TOASTMASTER® www.toastmasters.org MARCH 2013

10 SPEAKING OUT ABOUT STUTTERING

16 HOW TO RECOVER FROM The benefits A BAD SPEECH of speaking outside 28 MEET THE WINNERS OF THE the club. BRAND CONTEST Page 22

3.13 Cover-speaker for hireFINAL.indd 1 1/31/13 3:07 PM TOASTMASTER® PUBLISHER Daniel Rex VIEWPOINT MANAGING EDITOR Suzanne Frey TABLE OF CONTENTS SENIOR EDITOR Paul Sterman ASSOCIATE EDITOR Mary Nesfield JUNIOR WRITER Jennie Harris EDITORIAL ASSISTANT Julie E. Kim 1+1 MEMBERSHIP CAMPAIGN ART DIRECTION Susan Campbell March 2013 Volume 79, No. 3 GRAPHIC DESIGN Deidre Gaffney The Toastmasters 1+1 campaign DEPARTMENTS has been in effect for three months now. TI OFFICERS AND DIRECTORS VIEWPOINT: 1+1 MEMBERSHIP I am sure each of you has been busy talk- Dr. Ralph C. Smedley (1878-1965) Founder 2 CAMPAIGN ing with your friends about the benefits 2012-2013 OFFICERS BY JOHN LAU, DTM you have gained in Toastmasters. Have International President John Lau, DTM Kuching, Sarawak, Malaysia International President you taken the next step and brought your International President-Elect George Yen, DTM Taipei, Taiwan friend to a club meeting? Has your friend First Vice President Mohammed Murad, DTM LETTERS joined your club? Dubai, United Arab Emirates 4 Second Vice President Jim Kokocki, DTM In 1990, my friend Stanley Liew Saint John, New Brunswick, Canada MY TURN: THE MYTH OF Immediate Past President Michael Notaro, DTM told me about the benefits and value of Alameda, California, USA 5 NONVERBAL COMMUNICATION Executive Director Daniel Rex How I challenged statistics to uphold being a Toastmaster, and how he unleashed Mission Viejo, California Secretary-Treasurer Sally Newell Cohen the value of the spoken word. his potential by being a member. Because Mission Viejo, California of what he shared with me, I attended his BY ANN BANHAM club’s meetings and later became a member AROUND THE GLOBE myself. I found that the Toastmasters 2012-2013 DIRECTORS 6 16 James Sultan, DTM Kristina Kihlberg, DTM Kirkland, Washington Pompano Beach, Florida program enabled me to tap into my potential and to express myself using Assigned to Region Assigned to Region 8 diplomatic, gentle and appreciative words. Before joining Toastmasters, I was Mike Barsul, DTM Wendy Harding, DTM MANNER OF SPEAKING: San Francisco, California Fredericton, New Brunswick, Canada TALK LIKE ME always nervous when conversing with anyone in authority. But after five years Assigned to Region 2 Assigned to Region 9 1 0 David McCallister, DTM Don Griffith, DTM Stuttering doesn’t stop entrepreneur’s of active membership, I found myself not only feeling more confident when Fort Worth, Texas Phoenix, Arizona Assigned to Region 3 Assigned to Region 10 rise to public speaking success. speaking with people in authority, but also more successful with my business Patricia Hannan, DTM George Thomas, DTM BY GARRET GARRELS, CC Wahoo, Nebraska Doha, Qatar presentations. I was able to connect better with people. Assigned to Region 4 Assigned to Region 11 Andrew Little, DTM Mike Helm, DTM New Berlin, Wisconsin Perth, Western Australia, Australia HOW TO: TELL TALL TALES Assigned to Region 5 Assigned to Region 12 14 Truthful tips about presenting I found that the Toastmasters program Lori Lococo, DTM Balraj Arunasalam, DTM Niagara Falls, Ontario, Canada Colombo, Sri Lanka preposterous stories. Assigned to Region 6 Assigned to Region 13 BY BETSY KEOGAN, DTM enabled me to tap into my potential and Viki Kinsman, DTM Joseph Gomez, DTM Oakton, Virginia Petaling Jaya, Selangor, Malaysia Assigned to Region 7 Assigned to Region 14 22 26 to express myself using diplomatic, gentle FUNNY YOU SHOULD SAY THAT: 30 PROCEED AT YOUR OWN RISK and appreciative words. In a world of warning labels, TOASTMASTERS INTERNATIONAL here’s one about kids. P.O. Box 9052 • Mission Viejo, CA 92690 U.S.A. BY JOHN CADLEY FEATURES Throughout my Toastmasters journey, I have had many experienced and 949-858-8255 • Fax: 949-858-1207 knowledgeable mentors who have shared, coached, guided, inspired and Voicemail: 949-835-1300 WHEN BAD SPEECHES www.toastmasters.org/members TRAVELING TOASTMASTER motivated me to go the extra mile. My mentors always provided me with 31 16 HAPPEN TO GOOD PEOPLE emotional support. They also helped steer me in the right direction. They CONTACTING WORLD HEADQUARTERS How to recover from a For information on joining disappointing presentation. asked precise questions and set very clear objectives for me to achieve. or building a club, visit: www.toastmasters.org ARTICLES Developing the ability to align our thinking, language and behavior can Article submission: [email protected] BY CHRISTINE CLAPP, DTM result in highly effective communication skills. Letters to the Editor: [email protected] GUARANTEE YOURSELF To change address, log in to: www.toastmasters.org/members Please act similarly when you bring a friend to your club meeting. And 12 A VICTORY BEYOND THE CLUB EXPERIENCE Trophies aren’t the only reward Reap the benefits of speaking when that person becomes a member, build rapport with that new member in speech contests. 22 The TOASTMASTER Magazine (ISSN 00408263) is published monthly by in the real world. by mentoring him or her through the communication and leadership tracks. Toastmasters International, Inc., 23182 Arroyo Vista, Rancho Santa Margarita, CA 92688, U.S.A. Periodicals postage paid at Mission Viejo, CA and additional BY JIM KEY, DTM Very often, when someone is saying one thing, we recognize the person’s mailing office. POSTMASTER: Send address change to The TOASTMASTER BY PATRICIA FRY, ATMS Magazine, P.O. Box 9052, Mission Viejo, CA 92690, U.S.A. Published to promote the ideas and goals of Toastmasters International, a body language and attitude as saying something else. If you find this happening nonprofit educational organization of clubs throughout the worlddedicated to READING YOUR AUDIENCE teaching skills in public speaking and leadership. Members’ subscriptions are with a fellow Toastmaster, please show that member how to match his body included in the $36 semi-annual dues. 20 Use member responses to The official publication of Toastmasters International carries authorized Since 1924, Toastmasters International has been recognized as the leading language to his words; teach him how to be precise and refined through better notices and articles regarding the activities and interests of the organization, but maximize your delivery. responsibility is not assumed for the opinions of the authors of other articles. organization dedicated to communication and leadership skill development. Through The TOASTMASTER magazine does not endorse or guarantee the products BY HOWARD SCOTT, ACB its worldwide network of clubs, each week Toastmasters helps more than a quarter communication it advertises. Copyright 2012 Toastmasters International, Inc. All rights reserved. million men and women of every ethnicity, education level and profession build their I wish you the all best in sharing Toastmasters with your friends and in- Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission is prohibited. Not responsible for unsolicited material. TAME YOUR STAGE FRIGHT competence in communication so they can gain the confidence to lead others. spiring them to be part of our global organization, where leaders are made. T Toastmasters International, The TOASTMASTER and the Toastmaster An expert answers questions International Emblem are trademarks of Toastmasters International registered 26 By regularly giving speeches, gaining feedback, leading teams and guiding others in the United States, Canada and many other countries. Marca registrada en about speaking anxiety. Mexico. Printed in U.S.A. to achieve their goals, leaders emerge. They learn to tell their stories. They listen BY MATT ABRAHAMS and answer. They plan and lead. They give feedback— and accept it. They find their path to leadership. JOHN LAU, DTM SHOW OFF YOUR BRAND! Toastmasters International. Where Leaders Are Made. International President 28 Congratulations to club brand WHERE LEADERS ARE MADE contest winners. 2 WHERE LEADERS ARE MADE www.toastmasters.org TOASTMASTER MARCH 2013 3

Viewpoint-March 13.indd 2 1/31/13 1:30 PM 3 TOC 03.13.indd 3 2/1/13 8:32 AM TABLE OF CONTENTS

March 2013 Volume 79, No. 3 DEPARTMENTS VIEWPOINT: 1+1 MEMBERSHIP 2 CAMPAIGN BY JOHN LAU, DTM International President

LETTERS 4 MY TURN: THE MYTH OF 5 NONVERBAL COMMUNICATION How I challenged statistics to uphold the value of the spoken word. BY ANN BANHAM

AROUND THE GLOBE 6 16

MANNER OF SPEAKING: 1 0 TALK LIKE ME Stuttering doesn’t stop entrepreneur’s rise to public speaking success. BY GARRET GARRELS, CC

HOW TO: TELL TALL TALES 14 Truthful tips about presenting preposterous stories. BY BETSY KEOGAN, DTM 22 26 FUNNY YOU SHOULD SAY THAT: 30 PROCEED AT YOUR OWN RISK In a world of warning labels, here’s one about kids. BY JOHN CADLEY FEATURES WHEN BAD SPEECHES 31 TRAVELING TOASTMASTER 16 HAPPEN TO GOOD PEOPLE How to recover from a disappointing presentation. ARTICLES BY CHRISTINE CLAPP, DTM GUARANTEE YOURSELF 12 A VICTORY BEYOND THE CLUB EXPERIENCE Trophies aren’t the only reward 22 Reap the benefits of speaking in speech contests. in the real world. BY JIM KEY, DTM BY PATRICIA FRY, ATMS READING YOUR AUDIENCE 20 Use member responses to maximize your delivery. Since 1924, Toastmasters International has been recognized as the leading organization dedicated to communication and leadership skill development. Through BY HOWARD SCOTT, ACB 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 TAME YOUR STAGE FRIGHT competence in communication so they can gain the confidence to lead others. An expert answers questions 26 By regularly giving speeches, gaining feedback, leading teams and guiding others about speaking anxiety. to achieve their goals, leaders emerge. They learn to tell their stories. They listen BY MATT ABRAHAMS and answer. They plan and lead. They give feedback— and accept it. They find their path to leadership. SHOW OFF YOUR BRAND! Toastmasters International. Where Leaders Are Made. 28 Congratulations to club brand contest winners. TOASTMASTER MARCH 2013 3

