TOASTMASTER® www.toastmasters.org SEPTEMBER 2012

8 MEET 2012-2013 14 POLITICAL 22 HOW TO BLOW INTERNATIONAL PRESIDENT STORYTELLING IN OFF STEAM WITHOUT JOHN LAU, DTM THE MODERN WORLD SCALDING YOURSELF

Page 16 WOMEN WHO CHANGED THE WORLD

Aung San Suu Kyi, Burmese opposition leader and Nobel Peace Prize recipient

9.12 Cover-final.indd 1 8/2/12 9:00 AM TOASTMASTER® PUBLISHER Daniel Rex VIEWPOINT MANAGING EDITOR Suzanne Frey SENIOR EDITOR Paul Sterman ASSOCIATE EDITOR Mary Nesfield JUNIOR WRITER Jennie Harris EDITORIAL ASSISTANT Julie E. Kim ART DIRECTION Susan Campbell INVITE A FRIEND GRAPHIC DESIGN Deidre Gaffney

Members are the life-blood of our TI OFFICERS AND DIRECTORS organization. A member in a nonprofit Founder Dr. Ralph C. Smedley (1878-1965) organization is like the shareholder of 2011-2012 OFFICERS International President Michael Notaro, DTM a profit-oriented entity who is responsible Alameda, California, USA International President-elect John Lau, DTM for the success of the company. Kuching, Sarawak, Malaysia First Vice President George Yen, DTM I met Esther when she joined Taipei, Taiwan Toastmasters in 1999. She gave her Second Vice President Mohammed Murad, DTM Dubai, United Arab Emirates Ice Breaker three weeks after joining. Immediate Past President Pat Johnson, DTM After delivering her first speech, her Victoria, British Columbia, Canada Executive Director Daniel Rex confidence level rose and she was excited, Mission Viejo, California Secretary-Treasurer Sally Newell Cohen inspired and encouraged to do the rest Mission Viejo, California of the manual speeches and projects *2012-2013 officers not determined as of print date in the communication and leadership 2011-2012 DIRECTORS James Sultan, DTM David Hollingshead, DTM programs. She earned her first Competent Kirkland, Washington Jacksonville, Florida ASSIGNED TO REGION 1 ASSIGNED TO REGION 8 Communicator award four months later. Kevin Doyle, DTM Wendy Harding, DTM Honolulu, Hawaii Fredericton, New Brunswick, Canada As her confidence rose, she was promoted and became a manager at the ASSIGNED TO REGION 2 ASSIGNED TO REGION 9 company where she worked. She shared with her friends the transformation David McCallister, DTM Roberta Perry, DTM Fort Worth, Texas Los Angeles, California she had gone through in Toastmasters — including the refined thinking skills ASSIGNED TO REGION 3 ASSIGNED TO REGION 10 Jacquie Schnider, DTM George Thomas, DTM and polished presentation and conversation abilities she had gained. Her Calgary, Alberta, Canada Doha, Qatar ASSIGNED TO REGION 4 ASSIGNED TO REGION 11 friends were excited and asked Esther to bring them to her next club meeting. Andrew Little, DTM Mike Storkey, DTM New Berlin, Wisconsin Airlie Beach, Queensland, Australia ASSIGNED TO REGION 5 ASSIGNED TO REGION 12 Gina Cook, DTM Balraj Arunasalam, DTM I ask you to join me in bringing at least Kanata, Ontario, Canada Colombo, Sri Lanka ASSIGNED TO REGION 6 ASSIGNED TO REGION 13 one of your friends to your Toastmasters Viki Kinsman, DTM Christine Temblique, DTM Oakton, Virginia Meycauayan, Philippines ASSIGNED TO REGION 7 ASSIGNED TO REGION 14 club meeting. *2012-2013 directors not determined as of print date

There, Esther’s friends participated in Table Topics and joined the club TOASTMASTERS INTERNATIONAL immediately after the meeting. Esther became a division governor, and she P.O. Box 9052 • Mission Viejo, CA 92690 U.S.A. currently holds the title of director at the company where she works. She 949-858-8255 • Fax: 949-858-1207 Voicemail: 949-835-1300 has grown. www.toastmasters.org/members

Esther shared her Toastmasters experiences with her friends. I invite you CONTACTING WORLD HEADQUARTERS to join Esther by sharing your Toastmasters experiences with your friends, For information on joining family members and coworkers. or building a club, visit: www.toastmasters.org Article submission: [email protected] During my term as 2012-2013 International President, I will invite my Letters to the Editor: [email protected] friends to join a Toastmasters club. I ask you to join me in bringing at least To change address, log in to: www.toastmasters.org/members one friend to your club meetings. Help your friend complete the membership application and inspire him or her to give manual speeches. The TOASTMASTER Magazine (ISSN 00408263) is published monthly by If we each invite a friend to join Toastmasters, our organization’s Toastmasters International, Inc., 23182 Arroyo Vista, Rancho Santa Margarita, CA 92688, U.S.A. Periodicals postage paid at Mission Viejo, CA and additional mailing office. POSTMASTER: Send address change to The TOASTMASTER membership will soon double. But best of all, your friend will thank you Magazine, P.O. Box 9052, Mission Viejo, CA 92690, U.S.A. Published to promote the ideas and goals of Toastmasters International, a for the new skills he or she will gain, and your club will benefit from the nonprofit educational organization of clubs throughout the worlddedicated to teaching skills in public speaking and leadership. Members’ subscriptions are vitality new members bring. Let’s ignite our passion for Toastmasters, included in the $36 semi-annual dues. The official publication of Toastmasters International carries authorized where leaders are made. T notices and articles regarding the activities and interests of the organization, but responsibility is not assumed for the opinions of the authors of other articles. The TOASTMASTER magazine does not endorse or guarantee the products it advertises. Copyright 2012 Toastmasters International, Inc. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission is prohibited. Not responsible for unsolicited material. Toastmasters International, The TOASTMASTER and the Toastmaster International Emblem are trademarks of Toastmasters International registered in the United States, Canada and many other countries. Marca registrada en Mexico. Printed in U.S.A. JOHN LAU, DTM International President

WHERE LEADERS ARE MADE 2 WHERE LEADERS ARE MADE www.toastmasters.org

Viewpoint-September 2012.indd 2 8/2/12 9:01 AM TABLE OF CONTENTS

September 2012 Volume 78, No. 9 DEPARTMENTS VIEWPOINT: INVITE A FRIEND 2 BY JOHN LAU, DTM International President

LETTERS 4 MY TURN: SPEAKING UP 5 ABOUT HEARING LOSS Anxiety-stricken job seeker learned to kick her nervous habits. BY RACHEL MCCALLUM

AROUND THE GLOBE 6 8 PROFILE: CARL TRUJILLO 1 2 New Mexico state representative takes new communication skills to the house. BY JULIE BAWDEN-DAVIS

MANNER OF SPEAKING: 20 MASTERING STORYTELLING How to win over your audience with the “three I’s” of storytelling. ALLEN SCHOER 16 22 FOR THE NOVICE: 26 HOW INTRIGUING IS YOUR SPEECH TITLE? Why you should name your speech with care. FEATURES BY HOWARD SCOTT, ACB MEET JOHN LAU, DTM 8 Toastmasters’ 2012-2013 International President Q&A WITH TAMMY MILLER, PID: shares his formula for success. 28 FROM CLOWN TO AUCTIONEER

FUNNY YOU SHOULD SAY THAT: WOMEN WHO CHANGED THE WORLD 30 OH CAPTION, MY CAPTION 16 Meet four courageous speakers who The pet peeves of a former educated and inspired a global audience. advertising copywriter. BY DENISE GRAVELINE BY JOHN CADLEY ANGER MANAGEMENT ARTICLES 22 Blow off steam without scalding yourself — or others. BY ERNEST R. STAIR POLITICAL STORYTELLING 14 FOR THE MODERN WORLD The do’s and don’ts of reaching voters. Since 1924, Toastmasters International has been recognized as the leading organization BY CAREN S. NEILE, PH.D. dedicated to communication and leadership skill development. Through its worldwide network of clubs, each week Toastmasters helps more than a quarter million men and women of every ethnicity, education level and profession build their competence in communication BEST SALES LETTER EVER so they can gain the confidence to lead others. 21 Anatomy of a winning pitch letter. By regularly giving speeches, gaining feedback, leading teams and guiding others to achieve BY MARK SATTERFIELD their goals, leaders emerge. They learn to tell their stories. They listen and answer. They plan and lead. They give feedback — and accept it. They find their path to leadership. Toastmasters International. Where Leaders Are Made.

Aung San Suu Kyi cover photo courtesy of Getty Images TOASTMASTER SEPTEMBER 2012 3 © 2012 Getty Images.

3 TOC 09.12.indd 3 8/6/12 3:07 PM LETTERS TO THE TOASTMASTER

“Reading stories like the one about Faye [Dunn] gives me the motivation to remain committed to my club, especially since I now see that no matter where we are in the world, we all share common experiences.” — Maria E. Arias-Buchanan 941 Regulators Club Washington, D.C.

Shared Experiences next meeting. We are confident our speakers bureau created by Muslims It was with great pleasure that I read the club will enjoy continued success! in Seattle. This, along with the Light article about Faye Dunn, “Overcoming David Gore, DTM of Islam club, are excellent initiatives. Boundaries” (June). I, too, had to learn Hastings Toastmasters Today Islam suffers from a huge the English language when I came to the Hastings, New Zealand problem, as people who purport to United States. Like Faye, who is an audi- have knowledge about Islam don’t. Such a Deal tor for the Australian Taxation Office, I Or, they are unable to clearly and I did a little estimating and calculating was a revenue agent for the U.S. Internal coherently express themselves. The today and want to share some data. I Revenue Service for many years and result is a false and negative image of just passed my 10th anniversary as a enjoyed helping taxpayers. Islam, so not only are non-Muslims Toastmaster, having joined May 1, 2002. I joined Toastmasters this year when turning against it, but Muslims are By my estimate I have spent slight- I moved to Washington, D.C., for my being misled and are drifting away. ly less than $1,500 over the entire new position with the IRS. The club has Kamal Khan, ACG, ALB 10-year period to cover dues, books been great, and after getting my first Ras Tanura Toastmasters and supplies, and registration fees at magazine this month and reading sto- Ras Tanura, Saudi Arabia various district events. ries like the one about Faye, it gives me Just as a point of reference, a John Maxwell Good Choice the motivation to remain committed to two-day seminar at a competing As I turned to page 27 of this month’s my club, especially since I now see that organization costs about $1,600. (July) Toastmaster, I was delighted to no matter where we are in the world, see John Maxwell, my favorite author we all share common experiences. John Reece, DTM Adventurers Toastmasters and leadership coach, smiling at me. Maria E. Arias-Buchanan Van Nuys, California 941 Regulators Club His books have influenced, inspired and motivated me throughout my Washington, D.C. Boost of Courage personal and career life. I especially Thank you, Ruth Nasrullah, for your How PR Saved Our Club enjoy his self-improvement books. As supportive, helpful and well-written newly elected club president this year, Based in a small rural community, our article “You’re Speaking About What?!” club was about to die. Our division and I am finding his book Developing the in the April issue of Toastmaster maga- Leader Within You a fitting comple- area governors mounted a campaign to zine. Your story gives me the courage to save it. We organized and advertised a ment to my Toastmasters resources. tackle subjects I may have ignored before, Congratulations for honoring this public meeting and submitted two paid as long as I show respect for the audience. advertisements to the local newspaper. great man for his achievements in the Pete Englander, CC field of leadership development. We wrote a press release, and the local Glendale 1 Toastmasters Cheryl Grant, ACB radio station ran a series of advertise- Glendale, California Fredericton Toastmasters ments for us at no charge. The local Fredericton, New Brunswick, Canada cinema advertised our meeting, also at Light in Darkness no charge. Our volunteers distributed I just read Ruth Nasrullah’s excel- Do you have something to say? pamphlets to local businesses. lent article “You’re Speaking About Write it in 200 words or less. The newspaper covered our pub- What?!” in the April issue. It felt good Include your name, address and lic meeting, and more than 30 visitors seeing a Muslim name as an author, club affiliation, and send it to attended. Three of these people joined which does not often happen. It was [email protected]. that night and several attended the also interesting to read about the 4 WHERE LEADERS ARE MADE

4 Sept Letters.indd 4 8/2/12 9:03 AM MY TURN

SPEAKING UP ABOUT HEARING LOSS My path to confidence as a self-advocate.

