Friday, August 19, 2011
GIVING TALKS
Rule 1: Communicate with excitement. Let loose; don’t act like you are wrapped in Saran Wrap. Get over the idea that you are being judged and stop saying to yourself that’s not me, so I can’t do it. If not now, then when.
Rule 2: Know your audience before giving a talk. Don’t try to give a talk on growing mushrooms when the room is full of medical doctors.
Rule 3: Don’t give a talk on a subject you have little knowledge, and experience. The audience must believe the messenger before they will believe the message.
Rule 4: Communicate with confidence. There is no difference between talking to one person and a group of people.
Rule 5: Practice, practice, practice. The more speeches you give the better you will get.
Rule 6: Have fun and smile a lot.
Rene Roy/ DTM
Member of Twin City Toastmasters
Thursday, June 30, 2011
Congratulations to Our New Officers
Last Tuesday we had elections. Congratulations to all our new officers:
President: Peter Souders
Vice President Education: David Henshaw
Vice President Membership: Bill Burgoyne
Vice President Public Relations: Vielka Jones
Secretary: Rene Roy
Treasurer: Emily Warner
Sgt. At Arms: Yvette Moquin
Past President: John Feeley
Our new officers begin their positions on July 1, 2011. Good luck to all of them!
President: Peter Souders
Vice President Education: David Henshaw
Vice President Membership: Bill Burgoyne
Vice President Public Relations: Vielka Jones
Secretary: Rene Roy
Treasurer: Emily Warner
Sgt. At Arms: Yvette Moquin
Past President: John Feeley
Our new officers begin their positions on July 1, 2011. Good luck to all of them!
Thursday, June 16, 2011
Visual Aids & Powerpoint
Helping you present professionally
Visual aids are an important part of many presentations. The most commonly used media are the flipchart and computer-based presentation programs. Here are some suggestions for making the most of your visual aids:
Flipchart
A flipchart mounted on a portable easel works best when used with a relatively small audience – 20 or fewer people. A flipchart can be prepared prior to your presentation. You can also write or draw during your presentation – especially to record audience responses. Use bold colors, but avoid using ink that bleeds through the paper. Don’t look at your flipchart when speaking. If you must write on the flipchart, pause, then resume speaking when you’re done. Use small strips of masking tape to facilitate changing from one page to the next.
Computer-based visuals
The technology is rapidly changing. These days, using a laptop computer and presentation software such as Microsoft PowerPoint is the norm. Add a screen and other equipment, and you can produce and display dramatic visual aids, including animation and simulations. Computer-based visuals are becoming the standard for most technical, educational or business-related presentations. Useful for large and small audiences, they can convey simple as well as complex information. If you use a remote control, you can change the visuals while walking about the room. To accomplish this you’ll need a data projector, a device that accepts output from a computer and projects it onto a screen. Plan to create the visuals in advance, to ensure all of the electronic components work together and be sure to rehearse with them.
Keep your visual aids:
· Visible
· Simple
· Colorful, but don't let them upstage you
· Justified by the content -- not too many or too few slides
For effective PowerPoint shows:
· Don't read the slides to your audience!
· Make your text large.
· Choose colors that make the text easier to read.
· Use bullet points instead of full sentences.
· Don't let the text or graphics fly around too much.
· Avoid charts and diagrams that are hard to see.
Most Importantly - Remember, you control the presentation; don’t let it control you. PowerPoint should be a “visual aid” – not the entire show.
Visual aids are an important part of many presentations. The most commonly used media are the flipchart and computer-based presentation programs. Here are some suggestions for making the most of your visual aids:
Flipchart
A flipchart mounted on a portable easel works best when used with a relatively small audience – 20 or fewer people. A flipchart can be prepared prior to your presentation. You can also write or draw during your presentation – especially to record audience responses. Use bold colors, but avoid using ink that bleeds through the paper. Don’t look at your flipchart when speaking. If you must write on the flipchart, pause, then resume speaking when you’re done. Use small strips of masking tape to facilitate changing from one page to the next.