3 TOC 03.13.indd 3 2/1/13 8:32 AM LETTERS TO THE TOASTMASTER

“John Cadley (‘Not My Size,’ December) was on point when he said that if there is no large-sized drink, then your medium is your large.” — Jacqueline Carr, ACG, ALB

Language Mysteries inspiring! Her account of her “ice- members participating in the same I have felt Mr. Julian Worker’s breaker” moment on TV (doing an Toastmasters clubs, was fun to pain (November, “Same Language, interview on a local news program to read, especially because my son, Different Country”). As a Canadian promote an upcoming Toastmasters Matt, joined my club this past year. who lived in England, I was stumped district conference) lifted the confi- Matt has made me so proud and I by Biros [a type of ballpoint pen] and dence levels of many members. Her enjoy seeing him in this new light: Tipp-Ex [a brand of correction fluid], testimonial was an excellent way of articulate, growing, sharing and and my colleagues had no notion motivating others to spread positive jumping in with both feet to improve of Kleenex or Scotch tape. But the publicity about Toastmasters. his speaking skills. biggest puzzle was a sign in a parking P.K. Kumar His boss is very supportive of lot declaring “No Fly Tipping.” What Trivandrum Toastmasters club Matt’s pursuit and is even paying his Trivandrum, Kerala State, India could it mean? membership dues. It has been a real Our imaginations ran wild, espe- I Get It pleasure and honor to have my son with me in my beloved club. cially after a pub lunch. Most of our I enjoyed the article “Crazy for guesses involved clandestine meetings Grammar” by Jenny Baranick Deanne Wirzba, ACG, ACB after dark. We finally found the cour- Dynamically Speaking Toastmasters (November). The who versus whom Lethbridge, Alberta, Canada age to ask someone, and the message question has puzzled me for some was not nearly as exciting as we had years now, and you’ve finally clarified hoped. To translate: No Dumping. that for me, so thank you! Editor’s Note: Paul Veter Leonie Mitaxa The Toastmaster magazine has Skyway Toastmasters Balaclava Toastmasters club modified its submissions policy Burlington, Ontario, Canada Melbourne, Australia to accept only the following: OffendingWords A Large Compliment article proposals and My I enjoyed Jenny Baranick’s article I enjoyed reading John Cadley’s article Turn articles (submissions@ “Words We Don’t Like” (December). “Not My Size” (December). I totally toastmasters.org). (Other than I wholly agree certain words should agree with Mr. Cadley’s complaint My Turn pieces, submissions be eliminated. I wish there was some about the incorrect description of should not include any complete way to remove the phrases “outside drink sizes in a restaurant, and like articles.) In addition, we welcome the box” and “go outside your com- him, I am a language curmudgeon. submissions of high-resolution fort zone,” or to at least classify them John was on point when he states photos for the Traveling as trite or overused. Those are just that if there is no large-sized drink, Toastmaster and Snapshot two of my pet peeves. then your medium is your large. sections ([email protected]), Thank you for the article; it was A well-written piece and a job as well as letters to the magazine very useful and needed. well done. ([email protected]). Carey Schaller, DTM Jacqueline Carr, ACG, ALB DHS Toastmasters club Talk of the Town Toastmasters Little Rock, Arizona Queens, New York Do you have something to say? Write it in 200 words or less. Leading By Example Family Pride Include your name, address and Katy Nims’ article “Appearing on The article “It’s All Relative” club affiliation, and send it to TV—Unexpectedly” (October) was (December), about family [email protected].

4 WHERE LEADERS ARE MADE

4 March Letters .indd 4 1/31/13 1:32 PM MY TURN

THE MYTH OF NONVERBAL COMMUNICATION How I challenged unsubstantiated statistics to uphold the value of the spoken word.

By Ann Banham

ave you heard the you can bring your presentation to attitudes (and the relative importance well-known claim that only 7 life with fitting gestures and inspired of words vs. nonverbal cues).” I found H percent of any spoken message stagecraft. But 93 percent? As we say that the professor says his findings is based on verbal communication? in Australia, Garn, pull the other one! have been misquoted. Max Atkinson, So-called experts tell us that a full (Translation: Go ahead and pull my a communications researcher in 93 percent of any message is commu- other leg, too!) Wells, Somerset, United Kingdom, nicated nonverbally. This contention I am a lover of language and the quoted from a personal email he is, of course, absolute rubbish. spoken word. I cannot believe human- received from Mehrabian (which The 7-percent formula is endorsed kind bothered to develop language if is reproduced in Atkinson’s book by many professional communication it is so inconsequential in communica- Lend Me Your Ears); in the email, trainers. They tell us that of the 93 tion. Why don’t we still just screech Mehrabian said: percent figure referring to nonverbal and bark at each other? What was the I am obviously uncomfortable communication, 55 percent is through point of Shakespeare’s plays? Why about misquotes of my work. From body language and the other 38 were talking films such a break- the very beginning I have tried to give percent is through vocal variety through when we had perfectly good people the correct limitations of my or tone of voice. silent movies? Why does every genera- findings. Unfortunately, the field of I attended a communications tion invent its own slang? How can self-styled ‘corporate image consultants’ workshop recently in which the we be moved to tears by a touching or ‘leadership consultants’ has facilitator quite confidently empha- eulogy or sermon? Words are powerful. numerous practitioners with very sized these statistics. I was, to put it I consulted my friend Google and little psychological expertise. indelicately, dumbfounded. I chal- did some research. Yes, experiments I learned an important lesson from lenged her by asking, “Do you mean were conducted by Albert Mehrabian, that workshop I attended. I learned that if I stood in front of this class currently professor emeritus of to not swallow what some people call and spoke in Chinese, as long as my psychology at the University of “facts” without careful examination of body language and tone of voice were California at Los Angeles. But the how the so-called facts were obtained, consistent with my message, you research in question was done in especially the ones that on the surface would all understand me?” She used 1967, using one word at a time to seem unintuitive. all the communication skills at her gauge what the listener believed to Let’s challenge the experts who command to virtually slap me down. be the feeling of the speaker, and to rely on unsubstantiated statistics or She supported her claims by quoting determine if the listener liked the use them in ways they were never the research done by the eminent psy- speaker. The experiment was never intended to be used. T chology professor Albert Mehrabian. intended to measure how well the The rest of the class, impressed listeners understood what the Ann Banham is vice president that this principle was being put forth speaker was trying to communicate. public relations of the National as the result of a scientific study and Mehrabian has published his Australia Bank Toastmasters club not just as a myth or hearsay, nodded work and findings in the book Silent in Melbourne, Australia. She in agreement. I acquiesced, remaining Messages. On his website, Mehrabian recently retired from her position unconvinced. states: “Silent Messages contains a as publications manager for an Being a Toastmaster, I know the detailed discussion of my findings on international Australian company. importance of body language. I know inconsistent messages of feelings and TOASTMASTER MARCH 2013 5

5 My Turn-Ann Banham.indd 5 1/31/13 1:32 PM AROUND THE GLOBE

WHAT’S THE BUZZ? INTERNATIONAL WHAT MADE YOU WANT TO A VISIT A TOASTMASTERS INTERPRETATIONS MEETING, AND B JOIN A CLUB? HUGS MAKE THE WORLD GO ’ROUND Members contributed to the discussion on the Facebook Official Toastmasters International Members Group: “A friend invited me to a ‘bring-a-friend’ night at a local club. What drew me in that evening was a humorous speech one member gave about a talking dog—that was 23 years ago.” — IAN MURRAY, CC, CL ELSTERNWICK TOASTMASTERS, ELSTERNWICK, VICTORIA, AUSTRALIA “My girlfriend invited me to visit her club. It was the self-development aspect, and the supportive environment, that spurred me to join Toastmasters.” — ROBERT VAN DER MEER TOASTMASTERS MAASTRICHT CLUB, MAASTRICHT, NETHERLANDS Hugging is a near-universal “I wanted to find a way to use my words and experiences to make a difference. gesture of love enjoyed by the old I googled Toastmasters and found a club in my hometown. I shared my story and young alike. It also has proven without knowing an Ice Breaker speech existed.” health benefits, such as reducing — JEFF HUBBARD, ACB, CL blood pressure and heart rate, and DENTON TOASTMASTERS CLUB, DENTON, TEXAS increasing oxytocin, a hormone SNAPSHOT known to reduce stress. In fact, University of North Carolina researchers found in one study that the cardioprotective effects of oxytocin may be higher for women. But men all over the world enjoy sharing a hug. For example, in many Latin cultures, male friends like to hug and playfully slap each other on the back when they greet each other. In contrast, some American men use a more physically distant form of hugging, known as the “bro hug.” It consists of a one-armed embrace Denise McCluskey, DTM, from University Place, Washington, visited a classroom in while shaking hands, with only the KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. Her tour guide decided to go back to school and look shoulders briefly touching. for a local Toastmasters club after being inspired by theToastmaster magazine.

BOTTOM LINE Renew Your Dues Attend Your District Free Brand Contact your club officers to Conference Consider Resources The Brand ensure your dues get paid by attending a conference to gain Portal offers newsletter tem- April 1. In March, officers can valuable tips and to network. Check plates, stationery, fliers and go to www.toastmasters. your district’s website at www.toast logos at no cost. www.toast org/DuesRenewals for more masters.org/DistrictWebsites for the masters.org/BrandPortal information. date of your next conference.