By Rachel McCallum

never considered myself having fellow members as mentors. Having Toastmasters has also given me communication challenges until my speeches immediately evaluated more confidence as a self-advocate and I I started searching for my first has been a tremendous help. I’m now young leader in the hearing-loss com- job after college. I’m a native English more conscious of nervous habits I munity. It’s given me the opportunity speaker, and family, friends and teach- never even realized I had. to practice asking, in a nonthreatening ers have always told me I’m articulate. As a person with hearing loss, I environment, for the accommodations I have had some great job interviews. rely heavily on my writing skills and I need. For example, when I’m the So why has it been so difficult for me on visual information. However, since timer at a Toastmasters meeting, I re- to land a position in my field? embarking on my Toastmasters jour- quest that the table I need to sit at (the The simple truth is that it’s tough ney, I’ve become more confident in my one with the timing light) be moved being a 20-something-year-old college ability to communicate. Armed with to a part of the room where I can hear graduate during a recession. Making new skills, I’m no longer so terrified the speakers better (this table is usually at the back of the room). I’m also more comfortable with educating a general I’m able to see questions as Table Topics, for “hearing” audience that may not have which the response theme is always “my skills had any previous exposure to those and abilities will help the company.” who are deaf or hard-of-hearing. In 2009, I co-founded Hear YA Now, a network by and for college- my job search all the more challenging by interviews that the mere mention and early career-age young adults with was the fact that I have severe hearing of one causes a stomach ache. hearing loss. Since then, I’ve made loss. As a result, I was very timid and Joining Toastmasters is one of friends with a diverse group of people anxious in interview situations. the best things I’ve done for my from all over the United States. My Due to a life-threatening disease job search. It’s improved my confi- experience in Toastmasters has helped and the treatment I received for it dence and my speaking skills, which me accept and respect varying view- when I was young, I’ve been pro- helps me to stay calm during inter- points about hearing loss, deafness and gressively losing my hearing. During views. I’m able to see questions as communication methods — and find interviews, I frequently worried that Table Topics, for which the theme is value in each one. My time in Toast- I would unconsciously bluff (nod my always “my skills and abilities will masters has made me a better speaker, head) if I didn’t understand what was help the company.” Unlike Table job seeker, leader and advocate, which said and that I would answer ques- Topics, I can prepare in advance will help me not only in leading Hear tions incorrectly. I had to overcome by researching common interview YA Now, but in advancing my career my fear of job interviews. questions as well as details about the wherever it may take me. T I heard about Toastmasters, and company I’m interviewing with. My Rachel McCallum is a member of the it sounded like a great way to net- strategy is to briefly, and with com- UniMasters club in Lake Forest, work and build my confidence and posure, mention my hearing needs at California. She can be reached at skills. In early 2011, after months the beginning of the interview, then [email protected]. To of unsuccessful job hunting, I joined make the potential employer forget learn more about her network for the UniMasters club in Lake Forest, my hearing deficiency by confidently young adults with hearing loss, visit California. As one of the youngest telling him or her what I can do for hearyanow.tumblr.com. members in a diverse club, I saw my the company. TOASTMASTER SEPTEMBER 2012 5

5 My Turn/McCallum.indd 5 8/2/12 9:11 AM AROUND THE GLOBE

WHAT DO YOU SAY WHEN … INTERNATIONAL INTERPRETATIONS A CLUB MEMBER IS NERVOUS ABOUT GIVING AN ICE BREAKER SPEECH? WORKING HARD Members from the Dublin South Toastmasters club in Dublin, Ireland, respond: “Enjoy the experience, avoid offering too much information and ask yourself what one thing you want your audience to remember. Then tell them that one thing.” — JOHN KELLY, ACB, ALS “Above all, remember that you are among friends who know what it’s like to deliver your first speech and who will always support you. So relax, enjoy and learn from the experience.” — JOHN JOYCE, PH.D., DTM

An idiom is a cultural expres- “I would point out this first: If you fall off, remember that the audience is sion whose meaning is figurative there to pick you up, help you dust yourself off and get you back on the saddle.”— USHA NARASIMHAN, CC rather than literal. Unique to each language, idioms offer insight into “I’d advise that the audience typically experiences the speech as better and cultural differences. more interesting than the person giving the speech.” — ALBERTO LONGATO In American English, the phrase “keep your nose to the grindstone” SNAPSHOT means to work diligently. Other cultures express similar sentiments through body-related idioms. For example, “at pure lung” means working hard in Chilean Spanish, while the Japanese say “break a bone” when they want someone to be meticulous. The Russians say “get with one’s own hump” to indi- cate getting by off your own labor. The Chinese, in particular, take working hard seriously: Doing your best means working “with liver and brains spilled on the ground.” To see these and other examples, check out the book I’m Not Hang- Heesook Choi of the KH Toastmasters club in Seoul, Korea, hikes on the ing Noodles on Your Ears by Jag Tongariro Alpine Crossing in New Zealand. The turquoise-blue color of the Bhalla. Emerald Lake is caused by minerals leached from the surrounding rock.

BOTTOM LINE

Meet the Board Across the Map Two The Toastmaster Let’s welcome our new Board Toastmasters districts have grown Digital Edition The of Directors. Read about so large that they were reformed magazine is available online! Read them at www.toastmasters.org/ on July 1. Welcome District 48 in past issues or log in to see the meettheboard. Southwest Florida and District 89 current edition. www.toastmasters. in Southern China! They split from org/magazine districts 47 and 85, respectively.

6 WHERE LEADERS ARE MADE

6-7 Around the Globe-Sept.indd 6 8/2/12 9:12 AM MEMBER MOMENT LANGUAGE TIP CRYSTAL CLEAR COMMONLY CONFUSED WORDS AUCTIONEER Making your point can be chal- Dick Biondo, DTM, has lenging, especially when many been a Virginia state-certified words are commonly confused. auctioneer for 25 years. He For example, in English, ensure, specializes in charity and insure and assure are three words fundraising events and enjoys people often interchange — but performing for schools, the correct usage depends on the community groups and context. These tips will ensure you retirement homes. He does not don’t misuse them: charge a fee but thrives on the Dick Biondo, DTM • ENSURE is something you do to accolade “We can understand guarantee an event or condition: him!” A member of Com-Unity Speakers Toastmasters in Chesapeake, Virginia, Biondo is a retired naval officer who teaches public speaking at an adult Jacklin made enough food to learning center and a community college. ensure that her guests wouldn’t be hungry. Remember, the word Why did you join Toastmasters? ensure has two e’s in it — just like Halfway through my Navy career I had to give the graduation speech for a guarantee. leadership course — I was a nervous wreck! The speech was a success, and afterward I took every opportunity to be a presenter and trainer. Toastmasters • INSURE primarily means pro- gave me the opportunity to practice my presentation skills. tecting against financial liability: Virginia insured her new car What was your favorite job? against damages. Think of the Activities director for senior citizens. I loved every part of the job, except calling word insurance, which also deals “Bingo!” I did an auction every month to raise money for the residents’ activ- with protecting finances. ity fund. We laughed a lot and always made a good income that enabled us to enjoy an ambitious social program. • ASSURE is something you do to people or animals to comfort or What advice would you offer a new Toastmaster? convince them: Alice assured The value in Toastmasters comes from doing! Whoever tells me they’re not Nick that his speech went well. ready to speak misses a chance to grow. You learn nothing by doing nothing. You only assure things that are Learn more about Dick Biondo at dickbiondo.com. alive, which starts with an “a” See page 28 for an interview with Tammy Miller, DTM, PID, — just like assure. Editor’s note: who is also an auctioneer.

Virtual Museum Membership-building Your Dues Are Due Expansion Discover Contest Can your club add five Contact your club officers Toastmasters history through new, dual or reinstated members to ensure your October photos of founder Ralph between now and September dues get paid. Visit www. Smedley and the original World 30? Visit www.toastmasters.org/ toastmasters.org/DuesRenewals Headquarters building at www. membershipcontests for more details. for more information. toastmasters.org/historicphotos.

TOASTMASTER SEPTEMBER 2012 7

6-7 Around the Globe-Sept.indd 7 8/2/12 10:00 AM 8 WHERE LEADERS ARE MADE

8-11 John Lau Interview V2.indd 8 8/2/12 11:17 AM MEET JOHN LAU, DTM Toastmasters’ 2012-2013 International President shares his formula for success.

he election of John Lau When and why did you join What does Acme Group of Com- as this year’s International Toastmasters? panies specialize in, and how do TPresident marks a historic first In September 1990, I was giving many you use your leadership skills as for Toastmasters: Lau is the organi- business presentations while working in its owner and chief executive? zation’s first International President the sales and marketing department of Acme is active in several industries. from Malaysia. Elected at the Interna- a German multinational company, and I We assist companies with human tional Convention in August, Lau has wanted to improve my communication, capital development. Through our held a series of prominent leadership presentation and leadership skills. So I consulting business, we identify gaps positions since joining Toastmasters joined Toastmasters, and as I worked in staff performance and help clients 22 years ago, most recently serving as through the programs, I became more achieve goals through our competency an officer on the Board of Directors. involved. Toastmasters has been a bless- development program. We also supply food, clothing, and office and con- “Toastmasters’ core values of integrity, dedication struction materials to manufacturing and service industries. to excellence, respect for the individual and service I guide my team through a training to its members closely match my own beliefs.” process using the skills I developed at Toastmasters. I give team members Lau, who resides in Kuching, in ing for me — it has provided me the defined objectives and the authority the state of Sarawak, is chief execu- opportunity for advancement. to act so they may excel in their work. tive and owner of the Acme Group of Companies, a management con- What aspect of Toastmasters As Sarawak State Chairman of the sultancy. He is also Sarawak State do you like best? People’s Progressive Party of Ma- Chairman of the People’s Progressive The leadership training is outstand- laysia, what are your responsibili- Party of Malaysia. This past January, ing. I enjoy the self-paced program ties? Do you often give speeches? he was one of 17 people appointed and helping others develop their The People’s Progressive Party is a by the Malaysia Convention & skills. It is through participation that component party of the National Exhibition Bureau as a Kesatria we all learn. By helping each other Front, which has run the federal Malaysia (meaning “Knight of learn, unlearn and relearn, we also government for the past 55 years. As Malaysia”) to help develop the reignite our passion for Toastmasters. state chairman, it is my responsibility country’s business industry. We become voluntary leaders in to develop and grow the People’s Pro- Lau holds advanced degrees in the Toastmasters setting, but the lead- gressive Party in the state of Sarawak. several fields, including a Ph.D. in ership skills that we develop can be We formed at least one branch strategic marketing. He belongs to applied in the workplace, in politics in each state constituency. I recruit three Toastmasters clubs: the Kuch- and in friendships. I have learned that members and help them with social ing Mandarin and Connections people are very willing to lend assis- welfare issues. Through coaching and Toastmasters clubs, both in Kuching, tance when I ask for help, even in the mentoring, I encourage members to and the Oracle Advanced Toastmas- workplace. I don’t find it necessary to support the policies and administra- ters club in Penang. give instructions or orders. tion of the ruling government. TOASTMASTER SEPTEMBER 2012 9

8-11 John Lau Interview V2.indd 9 8/2/12 11:17 AM  The happy Lau family.  John Lau (front row, third from left) with his Kuching Mandarin club.

