MIDLETON TOASTMASTERS

Communicating effectively is one of the most important skills you can learn these days. It is vital in work situations, in the community and even with close friends and family. Getting your point understood and avoiding unnecessary conflict are skills that require time, energy and practice. If only we were born with such skills. Often we can say things that are taken up the wrong way, or that leave people with the wrong impression, or no impression at all when you badly want to be listened to. Toastmasters is an organisation thst helps people improve their communication skills, helping people to gain confidence in themselves by doing so.

In Toastmasters, members learn to craft speeches and talks that are clear, brief and to the point. All talks are evaluated by other members to help people learn about how they can improve. There are many kinds of projects within Toastmasters that focus on different aspects of communication, whether it be giving a speech, managing people, or improving presentation skills.

Last week, Midleton Toastmasters had two presentations. Dave Herbert gave a very funny speech on his experience of Féile ’92, and Colm Ryan talked about dealing with verbal criticism. The meeting organiser for the night was Bill Sweeney, Bill Sjostrum managed the Topics session and John Finn evaluated the proceedings. In all, it was a very enjoyable night.

Our next two meetings are on January 26th and February 9th at 8pm in McDaids Pub on Main Street. If you would like to learn more, please visit midletontoastmasters.org or contact Colm on 087 2353889. There is no cover charge and guests are very welcome to come along to see what Toastmasters is all about.