Frequently Asked Questions

Question:

Can anyone join Toastmasters?

As long as you are 18 years of age you can join. However, some clubs are closed, which means that you need to be a member or employee of the sponsoring organization in order to join. Double check whether the club is an open club or a closed club before you decide to join.

How much does it cost?

The cost to join Toronto Business Toastmasters is $375.00 per year plus a one time fee of $25.00.

How do I attend the meeting as a guest?

Guests are always welcome and encouraged. You can either contact our VP, Membership ahead of time or just show up at one of our regularly scheduled meetings. We ask that you arrive a few minutes early, as our meetings start promptly. Guest are requested to pay a $10 meeting fee.

What materials do I receive as a new member?

New members receive a new members kit which will provide you with all the information you need to become a successful communicator. The VP, Membership will ensure you receive this kit and the VP, Education will support you through the educational module and help you reach your goals.

Are great speakers born or made?

All great speakers are born. But then again so is every other person in every other profession in the world. Some people may be naturally imbued with some of the skills or traits that are required of to be a great speaker, but through study, hard work and practice everyone can reach their own desired level of accomplishment as a speaker.

How do you overcome the fear of public speaking?

There is no magic bullet for overcoming the fear of public speaking. However, through preparation, practice, repetition and membership in our club you will start to feel the fear lessen each time you speak.

How long does it take to become a great speaker?

5 - 7 minutes - at a time. As the typical toastmaster speech is 5 - 7 minutes, every time you work on and deliver a speech it is an opportunity to learn about the science and art of public speaking. The more time and effort put into learning the shorter the learining curve to greatness. In the end it is really up to you.

What should I speak on?

What ever you like - as long you make sure that there is something in it for the audience. Typical topics section speeches range from personal experiences, hobbies, pet peeves, travel and vacations, interests, etc.

Question:

What is Table Topics?

In this section of the meeting members and guests have the opportunity to present one-minute impromptu speeches on topics that they may or may not know anything about. this is a valuable way of building the skill of `thinking on your feet`, and dealing with those times you are called on to speak with little or no advance notice.

Question:

How can Toastmasters help me?

Your success in both your personal and professional life is to a large extent on how effective you are. Through participation in the Toastmasters Communication and Leadership program, people from all backgrounds learn to effectively speak, listen, conduct a meeting, manage a department or business, lead, delegate, and motivate.

Question:

Videotape! What is up with that?

Many people have habits which detract from a good presentation. People may shuffle their feet, swing their arms, or rock back and forth and not even realize it. The video gives people a powerful way to critique themselves and see first hand opportunities to improve their public speaking skills. Once a speaker is aware that they have a bad habit, then it makes it easier to eliminate it.