I regularly deliver speeches about DTM, AS, PID; Maimunah Natasha, ercise program includes swimming, politics and am tasked with commu- DTM, PID; Herb Long, DTM, PDG; mountain climbing and working out nicating and connecting with mem- Datuk Adeline Leong, PDG, and her with weights. I find these activities bers. I use my communication and husband, Casey Leong. bring forth a healthy mind and soul. leadership skills to meet with groups And, I have always enjoyed reading. and have one-on-one discussions with During your term as District 51 On average I read a book a week. residents. It’s very important during Governor, what leadership style In recent years I picked up golf. I these trying times to listen attentively did you use to achieve Presi- enjoy the strategic part of the game and to help meet the people’s needs. dent’s Distinguished District? and remain focused on scoring below my official handicap.

“Toastmasters has been a blessing for me — it has Have your Toastmasters skills provided me the opportunity for advancement.” helped you in promoting business in Malaysia? What does it mean to you and to I used a coaching approach and Definitely. I am often invited to speak Asian Toastmasters that you are maintained a strong belief in our at conferences in the Asia Pacific the first International President team. I listened to our members and region — most recently at the Inter- from Malaysia? gave them assistance. I dared them to national Congress & Convention As- I am proud to represent Malaysia, as excel. I put my trust in club leaders sociation, where I was a panel speaker well as all Toastmasters around the … [who] inspired team members to on the topic of “Building Asia’s As- world. I believe that I bring a unique present manual speeches at every club sociation Community.” I have talked perspective to the role of International meeting. Our motto was “SMILE” about how Toastmasters International, President, based on my international — Speak More In a Learning Environ- through our 1,600 clubs in Asia, business experiences. Malaysian Toast- ment. Team members became more groom 39,000 members to become masters are excited about getting to proactive in club building, member- better communicators and leaders. know me in my new role as Interna- ship retention and development. The persuasive skills I have learned in tional President. As members became more success- Toastmasters have helped me greatly Many more Toastmasters can serve ful, District 51 went on to achieve in inspiring audiences to form Toast- as International President if they the President’s Distinguished District masters clubs in their organizations. stay focused on learning, unlearning award. We became the top district in and relearning. The key is in having the world in the 2002-2003 term, hav- The Toastmasters International mentors and coaches, and I thank ing chartered 51 new clubs. Convention will be held in Kuala mine: Bob Blakeley, DTM, PIP; Bennie Lumpur in 2014. What can you say Bough, DTM, PIP; Alfred Herzing, Tell us about your hobbies and to those thinking of attending? DTM, PIP; Ted Corcoran, DTM, PIP; interests outside of Toastmasters. Many of us in Asia are excited about Gary Schmidt, DTM, PIP; Andree I reignite my passion by staying fit, the 2014 International Convention Brooks, DTM, PID; Ray Brooks, healthy and strong. My regular ex- being held in Kuala Lumpur. Since 10 WHERE LEADERS ARE MADE

8-11 John Lau Interview V2.indd 10 8/2/12 11:17 AM  As contest chair of the 2011 World Championship of  John Lau and the 2011-2012 Toastmasters Executive Public Speaking, John Lau presents a finalist award to Committee members pose before the President’s Dinner eventual winner Jock Elliott. Dance, at the 2011 International Convention.

the announcement was made, I have Malaysia’s fourth Prime Minister, by the experience of serving in that received many emails and phone calls Tun Dr. Mahathir Mohamad, excels position. I developed a passion and a from members around the world who in everything he does. He is a natural dedication to learning the art of effec- are pleased with this decision, saying leader who, despite difficulties, has tive communication. it was timely. Thirty percent of our transformed an agricultural country membership is outside North Ameri- into an industrial nation. What are your goals for your ca. I look forward to welcoming every I also admire all Toastmasters past year in office? delegate to the world-class Kuala international presidents and directors. My goal to implement our five-year Lumpur Convention Centre! They have led with passion and vision, strategic plan successfully aligns with the goals of our executive com- mittee and Board of Directors. Our “This work adds meaning and purpose focus will be to penetrate the emerg- to my life. My team gives me joy.” ing markets and determine how to sustain growth in mature markets. What advice would you give while providing encouragement. I will strive to reduce our attrition to someone serving in a Through commitment and dedica- rate and achieve a strong net mem- leadership position for the tion, they have all participated in bership gain. first time? the growth of the organization. I am I will focus on serving members by Be passionate, committed and indebted to them for their service. enhancing the role of area governor dedicated. Respect those who have to improve club quality, as these area taken the leadership journey, and What motivated you to seek the governors have direct contact with always ask for guidance when office of International President? clubs and members. As we imple- encountering obstacles. Respect all Since joining Toastmasters, I have ment the new recognition program members as individuals, and serve consistently read the Viewpoints writ- in the districts, we will help districts, them to the best of your ability. Master ten by our International Presidents in divisions and areas achieve success your listening skills and listen carefully Toastmaster magazine. In May 1998, by satisfying members’ needs. before you offer help. then-International President Terry Remember to be grateful for learn- Daily, DTM, visited my home district, If you had one piece of advice ing experiences as you go through District 51. I was inspired by his key- for every Toastmaster, what them. Be it difficult or easy, it is best to note address and other speeches. He would it be? learn, unlearn and relearn. Don’t try to was friendly, kind and approachable. Set a goal for yourself: Recruit one avoid learning, because the more we I wanted to follow in his path, take new member in the next six months learn, the better we become. up a leadership role, reignite my pas- and help someone become a Compe- sion and help others. Whatever I do, tent Communicator. Who are some leaders you I do my best, and so I ran for division The greatest gift a Toastmaster admire and why? governor in May 1999, was selected can give is to help someone help As a focused, goal-oriented visionary, for the position, and was transformed themself. T TOASTMASTER SEPTEMBER 2012 11

8-11 John Lau Interview V2.indd 11 8/2/12 11:18 AM MEMBER PROFILE

Carl Trujillo: UPSTART POLITICIAN MAKES HIS MARK IN NEW MEXICO Listening skills help the candidate succeed on the campaign trail.

By Julie Bawden-Davis

hen Carl Trujillo Toastmasters training has really paid he’s also a little combative, so he has campaigned for the of- off,” says Trujillo, who for 27 years some pushback when necessary.” Wfice of New Mexico state has worked as a materials scientist and Trujillo has spent the last 27 years representative in June 2010, he lost owned a small businesses. working in the field of materials sci- by less than half a percentage point Through Toastmasters, he has ence at Los Alamos National Labora- to the incumbent, who had held the learned to collect his thoughts before tory. His work has led to published seat for 38 years. The political hopeful answering any questions. “In this articles and many speaking engage- decided that to win the 2012 election, business, one misspoken word can get ments at national and international he should learn from the best — so he you in trouble and has the potential of conventions. With a degree in mechan- joined Toastmasters. being replayed and replayed,” he says. ical engineering from the University of New Mexico, Trujillo says his science “To succeed as a candidate, I had to refine my background enables him “to under- stand and interpret data and compre- speaking skills and learn to speak off-the-cuff, hend long-range implications when and Toastmasters taught me those skills.” making decisions.” Trujillo has also owned small “In order to succeed as a candidate, “Your messaging must remain strong businesses, including a construction I had to refine my speaking skills and with careful vetting to make sure you company, for the last 15 years. “As learn to speak off-the-cuff, and Toast- don’t say something that backfires.” a small-business owner, you have to masters taught me those skills,” says “Now I feel comfortable and confi- play many roles — from bookkeeper Trujillo. The member of the Eastgate dent to stand up in front of the [state] to CEO to marketing specialist — and Toastmasters club in Los Alamos, New House of Representatives and speak you are required to interact with a Mexico, won the Democratic primary on any issue, because I have the neces- wide variety of people,” he says. “My race for House District 46 this past sary tools to do so.” experiences running my own busi- June, overcoming the odds to defeat Will Schmitt, ACB, ALB, area gov- nesses have shown me a wide variety the mayor of Santa Fe, New Mexico. ernor of District 23, has seen Trujillo of perspectives.” He will run unopposed in the general host Toastmasters contests and notes election in November and will be how his communication skills are Call to Public Service sworn in January 2013. well-suited to political life. “Carl is A father of four, Trujillo volunteered a clear thinker and especially witty,” in leadership capacities for many Gaining Tools in Toastmasters says Schmitt, a member of the Santa years, including as a high school Trujillo has been invited to speak at a Fe Sunrise Club in New Mexico. basketball coach and as a member of variety of venues since the primary. He “When he’s asked to speak extempo- the board of directors for the Santa Fe has had radio interviews as well. “My raneously, he’s quick on his feet; and Animal Shelter and Humane Society.

12 WHERE LEADERS ARE MADE

12-13 Profile-Bawden-Carl Trujillo .indd 12 8/2/12 11:18 AM LOS ALAMOS, NEW MEXICO, USA

Carl Trujillo: UPSTART POLITICIAN MAKES HIS MARK IN NEW MEXICO

4Carl Trujillo says his Toastmasters training, as well as his back- ground in business and science, has helped his political career. He is pictured here meeting New Mexico voters.

