For TASC Toastmasters that haven’t yet made a decision, please consider competing in the TASC Toastmasters 2010 Spring International Speech & Evaluation Contest scheduled for Wednesday, 17 March 2010, 1130-1300.
International Speech contestants need to have completed six projects from the basic manual (you have this week and next, and you can reuse a previous speech for the contest!) AND be a member in good standing.
Evaluation contestants need only be a member in good standing – everyone in the club is qualified for this contest.
Everything in Toastmasters is designed to help us members gain confidence and skills in communication and leadership, and speech contests are part of that design: participating in a speech contest is a great way throw your skill development into overdrive. Although you will be competing in front of much of the same audience that you see on a weekly basis, the contest is carefully conducted in compliance to an international rule set – this formal environment seems to kick in an effect similar to speaking in front of a larger audience. As you win, you move up the tiers of contest through the organization – each level provides a bigger stage (pun intended) to compete and develop – and further increase your skills.
If you are not planning on competing (we hold two speech contests a year) then please plan on attending. The contest has an agenda and meeting roles – your presence will not only greatly help the Contest Chair (Toastmaster of the Day), but the contestants will really appreciate your support and encouragement. See the related article on our website (http://www.tasctoastmasters.org) for more details!