Computer-based visuals
The technology is rapidly changing. These days, using a laptop computer and presentation software such as Microsoft PowerPoint is the norm. Add a screen and other equipment, and you can produce and display dramatic visual aids, including animation and simulations. Computer-based visuals are becoming the standard for most technical, educational or business-related presentations. Useful for large and small audiences, they can convey simple as well as complex information. If you use a remote control, you can change the visuals while walking about the room. To accomplish this you’ll need a data projector, a device that accepts output from a computer and projects it onto a screen. Plan to create the visuals in advance, to ensure all of the electronic components work together and be sure to rehearse with them.
Keep your visual aids:
· Visible
· Simple
· Colorful, but don't let them upstage you
· Justified by the content -- not too many or too few slides
For effective PowerPoint shows:
· Don't read the slides to your audience!
· Make your text large.
· Choose colors that make the text easier to read.
· Use bullet points instead of full sentences.
· Don't let the text or graphics fly around too much.
· Avoid charts and diagrams that are hard to see.
Most Importantly - Remember, you control the presentation; don’t let it control you. PowerPoint should be a “visual aid” – not the entire show.
Tuesday, May 31, 2011
Because Communication Isn't Optional
Whether verbal or nonverbal, let’s face it – communication isn’t optional.
Every day we are tasked with a variety of situations where communication comes into play. How many times have you heard, “I could see it on your face” or, “Your body language speaks volumes”? How many times have you spoken off-the-cuff and then later wished you’d said something else?
Developing and honing this important skill, along with the other skills you gain in Toastmasters, will give you the confidence you need in a variety of areas, both personally and professionally.
In these tough economic times, your skills are even more important. Maybe you are looking for a job? Having the competitive edge may be what lands you the position. In Toastmasters, you practice thinking on your feet. The more you practice, the more self-confidence you gain, which will give you the advantage you need.
Does your current job require you to give business presentations? You can develop and polish these skills by working through the Communication Track in the Toastmasters educational program. By continuously practicing your speeches, as well as the components, such as speech organization, timing, vocal variety and gestures, you will have gained the ability to present a powerful presentation.
Toastmasters training also creates great teachers – the kind who lead classes or training sessions effectively. You’ teacher.
Maybe you are an attorney or in law school? Toastmasters is the ideal place to perfect your persuasive speaking skills so that you are able to present persuasive opening arguments, summations or cross-examinations and conduct yourself in a clear and concise manner in the courtroom.
Whatever the case may be, Toastmasters is the answer! ll be able to perfect new instructional techniques, gain experience and develop the confidence to become a great
As a result of joining Toastmasters and actively taking part, you will:
• Learn to communicate more effectively.
• Become a better listener.
• Improve your presentation skills.
• Increase your leadership potential.
• Become more successful in your career.
• Build your ability to motivate and persuade.
• Reach your professional and personal goals.
• Increase your self confidence.
Visit a local Toastmasters club today. To find a meeting location near you, go to www.toastmasters.org or visit our local website (Leominster-Fitchburg) at www.twincitytoastmasters.com or call the Twin City Toastmasters President John Feeley at 978-874-166 and start taking advantage of all that Toastmasters has to offer.
Every day we are tasked with a variety of situations where communication comes into play. How many times have you heard, “I could see it on your face” or, “Your body language speaks volumes”? How many times have you spoken off-the-cuff and then later wished you’d said something else?
Developing and honing this important skill, along with the other skills you gain in Toastmasters, will give you the confidence you need in a variety of areas, both personally and professionally.
In these tough economic times, your skills are even more important. Maybe you are looking for a job? Having the competitive edge may be what lands you the position. In Toastmasters, you practice thinking on your feet. The more you practice, the more self-confidence you gain, which will give you the advantage you need.
Does your current job require you to give business presentations? You can develop and polish these skills by working through the Communication Track in the Toastmasters educational program. By continuously practicing your speeches, as well as the components, such as speech organization, timing, vocal variety and gestures, you will have gained the ability to present a powerful presentation.
Toastmasters training also creates great teachers – the kind who lead classes or training sessions effectively. You’ teacher.
