Competent Leadership Manual

What makes a leader? A few of the qualities of leaders are that they are bold, risk-takers, planners, inspiring, courageous, listeners, decisive, visionaries, passionate, motivators, organizers and critical thinkers.

The 10 projects in the Competent Leadership manual offer the opportunity to learn some of these leadership skills and more. The Competent Leadership Project Matrix shows what meeting roles and or club roles fulfill project requirements in the Competent Leadership manual.

The Clubs' Seven Officers' Roles

Serving as a club officer builds communication and leadership skills. There are seven officer roles in a Toastmasters club. The responsibilities of the roles, how they work together and with the members is organized based on Parliamentary procedure and Roberts' Rules of Order.
The President serves as the club's chief executive officer, responsible for general operation of the club. Presides at club meetings and directs educational growth and leadership needs of the members. In cooperation with the executive team, establishes plans for club health and growth.
The Vice President Education plans club meetings so that members achieve their personal goals. Schedules speeches, signs manuals, updates progress charts, reports to Toastmasters International, and coordinates recognition.
The Vice President Membership implements a continuous marketing effort to ensure the club maintains or exceeds a charter membership level of 20. Works to promote club membership and membership retention.
The Vice President Public Relations implements a program to maintain a positive image of Toastmasters and the club. Promotes the club in the media, produces a club newsletter and promotes membership programs.
The Secretary is responsible for all club records and correspondence. Custodian of the Club Constitution and Bylaws and all other official club documents.
The Treasurer is responsible for management of the clubs' finances. Collects and sends dues to World Headquarters on time. Pays obligations, and develops and recommends a budget to the executive committee.
The Sergeant at Arms sets up the room for the club meetings. Ensures equipment and supplies for the meeting are in good standing. Coordinates special equipment set-ups. Greets members and guests at meetings.
The Immediate Past President provides guidance and serves as a resource to officers and members. Chairs the nominating committee and promotes the club's efforts to become a distinguished club.
Toastmasters provides manuals and training for all of these executive committee officers' roles. Serving as a club officer also fulfills a requirement for the Advanced Leader Bronze award.

Build Skills in Team Building

Leaders know that one person alone cannot achieve an organization's mission and goals; teams are the most effective means of accomplishing things. A team is a group of people who work together to accomplish a common goal. The team members share responsibility for the team's tasks and depend on one another to achieve them.

Teams offer great benefits. Team members have a variety of knowledge and skills useful in accomplishing the organization's goals. Teamwork often results in more creativity and greater productivity. As a leader, you benefit as well. With successful teams in place, you have more time to devote to leadership issues because you spend less time on day-to-day supervision and activities.

From Project 10 "Team Building" of the Competent Leadership Manual.

Your Leadership Role in Team Building

A leader is judged by the work of his or her team. Working with teams means that you, as the team's leader, must focus less on what you can accomplish by yourself and more on how you can empower others. Our success depends on your ability to help team members visualize the future and share your passion for it. Then you must be able to share power with team members and allow them to direct their own work. You will be more successful when you let everyone contribute as much as they can. Your role is to inspire and allow team members to assume more responsibility, authority and autonomy.

From Project 10 "Team Building" of the Competent Leadership Manual.

Organizing Your Team in Team Building

Building a team is challenging. Team members bust be carefully chosen and trained, and often they must change their attitudes and behaviors. The following six steps will help you organize your team as quickly as possible so its members can begin work.

From Project 10 "Team Building" of the Competent Leadership Manual.

1 - Select Team Members in Team Building

Ideally, you want team members who already have the skills and knowledge needed to do the tasks at hand. Strive to select those who are competent and reliable. You should also look for people who are motivated, enthusiastic, hardworking and intelligent, and who work well with others. For example, if you will be chairing a public relations campaign for your club, you would try to select creative team members who have good speaking and writing skills, have experience working with the media, have the time to contribute and are enthusiastic about helping to promote the club.

From Project 10 "Team Building" of the Competent Leadership Manual.

2 - Review Goals in Team Building

Discuss with the team the general goals they will be working toward and how these goals fit with the organizational goals. Then let the team set its own more specific goals. By explaining the organization's goals and how the team's efforts will help achieve these goals and allowing the team to participate in setting its own goals, team members are more likely to feel a sense of ownership about the tasks to be done. They will become committed to and be enthusiastic about their work.

From Project 10 "Team Building" of the Competent Leadership Manual.

3 - Establish Parameters in Team Building

Agree on the rules and procedures the team will follow. How will team members communicate with one another and with you? For example, will you have daily or weekly meetings? Or verbal or written reports? How will problems be solved? Who has authority to make decisions?

From Project 10 "Team Building" of the Competent Leadership Manual.

4 - Develop A Plan in Team Building

Work with the team to develop a realistic plan of action that will help them meet their goals. Assign roles and responsibilities. You and the team must identify the responsibilities of each team member. Make sure all responsibilities are addressed and that team members understand how their responsibilities relate to one another and to the team's goals.

From Project 10 "Team Building" of the Competent Leadership Manual.

5 - Establish Controls in Team Building

Agree on how you will monitor the team's performance and how often you will do it. For example, will you rely on reports from various team members or on personal observation? Discuss the standards you expect the team to meet. Be clear on when you will give feedback on how well the team and its individual members meet these standards. Will you give feedback to each team member or just to his or her supervisor?