6 WHERE LEADERS ARE MADE

6-9 Around the Globe-March.indd 6 1/31/13 1:33 PM MEMBER MOMENT LANGUAGE TIP EDUCATING YOUNG SAY YES TO SAYING NO PEOPLE WORLDWIDE Many people find it difficult Mike Douse, who has a Ph.D. in to say no to an invitation education, works with governments or request, in spite of their of developing countries, advising them ever-growing responsibilities on major education projects. During and full schedules. Learn to 2012 alone, he advised on educational master the delicate skill of planning in Somalia, primary schooling saying no by keeping these in Sudan, and literacy and numeracy tips in mind: learning in Tanzania. Over the last three decades, Douse’s work has taken him • Be polite. Don’t cut off to 64 countries. A member of the Ennis Mike Douse someone who is talking. Toastmasters in Ennis, County Clare, Listen to the full request Ireland, he has blended his devotion to international before answering no. education with his passion for spoken communication. For example, while • Decline an invitation in working in Australia early in his career, Douse helped initiate the World Schools person, if possible, to avoid Debating Championships—now an annual event for secondary-school students, miscommunication, which is with more than 40 countries competing. common in email or phone As an educator, how has Toastmasters helped you? discussions. Spoken communication is crucial to everything I do. In November I had to • Offer options. For example, get some information across, through an interpreter, to more than a hundred if a co-worker asks you to villagers, none of whom spoke English. I have also had to draft speeches for help out on a big project, you government ministers in developing countries. may not have time, but you might know someone else With all your traveling, do you visit Toastmasters in other countries? Recently, my wife and I visited Toastmasters in Brisbane, Australia, and in who can assist. Nairobi, Kenya. I thought very seriously about getting some people together in • Think of the bigger picture. Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, and helping them to form a club (there are no clubs in Saying no might make Tanzania), but time was against me. you feel like a bad person Why did you join Toastmasters? temporarily, but consider I have always enjoyed speaking in public and, although there is always more your reputation—it might to learn, I concentrate now on advising others, as sensitively and creatively as suffer if you can’t follow I can. I am especially keen on encouraging youngsters to stand up and speak through on a promise and to listen creatively. or meet a deadline.

Convention Count- Marvelous Mentors Videos Offer Tips down Begins The 2013 Do you know an exceptional mentor Have you seen the Toastmasters International Convention will be who has positively influenced you video series of time-tested tips for held August 21–24 in Cincinnati, or other Toastmasters? Send a improving communication? Watch Ohio. Check this section next 200-word description and photo the videos at www.toastmasters. month for more information. (1 MB or larger) to MentorMoment@ org/Videos. toastmasters.org.

TOASTMASTER MARCH 2013 7

6-9 Around the Globe-March.indd 7 1/31/13 1:34 PM AROUND THE GLOBE

ADVICE FROM FACTS WORTH KNOWING THE EXPERTS MORE MEMBERS BECAME LEADERS IN 2012 IN THIS MONTHLY Toastmasters leadership is on the rise! In 2012, members earned 13.2 COLUMN, Accredited Speakers and Toastmasters World Cham- percent more leadership awards as compared to 2011.* Congratulations pions of Public Speaking share to all new leaders! lessons learned. 2011 Total: 7,840 2012 Total: 8,878 13.2%

2,544 2,854 5,336 4,640

656 CL 688 AL DTM

Jana Barnhill, DTM, AS, a mem- ber of the Lubbock Professional * Data represents a comparison of awards earned July 1–December 31, 2011, and in the same period in 2012. club in Lubbock, Texas, served as Toastmasters International President in 2008–2009.

What should you do with your hands when giving a speech? For many, it feels awkward to simply allow their hands to rest freely at their sides when, in fact, that’s perfectly acceptable and effective. Hands should be used purposefully and naturally to emphasize a point and complement the message. While you might be more comfortable clasping your hands in front of or behind you, or placing them in your pockets or on your hips, those actions can actually detract from your message. Learn to relax and not feel that you must “do something” with your FROM THE ARCHIVES hands throughout the speech. Members introduce prospective visitors to Toastmasters using pre-PowerPoint-era visual aids, such as this three-sided display board.

8 WHERE LEADERS ARE MADE

6-9 Around the Globe-March.indd 8 1/31/13 1:34 PM MENTOR LEARNING ABOUT OUR PAST ... MORE MEMBERS BECAME LEADERS IN 2012 MOMENT INTERNATIONAL Toastmasters leadership is on the rise! In 2012, members earned 13.2 o one has the potential PRESIDENTS percent more leadership awards as compared to 2011.* Congratulations Nto influence a member’s to all new leaders! experience like a mentor. Jill Peabody, a member of the Friendly Persuasion Toastmasters club in Haverhill, Massachusetts, shares how she has benefited from a mentor. Jill Peabody (right) credits mentor Shawn Mills for delivering “feedback Why did you join Toastmasters? medicine” with “sugar.” I am a certified public accountant and I work with clients daily. Before joining Toastmasters, I would often clam up while attempting PAULINE SHIRLEY, DTM to speak in one-on-one conversations as well as in group settings. PAST INTERNATIONAL PRESIDENT 1994–1995 I decided to make a change. I knew Toastmasters would help me, What inspires you? both professionally and personally, and it has! Q: Tell us about your mentor. Shawn Mills, ACS, is a flight attendant A: True servant leaders for a major commercial airline. She speaks professionally outside inspire me. Being a part of of Toastmasters, teaching presentation skills to adults in career something greater than I transition. She is motivating and sincere, and her passion for my am, with results beneficial to even more people, inspires success is inspiring. She has been a Toastmaster since 2002, and me. Watching others develop her suggestions are well-respected and appreciated. and build confidence, skills How does Shawn give feedback? We have discussions over the and talents that change their phone. Shawn helps with the flow of thoughts and words, the cor- lives for the better, inspires rect use of English, ideas for making a big impact and ways to grab me. Humble people who my audience’s attention. Overall, her critiques are always positive, achieve unparalleled success and remain humble because but she also delivers “feedback medicine” with “sugar.” It’s tough to they care for others, consider give and receive negative feedback, but it is essential to growth. This the needs of others and give trait, I believe, is what makes her most valuable. generously of themselves and What is your favorite thing about Shawn? Her enthusiasm and their resources, inspire me. belief in the program. Most of all, I’m inspired by people who grow and improve and go on to accomplish great things that benefit all of mankind. In general, optimistic, enthusiastic, DR. SMEDLEY SAYS loyal people inspire me. On a very Toastmasters founder Dr. Ralph C. Smedley personal note, my eight incredible shared many insights worth remembering, grandchildren, who are smart, such as: creative, considerate, talented and “Real communication is family-loyal, inspire me and give me confidence in the future of impossible without listening.” our world. Dr. Ralph C. Smedley 1878–1965

TOASTMASTER MARCH 2013 9

6-9 Around the Globe-March.indd 9 1/31/13 1:34 PM MANNER OF SPEAKING

TALK LIKE ME Stuttering doesn’t stop entrepreneur from public speaking success.

By Garret Garrels, CC

“Do they all t-t-talk like you in even changed the pronunciation A Burgeoning Business Montana?” of our last name.” Despite the classroom critics, the busi- I always wondered why the rest ness I started while still in college—a hat jerk in the back of my of my family pronounced Garrels like women’s fitness boxing program called college literature class wasn’t “Charles” and we said Garrels like Pink Gloves Boxing—grew rapidly, Tthe first one to make fun of “barrels.” The latter was easier for soon gaining international recogni- my speech impediment. Ever since I my dad to pronounce, so instead tion. When a lesser populated state like Montana, my home state, produces an internationally recognized company, As hard as it may be to speak through our local schools and universities often ask fears, trying to quietly fit in is not the way to the owners to speak to their students stand up, stand proud and stand out. and share their stories. I felt my abili- ties as a spokesman for Pink Gloves Boxing didn’t measure up. was old enough for public school, I of stuttering his own name, he just My business partner, Nick Milodra- dreaded the first day of class. On that changed its pronunciation. He even govich, and I were invited to a Toast- day the teacher would ask the students changed the spelling of my first name: masters meeting that quickly earned a to “stand up and say your name and Most people spell the name with spot on our weekly calendar. where you are from.” I feared doing two t’s at the end, but I spell it with My Ice Breaker seemed more like an this because people made fun of me only one. When my parents chose my iceberg. Just the thought of it chilled every time I opened my mouth. I never name, my dad said, “My son won’t my blood. But it was the warm atmo- had the courage to address the heck- have t-t-two t’s in his name.” sphere of my club that really broke the lers. Instead, I would sink back in my The impediment that ran in my ice … not my speech. I stuttered in it, seat and pretend my self-confidence family may have influenced the spell- but Tonna, our club president, said in didn’t shatter. ing of my name, but I had to do more her evaluation: “You are a really funny Stuttering ran in my dad’s side of than just pronounce it correctly to speaker. You should compete in the the family, and he told me, “Garret, establish a career as a professional Humorous Speech Contest.” The feel- I’ve carried this problem on my back speaker. Toastmasters helped me find ing of someone laughing with me must for my entire life, and because of it I the definition of my name. have caused me to temporarily forget 10 WHERE LEADERS ARE MADE

10-11 Garrels/Speaking of a Stutters.indd 10 1/31/13 1:35 PM Garret Garrels, CC, the founder of Pink Gloves Boxing, started competing as a speaker after joining Toastmasters.

