Frequently Asked Questions
What is toastmasters?
Toastmasters is an educational organisation which teaches communication and
leadership skills. It is the largest and most successful organisation of its type in the
world. Founded in 1924, there are now over 10,000 Clubs in more than 80 countries.
Read more about International Toastmasters.
What can toastmasters do for you?
It will give you the skills and confidence to effectively express yourself in any situation:
- learning to think quickly and clearly under pressure
- developing and presenting ideas effectively
- delivering better presentations
- developing leadership skills
- conducting effective meetings
- acquiring increased ability to motivate and persuade, making you more effective as a supervisor or manager.
Whatever you goals, Toastmasters can help you become a better communicator and leader!
Why join Forestville Toastmasters?
Experience the support and friendship of our club, while developing your communication and leadership skills.
Who attends toastmasters?
People from all walks of life from students to retirees.Anyone over 18 years can join Toastmasters. As a member,
you’ll learn and practise speaking in a friendly, supportive environment with people who are there for the same reason you are – to become better communicators!
What happens at a typical meeting?
Lots of opportunities to speak – prepared speeches, impromptu speaking, constructive feedback and encouragement.
Come along and see for yourself what Toastmasters has to offer . Visitors are most welcome. There is no
obligation to join immediately but to participate fully you will need to become a member. Remember, you have nothing to lose except your fear of public speaking!
What resources will be available to you?
As a member you will receive manuals to guide you in your speaking development as well as a subscription
to the monthly Toastmaster magazine. However, the greatest resource is the constructive feedback and
encouragement you will receive from other members. As a Club, our role is to provide an enjoyable, positive
learning environment to help you achieve your goals.
Also see the Toastmaster International website for further information.
How long does it take to become a great speaker?
The Toastmasters Program is self-paced and your development depends on your own personal goals. At every meeting you will perform different assignments to help you develop your confidence and skills. At each meeting, you’ll introduce speakers, deliver prepared speeches, conduct the meeting, or take on one of many other roles. You’ll improve by speaking regularly and with the positive feedback and encouragement, your confidence
as well as your communication and leadership skills will grow. The more you put in, the more you get out…
How much does it cost to join toastmasters?
It costs nothing to visit our Club, and you can visit as often as you like! However, to participate in the
Toastmasters program you need to become a member. There is a joining fee of around $50 plus a membership
fee of about $72 every six months which is tax-deductible. As a non-profit organisation, our aim is to provide an enjoyable, affordable way of gaining great communication and leadership skills. For less than $3 per week this makes Toastmasters the most cost-effective speaking program available.