His call to public service came in ing their priorities and putting ries and taught me the importance 2009 when he took a critical look at legislation in place that can make of sustainability and preserving our New Mexico, his home state, where New Mexico a better place to live.” natural resources,” he says. he was born and raised his family. Trujillo’s campaign manager, Faith He often talks about the acequias “I saw how the state ranks poorly McKenna, met Trujillo in 2010, that once irrigated his grandparents’ in some categories that I care deeply when he was running against one properties, and he has one on his prop- about, including education,” he says. of the most powerful politicians in erty today. “This 400-year-old water- “We are also one of the poorest New Mexico. She notes, “Carl is a channeling system originates in the states in the nation. I decided that true communicator with a rare abil - mountains and is controlled by dams. the time I dedicated to volunteer- ity to connect with people from all Water builds up in the mountains dur- ing would be well spent serving in a walks of life.” ing the winter months and is drained political capacity.” Childhood friend John Tapia through this system into residential Once he made the decision, Tru- agrees but worries about Trujillo’s and commercial properties from the jillo dove into public service, learn- challenges ahead. “With the poor spring into the fall. The acequia in my ing about the rigors of the campaign economy and high unemployment yard helps to water my garden.” process. For three months he worked rate, he’s entering the political arena Moving forward and into the seven days a week averaging four at a time when many people are House of Representatives, Trujillo hours of sleep each night. “I found I unhappy with politicians.” aims to have the same sort of effect was more resilient than I knew,” he on his constituency as the long- says. “The political process requires Family Influence standing acequias. thick skin, because opponents can Born in 1966 in Santa Fe, Trujillo “I hope to shape public policy in say virtually anything they want was raised in a close-knit family a way that will help communities be about you (and it is very public). You with the added influence of nearby healthy and self-sufficient and grow in must keep your head up, stay strong grandparents. “My grandfathers a sustainable way,” says Trujillo, who and on task.” were both very accomplished,” he says he will run again after his two- To unseat his long-entrenched says. “One was a steam engineer and year term is up. “I’ll accomplish those incumbent, Trujillo pulled from his the other an educator. Along with goals with the skills I’ve acquired in Toastmasters toolbox. “Listening my grandmothers, they farmed the Toastmasters.” T was key to my success,” he says. “On land, raising pigs, cows, rabbits and Julie Bawden-Davis is a freelance the campaign trail, I found out that chickens.” His childhood experiences writer based in Southern California many people feel disenfranchised instilled in him a love of animals and and a longtime contributor to the — that their vote does not count or an appreciation of the environment. Toastmaster. Reach her at their voice is not heard. I let them “Working in the garden and with [email protected]. know that I’m interested in address- the animals gave me happy memo -

TOASTMASTER SEPTEMBER 2012 13

12-13 Profile-Bawden-Carl Trujillo .indd 13 8/6/12 3:08 PM POLITICAL STORYTELLING FOR THE MODERN WORLD The do’s and don’ts of reaching voters.

By Caren S. Neile, Ph.D.

ears ago, the term “political Obama speaks openly about the impor- emotional connection with those storytelling” may have referred tance of telling a coherent story to the whom they wish to influence.” Yto the 1939 Hollywood hit Mr. public — and about his frequent inabil- While building emotional bonds Smith Goes to Washington or the ity to do so. In fact, Salmon goes so far are prime motivators for politicians, ’80s British TV series Yes, Minister. as to refer to a political campaign as a they use storytelling for other impor- Today, however, from Washington, “television series,” because the candi- tant reasons as well. A compelling D.C., to London and beyond, real-life date’s story is played out on the nightly narrative plants vivid, memorable politics are increasingly influenced by news and in prime-time commercials. images in voters’ heads. Case in the stories candidates tell about them- Toastmasters agree. “I think that point: In 2009, Hadia Tajik, at age “The influence of a good story in campaign selves and the world around them. many Americans judge politicians 26, relied heavily on digital storytell- “In hypermedia societies, the ability largely on the basis of how well they ing to secure a seat in the Norwegian speeches and debates cannot be underesti- to build a political identity, not with can relate to them,” says Rick Schnur, Parliament, transforming herself from mated.” — Aundrae Romeo, DTM, District 56 Governor and rational arguments but by telling sto- ACB, CL, a member of Framington- a political unknown to a household member of the Storytellers Toastmasters club in Houston, Texas ries, has become the key to the conquest Natick Toastmasters in Natick, Mas- name in less than a year. of power,” writes Christian Salmon, sachusetts. “For this reason, politicians On the other hand, it is generally the French author of From Sarkozy to who are skilled storytellers have a recognized that the storytelling prow- Obama. It’s a point of which politicians tremendous advantage in terms of ess of then-incumbent French are well aware. U.S. President Barack their ability to create that important President Nicolas Sarkozy was far

14 WHERE LEADERS ARE MADE

14-15 Neile/Political Storytelling.indd 14 8/2/12 11:20 AM superior to that of his presidential and their stories, since those mistakes in fairytales all over the world. … opponent, Francois Hollande. How- are apt to stick in the minds of voters, The video typically ends with Hadia ever, Hollande went on to win the not to mention the media. To make reaching her career goal, thereby sat- 2012 election. matters worse for Palin’s candidacy, isfying the viewers who have identi- Granted, storytelling ability is her supporters followed up her gaffe fied with her quest.” only one of the many aspects of a by attempting to revise the online Truth. Admitting mistakes. Clarity. politician’s success strategy, but how Wikipedia entry on Paul Revere to Knowing what is important. With useful is it really? reflect her inaccurate version of the these points in mind, political story- story. Needless to say, that story, too, tellers can hope to use their powerful A Powerful Tool became part of Palin’s image. skill to help, not harm, their cause. Rhetoric is the art of persuasion, and Third point: A politician’s story One political story begins with just storytelling is a powerful rhetorical also must be as clear as possible. Al this mission. The great British states- tool. As such, it can be used for good Gore is famously believed to have man Winston Churchill, when he was or bad. It can, like an axe, be mis- announced on national television — Chancellor of the Exchequer, delivered handled. How then can we judge a when he was a U.S. vice-presidential a speech to his constituency in which politician’s use of storytelling? candidate — that he created the he dismissed premature disarmament as “folly.” He related his widely quoted “disarmament fable”: Rhetoric is the art of persuasion, and Once upon a time all the ani- storytelling is a powerful rhetorical tool. mals in the zoo decided that they would disarm, and they arranged to have a conference to arrange First, if a politician’s story is sup- Internet. What he actually said was, the matter. So the rhinoceros said, posed to be true, it better be. When “During my service in the United States when he opened the proceedings, U.S. vice-presidential candidate Sarah Congress, I took the initiative in creat- that the use of teeth was barbarous Palin botched a historical anecdote ing the Internet.” He then went on to and horrible and ought to be strict- about American Revolutionary war say that his work contributed to a host ly prohibited by general consent. hero Paul Revere, her rivals saw red of educational, environmental and eco- Horns, which were mainly defen- — as opposed to red, white and blue. nomic initiatives, implying a distinction sive weapons, would, of course, She said, between the words create and invent have to be allowed. that proved ambiguous for most people, While there is always the danger [Revere] warned the British that even native English speakers. that an individual will feel insulted by they weren’t gonna be takin’ away being compared to an animal, the tale our arms, by ringing those bells and And fourth, like any good story- made an indelible point without nam- makin’ sure as he’s riding his horse teller, politicians must know which ing names. through town to send those warning points to highlight, and which to play Ultimately, storytelling is just one shots and bells that we were going to down. One reason Tajik’s online video way in which politicians present be secure and we were going to be free, storytelling was so successful is she themselves. Voters must look at the and we were going to be armed. downplayed aspects of her story she did not think would help her cam- sum total of candidates’ words, ac- In fact, grade-school students in the paign (her immigrant background) tions and policies before casting their United States are taught that Revere and emphasized the details she knew ballots. Given the overwhelming was warning the colonists that the would score points with Norwegian power of political storytelling, that British were coming to attack. Far from voters, such as her empathy. In a pa- may be a tall order. T being an esoteric statistic, the error was per published in the academic journal Caren S. Neile, Ph.D., is a college an easy one for voters to catch. , researchers Eva Bakøy Seminar.Net professor who teaches storytelling. This leads to the second point: If you and Øyvind Kalnes note that Tajik’s She has presented on storytelling make a mistake, admit it. While this popular video The Hadia Story “is at two Toastmasters International advice is important for anyone, it’s structured according to basic and conventions. especially important for politicians popular narrative principles found

TOASTMASTER SEPTEMBER 2012 15

14-15 Neile/Political Storytelling.indd 15 8/2/12 11:20 AM WOMEN WHO CHANGED THE WORLD Four courageous speakers educate and inspire a global audience.

By Denise Graveline

hey hail from places as Highlight and bring attention to women in finance, talked about the different as Burma and France, adverse conditions for women loneliness of the underrepresented Christine Lagarde, Managing Director Hillary Clinton, United States the United States and Kenya. around the world. women in her profession. With a of the International Monetary Fund Secretary of State T simple call to action, she brought Two are high-ranking public of- Provide role models for women in down issues in high finance to a ficials; two are Nobel laureates and the boardroom and the back rooms personal level any woman can relate leaders of movements. Their causes of political movements. vary widely. But Hillary Clinton, to. And Aung San Suu Kyi, despite Christine Lagarde, Wangari Maathai Inspire women to act on their own enormous personal sacrifice and and Aung San Suu Kyi also have behalf for financial parity, jobs, a nearly two decades of having her own something in common: In the past healthy environment, basic free- voice silenced, displayed insights into two decades, each of them has given doms and human rights, and a the minds of oppressors and freedom a speech that changed the world. voice in their own affairs. fighters alike. Though her own situ- ation was complex and perilous, she kept her words simple to inspire and These speeches became game-changing inform her listeners. moments in public speaking because of These speeches have one more thing in common, the factor that one factor: the courage of the speaker. allowed them to become game- changing moments in public speak- Women have traditionally had I’ve chosen these speeches because ing: the courage of the speaker. Clin- fewer opportunities than men for they also demonstrate skills any speak- ton’s “Women’s Rights Are Human public speaking. There are long peri- er can use to improve his or her speak- Rights” speech was given at a U.N. ods of world history in which women ing, from storytelling to connecting conference in Beijing, boldly stating were forbidden to speak, or in which with an audience. Wangari Maathai that human rights abuses were taking social mores demanded they keep si- used a simple fable to demonstrate a place in China at that very moment. lent. Women are banned from giving profound principle that inspired her Suu Kyi gave her speech despite the speeches in some cultures even today. listeners around the world. It gave her Burmese military’s continual at- Wangari Muta Maathai, Kenyan activist Aung San Suu Kyi, Burmese opposition So these speeches have an even stron- speech a short and powerful punch. tempts to negate her political party’s and Nobel Peace Prize recipient leader and Nobel Peace Prize recipient ger impact, taken in that context: Hillary Clinton gave a powerful voice wins and keep her from serving in her Just by giving these speeches, these to a long list of abuses against women country’s parliament. Each of these women demonstrated to the world in many countries, showing us how speakers faced an uphill battle. Each what powerful women can do. The framing the issues can bring an audi- one had a tough audience to con- speeches all share common elements, ence to its feet. Christine Lagarde, vince, and each one did so with an

Wangari Maathai photo / AFP/Getty Images. Aung San Suu Kyi photo / Getty Images © 2012 Getty Images. Christine Lagarde photo / Albert H. Teich/Shutterstock.com. Hillary Clinton photo / Jose Gil/Shutterstock.com. photo Hillary Clinton Albert H. Teich/Shutterstock.com. / photo Lagarde Getty Images. Christine / Getty Images © 2012 photo San Suu Kyi Images. Aung / AFP/Getty photo Maathai Wangari working in different ways to: one of the world’s most powerful unpopular topic. In some cases, their 16 WHERE LEADERS ARE MADE TOASTMASTER SEPTEMBER 2012 17

16-19 Graveline-Famous Internt'al Womens Speeches.indd 16 8/6/12 3:06 PM 16-19 Graveline-Famous Internt'al Womens Speeches.indd 17 8/2/12 11:22 AM WOMEN WHO CHANGED THE WORLD Four courageous speakers educate and inspire a global audience.