all the times people laughed at me; message regardless of my impediment. Whether you have a speech impedi- I took her advice. I stopped competing to win and ment or just a fear of public speaking, I stammered on to win first place started competing to grow. you have a message that the world at the district level of that contest— In 2011 and 2012, I was fortunate needs to hear. As hard as it may be to at least, I thought I won. I overheard enough to advance to the semifinals speak through our fears, trying to qui- one of the judges say, “Garret actually of the International Speech Contest. I etly fit in is not the way to stand up, took second place, but the lady in didn’t win the contest, but I did grow. stand proud and stand out. I’d like to first went over time.” My first-place I view the speech competitions as the end this article by saying something trophy lost its shimmer. practice field for the most important I never had the chance to say to my game in life: communication. Some college heckler: My name is Garret— A Revelation people play the game while others with one t—Garrels, pronounced like Back at the hotel room, I tossed myself watch. If you’re looking to grow as a “barrels.” And yes … they all talk like onto the bed in a 200-pound pile speaker, consider competing in your me in Montana. T of self-pity. I felt broken. It was at club’s next competition. You may not that moment that I realized the true win, but I guarantee you won’t lose. Garret Garrels, CC, is a member importance of the Toastmasters speech I may never lose my stutter, but of the Helena Toastmasters contests. The trophy didn’t matter; it through Toastmasters and public club in Helena, Montana. He wasn’t real. I became a better speaker speaking I have found an outlet to advanced to the semifinals of in the process. That was real. The help me improve. Perhaps my friend the Toastmasters International knowledge and skills I gained from Leys Geddes, immediate past chair of Speech Contest in 2011 and competing were something that no one the British Stammering Association, 2012; in 2011, he finished in could ever take away. said it best: “Very few adult stutterers second place in his semifinal Not only did I learn how to ever overcome the condition entirely, contest. Garret is the author communicate with an audience, I but we must still be prepared to speak of the book Loops 4 Life, the learned how to communicate with and stutter in public. Society realizes, founder of Pink Gloves Boxing myself. Piece by piece, I picked up the for example, that limping is simply a and a professional humorous self-confidence that had at one time sign of difficulty with one’s leg, not speaker. Learn more at shattered on the classroom floor. a sign of a personality defect; so it garretgarrels.com. I gained the courage to share my should be with stuttering.”

Photo: CASEY PAGE / The Billings Gazette / reprinted with permission TOASTMASTER MARCH 2013 11

10-11 Garrels/Speaking of a Stutters.indd 11 1/31/13 1:36 PM GUARANTEE YOURSELF A VICTORY Trophies aren’t the only reward in speech contests.

By Jim Key, DTM

Editor’s Note: Jim Key won the 2003 who enter Toastmasters contests first. “I felt I had been successful just Toastmasters World Championship of would be deemed failures. Conversely, by entering the contest and facing my Public Speaking. if speakers embrace the “everyone’s fear,” says Howley, of the Midtown a winner” mentality, that sentiment Madness Toastmasters in Vancouver, “ he winner of the contest is …” doesn’t seem entirely connected to British Columbia, Canada. This phrase, or something like it, reality. After all, every contest awards Liz Shaw, DTM, a member of three Tconcludes each Toastmasters speech only one first-place trophy. clubs in Arizona, offers another contest and identifies the individual Are speech contests just win-or-fail perspective, saying, “I view speech who has prevailed. Unfortunately, propositions, or is every contestant contests as the perfect personal growth many people who enter contests have a a winner? To determine which view experience. If I learned something about “win-it-all-or-I’m-a-failure” mentality, is correct, perhaps we should look at myself in the process of developing my particularly when competing in the contests in a different way and focus speech, practicing and performing in International Speech Contest, because on what it means to be successful as a the contest, then I am a big winner.” it culminates in the Toastmasters World participant. Many members feel like These assessments of contest partici- Championship of Public Speaking. By Paula Howley, CC, ALB, who points pation are certainly valid and part those standards, thousands of members out how scared she was to compete at of the three different measures of 12 WHERE LEADERS ARE MADE

12-13 Key/Guaranteed to Win.indd 12 1/31/13 1:37 PM success in that area: accolades, important aspects of writing. Simply contest—their remarks validate my personal growth and providing value put, preparing for speech contests efforts and make me feel as though I for the audience. These successes helped me become a more effective accomplished something important. are possible with every speaking and efficient speech writer. How can you be guaranteed success opportunity—not just during contests. Colin William, DTM, of the if you decide to enter a speech contest? Greater Lafayette Area Toastmasters The overly simplistic advice I have is Accolades in West Lafayette, Indiana, says, this: Control what you can control. Accolades come in many forms. “Contest speaking has taught me how While it is wise to familiarize yourself One way is winning the Best Speaker to speak and write with structure and with judging criteria for a particular award at your club meeting; another discipline. It teaches you to be dis- contest, and to craft your speech and is receiving a first-place trophy in a ciplined, precise and goal-directed in delivery in a way that will make victory speech contest. Accolades can also what you say. That skill is extremely more likely, you have no direct control include positive comments received important outside the contest.” over the outcome of the contest. You also have no control over any accolades you may receive in response to your You can control your growth as a speaker, speech. Instead, focus your energy on so make it a point to stretch yourself. things you can control. You can control your growth as a speaker, so make it a point to stretch after a presentation. Hearing “That Regardless of what specific form yourself. Increase your focus on writing was excellent” or “You were great” your audience takes, the opportunity until it becomes your strength. Pay from an audience member makes you for personal growth is present each attention to how clearly you are com- feel successful. The effect is impossible time you speak. municating your message. Experiment to miss: You get an immediate affir- with different delivery techniques until mation that your performance was Be of Value to Your Audience you find the ones that suit your pre- appreciated by your audience. That, Every time you speak, you have sentation best. Provide value with your in turn, builds confidence and encour- the opportunity to offer something speech. Consider what listeners need, ages you to speak again. valuable to your audience. Precisely choose an appropriate and beneficial what that “something” is will vary topic, and tailor your speech to accom- Personal Growth from one audience to the next. One modate audience members’ needs. The potential for personal growth is group may need to receive specific Ultimately, the phrase “The winner present in each speaking opportunity. information, and another may need to of the contest is …” is followed by only Specifically, each time you speak, you consider new opinions and perspec- one name. Your efforts may or may not can stretch yourself in regard to your tives. Some may want to be motivated result in obtaining the desired accolade, presentation techniques. Such oppor- or inspired, and others may simply but you can use the opportunity to tunities arise each time you speak to need to experience the stress-relieving improve in ways that extend beyond a larger audience or to people with benefits of a good laugh. Your contest getting that winning trophy. You can whom you are unfamiliar. You can speech need not be merely a display serve the audience by delivering them even experiment with new delivery of your abilities; it can also be the something that is important, valuable styles. You can also bring new content vehicle through which those who are and lasting. If you do that, you are into a presentation you’ve previously giving you their time and attention guaranteed to win. T delivered. As you gain more experi- receive something beneficial in return. ence, you will grow as a speaker. Some of my most rewarding expe- Jim Key, DTM, won the 2003 One of my biggest areas of growth riences came after contests I did not Toastmasters World Championship in Toastmasters was my writing. I win. Hearing someone who experi- of Public Speaking. A member of wanted to develop my ability to craft enced my speech say it was uplifting Lennox International Toastmasters speeches that delivered maximum made a real difference to me. When in Richardson, Texas, he is a trainer value and impact. That required a audience members sincerely express and a professional speaker. Learn focus on imagery, word choice, orga- their enjoyment of my speech— more at jimkey.com. nization, grammar, brevity and other regardless of the outcome of the

TOASTMASTER MARCH 2013 13

12-13 Photo Key/Guaranteed by Jeff Miller/©to Win.indd Jeff 13 Miller 1/31/13 1:37 PM HOW TO

HOW TO TELL TALL TALES Truthful tips about presenting preposterous stories.

By Betsy Keogan, DTM

he announcement was dog wagged his tail so fast that my changed when our club came up with made: “This year, instead of dad called the TV news to issue a a number of creative ideas. Soon, we Ta Humorous Speech Contest, tornado warning.” discovered tall tales work like potato District 27 will hold its first Tall If you’ve been in a Tall Tales chips—once we started writing, we Tales Contest.” Everyone in the room Contest, you know the challenge is to couldn’t stop at just one. Here are responded with an “Oh!” and I think come up with something more than some of those ideas. we may have achieved a record for the just an outrageous claim—you have variety of ways to say that word. Some to write a contest-worthy story that How to Begin of our club members were intrigued, develops and supports your claim. Watch movies such as Big Fish some were enthusiastic ... but most This can be more difficult than the (2003) or The Secret of Roan Inish were confused and concerned. deceptively simple theme suggests. (1994) to hear a variety of tall tales What was the cause for all this The members of my club are all being told. Your local library may have dread? After all, most of us began talented humorous speech writers, books of tall tales to use as examples, telling tall tales on the playground. but our first efforts at writing truly as well, but remember that your tale By the age of 5, we found it easy to clever tall tales failed. We were must be original. You cannot simply make a claim like, “I can kick a ball intimidated and only two people copy a story from a book and change all the way to Kentucky!” or “My signed up for the contest. That a few minor details. Also, be sure that