Maybe you are an attorney or in law school? Toastmasters is the ideal place to perfect your persuasive speaking skills so that you are able to present persuasive opening arguments, summations or cross-examinations and conduct yourself in a clear and concise manner in the courtroom.
Whatever the case may be, Toastmasters is the answer! ll be able to perfect new instructional techniques, gain experience and develop the confidence to become a great
As a result of joining Toastmasters and actively taking part, you will:
• Learn to communicate more effectively.
• Become a better listener.
• Improve your presentation skills.
• Increase your leadership potential.
• Become more successful in your career.
• Build your ability to motivate and persuade.
• Reach your professional and personal goals.
• Increase your self confidence.
Visit a local Toastmasters club today. To find a meeting location near you, go to www.toastmasters.org or visit our local website (Leominster-Fitchburg) at www.twincitytoastmasters.com or call the Twin City Toastmasters President John Feeley at 978-874-166 and start taking advantage of all that Toastmasters has to offer.
Sunday, May 1, 2011
STEVE CASTLE CAPTURES TOASTMASTERS TITLE
Steven Castle is Twin City Toastmasters best speaker.
Mr. Castle defeated many other contestants at the Club level Contest in March, and both the Area and Division Contest in April with his speech titled “My Heroes” and he will compete in May at the District level of the International Speech Contest. He will compete with the finalists for a chance to win the District level of the contest where the winner will move on to the Semi Finals in Las Vegas!
Steven Castle is a writer, editor, and humorist who recently completed Filthy Rich Things, a savage satire on our thirst for success and wealth. He also is Electronic House’s magazine editor and co-founder of Green Tech Advocates.
Twin City Toastmasters is one of more than 11,700 Toastmasters Clubs around the world. Each spring, approximately 50,000 members compete in club level contests. Through competition in the area, division, district and regional levels, ten contestants will vie for the title of “World Champion of Public Speaking,” which will climax at the organization’s World Championship at the convention in Las Vegas on August 20, 2011.
Mr. Castle defeated many other contestants at the Club level Contest in March, and both the Area and Division Contest in April with his speech titled “My Heroes” and he will compete in May at the District level of the International Speech Contest. He will compete with the finalists for a chance to win the District level of the contest where the winner will move on to the Semi Finals in Las Vegas!
Steven Castle is a writer, editor, and humorist who recently completed Filthy Rich Things, a savage satire on our thirst for success and wealth. He also is Electronic House’s magazine editor and co-founder of Green Tech Advocates.
Twin City Toastmasters is one of more than 11,700 Toastmasters Clubs around the world. Each spring, approximately 50,000 members compete in club level contests. Through competition in the area, division, district and regional levels, ten contestants will vie for the title of “World Champion of Public Speaking,” which will climax at the organization’s World Championship at the convention in Las Vegas on August 20, 2011.
Monday, October 25, 2010
Impact that Toastmasters is making in the lives of those incarcerated.
Rick Schnur the VP of Education from the Framingham/Natick Toastmasters Club wrote to his fellow Toastmasters stating what an impact our organization is making in the lives of those incarcerated. He wrote the following:
The prison Toastmasters clubs serve has powerful and tremendously positive influences on inmates who are looking to acquire communication and leadership skills that will help them with parole hearings and in job interviews when they re-enter the outside world. Although no formal studies have been done, the recidivism rate among Toastmasters participants is far lower than the rate for the overall prison population. For many inmates, the Toastmasters meetings are the highlight of their week, and they are tremendously appreciative of the volunteers who come in to help them build and sustain their clubs. Below I've pasted some quotes from volunteers and an essay from an ex-Toastmaster inmate.
Quotes from volunteers:
“It is the most meaningful thing I’ve ever done in my life.
“The offenders give me more than I give them.”
“I appreciate my life so much more because prison volunteering puts my problems in perspective.”
“Their stories are incredible. I feel inspired and humbled by their hope.”