By Denise Graveline

hey hail from places as Highlight and bring attention to women in finance, talked about the different as Burma and France, adverse conditions for women loneliness of the underrepresented Tthe United States and Kenya. around the world. women in her profession. With a simple call to action, she brought Two are high-ranking public of- Provide role models for women in down issues in high finance to a ficials; two are Nobel laureates and the boardroom and the back rooms personal level any woman can relate leaders of movements. Their causes of political movements. vary widely. But Hillary Clinton, to. And Aung San Suu Kyi, despite Christine Lagarde, Wangari Maathai Inspire women to act on their own enormous personal sacrifice and and Aung San Suu Kyi also have behalf for financial parity, jobs, a nearly two decades of having her own something in common: In the past healthy environment, basic free- voice silenced, displayed insights into two decades, each of them has given doms and human rights, and a the minds of oppressors and freedom a speech that changed the world. voice in their own affairs. fighters alike. Though her own situ- ation was complex and perilous, she kept her words simple to inspire and These speeches became game-changing inform her listeners. moments in public speaking because of These speeches have one more thing in common, the factor that one factor: the courage of the speaker. allowed them to become game- changing moments in public speak- Women have traditionally had I’ve chosen these speeches because ing: the courage of the speaker. Clin- fewer opportunities than men for they also demonstrate skills any speak- ton’s “Women’s Rights Are Human public speaking. There are long peri- er can use to improve his or her speak- Rights” speech was given at a U.N. ods of world history in which women ing, from storytelling to connecting conference in Beijing, boldly stating were forbidden to speak, or in which with an audience. Wangari Maathai that human rights abuses were taking social mores demanded they keep si- used a simple fable to demonstrate a place in China at that very moment. lent. Women are banned from giving profound principle that inspired her Suu Kyi gave her speech despite the speeches in some cultures even today. listeners around the world. It gave her Burmese military’s continual at- So these speeches have an even stron- speech a short and powerful punch. tempts to negate her political party’s ger impact, taken in that context: Hillary Clinton gave a powerful voice wins and keep her from serving in her Just by giving these speeches, these to a long list of abuses against women country’s parliament. Each of these women demonstrated to the world in many countries, showing us how speakers faced an uphill battle. Each what powerful women can do. The framing the issues can bring an audi- one had a tough audience to con- speeches all share common elements, ence to its feet. Christine Lagarde, vince, and each one did so with an working in different ways to: one of the world’s most powerful unpopular topic. In some cases, their TOASTMASTER SEPTEMBER 2012 17

16-19 Graveline-Famous Internt'al Womens Speeches.indd 17 8/2/12 11:22 AM topics could result in their arrest. It’s silenced. After the military called some cheered and others pounded a reminder that your most difficult a general election in 1990 and then the tables.” She brought the speech topics, if faced head-on, can also nullified the results, she was placed full circle with its most famous lines: have great impact by lending credibil- under house arrest for 15 of the If there is one message that echoes ity to you as a speaker, gaining your following 21 years (on different forth from this conference, let it audience’s empathy and inspiring occasions), making her one of the be that human rights are women’s your listeners. world’s longest-standing political rights and women’s rights are human prisoners. In June 2012, Aung San rights, once and for all. Let us not Nobel Laureate Aung San Suu Suu Kyi, finally freed from house forget that among those rights are Kyi and “Freedom from Fear” arrest, traveled to Oslo, Norway, the right to speak freely — and the Many people think of fear as the to deliver her Nobel lecture and right to be heard. While that seems emotion belonging to persecuted peo- receive the Nobel Peace Prize like an obvious statement, in fact ple, not their controllers. But Burma’s in person 21 years after it was it was the first time women’s rights Aung San Suu Kyi felt otherwise. awarded to her. were equated with human rights in a speech by a major political figure. “Fear of losing power corrupts those who wield This is just one reason why those may be her most-quoted words ever. it, and fear of the scourge of power corrupts The speech is among American Rhet- those who are subject to it.” ––Aung San Suu Kyi oric’s online list of top 100 American political speeches of the 20th century. In her now-famous “Freedom from Hillary Clinton’s “Women’s Rights Fear” speech in 1990, she pointed out Are Human Rights” Speech Christine Lagarde at the that oppressors are motivated by fear: In 1995, Hillary Clinton, then-First Global Women’s Forum It is not power that corrupts, but Lady of the United States, spoke at The first woman to head the In- fear. Fear of losing power corrupts the U.N.’s Fourth World Conference ternational Monetary Fund, and a those who wield it, and fear of the on Women in Beijing. Afterward, her major player in the ongoing global scourge of power corrupts those who words became a battle cry for wom- financial crisis, Christine Lagarde are subject to it. en around the world. The New York calls herself “an international ani- She knows persecution well. She Times described the significance of mal.” A French native who is fluent is the only daughter of Aung San, the setting and her words: “Speak- in English, Lagarde’s “personal style the founder of modern Burma, who ing more forcefully on human rights sends varied messages: To Britons, negotiated the country’s independence than any American dignitary has she is the rare continental European from the British and was later assas- on Chinese soil, Hillary Rodham who has somehow mastered the art sinated. She echoed his well-known Clinton catalogued a devastating of small talk. To Germans, she is the courage in this speech, using his litany of abuse that has afflicted rare economic leader who actually memory to motivate her listeners: women around the world today and seems human. To North Americans, Fearlessness may be a gift but perhaps criticized China for seeking to limit she is just like one of us,” says Doug more precious is the courage acquired free and open discussion of women’s Saunders of CTV News. through endeavor, courage that comes issues here.” In her 2010 speech at the Global from cultivating the habit of refusing Part of that list demonstrates the Women’s Forum in Deauville, France, to let fear dictate one’s actions, cour- power of this speech: It is a viola- Lagarde spoke from her own experi- age that could be described as ‘grace tion of human rights when women are ence as one of the very few women under pressure’ — grace which is re- doused with gasoline, set on fire and working in international finance. newed repeatedly in the face of harsh, burned to death because their marriage For more than 30 years, I have been unremitting pressure. The words are dowries are deemed too small … When operating in rooms crowded with poignant because she might well have thousands of women are subjected to men, said Lagarde, who headed the been speaking of her own persistence rape as a tactic or prize of war. U.S. law firm Baker & McKenzie and Caption required here in the face of persecution. The Times reported, “As Mrs. served as the first woman minister explaining author. Her oppressors considered her Clinton recited her litany from the of economy and finance in France. voice so powerful that it had to be podium, many delegates applauded, In this speech, Lagarde used data

18 WHERE LEADERS ARE MADE

16-19 Graveline-Famous Internt'al Womens Speeches.indd 18 8/2/12 11:22 AM WHERE TO FIND OTHER INSPIRING SPEECHES BY WOMEN Speeches by women, even today, can be difficult to find in the usual roundups, lists, anthologies and other collections of to buttress her points about gender imbalance and tackled the contro- important speeches. Here are some resources to help you find versial issue of establishing quotas to inspiring and famous speeches given by women so you can ensure that more women participate. quote them in your own talks. These women will encourage She invoked the image of a career you in your own speaking efforts. Some of these resources also ladder, but with a reassuring twist include speeches in a variety of formats, so you can hear or that the ladder can be climbed, say- see the delivery as well as read a full or partial text: ing, The step is too high and we must have significant push and encourage- Gifts of Speech (gos.sbc.edu) is a searchable database of ment to make sure that it actually women’s speeches from around the world. It is maintained happens. Quotas are controversial by Sweet Briar College in Sweet Briar, Virginia. measures in correcting gender imbal- The Eloquent Woman Index of Famous Women’s Speeches ance, but Lagarde made a passionate (eloquentwoman.blogspot.com/p/the-eloquent-woman- case for them. index-of-famous.html) includes famous speeches by women, Her call to action to the audience? past and present, along with links to speech texts, audio and I would encourage you every day video, as well as tips any speaker can learn from the famous of your life, as I try to do, to ask yourself one question: Did I, today, examples provided. help another woman? In stating it Infoplease (infoplease.com/spot/whmspeeches.html) that way, Lagarde made the challenge includes notable U.S. speeches by women from 1849 to personable and personal, something the present. any woman or man can accomplish. American Rhetoric (americanrhetoric.com) offers the top 100 Nobel Laureate Wangari Maathai political speeches of the 20th century, including a few from and the Hummingbird Fable Hillary Clinton, Eleanor Roosevelt and Barbara Jordan. Maathai started a movement to refor- Famous Speeches by Women (famous-speeches-and- est Kenya, provide jobs for women speech-topics.info/famous-speeches-by-women/index.htm) and stop erosion. This eventually includes links to many women’s speeches of note. resulted in 30 million trees being planted. It also helped 900,000 women, who were each paid a small sum to plant the trees. As a result, in a story she told again and again modern times. But for Maathai — Maathai won the Nobel Peace Prize in in speeches. It is a fable about the who spoke in tiny Kenyan villages to 2004. Maathai, who spoke in forums hummingbird, which, among the illiterate women and in major interna- large and small all over the world, animals affected by a forest fire, tional diplomatic forums — this story also suffered for speaking out. She attempts to put the fire out alone, one worked wherever she went. In that was hit with tear gas and beaten un- drop of water at a time. When the sense, her storytelling skills united conscious when protesting in Kenya. animals asked ‘What are you doing?’ audiences all around the globe. Be a When she died in 2011 at age 71, her the hummingbird said, “I’m doing hummingbird in your community, New York Times obituary noted that the best I can.” That story allowed wherever you are, Maathai told the “her husband, Mwangi, divorced her, Maathai to show her audiences that audience. After hearing this story, saying she was too strong-minded for they, too, could have a big impact who would say no? T a woman, by her account. When she with a small and persistent effort. lost her divorce case and criticized the Fables are analogies in story form; judge, she was thrown in jail.” in them, humans are replaced by ani- Denise Graveline is the president The same persistence that she mals. They’re the oldest of storytelling of don’t get caught, a commu- showed in her work came through tactics and have fallen out of favor in nications consultancy based in Washington, D.C. Visit her blog View video links of these famous speeches @ at eloquentwoman.blogspot.com. www.toastmasters.org/magazine TOASTMASTER SEPTEMBER 2012 19

16-19 Graveline-Famous Internt'al Womens Speeches.indd 19 8/2/12 11:23 AM MANNER OF SPEAKING

MASTERING STORYTELLING Know the three I’s: invitation, imagination and impact.

