Learn more about being a Toastmaster at www.toastmasters.org

Sharon Smickle CC, DL2