Q: Do I have to start speaking as soon as I join a Toastmasters club?

A: One of the nice things about Toastmasters in that you progress through the educational program at your own pace. Members generally start out by assuming meeting roles such as Timer or Grammarian. Some members ask to be on the speaking schedule immediately, others attend meetings for months before giving their first "icebreaker" speech, observing others and participating in less formal speaking opportunities such as Table Topics.

Q: If I can't get on the speaking schedule what can I do?

A: If you join at a time when the schedule is already booked up for the coming months, you should prepare a speech and be ready to speak if there is a cancellation. These happen often. You could also ask the Education team to find you an opportunity at another club.  It is the responsibility of the Education team to make sure all members get speaking opportunities. Simcoe Speakers has a goal setting workshop twice yearly when members have a chance to share their speaking plans.

Q: What is the mentoring program about?

A: A mentor is an experienced Toastmaster who has volunteered to help a newer member. It is up to the mentor and mentee to decide between them what the extent of this help will be. It is common for the mentor to help the mentee with his/her first three speeches. If you would like to have a mentor or a mentee, please contact the Education team by sending an e-mail through the Public Relations team link below.

Please send in your questions to the Public Relations team