14 WHERE LEADERS ARE MADE

14-15 Keagan /Tall Tales V2.indd 14 1/31/13 1:38 PM your resources feature tall tales and not are found in many regions,” say If the story involves bragging, folk tales. They are distinctly different. “From Leesburg to Louisville, the consider telling it in the third Practice coming up with ideas by ladybugs lurk.” Used sparingly, rhymes person. For example, one member using tall tales as a Table Topics can be very effective. Instead of saying had a story about how dozens of theme a month before the contest. “The car was damaged,” say “Repairs fabulous men wanted to date her. The Each participant must describe a were extensive and expensive.” first time she told this tale, it bombed. Then she changed the story to be seemingly implausible event that Add surprises (for example, a happened to him or her. To add an song, a dance, a howl or an unex- about the fabulous men who wanted extra twist, tell the participants that pected body movement). Remember: to date her sister. This one change they may describe a true event if they Surprises are like pepper—a little bit made the story much funnier. wish. Then, have the audience guess adds a lot of flavor, but if you add Videotape yourself telling the whether the story is true or a tall tale. too much you ruin the result. story. Even if you don’t have access to a video camera, you might be able We discovered tall tales work like potato to do a limited amount of taping with another electronic device, such as a chips—once we started writing, we couldn’t digital camera. Just taping a minute stop at just one. or two of your tall tale will help you see which parts need extra “oomph” Pick a random sentence from a Many tall tales become livelier with and which need paring down. book of famous quotations and see a little repetition. This is especially Don’t be too childish, and don’t what sort of tall tale you can concoct true for any content that describes be too adult. Tall tales are meant to using that sentence as a punch line. actions that can be illustrated by amuse adults; childish language and Write down five frustrating things humorous gestures, such as: “The bear too much fantasy (princesses, unicorns, that have happened to you recently. went up and down, and up and down, elves, etc.) can make your story sound List ordinary problems, such as being and up and down the mountain.” like a fairy tale. Don’t start your story stuck in traffic, spilling coffee on your It is funny to set up a predictable off with “Once upon a time” unless sequence of events, or a predictable suit, having no time to do the dishes, and you are doing so ironically. On the sequence of logic, and then twist the so on. Then try to come up with pre- other hand, tall tales work best when final link in the sequence. Among posterous solutions to these problems. they have a certain wholesomeness. If successful humorists, the “Rule of you do want to keep adult humor in Three” is popular. First, set up a joke. your tale—and there are times when How to Develop Flavor Second, reinforce the setup. Third, this works—just remember: Any After watching the movie Big Fish or earn the payoff with a punch line that naughty references will be funnier if one like it, try to copy the main char- smashes the pattern. For example, acter’s storytelling abilities. Notice “This porridge is too cold. This you tell them in the chastest manner the use of tone, speed of delivery and porridge is too hot. This porridge is possible. Strive for innocent phrasing. volume, as well as the use of language. asking to meet our leader!” Whatever you do, don’t wink at the audience; it may seem like a good idea Play around with accents ... for a but it comes across as sleazy. while. Then drop the phony accent but Editing Helps Follow these steps and your club will retain some of the accent’s flavor. In A good tall tale is about three to soon enjoy writing and performing tall other words, try adding a bit of drawl in five minutes long. After five minutes, tales. It worked well for us. In the end, places, or colorful phrases such as “Now, the audience begins to lose track of all 35,000 people in our club wrote tall there comes a time in everyone’s life” the details or becomes overwhelmed tales. You believe me, don’t you? T or “He was a most intelligent man.” by too many of them. You may find Tall tales are the perfect speeches it painful to delete humorous lines— however, a day or two later, when you to practice alliteration, homonyms, Betsy Keogan, DTM, lives in triads and other vocal variety tech - read the speech again, you will realize Loudoun County, Virginia. niques. Instead of saying “Ladybugs the streamlined version is in fact better.

TOASTMASTER MARCH 2013 15

14-15 Keagan /Tall Tales V2.indd 15 1/31/13 1:39 PM WHEN BAD SPEECHES HAPPEN TO GOOD PEOPLE How to recover from a disappointing presentation.

By Christine Clapp, DTM

s a ssenior a senior at at a a New Washington, York lectern. When she finally got to you hoped or that you weren’t proud As difficult as it will be, and presentation and realize that a lot Troubleshoot high school, Morgan the lectern, the teenager looked up of. How, then, can you recover from no matter how strong the temptation went well. Find the high notes After you identify what went wrong, A McCauley was elated at the large crowd and mumbled, a bad speech and prevent the experi- to avoid thinking about the speech and remember to repeat them next analyze why it went wrong. Susan Triv- when she learned she had won a “Oh my gosh, there are so many ence from eroding your confidence? again, examine evidence to identify time.” If there is no recording of ers, past president of the Washington, prestigious National Honor Society people here.” The words were what went wrong. Lisa Braithwaite, the speech, look to session D.C., chapter of the National Speakers leadership award. But elation soon picked up by the microphone; Put It in Perspective a public speaking trainer and coach evaluations or solicit feedback from Association, says a lack of preparation turned to terror when she found out Morgan started to cry. As deflating as it can be, giving a bad from Santa Barbara, California, a neutral audience member is often to blame. She urges speakers to speech is nothing more than an “off” encourages speakers to review to analyze your presentation. honestly assess themselves by verify- performance. It doesn’t mean you their speeches in the form of video Also, be specific with your ing how much time they actually spent Don’t allow a bad experience are a bad person, a terrible speaker, a or audio. “It’s easier to analyze observations. Rather than noting preparing. “Try to quantify it,” says to paralyze you with fear. subpar employee or (insert your own [your speech] when you watch or the general use of filler words, Trivers, an executive speaking coach putdown here). After all, bad speeches listen than to trust your memory,” identify which ones you used (“ah” and author of the Great Speaking happen to good people. Remember to says Braithwaite, adding that when and “you know”), how many times Coach blog (susantrivers.com). she would have to give an acceptance After several minutes, an English keep things in perspective and sepa- we replay such a speech in our you used them (the former 12 times, Other times, psychological or situ- speech at a school awards assembly. teacher joined her at the lectern, took rate the person from the performance. minds, “we tend to blow mistakes the latter 10), in what context they ational factors may be the cause of Though Morgan carefully her script and read the speech, all out of proportion and to be really were used (where in your sentences the problem. A variety of factors can scripted and practiced her speech, while Morgan stood there in tears. Analyze What Went Wrong … hard on ourselves. It’s hard to be were they uttered?), and how the influence the outcome of your speech, things went from bad to worse Perhaps you have had an expe- and Right objective.” behavior impacted your presentation including speaking to a group that when she was introduced at the rience like Morgan’s, which she If you need to, wallow in disappoint- But don’t stop with your analysis (e.g., It made me look unprofessional is larger than normal for you, being event. Wearing a cast for a sprained described as “scarring.” But even if ment for a day or two. Then, focus of what went wrong. “When we and as if I didn’t know my material). distracted by a personal problem, not ankle, Morgan tripped as she left you haven’t, you likely can empathize on studying what happened during get down on ourselves, we need The more detail you include, the getting a good night’s sleep, skipping her seat. Then she fell on the stairs with giving a disappointing presenta- your presentation so you can learn to remember what went right,” more successful you will be with breakfast, having a cold or running leading from the podium to the tion—one that did not go as well as from the experience. Braithwaite says. “Look at the your plans for improving. late for the presentation.

16 WHERE LEADERS ARE MADE TOASTMASTER MARCH 2013 17

16-19 Clapp/Bad Speeches.V2.indd 16 1/31/13 1:40 PM 16-19 Clapp/Bad Speeches.V2.indd 17 1/31/13 1:40 PM As difficult as it will be, and presentation and realize that a lot Troubleshoot no matter how strong the temptation went well. Find the high notes After you identify what went wrong, to avoid thinking about the speech and remember to repeat them next analyze why it went wrong. Susan Triv- again, examine evidence to identify time.” If there is no recording of ers, past president of the Washington, what went wrong. Lisa Braithwaite, the speech, look to session D.C., chapter of the National Speakers a public speaking trainer and coach evaluations or solicit feedback from Association, says a lack of preparation from Santa Barbara, California, a neutral audience member is often to blame. She urges speakers to encourages speakers to review to analyze your presentation. honestly assess themselves by verify- their speeches in the form of video Also, be specific with your ing how much time they actually spent or audio. “It’s easier to analyze observations. Rather than noting preparing. “Try to quantify it,” says [your speech] when you watch or the general use of filler words, Trivers, an executive speaking coach listen than to trust your memory,” identify which ones you used (“ah” and author of the Great Speaking says Braithwaite, adding that when and “you know”), how many times Coach blog (susantrivers.com). we replay such a speech in our you used them (the former 12 times, Other times, psychological or situ- minds, “we tend to blow mistakes the latter 10), in what context they ational factors may be the cause of out of proportion and to be really were used (where in your sentences the problem. A variety of factors can hard on ourselves. It’s hard to be were they uttered?), and how the influence the outcome of your speech, objective.” behavior impacted your presentation including speaking to a group that But don’t stop with your analysis (e.g., It made me look unprofessional is larger than normal for you, being of what went wrong. “When we and as if I didn’t know my material). distracted by a personal problem, not get down on ourselves, we need The more detail you include, the getting a good night’s sleep, skipping to remember what went right,” more successful you will be with breakfast, having a cold or running Braithwaite says. “Look at the your plans for improving. late for the presentation.