From Project 10 "Team Building" of the Competent Leadership Manual.

6 - Build Team Trust in Team Building

Team members must be able to speak openly with one another and with you as equal members. Such open communication depends on trust. Trust develops as team members share experiences on the job, discover each other's weaknesses and strengths and demonstrate that they can be counted on to fulfill their responsibilities. Trust grows when members are truthful, open and willing to listen. Team members must show respect for one another and act consistently and with integrity. These behaviors promote loyalty and commitment to achieve the goals and objectives of the organization.

From Project 10 "Team Building" of the Competent Leadership Manual.

Train The Team in Team Building

Careful selection of your team's members doesn't guarantee that they will begin working well together immediately. They may have difficulties at first. This doesn't mean you have failed, but it may mean the team needs training. If you have team members who have not worked in teams before, train them in teamwork concepts and give them the opportunity to practice skills, such as communication and conflict resolution. Perhaps they need training in solving problems, holding effective meetings, organizing or project management. By providing any needed training, you will help the team function more effectively and be successful.

From Project 10 "Team Building" of the Competent Leadership Manual.

Foster Communication for Team Building

As mentioned earlier, communication is important to any team effort. Team members must feel comfortable openly discussing issues and asking questions, because this is how a collaborative and trusting environment is established. Open communication between you and the team members, and among the team members themselves, results in high morale, pride, willingness to take risks and willingness to change. It also will help the team to resolve disagreements.

You can help foster communication by holding regular meetings and even social activities that will allow members to interact and bond.

From Project 10 "Team Building" of the Competent Leadership Manual.

Your Changing Team Building Role

As the team grows and matures your role, as a leader will change too. Initially you will be deeply involved in forming the team and closely supervising its work. As team members settle into their roles, your role will become that of problem-solver and facilitator, then coach. Eventually, your role will primarily be that of monitor, tracking the team's performance and recognizing achievement.

From Project 10 "Team Building" of the Competent Leadership Manual.

Practice Team Building In Your Club

Your Toastmasters club offers the opportunity to develop and practice team-building skills. The following roles involve team building: Toastmaster, General Evaluator, Club Membership Campaign, Contest Chairman, Club Public Relations Campaign Chairman, Club Speech Contest Chairman, Club Special Event Chairman, Club Newsletter Editor, and Club Webmaster.

From Project 10 "Team Building" of the Competent Leadership Manual.

Introduce the Speaker

Specialty Speeches - Advanced Communication Manual
Project #5 "Introduce the Speaker" Objectives:

• Focus on the special occasion talk from the standpoint of the introducer (function chairperson, toastmaster, master of ceremonies)
• Become knowledgeable and skilled in the functions associated with the master of ceremonies
• Handle the introduction of other speakers at a club meeting
• Time – Duration of a Club Meeting

Read Out Loud

Specialty Speeches - Advanced Communication Manual
Project #4 "Read Out Loud" Objectives:

• Arrive at an understanding of the elements that comprise oral interpretation and how it differs from preparing and giving a speech
• Learn the preparation or planning techniques of effective interpretation
• Learn the principles of presentation and develop skill in interpretive reading with regard to voice and body as instruments of communication
• Time 12-15 minutes

Sell A Product

Specialty Speeches - Advanced Communication Manual
Project #3 "Sell A Product" Objectives:

• Understand the relationship of sales technique to persuasion
• Skillfully use the four steps in a sales presentation: attention, interest, desire, and action
• Identify and promote a unique selling proposition in a sales presentation
• Time 10-12 minutes

Uplift the Spirit

Specialty Speeches - Advanced Communication Manual
Project #2 "Uplift the Spirit" Objectives:

• Identify and understand the basic differences between inspirational speeches and other kinds of speeches
• Learn how to evaluate audience feeling and develop emotional rapport
• Develop a speech style and delivery that effectively expresses inspirational content by moving the audience to adopt your views
• Time 8-10 minutes

Speak Off The Cuff

Specialty Speeches - Advanced Communication Manual
Project #1 "Speak Off The Cuff" Objectives:

• Develop an awareness of situations in which you might be called upon to deliver an impromptu speech
• Understand how to prepare for impromptu speaking
• Develop skill as a speaker in the impromptu situation by using one or more patterns to approach a topic under discussion; for example, comparing a past, present, and future situation, or before and after
• Time 5-7 minutes

"Ah" Counter Meeting Role & Report Form

The Ah Counter is one of the functionaries at the meeting. The Ah Counter's responsibilities are to keep track of audible crutches, such as "ah," "um" or a "double clutch" (the repetition of a word while the speaker searches for his or her next thought.) Also, to note sentences strung together with “and,” “so” or "you know."

The purpose of “Ah Counting” is not to embarrass or criticize speakers – it is to give helpful feedback and thereby increase awareness of an area where improvement is possible.

The "Ah" Counter Report Form is available to be printed.

The General Evaluator's Role

The general evaluator evaluates everything that takes place throughout the club meeting, commenting on areas that need improvement, things that went well, and improvements that could be made at the next meeting. The general evaluator leads a team of people, including speech evaluators, the timer, grammarian, and other people as determined by the club. You want to use team-building skills to help the members filling these roles to work together.

After taking control of the lectern, you want to acknowledge the leader who introduced you, the audience and guests.