By Allen Schoer

ou’re on the road to doubts, and the fact that the National relationships. When you see how you becoming your company’s Aeronautics and Space Administra- move others and are moved by them, YChief Storyteller. Let’s begin tion (NASA) had not yet even sent a you grow in stature and authority. with some good news: You’re already man into orbit around the Earth, he Keep this in mind: What you’re better than you might think. You tell electrified the collective imagination saying isn’t for you. It’s for your team. stories every day. Here, we’ll explore of the country. three capabilities that will take you Imagination is the direct access Practice Time well on your way to becoming a point to our creativity. Simply say Try these techniques at your next professional storyteller. Remember the “Imagine this ...” and people’s creative team or client meeting and note “three R’s” of your early education: juices start flowing. They’re transport- what happens: reading, writing and ’rithmetic? Now ed to a different and vivid new reality Be an “investigator” — not a content consider the “three I’s” of storytelling: without leaving their seats. dumper. Ask, don’t tell. invitation, imagination and impact. Impact. We crave impact. We Here’s how you can master them: Watch carefully how what you’re 3 want to be seen and know that saying impacts your team. Invitation. Remember Steve Jobs’ what we do has meaning. In baseball Don’t leap to the next point until you famous invitation to Pepsi’s then- terms, it’s called “looking the ball to 1 see people absorb the previous one. CEO John Sculley when he lured him the bat.” As a storyteller, that means Don’t assume everyone’s with you. to Apple by asking, “Do you want to watching your audience closely to see Ask questions like “Are you with spend the rest of your life selling how your content is affecting them. me?” or “How do you relate to this?” sugared water, or do you want a In 1995, South African President chance to change the world?” Engage Nelson Mandela knew he had to shore Slow down. Don’t race your narra- your listeners by stimulating their up his government’s tenuous hold tive simply to get to the end. Con- curiosity and asking them to share on post-apartheid unity. Adopting sider practicing on someone first. in something exciting with you. the strategy of “Don’t address their Create images to get the client Imagination. Enlivening people’s brains. Address their hearts,” Mandela engaged in your story: “Imagine this 2 imaginations is easy. What hap- convinced the Springboks rugby team, ...” or “Picture that ...” pens before you visit the doctor? Or until then the country’s symbol of Stop occasionally and observe your when you’re waiting for the board’s white supremacy, to join him. At the effect on everyone in the room. reaction to your latest strategic plan? commencement of the Rugby World Your imagination puts on quite a Cup final being held in South Africa, Remember, your team and your show. Who needs PowerPoint or tech- Mandela and the team symbolically clients are your creative partners. nological wizardry? broke all barriers by singing “Nkosi Actress Katherine Hepburn said, “If In 1961, U.S. President John F. Sikelel’ iAfrika,” the anthem of the you give audiences half a chance, T Kennedy recognized the need for a black resistance movement, to a still- they’ll do half your acting for you.” new narrative to galvanize the space divided nation and a worldwide televi- race. Before a joint session of the U.S. sion audience. The Springboks won the Allen Schoer is founder and CEO of Congress, he boldly announced that World Cup, and South Africa moved the TAI Group, a consulting firm by the end of the decade the country toward reconciliation. pioneering new directions in execu- would be dedicated to “landing a Brilliant ideas without brilliant hu- tive leadership and organizational man on the moon and returning him man connection usually die fast. That change. He can be reached at info@ safely to Earth.” Despite widespread connection builds trust and cultivates thetaigroup.com. 20 WHERE LEADERS ARE MADE

20 Schoer/Mastering Storytelling.indd 20 8/2/12 1:23 PM BEST SALES LETTER EVER Anatomy of a winning pitch letter.

By Mark Satterfield

erhaps it’s the nature of my ing behavior. However, the letter I’m mere 57 words, we are transported marketing profession, but I’ve referencing was written more than from reading words on a page to Plong been fascinated by how 60 years ago. visualizing two men: one successful one sales letter can attract a swarm of According to Advertising Age mag- and the other considerably less so. clients while another remains ignored. azine, the letter credited with selling The story enables us to visualize This fascination motivated me to do the most “stuff” (to put it inelegantly) a scenario and also forces us to some research on “the most successful is a sales letter written for The Wall decide which camp we’re in. Are sales letter of all time.” Street Journal. The publication has we resigned to the idea that people My first step was to determine been using a version of this letter for reach plateaus? Isn’t there more how to define success. Does the key decades, and copywriters have been that these characters can achieve? to success lie in how many letters one successfully using similar versions to What’s the secret to the success mails? No; the simple act of sending sell a wide variety of goods and ser- of the person in the corner office? a huge quantity of letters doesn’t vices. You may be familiar with it. How can we, too, get to the level of necessarily mean the message will Here’s how it starts: success we aspire to? be effective. Eliciting this psychic visualization Take two men. Both are graduates I then considered how success of desire and limitation is the power of good universities. Both are hard­ might be measured by the amount behind a great sales story. The power working and ambitious. Flash of responses a letter generates. That is in its simplicity. Its elegance is in forward 20 years and one is in seemed better, but simply getting its restraint. the corner office commanding the people to respond with a request for Those of us who offer services for attention and respect of hundreds. more information didn’t seem like a a living — and not visible products The other toils amid the legions high enough bar for a letter deemed — often hear about “selling invisibly,” of middle managers in a largely “the most successful sales letter of all where the targeted person doesn’t feel obscure position. Why did one time.” To be crowned with that honor, like he or she is being sold to. It’s an ascend to great heights and the a letter would have to motivate read- appealing concept, especially when other plateau so early? ers to pull out their wallets and part the concept of selling is uncomfort- with their money. The letter goes on to point out able. However, while selling invisibly Success, I thought, could be mea- that the person who ascends to great seems like a good idea in theory, how sured by how many people bought heights reads The Wall Street Journal exactly can this be accomplished? a product as a result of a letter. This — and the other does not. This is one The letter from The Wall Street type of letter would be worthy of fur- very successful sales letter, regard- Journal provides an answer: The ther examination. Imagine if we could less of the Journal’s actual ability to key to selling invisibly is to tell capture the essence of such a letter. elevate a person to the height of a great stories. T Surprisingly, the letter that’s corner office. This raises the next question: What considered the most successful sales Mark Satterfield has served as the letter of all time wasn’t all that hard makes this message so effective? Why Director of Career Services for to find online. What is surprising is did this letter — amid all the others the Graduate School of Business how long ago it was written. I would that flood our mailboxes — motivate at Emory University in Atlanta, have thought that the greatest sales so many people to take action? Georgia, and is author of the letter would have been written less The answer is fairly simple: This book Unique Sales Stories. Reach letter tells a story — a story that is than 10 years ago considering all the him at GentleRainMarketing.com. information we now have about buy- deceptively simple in the telling. In a TOASTMASTER SEPTEMBER 2012 21

21 Satterfield /Successful Sales Letter.indd 21 8/2/12 11:25 AM ANGER MANAGEMENT Blow off steam without scalding yourself — or others.

By Ernest R. Stair

ears ago, it was common terror” is more like it. Faculty and Sometimes anger is appropriate. to see a car off to the roadside, staff alike shuddered in the shadow There are plenty of things happening Yits hood raised and steam of The Principal, who badgered and in the world that ought to make you spewing everywhere as the driver blamed anyone who crossed his path. angry. Cruelty, prejudice and injustice risked severe burns trying to remove Then, one day in a rare moment of should infuriate you. That kind of a red-hot radiator cap. Cars aside, calm reflection, he explained confiden- anger has its roots in compassion. where does the needle point on your tially why he was the way he was. “I From The Principal of Peoria, own temperature gauge? have stomach ulcers,” he said. “I can’t though, you learn about anger of an “He blew his top,” we say. “She keep my feelings bottled up inside. If I insidious kind that has nothing to do exploded.” “He boiled over.” If verbs don’t blow off a little steam now and with compassion. It only empowers are meant to show action, these then, my ulcers act up.” oneself by overpowering others. You want no part of that! When divisive issues come between If you want to hurt somebody, the silent you and other people, you can treatment is the most lethal weapon in call up the best that is in you, anybody’s arsenal. not the worst. That means choosing to speak reason- ably and respectfully to examples are dynamite! They tell all There, in a nutshell, you have The others, even through anger. bystanders — innocent or not — to Principal’s principles, decreed without It can be done. When anger get out of the way. Cars rarely boil a hint of penitence or apology. reaches the boiling point, it over anymore, but people still do. The Principal of Peoria clearly doesn’t have to scald every- Signs indicate that global warming can’t teach you a thing. But you body in sight. The Principal of is happening to people as well as to can still learn from him a marvel- Peoria has persuaded you that the planet. ous truth about yourself. If you see you count yourself among those To find out where the needle a striking contrast between The people who use their head. Your points on your temperature gauge, Principal and you, it must mean you best thinking tells you that anger take a glimpse at the following pro- have principles of your own — better can be managed in ways that at files. These are true episodes involv- ones. You learn from The Principal least leave a residue of better un- ing real people. Only the names of of Peoria that anger has no business derstanding, if not healing altogether. places have been changed for pur- running your life. You’re the leader, poses of alliteration! the one in charge. You determine The Shopper of Sheboygan what place anger will have on your Like magic, snow in the forecast The Principal of Peoria premises. Anger will be around; made long lines appear in the His years as a high school principal there’s no avoiding that. Still, you supermarket. Most people took can’t be called a tenure. “Reign of decide its freedoms and its restraints. it all in stride, except one in lane 22 WHERE LEADERS ARE MADE

22-25 Stair-Blowing Off Steam.V2.indd 22 8/2/12 11:26 AM TOASTMASTER SEPTEMBER 2012 23

22-25 Stair-Blowing Off Steam.V2.indd 23 8/2/12 11:26 AM three, The Shopper of Sheboygan. In Besides drawing your attention he has nothing to say. Not a word. one hand she held an open checkbook, to the phenomenon of getting angry Whenever there’s an argument, he in the other a pen, in hopes that this bit over nothing, The Shopper of Sheboy- gets in the last word — in the form of of preparation might eventually shave gan has you wondering about some- cold, calculated silence. His wife will precious seconds off her checkout time. thing called a “life story.” It is sad tell you how comments put to him are Then it happened. The beeping of that whenever anyone says, “This is ignored, how his eyes look right past the price scanner suddenly fell silent. the story of my life,” it usually means the person standing at his side, and The cashier picked up the phone, and somebody is frustrated about some- how his silence lasts for hours or days over the public address system came thing. Why have these potentially until he decides to end it all and re- the ominous words: “Aisle six, price inspiring words been reduced to this? join the family. Meanwhile, everyone check for prunes!” Why not use them instead to affirm around him waits, feeling drained of As if the pause button on a remote ordinary moments that are uplifting every ounce of self-worth. had been pressed, all action came to a and heart-warming? What is there to learn from halt and the wait began. The Shop- When you hold a child on your somebody who refuses to open his per of Sheboygan immediately turned knee and share laughter together, mouth? Plenty! You learn that it is her checkbook and pen into percus- that’s the story of your life. When possible to blow off steam without sion instruments, as she beat out the you take time to listen to friends talk making a sound! You learn that rhythm of her ire on the handle of her about their ups and downs, that’s the if you want to hurt somebody, the cart. Rolling her eyes skyward, she story of your life. When you elbow silent treatment is the most lethal weapon in anybody’s arsenal. Now, The Husband of Hannibal Anger’s fiercest fury is no match for may not be as vicious as he appears. the wisdom of your heart and mind. He’s just all tangled up in the twin webs of power and fear. Concern- ing power, he simply has trouble not made a public announcement of her your way through a crowded room being in control of things. In every own for anyone who cared to listen. to speak to somebody who is sitting discussion, decision or disagreement, “This is the story of my life!” she alone, that’s the story of your life. anything less than his way is a bit- proclaimed, as she looked all around When you make up your mind not to ter pill to swallow. As for fear, he’s to see whether other people realized let a setback knock you off your feet afraid of his own shadow without the egregious nature of what had to for long, that’s the story of your life. knowing it. His own anger fright- be the store’s conspiracy to irritate And when you turn off the lawn- ens him. So, when the needle on his and annoy. mower to enjoy a golden sunset in temperature gauge climbs, he reaches What do you learn about anger silence, that’s the story of your life. for the silent treatment to put a lid on from The Shopper of Sheboygan? You These are moments that define what might otherwise turn ugly. learn that it’s possible to boil over — what kind of person you are. If you go Whenever you feel yourself ap- over nothing! It was hardly adversity through each day making mental notes proaching the boiling point, you that she faced. It was only an incon- of times really worth “writing” into might give silence a try — but silence venience. Inconveniences happen; your life story, you will develop a new of another kind. Steer away from the they don’t warrant getting steamed. way of seeing everything. It’s called silent treatment that reduces the mo- And they certainly do not deserve a insight, sight that comes from within. rale of others to ashes. Steer instead place in the story of anybody’s life. Having that, you will have difficulty toward the silent retreat, in which you If that was the story of her life, then boiling over — especially over nothing. give yourself your undivided atten- her story is no page-turner! Others in tion. There, you can discover that you line may have been annoyed by the The Husband of Hannibal have what it takes to meet anger’s delay, but they kept their thoughts You’ve heard The Principal speak his scorching heat without scalding to themselves. She didn’t. She went mind. You’ve listened to The Shopper everybody, including yourself. In your public! That’s a clear indication that sound off. But when it comes to The silent retreat, you show your moral the needle on her temperature gauge Husband of Hannibal, you can put fabric by putting yourself through a was rising fast. away the quotation marks, because rigorous third degree. 24 WHERE LEADERS ARE MADE