Here’s a short essay on the impact of prison Toastmasters from Ron C. who served 27 years in prison and is now the sergeant at arms for District 31 :
My inability to properly process and deal with the feelings and thoughts related to childhood abuses (physical, mental, emotional and sexual ) led to extensive substance abuse. Not because I liked how I felt when using, but because I liked how I did not feel. I had my first drink at 12 and was drunk that day. By 14, I was not only drinking to get drunk daily I had progressed to mainline heroin and any other drugs I could find. That feeling of not feeling, numbness, was so complete that I lost the ability to empathize, see or care about, anyone else's feelings. This led to all kinds of criminal behavior and having no feelings, or self-respect, prostitution on my part. At 20, after 8+ years of total immersion in alcohol and drugs, I had completely separated from my humanity and participated in a terrible crime. During my first 10 years in prison my feelings, thoughts, and behaviors did not change. I was not sober a total of 200 days over that 10 year period. I was physically, mental and emotionally abusive towards others and was constantly in trouble with the prison authorities, accumulating over 100 disciplinary reports and years in segregation, the hole.
As a direct result of my negative behaviors and associations in 1992 I was stabbed 8 times and almost died. This was the best thing that could have ever happen to me. For the first time I realized, appreciated and felt, some of the fear, pain, and helplessness of my victim prior to his death. I also realized that my problems were a direct result of my thought process and behaviors and if I did not change them then I was not only going to die, a violent death, but that I was going to die alone as I was totally estranged from my family. I knew I had to change but I had no clue how.
My first opportunity after this to enter general population, where I would have access to programs, came on May 13, 1994 when I arrived at Bay State Correctional Center. May 17th, 1994 I went to my first Toastmasters meetings as I knew the first step back was to learn how to appropriately and effectively express my feelings, thoughts, fears, hopes, dreams and pain.
Through TM I not only learned how to appropriately and effectively express myself I developed enough courage to enter other programs to find and address my causal factor, ( reasons I needed, used, alcohol and drugs criminal behaviors ) so I could change from who I was, how I thought , felt and acted and have a future different from my past. Not only did that happen I went back and facilitated literally dozens of programs with outside volunteers to give back what I got and help> other inmates see that change is not only possible but that life is sweet and worth living without drugs/alcohol and criminal, abusive behaviors.
I not only gained better communication and leadership skills through TM I was able to effectively participate in other programs to address my underlining issue that cause, resulted in , my negative behaviors, and then give back. The most important thing I got through my TM participation was the ability to address my issues and reconnect to my humanity. While I am and always will be responsible for what I have done, I have 17+ years of sobriety, and the love, respect and trust of my family and now my freedom and Toastmasters was the catalyst. I am forever in your debt.
Please join us for a demonstration meeting and get a taste of prison volunteering Monday, Nov. 15 at 6 pm at the Women’s State Correctional Facility in Framingham. Contact me for more information and to volunteer. You can reach me at 508-788-1334, or send an email (elschnur@gmail.com) with your contact information and times that are best to reach you.
Rick Schnur, VP of Education
Framingham/Natick Toastmasters Club
elschnur@gmail.com
The prison Toastmasters clubs serve has powerful and tremendously positive influences on inmates who are looking to acquire communication and leadership skills that will help them with parole hearings and in job interviews when they re-enter the outside world. Although no formal studies have been done, the recidivism rate among Toastmasters participants is far lower than the rate for the overall prison population. For many inmates, the Toastmasters meetings are the highlight of their week, and they are tremendously appreciative of the volunteers who come in to help them build and sustain their clubs. Below I've pasted some quotes from volunteers and an essay from an ex-Toastmaster inmate.
Quotes from volunteers:
“It is the most meaningful thing I’ve ever done in my life.
“The offenders give me more than I give them.”
“I appreciate my life so much more because prison volunteering puts my problems in perspective.”
“Their stories are incredible. I feel inspired and humbled by their hope.”
