Mw99 wrote:
What is Toastmasters like? Is it just about making public presentations?
I'd imagine some of the members are more advanced than others. What if you are pathetic? What if you run out of things to say during your presentation? Is it likely the other members will laugh at you? Do you think they'll be judgemental? I understand they are all there to improve their communication skills, but some must be more advanced than others.
99,
I'll try to answer as straight as I can: Toastmasters is an educational system about public speaking but also about developing your statesmanship and leadership skills as well as your self confidence in a laboratory-like setting.
Your personal advancement in the organization is proportional to your own participation, dedication, and continued seniority as you continue and maintain your tenure. It is entirely up to you how far you want to take it. The nicest thing about it is you get to do it at your own pace, set your goals to your likings, and there are no written-in-stone deadlines.
You will not be laughed at or judged. Every Toastmaster has had a point of entry at one time or another. Some members just stay a few months, some become lifetime members, and some will be with it for some years.
Have you visited a TM chapter in your area? Chances are you will be allowed, I think, 3 meetings for free and you will be encouraged to visit every TM club in your area to find which one best suits your schedule and needs.
Go ahead, give it a try
_________________
If "manners maketh man" as someone said
Then he's the hero of the day
It takes a man to suffer ignorance and smile
Be yourself no matter what they say
**Sting, Englishman In New York