22-25 Stair-Blowing Off Steam.V2.indd 24 8/2/12 11:27 AM SOLUTIONS FOR TEAM CONFLICT By Renée Evenson What’s eating me? you ask When you arm yourself with the skills to meet conflict yourself. Why am I angry? Have I head on and work quickly and effectively to resolve drawn a line in the sand that makes solution impossible? If I feel I’ve been problems, you will gain respect as an involved leader who treated unfairly, how much unfairness is committed to being part of the solution rather than part can I tolerate before I respond of the problem. The following steps will help you resolve unfairly? Have I avoided starting my conflict and, as a result, maintain productive relationships. statements with those fatal words, “you always” or “you never”? Have I View every conflict as an opportunity. Conflict is a natural left no stone unturned to understand component in all relationships and should be welcomed. another’s point of view, whether or Richard Selznick, a psychologist and author of The Shut- not I have been understood? Can I Down Learner, says, “Without resolution, resentments stay calmly explain how I feel, without accusing or blaming? Is there room below the surface and magnify. When conflict resolution for me to give a little, without seeing allows for good discussion, those involved can begin to it as giving in? Is some degree of move ahead.” apology out of the question? Congratulations! You have just Anticipate problems and deal with them immediately. graduated from the boot camp of Become an active observer and communicator; stay involved self-examination. Not everybody has and watch for things that are not right. Be aware of coworkers what it takes to see that tough course who suddenly become negative, quiet, agitated or upset, as through to completion. this is often a sign of conflict. Whenever you feel your anger building up “a good head of steam,” Communication is key to resolving conflict.Miscommunication as we used to say, it is time to make is often at the root of arguments, so it makes sense that good your move before anybody gets scald- communication is the key to resolving them. Resolving conflict ed. Put into practice those principles effectively is as simple as 1-2-3: 1 — Listen and Question; 2 — that are already part of your standard equipment. They are: Decide and Plan; 3 — Respond and Resolve. All people are worthy of respect, Always remain calm and in control. According to Selznick, even when they are not at their best. “We often think that just because there’s a stimulus we Enduring some unfairness is a sign don’t like, we have to instantaneously react. You can learn of strength, not weakness. not to be so reactive. My suggestion is to back up, take a Your hurts need not hinder your ef- deep breath, and consider your response.” Learning not forts to clear the clouds of conflict. to be reactive will help slow your racing heart and racing Anger’s fiercest fury is no match for thoughts. the wisdom of your heart and mind. Turn these principles loose and you This article is a condensed version of the original, which can will bring light to places where fences need mending and where gates to bet- be found at www.toastmasters.org/toastmastersmagazine/ ter understanding need opening. T toastmasterarchive/2009/july/effectivesolutions.aspx.

Ernest Stair is a minister in the United Methodist Church who is a writer specializing in organizational psychology. has a lifelong love for writing. He Renée Evenson Reach her at reneeevenson.com. graduated from Yale University’s Divinity School. Contact him at [email protected].

TOASTMASTER SEPTEMBER 2012 25

22-25 Stair-Blowing Off Steam.V2.indd 25 8/2/12 11:27 AM FOR THE NOVICE

HOW INTRIGUING IS YOUR SPEECH TITLE? Why you should name your speech with care.

By Howard Scott, ACB

hat’s in a name? Plenty, Staicer, CC, ALB, of Palomar Airport tions and even a few “ums” and “ahs” if it is the title of a speech. Toastmasters in Carlsbad, California. are often overlooked because listeners WIf speakers took more care “From this, you go full circle to bring want to hear the content. in crafting their speech titles, they the listener back to the original feeling.” Finally, a good title shows enthusi- would deliver better talks. Croix Sather, CC, CL, a member of asm. It says “I care enough about this First, a good title creates anticipa- two Toastmasters clubs in Connecti- topic to come up with a memorable tion. For example, let’s say these three cut, puts it differently: “A good title handle.” In later discussions, a catchy speeches were on the club meeting should make your audience say, ‘Hey, title will be on everyone’s lips. But an agenda: “My Mailman Career,” “Rus- I need to hear that!’” interesting title does more than help the sian Kettle Bells” and “The Tax That Second, a clever title tells what’s audience. It helps the speaker during Will Be the Death of Me.” Which title ahead — to better prepare the audi- the creative process. That’s another is exciting and piques your inter- ence to receive the talk. Like a book’s reason the tag should never be an af- est? You’re more likely to be curious table of contents, a strong name will terthought. Start with the title. It might about the third one, despite its subject guide a speaker’s audience to a more not be the same one you wind up with, matter. What kind of tax is it? How comprehensible understanding. “A but the working solution will guide you does it kill? The third title suggests clever name answers ‘W-I-I-F-M’ in preparing the presentation. there will be drama. It is an active (what’s in it for me) to get the indi- The process of conceiving the name statement, and it revs up the listener vidual’s attention,” Sather explains. can also determine your focus. For for what’s to come. It answers the question: Why should instance, your subject might be the “A title sets up the emotional ba- I listen to this speech? Unanticipated use of atomic bombs during World rometer of the audience,” says Andrew pauses, forgotten lines, mispronuncia- War II. You could handle the topic

26 WHERE LEADERS ARE MADE

26-27 Scott /Naming Your Speech.indd 26 8/2/12 11:28 AM in many ways. You could discuss your speech in advance. And on the Framed Dream House.” Make your the causes, examine the politics or flip side, avoid too much creativity, or title catchy. A better suggestion for consider the morality of the issue. But else the audience won’t know what the title “Why Drivers Shouldn’t Stop the title “Japan’s Take on Little Boy your topic is. for Joggers” is “Don’t Stop for Me.” and Fat Man” forces you to examine Also consider the topic. What is the Try for humor. Change “Too Much the topic from Japan’s perception of subject matter, what are you trying to Technology” to “The Internet Is Mak- blame or blamelessness. You’ll carve say and how do you want to say it? ing Us Stupid.” Occasionally reach out a more interesting talk with a nar- Are you after humor, pathos, admira- out for alliteration. Instead of “Buy- rowed focus. Bill Malthouse, DTM, tion or education? For example, if it’s ing Baby Furniture at Superstores,” of the Traveling TasteMasters club in about your beekeeping hobby, try out try “Buying Bouncy Baby Buggies.” Virginia, Maryland, adds, “A good several titles and see how each one Movie references sometimes title tends to focus your speech devel- informs the audience: “A Beekeeper’s produce effective titles. An improve- opment, helping you keep on track.” Season,” “The Bumbling Beekeeper ment to “My Life as a Housekeeper” An apt name will set the tone. Com- Finally Sees Gold,” “Keeping Bees Is is “Ironing Lady,” which obviously pare “My Disastrous Life-Modeling Not as Easy as You Think,” and “To is a reference to the movie The Iron Experience” with “My Brilliant Life- Bee-Keep or Not to Bee-Keep.” Each Lady. Instead of the topic “How We Age,” how about “Everything Goes,” a reference to that Broadway hit Any- You have to catch someone’s interest with thing Goes. Something in the news something unexpected, irresistible, fun or colorful. might work as well. Try scanning the newspaper for inspiration. Avoid clichés. “The 12 Points of Drawing Modeling Career.” The first choice offers subtle variations in ap- Light in Stock Picking,” “The Keys to sets the stage for embarrassment. The proach. Choose the one with the tone a Happy Marriage” and “Losing 20 second provides an insight into the that appeals most to you. Pounds through Willpower” are all model who rose to the challenge of Alexandra Watkins, ALB, a mem- overdone. Keep searching for some- posing for practicing artists. ber of San Francisco Toastmasters, is thing fresh and original, even offbeat. A perfect designation forces you to founder and chief innovation officer Andrew Staicer has a habit of walk- take a position. One thing you don’t of the naming and branding company ing around with a small pad and writ- want to be is “wishy washy.” You want Eat My Words. She says, “You have to ing down interesting possibilities. He to take a stand. Almost subconsciously, catch someone’s interest with some- says, “I often come up with an inspira- your title will warp into your voice thing unexpected, irresistible, fun or tion when I am doing something else.” and your tone, and also into your em- colorful — or with a clever twist on Good titles are like good groom- phasis, even in a reportorial piece. In a a familiar word or phrase.” She gives ing habits. Just as people look at you talk about Amy Chua’s Battle Hymn two examples on the subject of pho- differently when you are well-groomed, of the Tiger Mother, a best-selling tography: “How to Shoot People” and people listen more intently when your book about child rearing, the title “Confessions of a Sharp Shooter.” words are preceded by an intriguing title. “Should We Shoot the Tiger Mother?” Make your title active. Instead of Of course, a good title is impera- takes a much different approach than “My Investing Strategy,” try “Invest- tive in a speech contest because, un- “Amy Chua, Mother of the Year.” ing by Instinct.” Make the title de- like during regular Toastmasters club Malthouse offers a caveat: “A good scriptive. “The Pre-Marital Pregnancy meetings, there is no introduction. T title should not allow the audience to Problem” title could be improved: pre-classify the speech, but should not “How the Unwed Mother Affects Howard Scott, ACB, is a member misdirect them either.” In other words, Your Tax Dollar.” Make the title con- of the South Shore Soliloquy club don’t use a title that is so literal and crete. A better title than “My House” in Kingston, Massachusetts. Reach dry that the audience can anticipate is “My Stone-Walled, Bamboo- him at [email protected].

