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| FAQs
Here are some answers to typical questions. If you have more, please feel free to contact us.
When and where do you meet?
We meet on the first and third Wednesday of each month at 7:15pm for 7.30pm. The meeting closes at 9.30pm. Venue: Terrace Room, York House, Richmond Road, Twickenham, TW1 3AA.
Click here for:
Location map and transport links
Do you wear red coats, white bow ties, etc., and say, 'My Lords, Ladies and Gentlemen...'?
No, those are the Professional Toastmasters, who preside over dinner dances, weddings, product launches, award ceremonies and so forth. We don't have any connection with them ... although one of our advanced members is one!
If I come to a meeting, will I have to stand up and say something? Or can I just watch and listen?
There's no obligation whatsoever for guests to speak. If you are asked if you'd like to say a few words and you don't wish to, just say no. There will be a lot to see and a number of speakers to hear, most of whom joined Riverside because they were frightened of public speaking.
If I should join, will I have to attend every single meeting?
No, in a word. Come to the ones you can, but fairly regular attendance will help you to keep focused on achieving whatever goal or goals made you join Riverside.
What is Toastmasters International?
Toastmasters International is a non-profit training and educational organisation which teaches its members communication, leadership, training and management skills, and in doing so builds their self-confidence. It is the largest and most successful organisation of its type in the world.
As a non-profit organisation it runs a network of clubs led by volunteers for volunteers.
How long has Toastmasters International been around?
Toastmasters International was founded in 1924 and now has over 12,000 clubs in over 100 countries around the world. As a member of Toastmaster you will be welcome in any of these clubs.
Why do people join Riverside Communicators?
People join in order to improve their skill in speaking and to build their confidence.
What specifically will I achieve as a Toastmaster?
By regular practice, you will learn how to make effective prepared speeches. You will also be able to make short off the cuff speeches and contributions to discussions. Most importantly you will also hone your listening skills. Whether you are a novice wanting to make speech at an up-coming family event or an experienced speaker wanting to gain more flexibility in your delivery, you will find what you need in order to achieve your goals.
How do you learn these skills?
When you join you receive training materials covering all aspects of speaking and evaluation. This kit includes a Communication and a Leadership Manual which reflects the years of experience Toastmasters has in helping people just like you. The Communication Manual takes you step by step through the art of making and evaluating speeches. The Leadership Manual encourages you to use the roles you undertake in meetings to develop various different leadership skills.
In particular you learn by doing. And your efforts are evaluated by your fellow Club members who give constructive feedback. You will be gradually introduced to the various roles within a Toastmasters meeting. Gaining proficiency in these helps build up your skills, confidence and flexibility.
There seems to be a lot to get through. Will I be able to do it all?
Probably, and you won't have to do it alone. Riverside is a friendly club, so there'll always be people who can help you. We also have a one-to-one mentoring programme -- mentors can give you enthusiastic support, good feedback, help you time and rehearse your speeches, and offer you tailor-made guidance through the communication and leadership tracks. Having mentors is not obligatory, but they're available if you need them.
How soon will I be an expert?
Members progress at their own pace. Some move faster than others but everyone who joins Riverside Communicators and participates in the programme can be sure they will become a competent speaker. Your skills develop steadily. As your confidence grows, the situations that once terrified you are taken in your stride.
Is it expensive?
No. In comparison to various courses, seminars, programmes, cassette and video kits offered through the media, Toastmasters is the best value by far. In our opinion it is the most effective way to learn public speaking and build your confidence. Membership is just £96 a year and an initial registration fee of £20.
Anyone over 18 may join. To see if it's for you, just come along to a club meeting as our guest. Visitors can attend for free and are always assured of a friendly welcome without any obligation. |
