"Take a chance! All life is a chance. The man who goes farthest is generally the one who is willing to do and dare." -- Dale Carnegie (Get New Quote)

What is Toastmasters®?

Toastmasters is a learn-by-doing, mutual self-help organization that focuses on communication and leadership skills. It is an international organization composed of thousands of local clubs.

Toastmasters offers:

• A unique means of learning and improving your communications skills in an atmosphere of fellowship and fun.
• Unlimited opportunities for personal and occupational advancement based on improved abilities and expanded experience.
• Experience in leadership development through training and club involvement.
• Professionally prepared educational materials and resources on speaking, listening, discussion, parliamentary procedure, audio-visual techniques and conference and meeting procedures.
• Continuing practice and exposure to sound communication techniques.
• Increased confidence, ability to organize logical thought and present it self-assuredly, and a better understanding of human relations.
• Affiliation with an internationally renowned educational organization.

 

While following a standard format, each Toastmasters club has its own traditions, its own "personality":

• Some clubs are "community" clubs that are open to membership by all and some clubs are "corporate" clubs that restrict their membership to a sponsoring organization.
• Most clubs meet weekly but some meet less often.
• Some clubs meet in the early morning, some around noon, and some in the evening.
• Some clubs include a meal with their membership dues, some clubs meet in restaurants where meals are optional, and some clubs meet where food is not available.
• Some clubs are informal and some clubs expect more businesslike attire.
• Club dues vary depending on each club's expenses but average $1 to $2 per week. Some employers recognize the value of Toastmasters training and will reimburse membership dues.

 

Members of a Toastmasters club are expected to:

• Attend meetings regularly.
• Help others as they help you to achieve the various leadership and communication goals.
• Have fun!

Finding, Visiting and Joining a Club

Visit a Club

Visiting a club is the best way to learn more about Toastmasters. While the information contained in this web site can give you a good idea of what to expect from Toastmasters, the best way to learn what Toastmasters can provide to you is to visit one of our clubs' meetings.

Find a Good Time and Place

If you are interested in learning more about Toastmasters, you may select Find A Club to find clubs in the Charlotte area convenient to your office, home, or commute. Then, contact the club using the email address or telephone number provided. If the club has its own web site, you may get additional contact information by visiting that club's web site.

Visit More Than One Club

We encourage you to visit more than one club, if possible, as each club has its own individual personality. Even with these different personalities, however, each club adheres to the core principles of Toastmasters: namely, to improve its members' speaking skills in a supportive environment.

You Are Always Welcome

You are always welcome at our meetings. You may take part if you wish, or just watch and listen. Drop-in guests are usually welcome but some clubs meet where security is a concern so it is best to phone or email the club for any special instructions. Toastmasters try to start their meetings on time so it is important that you arrive 10-15 minutes early so you can have your questions answered and can meet the club members. As a guest you will be introduced so that the members of the club know who you are, and we encourage you to join us. The decision to take that first step toward becoming a better speaker, however, is entirely up to you.

Joining

After you find a club to your liking, let one of the officers or members of the club know that you're interested in joining. Once your application for membership and the check for dues are processed, you become a new member. You will then receive copies of the basic manuals (Competent Communication and Competent Leadership programs), and you can begin your journey to improving your speaking, listening and leadership skills!