The room goes quiet, and Cameron Richards stands up and begins speaking. He hasn’t prepared and that’s the point.
This is a meeting of the University of Oregon chapter of Toastmasters International, and Richards is the chapter president.
Toastmasters International is a club that has helped leaders develop communication skills for almost 90 years.
The non-profit organization gives its members the opportunity to improve their public speaking skills through local club meetings, training seminars and speech contests. UO has its own chapter on campus that meets every Tuesday at 7 p.m. in the Chiles Center of Lillis to hone these skills.
“I first learned of Toastmasters at the end of my sophomore year,” Richards said. “A professor in one of my business classes highly recommended the club for anyone looking to work on their public speaking or leadership. I decided to visit the club and give it a try.”
Richards said he has learned a lot about his own speaking tendencies through being involved in the club, both good and bad.
“The club is a great place to receive constructive and friendly feedback,” he said.
The website describes the club as “a mutually supportive and positive learning environment in which every member has the opportunity to develop communication and leadership skills, thereby fostering self confidence and personal growth.” Each meeting gives everyone an opportunity to practice conducting meetings, giving impromptu speeches, presenting prepared speeches and offering constructive evaluation.
“Some members come to UO toastmasters terrified of public speaking, while others are looking to fine-tune one of their strengths,” said UO student Gavin Cronkite, a member of the club. “For me, Toastmasters is a great opportunity to receive feedback and improve in a stress-free environment.”
The openness of the club and its members help people feel comfortable speaking in front of complete strangers.
“Our club is unique because not only are students encouraged to get involved, but also other Eugene community members who bring even more variety to an already diverse group. Practicing such important skills such as public speaking, leadership and social networking in such a diverse community is a very effective way to prepare for the professional world following college,” Richards said.
Aneeqa Ali joined toast masters to sharpen her speaking abilities. “I have learned how to stand up and present my ideas with confidence—without any ah’s or um’s. I now welcome new assignments at work, and I interact with my team and perform my job more efficiently and effectively. Whether I’m delivering good messages or bad news, I feel more confident when speaking.”
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Members of the club pay approximately $36 a month (price varies on location) to invest in the skill building tool of public speaking.
Toastmasters strives to create a laid back atmosphere, there is no instructor and the club is attended by seasoned professionals and communications beginners alike. As the website states, “it’s a no pressure environment.”
For more information, check out their Facebook page or visit their international website. The website also provides free resources for tips on how to improve your public speaking and communication skills.