Toastmasters

Even if you never intend to get into management you should take a look at public speaking training. The confidence you gain from learning speaking skills goes way beyond “giving a speech.” It will help you deliver a presentation to your co-workers or lead a meeting, become a better manager and help promote yourself and your company!

When I have an important presentation I will practice at my club meeting and get feedback from multiple people. It's a great place to make mistakes and fine-tune my delivery.

The best place to start is to find a local Toastmasters Club: http://www.toastmasters.org - There are clubs that meet early in the morning, over the noon hour, after work and in the evening.

Your improved presentation skills will win you the respect and admiration of your colleagues and employees - and make them wonder what you did to change! Leadership skills acquired through participation in Toastmasters will increase your management potential.

As a Toastmaster you will acquire an increased ability to motivate and persuade, making you more effective as a supervisor, manager or salesperson. You can visit several clubs as a guest as often as you want until you decide which club to join.

If you want to go beyond Toastmasters you can create a couple of speeches that you can give in the business community…usually on a fee basis. Not only will you be networking and building your name recognition within the community and/or your industry…you could make a few bucks on the side as well! If this route sounds like it is a trek you want to take then go get Dottie Walters awesome book titled “Speak and Grow Rich” - http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/0134904001/qid=1026071345/sr=8-1/ref=sr_8_1/102-3534531-8602565 - it is the bible for paid public speakers.

Regardless of what job you have or career you hope for, joining Toastmasters is one of the smartest things you can do.

Happy Selling!