• Explain the purpose of evaluations, “Distinguished Toastmaster, fellow Toastmasters and welcome guests, evaluation is meant to be a positive experience designed to help people overcome weak habits and add power to existing successful skills. The evaluators' highest goal is to benefit the speaker so that he or she wants to speak again; with insight on what might be improved upon next time.”
• What items do evaluators look for in a speech? The manual guides the evaluator to the relevant points for the speech project the speaker is working to accomplish.
• Critical listening, preparing an almost impromptu response with focus on objectives and effective communication is the task of the evaluator. It is through evaluations that members, and the club itself, can improve skills.
• Introduce and thank each evaluator. (Do not praise, comment on, judge, or influence the audience on the evaluations, the club will vote for the “best.”)
• Ask for the Timer's report on the Evaluators. Call for a vote for "Best" Evaluator.
• Call for the "Ah" Counter's report and then the Grammarian's report. (Call on the Grammarian last, giving as much opportunity for members to use the Word of the Day as possible.)
• Give a 2-3 minute Evaluation of the overall meeting. (During the meeting, note the timing, any glitches, exemplary behavior, atmosphere, decorum and general flow.)

Return meeting control to the Toastmaster, “Please join me in welcoming back to the lectern our Toastmaster.”

This document is publicly viewable and printable at: http://docs.google.com/Doc?id=ddd37qq3_31f7jn9dzq

The Table Topics Master's Role

The Table Topics Master prepares a series of questions or concepts to which members will respond. The people selected should be those who have not, or will not, have any other opportunity to speak during the meeting.

The Topic Topics portion of the meeting has several purposes:

• To give all members the opportunity to speak
• To practice impromptu speaking, "thinking on your feet," without prior preparation, to a question or idea
• At the beginning of the meeting to “warm up” members and get things rolling, in the middle of the meeting to form a bridge between the prepared speaking and evaluation phase of the meeting
• To provide time, after the speeches, in which the evaluators can prepare their evaluations
• Table Topics has a flexible time allowance, so the number of topics presented may vary from meeting to meeting, this allows the program to get back on schedule if the primary speakers have taken longer than planned.

The skills gained in Table Topics will be useful in all kinds of situations where thinking on our feet is required including interviews, discussions, seminars as well as general conversation.

Table Topics Segment Procedure:

• Plan an introduction of the Table Topics session to take less than one minute. The purpose of Table Topics is to give all members not scheduled on the program a chance to speak
• The Table Topics segment should not take more than 15 minutes. The task is to introduce topics and guide the discussion. Avoid lengthy introductions of topics and remarks on members' answers. Give as much time as possible to members for their response.
• State the question or topic clearly and then identify the member, that way everyone is listening and constructing a reply to the topic.
• Try not to embarrass the speakers. Provide the speakers with topics and ideas that he or she likely knows something about.
• Conclude the Table Topics meeting segment in a timely manner and ask the Timer for a report on the speaker's times. Then call for a vote for "Best Table Topics Speaker" if your club awards ribbons or trophies.
• Return control of the meeting to the Toastmaster of the meeting.

This information may be printed from the Google Docs site.

When You Are Toastmaster of the Meeting

The main duties of the Toastmaster are to act as a host and coordinate and conduct the entire meeting program. You want to use team-building skills to help those who have meeting roles to work together to make each meeting one of the club's best.

Prior to the meeting:

• Call the speakers for correct pronunciation of name, project assignment, time, title of speech and introduction.
• Note time requirements for each speech and the overall meeting schedule.
• Call and verify the meeting roles of Invocation & Pledge, Table Topics Master and General Evaluator.
• Remind the General Evaluator to call the Evaluators and Functionaries.
• Prepare the meeting agenda and bring copies for all members and a few extra for guests.

During the meeting:

• The Toastmaster sets the tone of the meeting (introduces any meeting theme), warms up the audience for speakers, welcomes speakers (with his or her introduction), and ensures meeting runs in an organized manner.
• After receiving control of the meeting from the Senior club Officer, the Toastmaster makes opening comments to set tone or theme for the meeting.
• Toastmaster calls on the Grammarian, "Ah" Counter, Timer and Vote Counter to explain the purpose and duties of each functionary role.
• Briefly explains the purpose of the Prepared Speeches
• Asks the Evaluator to state the objectives for the project of the speaker he or she is evaluating. Introduces the Speaker, including the speaker's name and speech title and begins the applause. Relinquishes control of the lectern to the speaker by shaking his or her hand as he or she reaches the lectern. If you cross paths, go to the rear when you are leaving the lectern.
• When the speaker has completed, stand and begin the applause, thank them and shake hands to accept control of the meeting. If you cross paths, go to the front when you are coming to the lectern.
• Repeat the process for each speaker.
• When all speeches are delivered, call for a Timer's report and ask the audience to vote for "Best Speaker."
• Introduce Table Topic Master
• Begin the applause and relinquish control of the lectern to the Table Topic Master by shaking his or her hand as he or she reaches the lectern. If you cross paths, go to the rear when you are leaving the lectern.
• Begin the applause and return to accept control of the lectern from Table Topic Master. If you cross paths, go to the front when you are coming to the lectern.
• Repeat the process for each meeting leader.
• Introduce the General Evaluator.
• Present the VP Education to confirm Next Week's Roles.
• Present the "Best" Awards
• Return control of the meeting to Presiding Club Officer, or close the meeting.

After the meeting:

• Stay to speak with members. Share feedback on any items or procedures from the meeting.

