Speaking With Confidence
by Pat Alexander, Sussex Corner
If you are lacking self-confidence, would like to speak out easier to your friends, family or co-workers or to be able to stand up in front of a room filled with strangers, Toastmasters may have just want you need.
One year ago I joined the Sussex Toastmasters. I teach computer courses on a regular basis so speaking in front of people comes naturally to me. I had many ask me why I would ever want to join Toastmasters - you have no problem speaking they said. That’s true. In my safe little world at the Access Center I speak quite confidentially. Due to the success of our center, I am quite often asked to speak in front of large groups of people. At times I do this rather well. But other times I am almost sick thinking about it because I felt my speech did not come across the way I wanted. I also wanted to develop my listening skills. As a supervisor I have to delegate work and be able to give criticism and encouragement to my employees.
At Toastmasters each week everyone is assigned a different duty. Some of the duties you may be assigned are chair, speech evaluator or you may have to present an organized speech. As chair you will learn to be able to run a smooth meeting, and be more effective. As evaluator, you will learn to use the layer cake effect: positive, criticism, topped by positive. As beginning speaker you will use the Competent Toastmasters’ manual which consists of 10 speeches, each from four to seven minutes in length, which you will work on at the pace you feel comfortable. When you complete your speeches you will receive a certificate. Upon your request a letter of accomplishment will be sent to your employer or supervisor.
I am half way through my manual. Just after those five speeches I am speaking with more confidence, and the nervousness has almost disappeared. This has all been made possible by a great group of people who consistently give me encouragement and suggestions on how I can improve. I am so glad I made the decision to join.
This year the Sussex Toastmasters celebrate their 10th year anniversary. On March 9th, storm date March 16th, the group will be having a special celebration. As always our doors are open to the general public, but this night we are encouraging those that think we may have something to offer to join us as a guest. There is no obligation to join and you may be a guest as often as you wish. Meetings are held every Wednesday night from 6:30 – 8:30. If you would like more information, call me at 433-2465 or email palex@nbnet.nb.ca. I hope to see you there!