TOASTMASTER SEPTEMBER 2012 27

26-27 Scott /Naming Your Speech.indd 27 8/2/12 11:28 AM Q&A WITH TAMMY MILLER, DTM, PID

FROM CLOWN TO AUCTIONEER Tammy Miller, PID, has enjoyed an unconventional career path.

ammy A. Miller, DTM, has Q:What made you want to What is your favorite type worked as a professional clown become an auctioneer? of auction? T— she was paid to dress up and A: Simply put, it was because of a The major live auction categories wear big shoes and a red nose. She cake! I am involved in many charity include charity, real estate, commer- has also led large audiences in song, events, and at one event cakes were cial, estate, commodities, livestock, even though she admits she can’t sing being auctioned. The organizers asked auto and fine art. My interest lies in very well. She even jumped out of an a local television personality in atten- charity, real estate and commercial airplane at 12,000 feet because she was dance to do the auctioning. I saw sheer auctions, because I feel I am making a looking for more speech material to terror in her face — she had no idea difference for the organization I rep- describe in her book, My Life Is Just how to conduct an auction. I thought, resent. During a recent breast cancer Speech Material, and So Is Yours. I would like to learn to do this! charity auction, I was selling a high- priced ski package and I was relating “If someone had told me I would make a living my humorous skiing experiences. The audience was laughing, which as a professional speaker, I would have thought put them more at ease, and a relaxed he was crazy!” audience tends to bid more. Whether it is auctioning cakes, raising money Miller, who served on the Toast- How did your Toastmasters for local Boy Scout troops or auction- masters Board of Directors from 2005 experience influence this ing a $20,000 vacation package, my to 2007, credits her Toastmasters ex- decision? Toastmasters experience of putting an perience for giving her the confidence The continual learning and support audience at ease benefits the charity to pursue career choices she otherwise I have gained from Toastmasters with which I am working. would not have considered. To become carried over into all aspects of my an auctioneer, the resident of State life, including auctioneering. Auc- You say auctions are becoming College, Pennsylvania, attended the tioneers must communicate and increasingly popular. Why? Missouri Auction School in St. Louis, connect with their audiences. You The popularity of eBay has helped which is considered the world’s old- need to entertain people and build people understand the concept. est and largest auction school. While rapport with them. Success for Several television shows highlight there, Miller promoted Toastmasters an auctioneer is greater audience live auctions, too. Auctions are a as a way for people to build their com- participation, which in turn brings great way to learn about the value munication skills, including thinking higher bids and a better return for of items. The economy is also on their feet, engaging an audience the client or charity. It makes me fueling auctions as people look for and using effective voice quality. feel great when I can achieve this. ways to enhance their incomes.

28 WHERE LEADERS ARE MADE

28-29 Q&A with Tammy Miller.indd 28 8/2/12 11:29 AM Q&A WITH TAMMY MILLER, DTM, PID STATE COLLEGE, PENNSYLVANIA, USA

Tammy Miller auctions off a FROM CLOWN T-shirt at a baseball game to raise funds for the Pennsylvania TO AUCTIONEER Breast Cancer Coalition. Pink is the symbolic color for breast cancer Tammy Miller, PID, has enjoyed awareness, so Miller — a breast cancer survivor herself — wears the Tammy Miller, PID, DTM an unconventional career path. pink boa proudly. ammy A. Miller, DTM, has Q:What made you want to What is your favorite type Why would people use an spoken during a long auction makes suggests that only seven percent of worked as a professional clown become an auctioneer? of auction? auctioneer to sell real estate a huge difference in the health of our auctioneers are female. This statistic T— she was paid to dress up and A: Simply put, it was because of a The major live auction categories and other items? vocal chords, so we slur the words and enticed me to pursue this path. wear big shoes and a red nose. She cake! I am involved in many charity include charity, real estate, commer- It used to be that when a house was they become “will ya gimme.” I am glad has also led large audiences in song, events, and at one event cakes were cial, estate, commodities, livestock, auctioned, it was due to an unfor- there isn’t an Ah-Counter at auctions! What advice would you give even though she admits she can’t sing being auctioned. The organizers asked auto and fine art. My interest lies in tunate event such as a foreclosure Like Toastmasters, there are to your 16-year-old self? very well. She even jumped out of an a local television personality in atten- charity, real estate and commercial or illness. Now more real estate is competitions for chanting and bid- First, I would mark my calendar and airplane at 12,000 feet because she was dance to do the auctioning. I saw sheer auctions, because I feel I am making a being auctioned as a quick way to calling. For example, a winner may be join Toastmasters on my 18th birthday. looking for more speech material to terror in her face — she had no idea difference for the organization I rep- sell property. Many are sold “as is.” A deemed World Champion of Live- During one early speech before an describe in her book, My Life Is Just how to conduct an auction. I thought, resent. During a recent breast cancer person can request a “reserve,” where stock Auctioneers. It is a very enter- audience as an adult, my hands shook Speech Material, and So Is Yours. I would like to learn to do this! charity auction, I was selling a high- a minimum price is set, or an “abso- taining and energetic competition! so badly that I had to use one hand to priced ski package and I was relating lute,” where the home is sold that day keep the other hand steady. That day, “If someone had told me I would make a living my humorous skiing experiences. no matter what the high bid is. This Why do people need to go to if someone had told me I would make The audience was laughing, which results in a quick exchange. It works as a professional speaker, I would have thought school to learn auctioning? a living as a professional speaker, I put them more at ease, and a relaxed the same way for personal property. Auctioneering is more than fast would have thought he was crazy! he was crazy!” audience tends to bid more. Whether talking. There are different rules in I would also tell my 16-year-old it is auctioning cakes, raising money How did you learn to talk so fast? different states and countries. If you self to listen more to others and learn Miller, who served on the Toast- How did your Toastmasters for local Boy Scout troops or auction- The auctioneer “chant” is used to build are interested, be sure to check out everything about everything. I tell masters Board of Directors from 2005 experience influence this ing a $20,000 vacation package, my excitement. It is rhythmic and keeps the requirements in your area. You my daughters to act like a sponge to to 2007, credits her Toastmasters ex- decision? Toastmasters experience of putting an people engaged. It includes the current can learn more about auctioneering absorb everything. It is only then that perience for giving her the confidence The continual learning and support audience at ease benefits the charity offer and the next increment the auc- at sites like the National Auctioneers we can discover our passion, and we all to pursue career choices she otherwise I have gained from Toastmasters with which I am working. tioneer wants. To learn this, we often Association (auctioneers.org). need to find a way to live our passion. would not have considered. To become carried over into all aspects of my practice tongue twisters to build the Toastmasters changed my life. an auctioneer, the resident of State life, including auctioneering. Auc- You say auctions are becoming rhythm, and then we add numbers. For Have you been surprised by Through Toastmasters I have gained a College, Pennsylvania, attended the tioneers must communicate and increasingly popular. Why? example, “One dollar bid, now two, anything about the business? high level of confidence in my speaking Missouri Auction School in St. Louis, connect with their audiences. You The popularity of eBay has helped now two. Will you give me two?” One surprise was the number of and leadership abilities. It is what has which is considered the world’s old- need to entertain people and build people understand the concept. As a speech coach, it was very diffi- female versus male auctioneers. I kept me in this organization for almost est and largest auction school. While rapport with them. Success for Several television shows highlight cult to break the habit of properly pro- believe I am the only female auction- 20 years. I often reflect on how my life there, Miller promoted Toastmasters an auctioneer is greater audience live auctions, too. Auctions are a nouncing phrases such as “will you give eer in my county. In the United States, may have been different if I had joined as a way for people to build their com- participation, which in turn brings great way to learn about the value me.” In a chant, the number of words the National Auctioneers Association this organization earlier. T munication skills, including thinking higher bids and a better return for of items. The economy is also on their feet, engaging an audience the client or charity. It makes me fueling auctions as people look for Read it online @ www.toastmasters.org/magazine To learn more, visit tammyspeaks.com. and using effective voice quality. feel great when I can achieve this. ways to enhance their incomes.

28 WHERE LEADERS ARE MADE TOASTMASTER SEPTEMBER 2012 29

28-29 Q&A with Tammy Miller.indd 28 8/2/12 11:29 AM 28-29 Q&A with Tammy Miller.indd 29 8/2/12 11:29 AM FUNNY YOU SHOULD SAY THAT

OH CAPTION, MY CAPTION Pointing out the obvious.

By John Cadley

e all have our pet peeves. ing when you realize that the photog- Even highbrow publications like The I have so many I have to rapher who took down all the names New York Times tell us what we already Wget someone to feed them got everybody out of order, and not know. A recent caption under a man’s while I’m away. For instance, we have only is your name misspelled but (a) photo read “PHILLIP TOBIAS, 86, a cereal called Grape-Nuts that has you’ve been identified as Rocky Grani- PALEOANTHROPOLOGIST WHO no grapes and no nuts. We have roads tola when you happen to be a woman, ANALYZED APELIKE FOSSILS, IS called parkways where you can’t park and (b) the person identified as you is DEAD.” Seeing as this appeared on the or you’d be run over by cars going 65 a bald man with a beard. obituaries page, I probably could have miles an hour. We have runways where I recently saw a photo on the sports guessed as much. running is strictly prohibited lest you page where Dustin Brown of the Los You can tell when caption writers be flattened by a Boeing 747. We have Angeles Kings hockey team is holding are trying to avoid these problems. apartments that are all stuck together. the Stanley Cup triumphantly over his They go the other way — i.e., provid- And then we have … photo captions. head. The caption says: “Los Angeles ing too much information. I noticed this in People magazine’s coverage of The Year’s Biggest News Event: Jessica If a picture is worth a thousand words, Simpson having a baby. There’s a pho- why do we need captions? to of Jessica with her infant daughter looking like she just stepped out of the beauty parlor (how many new moms Let’s start with the obvious: If a Kings captain Dustin Brown hoists the look like that?) beside a caption that picture is worth a thousand words, Stanley Cup after defeating the New appears as a quote from Jessica: “We why do we need captions? And if we Jersey Devils.” Well, yes, I can see that, stare at her all the time. When she’s do need them, why are they only 18 and since hoisting and smiling are sleeping, Eric and I look at pictures to 25 words long when the formula usually associated with winning, I can of her. We can’t get enough.” Enough, clearly calls for a thousand? pretty much assume they didn’t lose. already. Maybe this is one time when The most prevalent offender is On the same page, tennis star a simple “Jessica Simpson with her what I call a VVR (Visual Verbal Rafael Nadal is seen biting the French newborn daughter” would have been Redundancy). For example, a picture Open trophy — yes, biting it — and all we really needed to know. shows a pretty young woman wear- the caption says “Rafael Nadal bites As in most journalistic matters, The ing a crown below a big, bold head- trophy after winning French Open.” Associated Press Stylebook settles the line that reads “MARY RYBINSKI Thanks for the info but it’s obvious question. It says a caption should tell CROWNED MISS POLONIA AT he’s biting it. What I really wish you’d what, when, where, why and how — POLISH FESTIVAL.” The caption tell me is why. In my experience ath- which is exactly what the accompany- under the photo says “Polish Festival letes do not usually eat their trophies. ing story is doing. So we still don’t Crowns Rybinski Miss Polonia.” Re- Here’s another one from the same need the caption! On the other hand, a ally? Why did I already know that? newspaper. The headline reads “DIET caption that mentioned all that might Then, there are those group pictures CAN AFFECT KIDNEY STONES.” just come out to a thousand words. T where all the names of some team or The photo shows five thick steaks on club are listed underneath. Does any- a grill, and the caption reads “Eating John Cadley, a former advertising body care who those people are? Only too much can affect the formation of copywriter, is a freelance writer if you’re in the picture and you want kidney stones.” Forget the redundan- and musician living in Fayetteville, to make sure they spelled your name cy. If you’re going to eat five steaks, New York. Reach him at jcadley@ right. Even then, it can be dishearten- you deserve kidney stones. twcny.rr.com. 30 WHERE LEADERS ARE MADE

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