This document is publicly viewable and printable at: http://docs.google.com/Doc?id=ddd37qq3_10cjkmckd7

The Humorous Speech

Humorously Speaking - Advanced Communication Manual
Project #5 "The Humorous Speech" Objectives:

• Use exaggeration to tell a humorous story.
• Entertain the audience.
• Effectively use body language and voice to enhance the story.
• Time 5-7 minutes

Keep Them Laughing

Humorously Speaking - Advanced Communication Manual
Project #4 "Keep Them Laughing" Objectives:
Prepare a speech that opens with a self-depreciating joke.
String together two or three related jokes in the speech body.
Close the speech with a humorous story.
Time 5-7 minutes

Make Them Laugh

Humorously Speaking - Advanced Communication Manual
Project #3 "Make Them Laugh" Objectives:

• Prepare a speech that opens and closes with humorous stories.
• Include jokes in the speech body to illustrate points or maintain audience interest.
• Deliver the jokes and stories smoothly and effectively.
• Time 5-7 minutes

Leave Them With A Smile

Humorously Speaking - Advanced Communication Manual
Project #2 "Leave Them With A Smile" Objectives:

• Prepare a serious speech that opens and closes with humorous stories.
• Prepare a closing story that reemphasized the speech’s main point.
• Deliver the stories smoothly and effectively.
• Time 5-7 minutes

Warm Up Your Audience

Humorously Speaking - Advanced Communication Manual
Project #1 "Warm Up Your Audience" Objectives:

• Prepare a speech that opens with a humorous story.
• Personalize the story.
• Deliver the story smoothly and effectively.
• Time 5-7 minutes

The Persuasive Leader

Persuasive Speaking - Advanced Communication Manual
Project #5 "The Persuasive Leader" Objectives:

• Communicate your vision and mission to an audience
• Convince your audience to work toward achieving your vision and goals
• Time 6-8 minutes

Addressing The Opposition

Persuasive Speaking - Advanced Communication Manual
Project #4 "Addressing The Opposition" Objectives:

• Prepare a talk on a controversial subject that persuades an audience to accept or at least consider your viewpoint
• Construct the speech to appeal to the audience’s logic and emotions
• Time 7-9 minutes

The Winning Proposal

Persuasive Speaking - Advanced Communication Manual
Project #3 "The Winning Proposal" Objectives:

• Prepare a proposal advocating an idea or course of action
• Organize the proposal using the six-step method provided
• Time 5-7 minutes

Conquering The Cold Call

Persuasive Speaking - Advanced Communication Manual
Project #2 "Conquering The Cold Call" Objectives:

• Learn a technique for “cold call” selling of expensive products or services
• Recognize the risks buyers assume in purchasing
• Use questions to help the buyer discover problems with his or her current situation
• Successfully handle buyer’s objections and concerns
• Time 10-14 minutes

The Effective Salesperson

Persuasive Speaking - Advanced Communication Manual
Project #1 "The Effective Salesperson" Objectives:

• Learn a technique for selling an inexpensive product in a retail store
• Recognize a buyer’s thought process in making a purchase
• Elicit information from a perspective buyer through questions
• Match the buyer’s situation with the most appropriate product
• Time 8-12 minutes

Club Leadership - Our 7 Officers' Roles

President - The President serves as the club’s chief executive officer, responsible for general supervision and operation of the club. Leads and monitors the President’s Distinguish Club award goals. Pays attention to events and deadlines and informs the members.

Vice President Education - The VP Education is responsible for planning successful club meetings so that each member has the opportunity to achieve his or her educational goals. Creates themes for the meetings, maintains the role spreadsheets. Provides current role schedule agenda for members to plan weekly meeting contributions.

Vice President Membership - The VP Membership conducts ongoing membership building programs and efforts, greets and follows up with guests, and reports on current membership. Creates and maintains guest and member information packs.

Vice President Public Relations - The VP Public Relations promotes the club to local media and produces and distributes a club newsletter quarterly. May also acts as club historian keeping records of award winners, photographs and events.

Secretary - The Secretary handles general club correspondence, and records and distributes the minutes of all club weekly and officer business meetings.

Treasurer - The Treasurer handles the club budget and banking concerns, collects and submits membership dues, and keeps records of all financial transactions.

Sergeant at Arms - The Sergeant at Arms maintains club equipment, ensures adequate meeting supplies are available, arranges the meeting room prior to meetings, and calls the meetings to order.

This document is publicly viewable and printable at: http://docs.google.com/Doc?id=ddd37qq3_48cxvqdqcf

Important Annual Club Events

The Toastmasters year begins July 1 and ends June 30.

