Toastmasters International is an organization. Lake Norman Toastmasters is a club. Our members are individuals.

Toastmasters International provides the framework and education material. Lake Norman Toastmasters provides the local environment. Individual Members create content and fill roles.

As you are starting out, you will quickly realize that there is a variety of ability and speaking styles among your fellow members. You can learn from these different styles to develop your own authentic style. And yes, clubs with varying levels of ability can still be highly productive.

The critical element to maximizing the productivity of your Toastmasters experiences revolves around your attitude and effort as a Member. Remember, Lake Norman Toastmasters is a Club, not a Business. Members serve each other by contributing in different ways. Even if you are the least experienced speaker in the Club, you can still contribute to its success.

How do you do this?

Begin by showing up on time with a positive attitude. As you get more comfortable, start signing up for roles and taking them seriously. Even the smallest introduction to a role is an opportunity to practice your creativity and improve. Your effort and creative expression will inspire your fellow members. It will also make the meeting more productive and fun!

As you get more experienced, try serving as Toastmaster and eventually take on an Officer role. Overall, a Club is only as good as the collective effort among its Members.

Check out #2 in this series here.