About the Project

100 years of Toastmasters Development & Growth

Share your Story or Experience!

Welcome, fellow Toastmaster! You’re about to contribute to a historic project celebrating our organization’s centennial. Before you start recording, take a moment to reflect on your Toastmasters journey.

Remember:

• Speak from the heart
• Be specific with your experiences
• Keep your responses concise (aim for one minute per question)
• Relax and let your personality shine through

Your story is unique and valuable. It may inspire someone to join Toastmasters or motivate a fellow member to push their boundaries.

Ready to share your Toastmasters story with the world?
Let’s begin!

For Prospective Members

1.  What motivated you to consider joining Toastmasters?
2.  What specific skills are you hoping to develop?
3.  Do you have any concerns or hesitation about joining?
4.  What would make your first visit to our club successful?
5.  How did you hear about our Toastmasters club?

For New Members
(0-6 months)

1.  How has your experience been so far?
2.  What’s been the most surprising aspect of Toastmasters for you?
3.  Have you given your Ice Breaker speech yet? How was that experience?
4.  Are you clear on how to progress through the Pathways program?
5.  Is there any additional support you need from the club?

For Established Members
(6 months – 2 year)

1.  Which Pathways path did you choose and why?
2.  What’s been your biggest challenge in Toastmasters so far?
3.  Have you taken on any meeting roles? Which was your favorite?
4.  How has Toastmasters impacted your personal or professional life?
5.  Are you interested in taking on a club leadership role in the future?

For Veteran Members
(3+ years)

1.  What keeps you coming back to Toastmasters?
2.  How has your Toastmasters journey evolved over time?
3.  What advice would you give to new members?
4.  Have you participated in any speech contests? How was that experience?
5.  What goals do you still want to achieve in Toastmasters?
6. Have you served as a club officer, How was your experience?

For District &
Club Officers

1.  What motivated you to take on a leadership role?
2.  What’s been the most rewarding part of being a club officer?
3.  What challenges have you faced in your role?
4.  How do you balance your officer duties with your own Toastmasters development?
5.  What initiatives or changes would you like to implement in the club?

For International Officers

1.  What do you see as the biggest challenges facing Toastmasters International today?
2. How has the organization adapted to the shift towards virtual meetings and online communication?
3. In what ways is Toastmasters working to increase diversity and inclusion within its membership?
4. How does Toastmasters stay relevant in a world where public speaking skills are increasingly important but attention spans are decreasing?

• Prepare Your Content:
• Set Up Your Space:
  • Choose a quiet location with good lighting
  • Use a simple, non-distracting background
  • Ensure your face is well-lit (natural light is best)
• Tech Check:
  • Test your camera and microphone
  • Charge your device or plug it in
  • Clean your camera lens
• Frame Yourself:
  • Position the camera at eye level
  • Sit or stand with good posture
  • Leave some headroom in the frame

• Dress Appropriately:
• Make Eye Contact:
  • Look directly into the camera lens
  • Imagine you’re speaking to a friend
• Speak Clearly:
  • Enunciate your words
  • Speak at a moderate pace
  • Use pauses effectively
• Show Enthusiasm:
  • Smile and use appropriate facial expressions
  • Let your passion for Toastmasters shine through

• Keep It Concise:
• Be Authentic:
  • Share personal anecdotes
  • Use your natural speaking style
  • It’s okay to show emotion
• Handle Mistakes:
  • If you stumble, take a breath and continue
  • For major errors, simply start the answer again
• End Strong:
  • Conclude each answer clearly
  • Avoid trailing off or looking away immediately