July ~ Officer training for all club officers
August ~ Club Humorous Speech and Evaluation Contests ~ Invoice or Announce semi-annual membership dues ~ Worldwide International Speech Contest
September ~ Area Humorous Speech and Evaluation Contests ~ Send semi-annual membership dues to International to arrive by October 1
October ~ Division Humorous Speech and Evaluation Contests
November ~ Elect new club officers for six-month officer terms ~ Fall District Conference
December ~ Install new officers ~ Send new officer list to International and District officers
January ~ Officer training for all club officers
February ~ Club International Speech & Table Topics Contests ~ Invoice or Announce semi-annual membership dues
March ~ Area International Speech & Table Topics Contests

Send semi-annual membership dues to International to arrive by April 1
April ~ Division International Speech & Table Topics Contests
May ~ Hold election of new slate of club officers ~ Spring District Conference
June ~ Install new officers ~ Send new officer list to International and District officers ~ Regional International Speech Contest

This document is publicly viewable and printable at: http://docs.google.com/Doc?id=ddd37qq3_50gzqmq7cp

Club Web Master Duties

1. Develop ‘look and feel’ of web site
2. Develop new materials and submit to President for approval prior to posting
3. Budget for site maintenance and advise President and Treasurer of needs
4. Obtain schedule information from VP Education
5. Obtain Newsletter content from Newsletter Editor
6. Follow International guidelines for Internet sites contained in the Information for members
7. Following is a list of some of the information that may be included on web sites: Club name, number, meeting place and time, Special events planned, News about members progress in communication and leadership, Names and email for Club Officers (with their permission), Meeting Schedule information from VP Education, Typical meeting information, Copies of Newsletters, and Manual Contents
8. District 84 web site contains information that can assist in establishing a Club web site www.toastmastersd84.org
9. Attend all officer meetings and training programs
10. Prepare successor for office

This document is publicly viewable and printable at: http://docs.google.com/Doc?id=ddd37qq3_53g7n379fj

Club Newsletter Editor Duties

1. Publish and distribute Newsletter on a regular basis
2. Obtain Club President’s approval of content prior to publication
3. Content varies by Club but will normally include: President’s letter, One article of general interest, Information on new members, Announcements and upcoming events, Progression of members (CC, CL, ACB, ALB, etc.), Winners of weekly awards, Profile of a member or other items
4. Contact VP Membership for updated Club roster
5. Work with VP Public Relations to assist in using Newsletter as a marketing tool
6. Provide Newsletter content to Web Master in format usable on the Club web site
7. Submit bills for printing and postage to Club Treasurer for reimbursement
8. Attend all officer meetings and training programs
9. Prepare successor for officer. Provide both hard copies of past newsletters and software files when possible

This document is publicly viewable and printable at: http://docs.google.com/Doc?id=ddd37qq3_54c8d7gxc7

Building A Club Resource Library

What if we had information that was relevant to others and we wanted to share it? The information is available in other places. Nevertheless, we want to put it into one new convenient place. We want it to be easy to find and easy to use. We want to offer it in an interesting and efficient format. Moreover, we want the information to be valuable and beneficial to the users.

The technology is available and almost everyone has access. Because we want it to be a level playing field, open source programs and shareware seem effective core tools with which to achieve this goal. How to make it a reality is the challenge. We have been building tech skills and for several years. Join us and put your skills to use now to assist in building this resource.

We have collected a lot of information, ideas, documents and files from our Toastmasters' experiences. The clubs are excellent learning laboratories and consistently add to the sum of our resources. Having web sites to facilitate club communication and connection helps the clubs function and grow. The next logical step is to build a resource library for members to access information that helps them on their personal development paths.

If you are reading this, you already have an interest. This blog allows multiple authors to contribute articles. Become a part of the development team for this resource. Add input in the comment form below or email me with your interests and you can make it happen. The clubs work because of the commitment of the members and from the synergy of our intention to learn. Add your expertise to the energy of this group resource service.

This site is the beginning foundation of a Toastmasters Club Library, welcome fellow creators!

Club President Duties

1. With Treasurer go to bank and update club account signature cards. Arrange to have club financial records audited.
2. Ensure updated officers list is sent to International immediately after each election and a copy of club officer contact information gets to your District officers.
3. Preside over all club meetings and introduce guests, make announcements, conduct monthly business meetings and present awards - VP Education fills in for the President when necessary.
4. Hold regular executive board meetings with the club Secretary maintaining a record of the meetings.
5. Track club’s progress towards Distinguished Club status on a monthly basis and copy the Area Governor.
6. Ensure all club officers are executing their duties and have the information and tools to do so.
   
7. Conduct semi-annual officer elections - Appoint nominating committee with the Immediate Past President as chair at least one month before elections.
8. Approve content of the web site and the club newsletter before published - Encourage members to support both the web master and the newsletter editor.
9. Give ‘Appreciation and Regrets’ speech when next President takes office.
10. Attend all officer meetings and training programs. Prepare successor for office.
11. Ensure club representation at both spring and fall District conferences.
12. Promote synergy between local clubs.

This document is publicly viewable and printable at: http://docs.google.com/Doc?id=ddd37qq3_49nn22n256

Club VP Membership Duties

1. Maintain current list of all members and publish member contact information on a regular basis to all members and to District officer
2. Follow-up with members who miss several meetings to find out what can be done to get them active again - Address any problems before the member drops
3. Meet all guests at the meeting and ensure they have an application and a phone number if they have any questions
4. Follow-up with all visitors both by email and a phone call
5. Bring extra copies of blank applications, extra rosters of the members and copies of the Ice Breaker speech from the basic manual to help new members get started immediately
6. Ensure all membership applications are complete and have the correct amount of money attached - Have the Treasurer send the application and funds immediately to International
7. Give copies of all applications to the President, VP of Education, Secretary and the Newsletter Editor
8. Introduce new members to VP Education to obtain a speaking slot and a mentor
9. Induct new members each month and give each one a Toastmasters lapel pin
10. Attend all officer meetings and training programs
11. Prepare successor for office

