As
a way to bolster my self-confidence, I approached Toastmasters Ala Moana’s Vice-President
of Education, Dr. Paulette Williams, and asked to be assigned a mentor. Paulette, who is an award-winning Speaker and University Professor of Nursing,
generously volunteered her time and knowledge, coaching me in the writing of my
next speech.
When
I presented the speech to the Toastmasters group last Thursday, Paulette also encouraged
me with her presence and undivided attention. Both are extremely important to a
speaker. Her support and approval were invaluable to my advancement as a
speaker. Mahalo nui loa to you, Dr.
Paulette.
I
received the blue ribbon at Toastmasters for “Best Speaker” of the week, for my
speech:
Writing
the First Draft
(Editing comes later!)
My
reward, along with the ribbon and pride of accomplishment? Having my picture
taken with the other two “winners of the day” Brian Boltwood, President of
Toastmasters Ala Moana, and Rocky Davis, excellent keynote speakers and
mentors.
 |
| Rocky Davis, Gail Baugniet, Brian Boltwood |
My speech structure followed the parameters of
Toastmasters International Speech #8 in the Competent
Communication booklet:
Get
Comfortable with Visual Aids.
The
major goals of this speech are to:
1.
Use appropriate visual aids for the speech and message
2.
Help the audience understand and remember the speaker’s point
3.
Use body language to reinforce the message, and
4.
Present a well-researched speech.
One
mission of the Toastmasters Club is to give each member “the opportunity to
develop oral communication and leadership skills, which in turn foster
self-confidence and personal growth.”
You may well ask, “You’re a writer, so what are you
doing giving speeches?”
Good
question, one I’ve asked myself often. I do have a purpose, aside from relishing
(in a sadistic sort of way) the challenges of researching, writing, and
standing up in front of a group to present a speech. I believe writers need to
speak with confidence about their work. But not only as a sales tool.
Communication
skills are also important to more fully appreciate the well-rounded experience
of interacting with all the wonderful people one meets during the course of a
career as a writer.
That’s motive enough!
Please
check out this website for further information about Toastmasters:
http://www.toastmasters.org/Find-a-Club/00003701-ala-moana-toastmasters
Also,
please take a moment to visit the excellent and informative websites of Brian Boltwood: http://brianboltwood.com/photograph/about-me/
and
Rocky Davis. Rocky is a nationally and internationally recognized inspirational and
motivational speaker. Learn what motivates Rocky! https://rockslifeonfire.com/about/