TOASTMASTER MARCH 2013 17

16-19 Clapp/Bad Speeches.V2.indd 17 1/31/13 1:40 PM Craft a Plan practicing your next speech. For It is not necessary for you—or After you identify all the factors example, after determining the total not right away, at least—to repeat that contributed to a lackluster amount of time you want to dedicate the same type of speech or speak in performance, come up with specific to the speech—say, 10 hours—block the same kind of situation. If you strategies to prevent them from out one-hour increments on a calen- bombed a manual speech at a Toast- recurring. Rather than saying that dar in the weeks leading up to it. masters meeting, change it up at the next time you will more carefully Trivers advises her clients to next meeting by serving as grammar- analyze the audience, define exactly allocate 40 percent of their total ian or responding to a Table Topics what that means. For example, you preparation time to crafting the question. Also, think about potential could resolve to: material and the other 60 percent to opportunities for speaking in your Read the text on the organization’s practicing and rehearsing. She defines professional or personal life, such as website at least two months before practice as the time for the speaker providing a speech of introduction the presentation, especially the parts to learn the material. “Talk through at a work conference, giving a toast pertaining to the organization’s mission it out loud. Hear how it sounds,” she or reading a passage of scripture at and its recent work. Also, read about the says. “The emphasis is getting it into your place of worship. conference where you are presenting. the speaker’s brain and body, and The goal is to rebuild your con- fidence as a speaker. But even if it takes a series of baby steps to get After giving a weak presentation, you back to delivering speeches at Toastmasters or other venues, that’s consult with your Toastmasters mentor. okay. What is important is that you start taking those steps within a few weeks of your disappointing pre- Research recent news accounts making edits.” Then, rehearsal starts. sentation. The longer you wait, the written about the organization and “When content is flowing, think steeper the climb. its key members at least two months about the audience, and connect- before the presentation. ing with them,” she says. “Consider Measure Progress Have a conversation with the event delivery style, getting comfortable After each presentation, track your organizer at least two months before looking at people, movement around progress. Be proactive in recording the presentation. the stage and vocal variety.” Though it sounds simple, Trivers your speeches and in getting feed- Talk to at least four audience estimates that most speakers end up back. Figure out which strategies members about their needs and spending 80 percent of their time you used to prevent lackluster interests at least six weeks before the crafting material and not nearly performances in the past. Your presentation. enough on practicing and rehearsing. confidence will increase as you see Craft the thesis and main points evidence of improvement. To become of your presentation based on your Get Back on Stage an even better speaker, identify the analysis of the audience, at least a Now that you have identified what strategies that did not work, and month before the presentation. went wrong with your speech, why it modify them. Careful review of your Specificity is crucial. Identify what happened and how you will go about presentations will help you identify your plan for improvement entails preventing the same problems from areas that still need work. and when you will complete each occurring again, it’s time to heed the component in preparation for your advice of this timeless axiom: When Consider a Coach next speech. Each item should be you fall off the horse, get right back After giving a weak presentation, one you can act on—and can do so on the saddle. Don’t allow a bad consult with your Toastmasters within a limited amount of time. experience to paralyze you with fear. mentor, if you have one. If you still To address a lack of prepara- The best way to prevent this is to want more help, consider hiring a tion, Trivers recommends crafting run, not walk, to the stage and do speech coach. Trivers, the executive a budget that allots more time for another speech. speaking coach, points to the 18 WHERE LEADERS ARE MADE

16-19 Clapp/Bad Speeches.V2.indd 18 1/31/13 1:41 PM experience—and outside perspec- Believe in Comebacks “I’m a little more comfortable, tive—that coaches can offer. If you are nursing a few wounds especially in small groups, but I still “People focus on climbing the after delivering an off speech, get freaked out by the idea of speak- career ladder by getting a master’s remember: It is possible to recover ing to big groups,” Morgan admits. degree or certification in their area, from a disappointing performance, Her next goal: visiting a few but they rely on speaking skills they or a disastrous experience like Toastmasters clubs near her down- learned in one class as an undergrad- Morgan’s. After that traumatic high town office. T uate,” she says. school assembly, Morgan went on to Think about it in terms of any earn her undergraduate degree from Christine Clapp, DTM, is a other experts you hire to improve Wesleyan University in Connecticut, member of the George Washing- your professional image, such as where she struggled through required ton University Toastmasters in those who tailor suits, design busi- class presentations. In the fall of Washington, D.C., and president ness cards or write resumes. It is 2012, she began her professional of Spoken with Authority, which just as important, if not more so, to career as a legal assistant at a large develops the voice of experts who invest in an expert who can help you law firm in Washington, D.C. To want to broaden their impact. feel proud of your speeches and proj- improve her confidence as a speaker, You can follow her on Twitter ect more confidence every time you the young woman completed a series @christineclapp or visit spokenwith communicate in your professional of small-group public-speaking authority.com. and personal life. classes taught by a coach.

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TOASTMASTER MARCH 2013 19

16-19 Clapp/Bad Speeches.V2.indd 19 1/31/13 1:41 PM READING YOUR AUDIENCE Use member responses to maximize your delivery.

By Howard Scott, ACB

o connect with your listeners, Use the following techniques to Lisbeth McCarty, ACB, CL, president you must first learn to read your take the temperature of your audience of Sooner Toastmasters in Norman, Taudience. The speaker-audience members. Oklahoma, says, “If people make eye connection is delicate. Audience mem- contact with me, then I take that as a bers don’t hold up signs that say “I Ask a question. Get the crowd sign of acceptance.” don’t like your talk.” They don’t often 1to show you that they’re follow- Make eye contact with a few get up and walk out. They won’t even ing your train of thought. In a speech 3people, one at a time. Do you yawn, if they are polite. So you must against public sector pensions, I asked see their eyes light up, faces redden or pay attention to the subtle signals the audience what the maximum mouths harden when you make eye provided by individual audience public sector pension payment was. I contact? If you don’t get any reaction, members, as well as to the overall vibes knew the audience connected with my it means your words haven’t moved generated by the audience as a whole. message, because I got answers rang- them. Similarly, if someone looks away when you make eye contact, it’s Whenever you feel you are not making cause for alarm. Faces reveal the mind a connection with your audience, pause at work; when the mind is dulled, faces lack expression. and recalculate. During a previous speech, I leaned toward one man. When our eyes met, How can you tell if you are making ing from “There isn’t a maximum” I wagged my finger in his face and an emotional connection with your audi- to “The same as anyone in the public delivered my main point: “If you ence? You’ll feel an invisible exchange of or private sector can get.” When one make money your god, you will find give-and-take in your gut—some refer audience member approached me after yourself one day counting green slips to it as “electricity.” Listener responses my speech to tell me he was feeling of paper, and nothing else.” The listener’s should rise and fall appropriately with angry about public sector pension face changed dramatically; it was as the content of your story. For instance, payments, I knew my message had if he had seen a ghost. Not only did I if you state a hard truth—“She died resonated with him. have his full attention, I had the full before she could apologize”—audience If you ask a question and don’t get attention of all audience members. members should be wincing. If you a response, rephrase the question. If Whenever you feel you are not present a puzzling phenomenon, their you still get no reaction, then it’s time making a connection with your audi- foreheads should wrinkle. You also for a different approach. ence, pause and recalculate. Then, should see heads turning to follow your In one fact-laden talk about income change your presentation by altering movements from one side of the stage taxes, I determined a third of the way your voice, varying your slant, slowing to the other. All these indicators will tell through the presentation that the down, asking questions or telling a you whether the audience is excited, audience was bored with my topic. I personal anecdote that relates to your concerned, mildly interested or bored. changed my approach by turning every topic. Hone your audience-reading Julian Worker, president of Tillicum subsequent statement into a question. skills, and you’ll be in command of Toastmasters in New Westminster, I won the listeners’ attention through any speaking situation. T British Columbia, Canada, likes to use audience participation.

humor to gauge an audience’s inter- Take note of eye aversion. Howard Scott, ACB, is president of est: “If I receive appropriate audience 2If you notice people with blank the South Shore Soliloquy club in laughter, I know that the audience is expressions staring off into space, Kingston, Massachusetts. responsive [to my message].” it’s time to change your approach. 20 WHERE LEADERS ARE MADE

20 Scott/Reading Your Audeince.indd 20 1/31/13 1:42 PM ADVERTISEMENT

TOASTMASTER SEPTEMBER 2011 21

21 Bo Bennett ad.indd 21 1/31/13 1:42 PM BEYOND THE CLUB EXPERIENCE Reap the benefits of speaking in the real world.

By Patricia Fry, ATMS

ou joined Toastmasters to communications. Jerry Waxler, CTM, experiences raise members’ awareness improve your public speaking joined Sunrise Toastmasters in Allen- about the process of public speaking, Yand communication skills, but town, Pennsylvania, to more effectively and also about a speaker’s respon- are you using what you’ve learned promote his therapy practice. Other sibility. “Toastmasters is about you outside the club environment? members join to gain confidence in growing,” he says. “Speaking outside While it’s valuable to work within social or work settings, and later of Toastmasters is about you helping the parameters of your club, among discover they have something to say— the audience to grow.” familiar faces, there comes a time and they want to share it. Sometimes Speaking outside of your club when it is important to stretch—to members develop a desire to perform. is something you can ease into. venture beyond the protective bound- Those who venture outside the Bill O’Brien, ATMS, of Ojai Valley aries of your club and face the public club to speak or entertain highly Toastmasters in Ojai, California, or, as some say, “the real world.” recommend it. Matthias Catón, CC, suggests starting with a nonthreatening activity such as having a booth at a local “Toastmasters is about growing. Speaking event or attending a public meeting and you observing others before attempting to outside of Toastmasters is about you helping speak on issues of concern. the audience to grow.” — Conor Cunneen, DTM, AS What Will You Talk About? Whatever your goal, you’ll need to Whether your interests lie in stand-up a program director at the Frankfurt develop your content. The key is in comedy, expanding your involvement School of Finance and Management knowing your audience. Develop an at work or in another organization, in Frankfurt, Germany, was giving understanding of what your target or promoting your business, product talks and conducting workshops audience wants to hear. Accomplish this or service, it may be time to pursue related to his job before he joined by attending programs related to your outside speaking engagements. Esprit De Corps Toastmasters. He topic; this will help you recognize good says, “While Toastmasters is a perfect themes. Use the techniques you learned Speaking in the Real World training ground, training is not the when selecting topics for manual For some, the whole point of joining same as the real thing.” speeches. Break down your subject Toastmasters is to prepare for public Accredited Speaker Conor Cunneen, matter into several viable topics—you speaking engagements. As a full-time DTM, member of the Windy City can get ideas by reading the table of writer, I joined to learn the skills neces- Professional Speakers club in Oak contents in books on your subject. sary to promote my books—through Brook, Illinois, speaks at marketing Cunneen suggests developing five to public speaking and one-on-one industry conferences. He says outside 10 speeches within the context of your 22 WHERE LEADERS ARE MADE