This document is publicly viewable and printable at: http://docs.google.com/Doc?id=ddd37qq3_52fk24ncdd

Club VP Public Relations Duties

1. Assist the VP Membership in welcoming guests at Club meetings, making each guest feel welcome, and that his/her first impression of the Club is positive
2. Work with the VP Membership on membership campaigns
3. Write and distribute press releases promoting members’ achievements and Club events
4. Publicize the weekly Club meeting in the calendar section of the weekly Business Journal and the Monday business section of your local paper
5. Publicize your club in community and civic publications such as the Chamber of Commerce Newsletter
6. Provide needed information to the Newsletter Editor and Web Master
7. Collaborate with other clubs in the area to boost overall awareness and membership - if an individual cannot attend meetings at the time your club meets, encourage them to transfer to another club - check the International website www.toastmasters.org for meeting times
8. Attend all officer meetings and training programs
9. Prepare successor for office

This document is publicly viewable and printable at: http://docs.google.com/Doc?id=ddd37qq3_58gbft8cd8

Club Treasurer Duties

1. Go to the bank with the Club President to sign account signature cards
2. Maintain Club books and prepare a financial report for the Club Board for each business meeting
3. Project needed spending and advise board of recommendations for changes to Club dues as appropriate
4. Prepare and email dues notices to each member. Send notices out six weeks before dues are required at International
5. Ensure that International receives semi-annual dues payments by October 1 and April 1 - Use club debit card on-line, registered return receipt mail, or a commercial carrier to send in semi-annuals
6. Prepare books for audit at the end of your term
7. Attend all officer meetings and training programs
8. Prepare your successor for office

This document is publicly viewable and printable at: http://docs.google.com/Doc?id=ddd37qq3_55tmzqqvgq

An Abstract Concept

Speaking To Inform - Advanced Communication Manual
Project #5 "An Abstract Concept" Objectives:

• Research and organize the thought of experts on an abstract concept, theory, historical force, or social/political issue.
• Present the ideas in a clear and interesting manner.
• Time 10-12 minutes

A Fact Finding Report

Speaking To Inform - Advanced Communication Manual
Project #4 "A Fact Finding Report" Objectives:

• Prepare a report on a situation, event, or problem of interest to the audience.
• Deliver sufficient factual information in your report so the audience can base valid conclusions or a sound decision on it.
• Time 10-12 minutes

The Demonstration Talk

Speaking To Inform - Advanced Communication Manual
Project #3 "The Demonstration Talk" Objectives:

• Prepare a demonstration speech to clearly explain a process, product, or activity.
• Conduct the demonstration as part of a speech delivered without notes.
• Time 10-12 minutes

Resources To Inform

Speaking To Inform - Advanced Communication Manual
Project #2 "Resources To Inform" Objectives:

• Analyze the knowledge level of your audience regarding your chosen subject.
• Focus your presentation at the audience’s level of knowledge.
• Build a supporting case for each major point through use of explanation, examples and information gathered in research.
• Effectively use at least one visual aid to enhance the audience’s understanding.
• Time 8-10 minutes

The Speech To Inform

Speaking To Inform - Advanced Communication Manual
Project #1 "The Speech To Inform" Objectives:

• Select new and useful information for presentation to the audience.
• Organize the information for easy understandability and retention.
• Present the information in a way that will help motivate the audience to learn.
• Time 5-7 minutes

Speaking After Dinner

The Entertaining Speaker - Advanced Communication Manual
Project #5 "Speaking After Dinner" Objectives:

• Prepare an entertaining after-dinner talk on a specific theme.
• Deliver the talk extemporaneously; using the skills developed in the preceding entertainment projects.
• Time 13-15 minutes

A Dramatic Talk

The Entertaining Speaker - Advanced Communication Manual
Project #4 "A Dramatic Talk" Objectives:

• Develop an entertaining dramatic talk about an experience or incident, or give a dramatic reading.
• Include vivid imagery, characters and dialogue.
• Deliver the talk in an interpretative manner.
• Time 10-12 minutes

Make Them Laugh

The Entertaining Speaker - Advanced Communication Manual
Project #3 "Make Them Laugh" Objectives:

• Prepare a humorous speech drawn from your own experience.
• Strengthen the speech by adapting and personalizing humorous material from outside sources.
• Deliver the speech in a way that makes the humor effective.
• Time 8-10 minutes

Resources For Entertainment

The Entertaining Speaker - Advanced Communication Manual
Project #2 " Resources For Entertainment" Objectives:

• Draw humorous and/or dramatic material from sources other than your own personal experience.
• Adapt your material to suit your topic, your own personality and the audience.
• Use entertaining material as a means of conveying a serious message.
• Time 8-10 minutes

The Entertaining Speech

The Entertaining Speaker - Advanced Communication Manual
Project #1 "The Entertaining Speech" Objectives:

• Entertain the audience through use of humor and/or drama drawn from your personal experience.
• Organize an entertaining speech for maximum audience impact.
• Time 5-7 minutes

Bringing History To Life

Storytelling - Advanced Communication Manual
Project #5 "Bringing History To Life" Objectives:

• To understand the purpose of stories about historical events or people.
• To use the storytelling skills developed in the preceding projects to tell a story about a historical event or person.
• Time 7-9 minutes

The Touching Story

Storytelling - Advanced Communication Manual
Project #4 "The Touching Story" Objectives:

