Greetings from Toastmasters. But wait… What is it? It is a forum where people can get together and improve their communication and leadership skills. It is a forum to network. It is a forum to strengthen relationships, secure lasting friendships. First a little information about what Toastmasters is for those who are unfamiliar with this organization. Beginning in 1924 through Ralph C. Smedley to train public speaking, the organization has since grown to over 200 000 members in over 90 countries worldwide. Focusing on public speaking and leadership skills, Toastmasters is one of the largest organized systems of personal development in the world.
SAP Labs India is proud to announce that we have a toastmasters club of our own. Christened “SAP SpeakToLead Toastmasters club”, we have completed two years of our existence. We meet every Wednesday 4.30-6.30.
Now, what will you get if you start coming regularly?
1. It’s not just public speaking: The skills learned in mastering public speaking and leadership are core skills needed for dealing with other people. These skills are the communication skills you use many times every single day. Instead of thinking about doing a big presentation with your toastmaster skills, think about something as simple as talking with a group of friends.
2. Meeting people: Toastmasters is a great place to make friends and meet new people. SAP in general is a great place to meet people, but I would say that the Toastmasters atmosphere facilitates it even more. I have met many people through Toastmasters, including many people I might not have otherwise had the chance to meet.
3. Have a good time: One of the aspects of Toastmasters that surprises one most was just how fun the meetings are. Even without all the skill and relationship benefits, one would go to meetings sheerly for entertainment.
4. Break from daily routine: It is a great and productive use of your time and a break from the drab routine of everyday life. It’s a great platform for learning and having fun at the same time.
So join us in this venture and reap the benefits of the club.