22-25 Fry/Beyond the Club.indd 22 1/31/13 1:43 PM BEYOND THE CLUB EXPERIENCE

TOASTMASTER MARCH 2013 23

22-25 Fry/Beyond the Club.indd 23 1/31/13 1:43 PM SPEAKERS BUREAU 101 Speakers bureaus help speakers and entertainers find speaking opportunities in their community. Many event organizers seek keynote speakers, entertainers, workshop leaders, after-dinner speak at local and regional conferences speakers and emcees. Consider joining a speakers bureau for or workshops.” Check event centers public speaking opportunities. You will gain experience speaking and hotels in your area to discover outside of your club and make contacts for future presentations. corporations or industries that have Speakers bureaus exist for all levels of presenters. Many of scheduled conventions, and then them are designed to address specific topics. They are operated contact the convention organizers to by various organizations. Speaker requirements vary, but they see if they need presenters. most often depend on subject matter expertise and, of course, Kirthy Iyer, CC, a project manager speaking credentials. The opportunities coming from speakers at Crytek in Frankfurt, Germany, bureaus generally don’t pay, although honorariums are possible. maintains, “If you are a confident Many Toastmasters districts throughout the world offer speaker who is humorous, motivation- al, entertaining or informative, people speakers bureaus. Rich Rodgers, ACB, ALB, operates the District will find you.” While this may be 16 Toastmasters Speakers Bureau in Oklahoma. He says his bureau true, we all have to start somewhere. was “established as a voluntary organization to serve businesses, A speakers bureau is a good place to civic organizations, churches and the educational community. start. Many Toastmasters districts have The speakers bureau is one way that Toastmasters can reach speakers bureaus, and you’ll find ones the community.” related to specific themes and topics It is important for Toastmasters who participate in district within your community. See the side- speakers bureaus to be polished, as they are considered bar for more information. ambassadors for Toastmasters International. Rodgers says, “We want our speakers to shine, and the bureau is another way Create Your Own Opportunities a Toastmaster can build confidence and have a wonderful feeling Many speakers organize their own of accomplishment.” workshops or events related to their topics. Iyer recommends beginning by Additional Venues Can Be Located at the Links Below: seeking opportunities with existing shawguides.com venues, but “if none fit your intentions, allconferences.com then create the ideal setting. The tsnn.com advantage of attending an existing eventseye.com setting is you won’t have to worry eventsinamerica.com about organizing the whole event. However, creating your own workshop topic. Follow a Toastmasters manual Where to Look for allows you to have control.” and practice giving those speeches. Speaking Opportunities This is good advice for those with It takes time to develop topics It might surprise you to learn that something to teach. Organize your own for outside speeches. Nancy many community groups often look workshop by determining a theme (e.g., Depcik, CC, also a member of the for speakers. Cunneen says service family budgeting, writing, investing, Windy City Professional Speakers clubs such as Rotary, Kiwanis, Lions parenting techniques or gardening), club, recalls when she lost her job and Optimists clubs need speakers. locating a venue and promoting the and her home. She says, “I didn’t Conference organizers are always event to your audience. If you are an en- know where to turn when a friend looking for good speakers with tertainer, organize a talent show for your mentioned that I told good stories excellent programs related to the friends or establish a fundraiser that and that I should consider speaking theme of their events. Locate civic features an evening of entertainment. as a profession. I had no idea how club and organization program to do this. Several people suggested directors in your area by searching Tips for Speaking Toastmasters.” After earning her CC, online, and scour the front pages of Outside the Club she figured out what she wanted to your phone book. Look under “Local Speaking outside the club will feel speak about. “I kept coming back Clubs and Service Organizations” different from participating within to the same theme of unwelcome and “Places of Worship.” your club where you know every- change and how to cope with it, so Cunneen suggests, “If you have one—and they know you. You may that is my current topic.” a specific industry skill set, offer to find that butterflies have returned to 24 WHERE LEADERS ARE MADE

22-25 Fry/Beyond the Club.indd 24 1/31/13 1:44 PM your stomach when you face a new “When I speak from the heart, I’m achieved anything that required audience in an unfamiliar setting. not worried about following a written the extraordinary motivation you Choose a topic you’re intimately script and I’m better able to focus on are trying to evoke.” familiar with to help overcome those my message. When you are passionate Speaking outside the club is not jitters. It also might help to have a few about your message, you can’t help for every Toastmaster. But for those Toastmasters in the audience the first but be a great speaker.” with the desire to entertain audiences, few times you step outside your club. When Waxler started speaking out- to teach what they know or to simply Speaking from experience, Cunneen side the club, he relied on handwritten broaden their horizons, there’s really says, “The more you get into that notes and had trouble letting them nothing stopping you. It’s just a arena, the more comfortable you will go. He says, “My big breakthrough matter of taking those natural talents become.” In other words, keep getting came when an advanced speaker told and carefully honed skills you’ve back on the horse, just as you did when me that when he practices, his speech developed in your club and expanding you first started your Toastmasters comes out different each time, and them. You, and your future audiences, experience. that’s okay. This gave me permission will be glad you did. T Some public speakers suggest that to just be me.” you avoid memorizing your material. But Catón, the member in Frankfurt, Patricia Fry, ATMS, is the author “When I’m giving a speech to a Germany, cautions speakers: “You of 37 books, including Talk Up group other than Toastmasters, I have need to have something really inter- Your Book: How to Sell Your Book to deal with the waitress serving dessert, esting to say. I don’t believe you Through Public Speaking, Inter- clanking dishes, people dashing in can fake substance. You need to views, Signings, Festivals, Confer- and out and a number of other dis- be an expert in something unique. ences and More. Visit matilijapress. tractions,” says Depcik, who speaks For example, it’s hard to be a com or patriciafry.com. professionally on the topic of change. motivational speaker if you haven’t

TOASTMASTER MARCH 2013 25

22-25 Fry/Beyond the Club.indd 25 1/31/13 1:44 PM TAME YOUR STAGE FRIGHT An expert answers questions about speaking anxiety.

By Matt Abrahams

“ eople would rather stand my area of expertise: how to manage Common signs of nervousness include naked and on fire, on top of a stage fright. During the session, I shared disfluencies (e.g., repeating words, P30-story building while covered many proven techniques for managing stuttering or using filler words, such as with spiders and snakes, than to speak speaking anxiety. Afterward, I received uh and um), lack of eye contact, fidgety in front of an audience,” joked a many follow-up questions from attendees arms and hands, shallow breathing, student in the speech communication seeking guidance in this area. Here are swaying and pacing, flushing, and class I teach. And he was right. Most answers to some of the most frequently “plumbing reversal”—in other words, people experience some anxiety when asked questions, which I have divided what is usually wet gets dry (e.g., speaking in front of others, both in into three broad categories relating dry mouth) and what is dry gets wet person and remotely (in a conference to physical, psychological and (e.g., sweaty palms and brows). These call or a Web presentation, for example). practical issues. responses are completely natural and The fear of presenting is palpable, normal. They are our inherent “fight pervasive and often problematic. For- Physical Symptoms or flight” reactions. tunately, with practice and persistence, How can I deal with the flushing You can take several easy steps to you can learn to manage your anxiety [becoming red in the face, neck or combat shaking and flushing. First, take rather than have it control you. upper chest area] and shaking that time to breathe slowly and deeply at I had the honor of presenting an often come with public speaking? the onset of symptoms. Also, practice education session at the 2012 Toast- Many people report multiple physio- “belly breathing”—filling your lower masters International Convention on logical symptoms of speaking anxiety. abdomen by inhaling slowly through

26 WHERE LEADERS ARE MADE

26-27 Abrahams/Speaking Up without Freaking Out.V3.indd 26 1/31/13 1:46 PM your nose and exhaling slowly through Take time to understand your five days for writing if your topic your mouth. Doing this will help you audience. Consider listeners’ needs requires research or if you rely on control your nervousness. and expectations prior to constructing others for help (e.g., for information, Second, lower your core body your presentation. to review your content or to create temperature. Just as you might place a Make a connection with your accompanying slides). Mark all of cold compress on a child’s feverish head audience by including relevant, under- your deadline dates on a calendar, and or neck to reduce her temperature, you standable evidence in your content. meet each one by managing your time. can lower your body temperature by When practicing, verbalize your pre- Take questions when you are holding something cold in the palms of sentation. Too often, people practice in finished speaking to allow the audi- your hands (a chilled bottle of water is their heads and fail to speak the words. ence to validate their understanding ideal). Finally, calm shakiness by giving Additionally, engage in focused practice. of your message, and to clear up any nervous energy a place to go. For example, “Chunk” your presentation into logical confusion. start your presentation by stepping units such as introduction, point 1, toward your audience while gesturing I recently worked with a fantastic transitions and conclusion. Chunking broadly. Or secretly squeeze your toes. third-grade teacher who was highly makes practice time and anxiety more These simple, effective activities will confident and engaging when manageable. Practice each unit sepa- eliminate your shakiness by ridding you presenting to her students. But rately until you feel comfortable and of excess energy. when asked to speak in front of adults, more relaxed with your material. One of my clients was very nervous; she became paralyzed by fear. When Most of my clients and students he would flush and shake when giving I asked what made her a successful make two kinds of mistakes: One, they a speech. His shaking was particu- teacher, she quickly responded that she write a complete manuscript detailing larly noticeable. He stopped shaking understands the needs of her students every word they will say; and/or two, completely by subtly squeezing his and presents her concepts in a way they spend countless hours creating pointer finger and thumb together on that meets student needs. Her epiphany elaborate (and often busy and confus- his non-gesturing hand while speaking. came when she realized the key to ing) slides. The memorization and time He reduced his flushing by holding a containing her anxiety was to focus on involved in these two approaches leave cold bottle of water before entering the needs of older audience members. little time for practice and produces the stage. Knowing he had the tools They attend her presentations to learn a scripted feel to the delivery. Audiences to manage his anxiety symptoms from her, not evaluate her. She has crave authenticity and connection, bolstered his confidence considerably. learned to manage her anxiety, and, not performance and distraction. rather than being nervous about After working through the processes Psychological Barriers presenting to adults, she now enjoys it. described above, you will feel more How do I deal with the intense confident and deliver a more engaged, scrutiny and judgment I feel Practical Concerns connected presentation. when speaking? What is the ideal way to prepare Clinical practice and academic When presenting, it is easy to feel for a presentation? research have repeatedly shown that as if you are under a microscope, Nothing bolsters confidence and keeps many powerful tools exist for manag- with your audience evaluating your the speaking jitters away like a well- ing speaking anxiety. I encourage you to every move. You can best address this prepared and practiced presentation. find the ones that help you feel confident “being in the spotlight” anxiety by To begin, identify your presentation- speaking up—without freaking out. T changing your mental focus. Rather delivery date; then map backward to than seeing your presentation as being set some deadlines for yourself. Here Matt Abrahams is the author of about you and what you want to say, are some suggested timeframes: Give the book Speaking Up Without put the focus on your audience and yourself three to four full days to prac- Freaking Out. He teaches Strate- ask, “What does my audience need to tice your presentation. This means your gic Communication at Stanford hear?” and “How can I ensure listeners speech must be completed almost a full University’s Graduate School of get the information they need?” The workweek before your delivery date. Business in Stanford, California, answers to these two questions move Allow yourself at least five days to and is co-founder of Bold Echo the spotlight away from you and write the content. (I recommend writ- Communication Solutions. To place it on your audience. You can ing an outline only, not a manuscript, learn more, visit BoldEcho.com accomplish this audience-centric shift to avoid the lure of memorization.) or No FreakingSpeaking.com. in three ways: You may need to schedule more than