• To understand the techniques available to arouse emotion
• To become skilled in arousing emotions while telling a story.
• Time 6-8 minutes

The Moral Of The Story

Storytelling - Advanced Communication Manual
Project #3 "The Moral Of The Story" Objectives:

• To understand that a story can be entertaining yet display moral values.
• To create a new story that offers a lesson or moral.
• To tell the story, using the skills developed in the previous two projects.
• Time 4-6 minutes

Let’s Get Personal

Storytelling - Advanced Communication Manual
Project #2 "Let’s Get Personal" Objectives:

• To learn the elements of a good story
• To create and tell an original story based on a personal experience.
• Time 6-8 minutes

The Folk Tale

Storytelling - Advanced Communication Manual
Project #1 "The Folk Tale" Objectives:

• To tell a folk tale that is entertaining and enjoyable for a specific age group.
• To use vivid imagery and voice to enhance the tale.
• Time 7-9 minutes

Confrontation - The Adversary Relationship

Speeches by Management - Advanced Communication Manual
Project #5 "Confrontation - The Adversary Relationship" Objectives:

• Understand the definition and nature of the adversary relationship
• Prepare for an adversary confrontation on a controversial management issue
• Employ appropriate preparation methods, strategy, and techniques, for communicating with an adversary group as the representative of your company or corporation
• Time 5 minutes for Speech; 10 minutes for question period

The Status Report

Speeches by Management - Advanced Communication Manual
Project #4 "The Status Report" Objectives:

• Organize and prepare a status report involving the overall condition of a plan or program, or performance of a department or company in relation to goals
• Construct the report according to a four-step pattern
• Give an effective presentation of the report
• Time 12-15 minutes

The Technical Speech

Speeches by Management - Advanced Communication Manual
Project #2 "The Technical Speech" Objectives:

• Convert a technical paper or technical material and information into a technical speech
• Organize a technical speech according to the inverted-pyramid approach
• Write a technical speech as “spoken language”, not as an article
• Give the speech by effectively reading out loud
• Time 8-10 minutes

The Briefing

Speeches By Management - Advanced Communication Manual
Project #1 "The Briefing" Objectives:

• Apply the key steps in the preparation of a briefing and the organization of material
• Give a briefing according to a specific objective so the audience will have an understanding of the information
• Effectively handle a question-and-answer session following the briefing
• Time 8-10 minutes

Manage And Motivate

Speeches by Management - Advanced Communication Manual
Project #3 "Manage And Motivate" Objectives:

• Understand the concept and nature of motivational methods in management
• Apply a four step motivational method with the objectives to persuade and inspire
• Deliver a motivational speech to persuade an audience to agree with your management proposal
• Time 10-12 minutes

The Motivational Speech

The Professional Speaker - Advanced Communication Manual
Project #5 "The Motivational Speech" Objectives:

• Understand the concept and nature of motivational speaking
• Apply a four-step motivational method with the purpose of persuading and inspiring
• Deliver a motivational speech to persuade an audience to emotionally commit to an action
• Time 15-20 minutes

The Professional Seminar

The Professional Speaker - Advanced Communication Manual
Project #4 "The Professional Seminar" Objectives:

• Plan and present a seminar with specific learning objectives
• Relate to the audience by using a seminar presentation style
• Use seminar presentation techniques to promote group participation, learning and personal growth
• Time 20-40 minutes

The Sales Training Speech

The Professional Speaker - Advanced Communication Manual
Project #3 "The Sales Training Speech" Objectives:

• Tell a sales audience how to sell a product by using a planned presentation.
• Inform a sales training audience about the human experience of the buyer-seller relationship.
• Use entertaining stories and dynamic examples of sales situations.
• Inspire salespeople to want to succeed in selling.
• Time 15-20 minutes

Speaking To Entertain

The Professional Speaker - Advanced Communication Manual
Project #2 "Speaking To Entertain" Objectives:

• Entertain the audience through the use of humor drawn from personal experience and from other material that you have personalized.
• Deliver the speech in a way that makes the humor effective.
• Establish personal rapport with your audience for maximum impact.
• Time 15-20 minutes

The Keynote Address

The Professional Speaker - Advanced Communication Manual
Project #1 "The Keynote Address" Objectives:

• Identify the basic differences between keynote speeches and other kinds of speeches.
• Learn how to evaluate audience feeling and establish emotional rapport.
• Learn and use the professional techniques necessary for a successful keynote presentation.
• Develop a speech style and delivery that effectively inspires and moves the audience to adopt your views as a collective reaffirmation of its own.
• Time 15-20 minutes

The Team Technical Presentation

Technical Presentations - Advanced Communication Manual
Project #5 "The Team Technical Presentation" Objectives:

• Understand the nature and process of a team technical presentation
• Conceptualize a briefing or proposal involving three or more speakers, including yourself
• Assemble a team of club members capable of getting the job done
• Orchestrate the planning, preparation and delivery of a team technical presentation.
• Time 20-30 minutes

Presenting A Technical Paper

Technical Presentations - Advanced Communication Manual
Project #4 "Presenting a Technical Paper" Objectives:

• Deliver an interesting speech based on a technical paper or article
• Effectively use a flipchart, overhead projector or slides to illustrate your message
• Time 10-12 minutes

The Nontechnical Audience

Technical Presentations - Advanced Communication Manual
Project #3 "The Nontechnical Audience" Objectives:

