Why I Joined Toastmasters...

Several years ago my father, who is an engineer and a Toastmaster, said to me "Rich, you're an engineer. Engineers have a [deserved] reputation for not being able to communicate. Join Toastmasters!" So I did.

At first I figured it would look good on my resume, help me do well in interviews and be a better communicator. Now I recognize that I've learned about speaking, communicating, leading, organizing AND I've had a good time learning it.

I joined because I wanted to have a voice that sounded more confident while speaking (not so tentative or shaky sounding). Also, I wanted to lose the desire to vomit every time I had to speak in front of a large crowd.

I joined for the camaraderie. Improving my public speaking was not the highest priority. Having fun and meeting and greeting new folks was more important. I thought I might get some job leads, some new friends, some good experience.

I have found some new friends, had much fun, and am becoming more comfortable in the podium phase of my membership.

I joined the Toastmasters originally because I had heard this club is where you learn to communicate with others in the most effective, precise manner. I also had heard that this club trained you to lose your hesitation and nervousness when you are speaking in public.

How true is that. And the best part is while you are becoming an accomplished speaker/communicator, you are having so much fun!