Island Bay Toastmasters
Club 9728, Area 7, Division E, District 72. Wellington, New Zealand.
Frequently asked Questions:
What is Toastmasters?
Toastmasters is a training and educational organisation which teaches its members communication, leadership, training and management skills, and builds their self-confidence. It is the largest organisation of its type in the world and in New Zealand there are over 200 clubs.
What is so good about Toastmasters?
We have a steady group of participants committed to providing a supportive learning environment from which you will be able to develop your public speaking skills. Our members are from a range of backgrounds and our experience is varied between new starters to Toastmasters who bring to our club many years of experience. Our meetings are informal and we try to vary the format so that our evenings are interesting and fun to attend.
When do you usually meet?
7.30pm to 9.30pm on every first and third (and occasionally fifth) Wednesday of the month.
Why do people join Toastmasters?
People join in order to:
- Develop leadership skills for career or community work
- Learn to research, organize and deliver talks to large and small audiences
- Help to relate to people
- Overcome fear and/or nervousness when speaking
- Solve a specific speaking problem
What is involved in visiting the club?
The meetings start at 7:30, and you can expect to be there until about 9.30pm. You don't need to ask for anyone in particular, as you will be made welcome by existing members. You do not need to prepare anything and if you want to you can participate in the informal 2-minute speeches at the beginning of the programme called ‘Table Topics’. There is no need to pre book to attend and you can be assured you will be made to feel welcome by friendly people.
Is it expensive?
No. In fact in comparison to various courses, seminars, programs, cassette and video kits offered through the media, Toastmasters is the least expensive and in our opinion the most effective way to learn public speaking and to develop confidence and self esteem. There is a joining fee to pay ($40), and the ongoing membership fee of $72 every 6 months (less than the price of a coffee per week!).
How do you join?
Come to a meeting as a guest (you can come as a guest several times if you want) and we'll help you fill in an application form. You must however, be 18 years or older to join Toastmasters.