• Understand the principles of communicating complex information to nontechnical listeners
• Build and deliver an interesting talk based on these principals
• Answer audience questions that arise during the presentation
• Use overhead transparencies to illustrate your message
• Time 10-12 minutes

The Proposal

Technical Presentations - Advanced Communication Manual
Project #2 "The Proposal" Objectives:

• To prepare a technical presentation advocating a product, service, idea or course of action
• To present your viewpoint logically and convincingly, using an inverted-pyramid approach
• To effectively use a flipchart to illustrate your message
• To effectively handle a question-and-answer period
• Time 8-10 minutes

The Technical Briefing

Technical Presentations - Advanced Communication Manual
Project #1 "The Technical Briefing" Objectives:

• Using a systematic approach, organize technical material into a concise presentation
• Tailor the presentation to the audience’s needs, interests and knowledge levels
• Time 8-10 minutes

Training On Television

Communicating On Television - Advanced Communication Manual
Project #5 "Training On Television" Objectives:

• To learn how to develop and present an effective training program on television
• To receive personal feedback through the videotaping of your presentation
• Time 5-7 minutes for the presentation; plus 5-7 minutes for playback of the video tape

The Press Conference

Communicating On Television - Advanced Communication Manual
Project #4 "The Press Conference" Objectives:

• To understand the nature of a television press conference.
• To prepare for an adversary confrontation on a controversial or sensitive issue.
• To employ appropriate preparation methods and strategies for communicating your organization’s viewpoint.
• To present and maintain a positive image on television.
• Time 4-6 minutes for presentation; 8-10 for the question period

When You’re The Host

Communicating On Television - Advanced Communication Manual
Project #3 "When You’re The Host" Objectives:

• To conduct a successful television interview.
• To understand the dynamics of a successful television interview or “talk” show.
• To prepare questions to ask during the interview program.
• To present a positive, confident image on the television camera.
• Time 10 minutes plus or minus 30 seconds

The Talk Show

Communicating On Television - Advanced Communication Manual
Project #2 "The Talk Show" Objectives:

• To understand the dynamics of a television interview or “talk” show.
• To prepare for the questions that may be asked of you during a television interview program.
• To present a positive image on the television camera.
• To appear as a guest on a simulated television talk show.
• Time 10 minutes plus or minus 30 seconds

Straight Talk

Communicating On Television - Advanced Communication Manual
Project #1 "Straight Talk" Objectives:

• To effectively present an opinion or viewpoint in a short time.
• To stimulate giving a presentation as part of a television broadcast.
• Time 3 minutes plus or minus 30 seconds

Accepting An Award

Special Occasion Speeches - Advanced Communication Manual
Project #5 "Accepting An Award" Objectives:

• Accept an award with dignity, grace and sincerity.
• Acknowledge the presenting organization
• Time 5-7 minutes

Presenting An Award

Special Occasion Speeches - Advanced Communication Manual
Project #4 "Presenting An Award" Objectives:

• Present an award with dignity and grace.
• Acknowledge the contributions of the recipient.
• Time 3-4 minutes

The Roast

Special Occasion Speeches - Advanced Communication Manual
Project #3 "The Roast" Objectives:

• Poke fun at a particular individual in a good-natured way.
• Adapt and personalize humorous material from other sources.
• Deliver jokes and humorous stories effectively.
• Time 3-5 minutes

Speaking In Praise

Special Occasion Speeches - Advanced Communication Manual
Project #2 "Speaking In Praise" Objectives:

• Prepare a speech praising or honoring someone, either living or dead.
• Address five areas concerning the individual and his/her accomplishments.
• Include anecdotes illustrating points within the speech.
• Time 5-7 minutes

Mastering The Toast

Special Occasion Speeches - Advanced Communication Manual
Project #1 "Mastering The Toast" Objectives:

• Recognize the characteristics of a toast.
• Present a toast honoring an occasion or person.
• Time 2-3 minutes

The Oratorical Speech

Interpretive Reading - Advanced Communication Manual
Project #5 "The Oratorical Speech" Objectives:

• To understand the structure of an effective speech
• To interpret and present a famous speech
• Time 10-12 minutes

The Play

Interpretive Reading - Advanced Communication Manual
Project #4 "The Play" Objectives:

• To adapt a play for interpretive reading
• To portray several characters in one reading, identifying them to the audience through voice changes and movement
• Time 12-15 minutes

The Monodrama

Interpretive Reading - Advanced Communication Manual
Project #3 "The Monodrama" Objectives:

• To understand the concept and nature of the monodrama
• To assume the identity of a character and to portray the physical and emotional aspects of this character to an audience
• Time 5-7 minutes

Interpreting Poetry

Interpretive Reading - Advanced Communication Manual
Project #2 "Interpreting Poetry" Objectives:

• To understand the differences between poetry and prose
• To recognize how poets use imagery, rhythm, meter, cadence and rhyme to convey the meanings and emotions of their poetry
• To apply vocal techniques that will aid in the effectiveness of the reading
• Time 6-8 minutes

Read A Story

Interpretive Reading - Advanced Communication Manual
Project #1 "Read A Story" Objectives:

• To understand the elements of interpretive reading
• To learn how to analyze a narrative and plan for effective interpretation
• To learn and apply vocal techniques that will aid in the effectiveness of the reading
• Time 8-10 minutes

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