TOASTMASTER MARCH 2013 27

26-27 Abrahams/Speaking Up without Freaking Out.V3.indd 27 1/31/13 1:46 PM 2500 Club Toastmasters from Jackson, Mississippi Founded in 2010; 35 active members The magenta band in the logo shows how the world is better when it is banded by people committed to effective leadership and communication. And the tagline, “Where Leaders Are Made,” offers hope that we will become something more. SHOW OFF YOUR BRAND! Top clubs in branding contest show their winning spirit.

ongratulations to the winners of Toastmasters brand identity in August 2011.) The contest will be extended International’s “Clubs: Show Off Your Brand!” until June 2013. Ccontest. Throughout the second half of 2012, Representatives from the clubs—located in cities ranging World Headquarters received more than a hundred photo from Jackson, Mississippi, to Cape Town, South Africa— submissions from dedicated clubs all over the world, dis- highlight their favorite aspects of the new brand designs. playing club spirit with an array of Toastmasters-branded For more information about the brand, visit materials and products. (Toastmasters unveiled a new www.toastmasters.org/BrandPortal.

Blue Talk Toastmasters from Smyrna, Georgia Founded in 2011; 23 active members Our favorite thing about the brand is the em- phasis it places on the international aspect of Toastmasters International. As a team, we especially like being a part of a much larger, global organization, which we promote in our recruiting efforts. In addition, we like the bold, modern look the brand is presenting. 28 WHERE LEADERS ARE MADE

28-29 Brand Contest Winners V2.indd 28 1/31/13 1:48 PM Aim High Toastmasters from Kuwait City, Kuwait Founded in 2012; 41 active members We appreciate the simplicity of the brand refresh. The broad range of colors to choose from makes it easier for our members who are creating marketing materials to promote Toastmasters’ educational and leadership programs. Each time a different color (burgundy, yellow, red or blue) is used, there is a unique new look.

2500 Club Toastmasters from Jackson, Mississippi Founded in 2010; 35 active members The magenta band in the logo shows how the world is better when it is banded by people committed to effective leadership and communication. And the tagline, “Where Leaders Are Made,” offers hope that we will become something more. Winelands Toastmasters from Cape Town, South Africa Founded in 1989; 31 active members The brand aids us in building credibility SHOW OFF YOUR BRAND! as a communication and leadership- development organization—not just a Top clubs in branding contest show their winning spirit. club. Also, the Toastmasters website gives very clear guidelines as to how the branding should be used. The ongratulations to the winners of Toastmasters brand identity in August 2011.) The contest will be extended explanations make it really easy to understand what to do. International’s “Clubs: Show Off Your Brand!” until June 2013. Ccontest. Throughout the second half of 2012, Representatives from the clubs—located in cities ranging World Headquarters received more than a hundred photo from Jackson, Mississippi, to Cape Town, South Africa— submissions from dedicated clubs all over the world, dis- highlight their favorite aspects of the new brand designs. playing club spirit with an array of Toastmasters-branded For more information about the brand, visit materials and products. (Toastmasters unveiled a new www.toastmasters.org/BrandPortal.

Flying Toasters Toastmasters from Renton, Washington Founded in 2010; 28 active members The globe logo signifies the true meaning of what an international organization is about. It represents how Toastmasters highlights each individual’s culture, geographic location, language, profession, education and experience. No matter where we are in our journey in the world, Toastmasters Blue Talk Toastmasters from Smyrna, Georgia International is there to help us improve Founded in 2011; 23 active members in many areas of our lives. Our favorite thing about the brand is the em- phasis it places on the international aspect of Toastmasters International. As a team, we especially like being a part of a much larger, global organization, which we promote in our recruiting efforts. In addition, we like the bold, modern look the brand is presenting. 28 WHERE LEADERS ARE MADE TOASTMASTER MARCH 2013 29

28-29 Brand Contest Winners V2.indd 28 1/31/13 1:48 PM 28-29 Brand Contest Winners V2.indd 29 1/31/13 1:48 PM FUNNY YOU SHOULD SAY THAT

PROCEED AT YOUR OWN RISK In a world of warning labels, here’s one about kids.

By John Cadley

arning: This column when they realize they are no longer life, being taken over by a person contains material that may the center of the universe. Reported weighing less than 20 pounds. This Wnot be suitable for all readers. reactions range from mild shock to condition will pass, but will reappear If you are pregnant, or intend to get crippling diarrhea. This baby does not in what medical researchers refer to as someone pregnant, you may want come with an owner’s manual because “the teen years,” at which time it will to read some other article—one that it tends to function in a highly unpre- present itself in the form of insolence, won’t give you nightmares. dictable manner. Anything written in rebellion and general distaste for I don’t mean to scare you, but I had the manual is likely to be contradicted everything you say, think or do. Unfor- to include that warning. If you’re mak- by the actual behavior of the child, tunately, this stage lasts longer than the ing something for public consumption leading to a fire hazard when you try toddler phase—anywhere from four or If I were allergic to tuna fish, I don’t imagine (like this column), you have to inform to burn the manual at 4 in the morn- five years to the remainder of your or folks that whatever you’re selling ing. This product also emits a sonic your child’s life, whichever comes first. I’d buy a can labeled “tuna fish.” could put them in the hospital, or even irritant known as crying, pitched IMPORTANT! PLEASE READ. in the ground. I included the warning to the exact frequency which, if not This product cannot be returned for above because I am going to tell you responded to immediately, will drive any reason. Nor can you obtain a about the only thing that doesn’t come normal people out of their minds. hospital credit, which allows you to with a warning label; it is something Daily maintenance is essential exchange your baby for another one. that can be far more injurious to your and will be in inverse proportion to Furthermore, this medical institution personal well-being than all the things the product’s size. The smaller the is not responsible for the appearance that do cause harm. child, the more you will need to keep of any side effects listed above. At I am speaking of children. it safe, nourished and contented. the time when you were making your I intend to petition the government Creams, salves, powders, bottles, baby, there should have been a large, that when a baby is born, a warning blankets, pacifiers, monitors, cribs, blinking neon sign saying PROCEED label be affixed to the wrist so that car seats, diapers, tiny bathtubs, AT YOUR OWN RISK. parents can know what they’ve just stuffed animals, teeny clothes, nose These warnings are required by gotten themselves into. Knowing how syringes and a spare phone with most law. However, properly cared for, this busy the government is solving the of the emergency code already dialed product can also provide years of debt crisis, creating jobs and voting represent the bare basics. It is also happiness and satisfaction. It’s rare, themselves pay raises, I’m even offer- recommended that you set up a direct but it happens. ing to write the label myself. deposit account at this time, because I know this warning label is a little WARNING: This product may in 18 years you will need $4 million long for a baby’s wrist. Maybe it cause anxiety, insomnia, confusion, to send him or her to college. could just be included in the wedding long-distance phone calls to your The biochemical materials with ceremony: “I now pronounce you mother, and, in particularly severe which your child is composed will man and wife. However … ” T cases, even calls to your obstetrician cause a rapid change from the infant asking, “Are you sure this is my kid?” stage to the toddler stage, a highly John Cadley, a former advertising Disorientation may also result from volatile and unstable condition that copywriter, is a freelance writer a sudden and irreversible change in must be handled firmly and consis- and musician living in Fayetteville, lifestyle. Those with strong narcissis- tently. Failure to do so may result in New York. tic tendencies are particularly at risk your home, and possibly your entire 30 WHERE LEADERS ARE MADE

30 Cadley.indd 30 1/31/13 1:49 PM TRAVELING TOASTMASTER

Picture yourself here! Pose with the Toastmaster magazine in your exciting surroundings. Email your high-resolution image (at least one megabyte) to [email protected]. Bon voyage!

Jessica Zirbes from Tinley Park, Illinois, celebrates her two-year wedding anniversary at Palm Beach in Aruba.

Girish Jain from Doha, Qatar, visits the Petronas Twin Towers in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

Chris Young from Burlington, Ontario, Canada, poses on the beautiful shore of Loch Ness in Scotland.

Mark Oostra from Mill Creek, Washington, braves Valerie Wagnerova from Pardubice, Czech Republic, enjoys the pandas the cold at Mt. Rainier near Seattle, Washington. in Chengdu, Sichuan, China.

More photos online @ facebook.com/ToastmastersInternationalOfficialFanPage. TOASTMASTER MARCH 2013 31 Share Toastmasters with your friends and WATC H THEM GROW Invite friends, encourage them to join and see them expand their potential.

Participate in the 1+1 membership-building program and help cultivate the next generation of communicators and leaders!

Learn how members, clubs and districts will be acknow- ledged for their efforts at www.toastmasters.org/1plus1.

LEARN MORE AT www.toastmasters.org/1plus1

1 + 1 Full Page Ad-Final.indd 32 1/31/13 1:51 PM