Here’s a short essay on the impact of prison Toastmasters from Ron C. who served 27 years in prison and is now the sergeant at arms for District 31 :
My inability to properly process and deal with the feelings and thoughts related to childhood abuses (physical, mental, emotional and sexual ) led to extensive substance abuse. Not because I liked how I felt when using, but because I liked how I did not feel. I had my first drink at 12 and was drunk that day. By 14, I was not only drinking to get drunk daily I had progressed to mainline heroin and any other drugs I could find. That feeling of not feeling, numbness, was so complete that I lost the ability to empathize, see or care about, anyone else's feelings. This led to all kinds of criminal behavior and having no feelings, or self-respect, prostitution on my part. At 20, after 8+ years of total immersion in alcohol and drugs, I had completely separated from my humanity and participated in a terrible crime. During my first 10 years in prison my feelings, thoughts, and behaviors did not change. I was not sober a total of 200 days over that 10 year period. I was physically, mental and emotionally abusive towards others and was constantly in trouble with the prison authorities, accumulating over 100 disciplinary reports and years in segregation, the hole.
As a direct result of my negative behaviors and associations in 1992 I was stabbed 8 times and almost died. This was the best thing that could have ever happen to me. For the first time I realized, appreciated and felt, some of the fear, pain, and helplessness of my victim prior to his death. I also realized that my problems were a direct result of my thought process and behaviors and if I did not change them then I was not only going to die, a violent death, but that I was going to die alone as I was totally estranged from my family. I knew I had to change but I had no clue how.
My first opportunity after this to enter general population, where I would have access to programs, came on May 13, 1994 when I arrived at Bay State Correctional Center. May 17th, 1994 I went to my first Toastmasters meetings as I knew the first step back was to learn how to appropriately and effectively express my feelings, thoughts, fears, hopes, dreams and pain.
Through TM I not only learned how to appropriately and effectively express myself I developed enough courage to enter other programs to find and address my causal factor, ( reasons I needed, used, alcohol and drugs criminal behaviors ) so I could change from who I was, how I thought , felt and acted and have a future different from my past. Not only did that happen I went back and facilitated literally dozens of programs with outside volunteers to give back what I got and help> other inmates see that change is not only possible but that life is sweet and worth living without drugs/alcohol and criminal, abusive behaviors.
I not only gained better communication and leadership skills through TM I was able to effectively participate in other programs to address my underlining issue that cause, resulted in , my negative behaviors, and then give back. The most important thing I got through my TM participation was the ability to address my issues and reconnect to my humanity. While I am and always will be responsible for what I have done, I have 17+ years of sobriety, and the love, respect and trust of my family and now my freedom and Toastmasters was the catalyst. I am forever in your debt.
Please join us for a demonstration meeting and get a taste of prison volunteering Monday, Nov. 15 at 6 pm at the Women’s State Correctional Facility in Framingham. Contact me for more information and to volunteer. You can reach me at 508-788-1334, or send an email (elschnur@gmail.com) with your contact information and times that are best to reach you.
Rick Schnur, VP of Education
Framingham/Natick Toastmasters Club
elschnur@gmail.com
Saturday, October 16, 2010
Area B3 Fall Humorous Speech Contest Winner
Our own Steven Castle won the area B3 “Fall Humorous Speech contest” and will be competing on Tuesday 10/19 against areas B1, B2, B4 and B5 at the Microsoft Northeast District in Waltham located at 201 Jones Road, 6th Floor beginning at 6:30pm..
The purpose of the Humorous Speaking Contest is to…
• Provide an opportunity for speakers to improve their speaking abilities and to recognize the best as encouragement to all.
• Provide an opportunity to learn by observing the more proficient speakers who have benefited from their Toastmasters training.
• Recognize the value of humor in speaking.
Steven is an outstanding contender, the location is going to be great and this contest will feature the best speakers in the Area. This is going to be a competition full of energy and excitement and all club members are encouraged to attend.
The purpose of the Humorous Speaking Contest is to…
• Provide an opportunity for speakers to improve their speaking abilities and to recognize the best as encouragement to all.
• Provide an opportunity to learn by observing the more proficient speakers who have benefited from their Toastmasters training.
• Recognize the value of humor in speaking.
Steven is an outstanding contender, the location is going to be great and this contest will feature the best speakers in the Area. This is going to be a competition full of energy and excitement and all club members are encouraged to attend.
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