So today I finished my 10th speech. 10th speech you say? Yes, my 10th speech in the Competent Communicator track of Toastmasters International.
Tulane University has a chapter of Toastmasters International on campus. Toastmasters International is an educational organization that works to build the communication and leadership skills of its members. Last year I was the President of the Organization and this year I am the Sergeant at Arms (timekeeper, room reserver, disciplinarian!). Our meetings are every Monday that school is in session from 5:30 until 6:30pm in room 3111 of Goldring-Woldenberg Hall at Tulane University. Each meeting consists of two parts; prepared speeches and table topics. Prepared speeches are exactly what they seem; members make 4-7 minute long speeches on topics of their choosing while following guidelines as outlined in their manuals. These guidelines range from the efficient use of gestures in a speech to the use of vocal variety to engage your audience. The table topics section of each meeting consists of impromtu speeches that last between 1 and 2 minutes where the speaker is given a random topic to speak on. Fun stuff!
Once you become a member of this international (Toastmasters International clubs are in 92 countries in the world) organization, you receive a set of booklets that outline the Competent Communicator (a series of 10 speeches starting with speaking about yourself and culminating with an inspiration speech) and the Competent Leadership requirements. Included with the booklets is general information regarding giving better presentations and being more comfortable speaking in front of people. For more information, please visit www.toastmasters.org .
I have completed the Competent Communicator track and now I can add the letters ‘CC’ to the end of my name and add it to my resume! I have found everything I learned invaluable in preparing me for the presentation realities of the business world.
-Mr Price