Tuesday, July 8, 2008

Who and What?

Hornbill City Toastmasters Club is a club within District 51 of Toastmasters International. Founded in 1924 in California, Toastmasters International is now the premier organisation for developing communication and leadership skills. There are over 8,000 Toastmasters clubs worldwide.

The mission of Hornbill City Toastmasters club is to provide a mutually supportive and positive learning environment in which every member has the opportunity to develop communication and leadership skills, which in turn foster self-confidence and personal growth. The club is vibrant and active in communication and leadership activities.

Our meetings feature impromptu speaking, prepared speeches and insightful evaluation of each speaker.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
If you don't find what you need in this frequently asked questions list, feel free to contact us at hornbillcity@yahoo.com.

How do I join?
Come to a meeting as a guest. At the end of the meeting ask the Vice President of Membership for an application form.

How many times can I be a guest before I have to join?
You may join straight away or be a guest until you are ready to be a member. The Sergeant-at-Arms and the other members will welcome you. Entrance is RM12 per meeting for guests and members alike. This goes towards meeting expenses.

How much does it cost to join as a member?
If you want to join, it's RM120 for 6 months, plus RM80 joining fee which covers your membership pack with speech manuals, etc. All members receive "The Toastmaster" magazine from Toastmasters International each month.

New members may join at any time during the year and the fees are pro-rated. Further information and an application packet may be obtained from the President or Vice President of Membership at any of the club meetings.

When can I start making speeches?
As soon as you are a club member, you can start booking for speeches and other roles such as grammarian, timer, ah counter etc. You can book by emailing / speaking personally to the Vice-President Education.

What if I need help with my first speech?
Each new member is assigned a mentor to personally advise them for as long as they need it.

Can Toastmasters help me to become a professional speaker?
Toastmasters Clubs provides a conducive environment for members who want to improve their communication skills. Participating as a speaker or role player at the meetings is a great way to train and practice since the Toastmasters manuals include easy to follow instructions on how to achieve the goals of each assignment.

Can I join even though I am not a good speaker?
Hornbill City Toastmasters Club is a place for everyone to develop his/her speaking skills. We are here to support each other, give feedback and have a good time.

How many people attend a meeting?
The meeting sizes vary from one to another. It is between 10 to 30 people. On average we get about 15 people attending.

What is the club atmosphere like?
It is a friendly, relaxed and supportive environment.

Is Hornbill City Toastmasters Club open to anyone?
Members of Hornbill City Toastmasters Club come from diverse backgrounds and professions. We have insurance agents, architects, engineers, teachers, lecturers, entrepreneurs, managers, school principals, accountants, professional speakers and trainers, financial planners, computer professionals, to name a few.

How does Hornbill City Toastmasters Club help me to develop my skills?
Hornbill City Toastmasters Club offers members many opportunities to develop their speaking skills. Each meeting, every member will have a chance to speak in front of people, either with impromptu or scheduled speeches. Members can also develop their leadership skills by serving as club officers.

Can I give a speech without being a Hornbill City Toastmasters Club member?
Priority goes to Hornbill City Toastmasters Club members but we're also open to Toastmasters of other clubs.


What if I need more information?
Contact us at hornbillcity@yahoo.com.

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