www.toastmasters.org How to Apologize Like a Celebrity

® May 2010 Beauty, Poise and Speaking Skills

History’s Most Important Speeches

Announcing the 2010 Golden Gavel Recipient VIEWPOINT TOASTMASTER

Publisher Daniel Rex Editor Suzanne Frey Associate Editors Beth Black Paul Sterman Editorial Assistant Katie De Boer Graphic Design Sue Campbell

TI OFFICERS AND DIRECTORS Founder Dr. Ralph C. Smedley (1878-1965) What Every 2009-2010 OFFICERS International President Gary Schmidt, DTM Clackamas, Oregon Senior Vice President Pat Johnson, DTM Toastmaster Victoria, British Columbia, Canada Second Vice President Michael R. Notaro, DTM Alameda, California Third Vice President John Lau, DTM Must Do Kuching, Malaysia Immediate Past President Jana Barnhill, DTM, AS Lubbock, Texas
Susan. Nancy. Dorothy. Gavin. Those are the names of four Toastmasters Executive Director Daniel Rex Mission Viejo, California who were invaluable to my personal development. What did they do? They Secretary-Teasurer Sally Newell Cohen simply encouraged me to take leadership roles in Toastmasters. They planted Mission Viejo, California seeds of encouragement. What subsequently blossomed has made all the difference in my life. 2009-2010 DIRECTORS Lyle Appleyard, DTM Pamela McCown, DTM This is the time of year when we elect officers to serve in every level of Stonewall, Manitoba, Canada Pasadena, Texas leadership in our organization. Are you stepping up to the plate to serve as an Sal Asad, DTM Earleen Norris, DTM Richmond, Virginia Truckee, California officer in your club or district? You should. I believe that your Toastmasters Theo Black, DTM Keith Ostergard, DTM career is incomplete until you have served as both club president and area Wayzata, Minnesota Beijing, China Ken Cawley, DTM Michael V. Raffety, DTM governor. Those are two of the most life-changing roles in Toastmasters. San Jose, California Chicago, Illinois As a club president, you will learn to motivate volunteers, operate within Pamela Christopher, DTM Mary G. Russell, DTM Union Grove, North Carolina Temple City, California a budget, organize people and projects, and help improve your club mem- Susan Dalati, DTM Poh Kim Siong, DTM bers’ lives. As an area governor, you will do all that and more by educating Manotick, Ontario, Canada Singapore Kristal DiCarlo, DTM Heath Suddleson, DTM and inspiring members of multiple clubs to succeed and overcome challenges. Westlake, Ohio Potomac, Maryland The best part of both these roles is that you will see the immediate impact Emmy Hager, DTM Tim Swearingen, DTM Auburn, Washington Chandler, Arizona of your contributions. It’s a phenomenal experience to watch a new member Ron Kirchgessner, DTM Annelie Weber, DTM deliver an Ice Breaker, encourage a member to hang on just a bit longer to Greenwood, Indiana New Windsor, Maryland earn a Competent Communicator award, or celebrate the achievements of your team when you earn Distinguished Club or Distinguished Area status. TOASTMASTERS INTERNATIONAL You also become a better communicator. As a club president or area P.O. Box 9052 • Mission Viejo, CA 92690 U.S.A. 949-858-8255 • Fax: 949-858-1207 governor, you have more opportunities to speak on diverse occasions, such Voicemail: 949-835-1300 as leading a business meeting, chairing an area council meeting or training members.toastmasters.org other officers. I love to tell those prospective area governors who initially CONTACTING WORLD HEADQUARTERS decline the role because they want to compete in speech contests, that they For information on joining will have more opportunities to speak as an area governor. That practice or building a club, visit: www.toastmasters.org will help them when they compete in speech contests the following year. Article submission: [email protected] Every leadership role I undertook in Toastmasters has made me a better Letters to the Editor: [email protected] To change address, communicator, a stronger leader and a more well-rounded person. I owe log in to: members.toastmasters.org my career and increased responsibilities at work to the leadership lessons I learned in Toastmasters. Isn’t it time for you to start your leadership journey, The TOASTMASTER Magazine (ISSN 00408263) is published monthly by Toastmasters International, Inc., 23182 Arroyo Vista, Rancho Santa Margarita, or to progress to the next level of your leadership development? CA 92688, U.S.A. Periodicals postage paid at Mission Viejo, CA and additional mailing office. POSTMASTER: Send address change to The TOASTMASTER Magazine, P.O. Box 9052, Mission Viejo, CA 92690, U.S.A. As for those four Toastmasters: Thank you, Susan Lannis, Nancy McCarthy, Published to promote the ideas and goals of Toastmasters Inter national, a non profit educational organization of clubs throughout the world dedicated Dorothy Cottingham and Gavin Blakey. Your belief in me has transformed to teaching skills in public speaking and leadership. Members’ subscriptions are included in the $27 semi annual dues. me into the person I am today. The official publication of Toastmasters International carries authorized notices and articles regarding the activities and interests of the organization, Your journey of leadership begins now! but responsibility is not assumed for the opinions of the authors of other articles. The TOASTMASTER magazine does not endorse or guarantee the products it advertises. Copyright 2010 Toastmasters International, Inc. All rights reserved. Repro duction in whole or in part without written permission is prohibited. Not responsible for unsolicited material. Toastmasters International, The TOASTMASTER, and the Toastmaster Inter national Emblem are trademarks of Toastmasters International registered in the United States, Canada and many other countries. Marca registrada en Gary Schmidt, DTM Mexico. Printed in U.S.A.

International President Printed on Recycled Paper

2 TOASTMASTER May 2010 May 2010 TABLE OF CONTENTS Volume 76, No. 5

ARTICLES &DEPARTMENTS 2 Viewpoint: What Every Toastmaster Must Do FEATURES By International President Gary Schmidt, DTM 4 Letters to the Editor History’s Most 5 My Turn: How to Apologize Like a Celebrity Important Speeches How not to say you are sorry . From Pericles to Mandela, orators’ By Chris Witt words echo through the ages. By William H. Stevenson, III 6 Profile: Engineering a First-Rate Club PAGE 8 Northrop Grumman corporate club consistently produces leaders and results . By Paul Sterman 12 William Safire: Language Legend The Best-Kept Late speechwriter and columnist leaves a towering legacy. Networking Secrets By Eugene Finerman From holding office to visiting the International Convention – 14 Looking at Language: Avoid Clichés Toastmasters offers opportunities Like the Plague for networking and fun. Eschew hackneyed phrases in By Heather O’Neill favor of inventive expression. PAGE 16 By Craig Harrison, DTM 19 Announcing Toastmasters’ 2010 Golden Gavel Recipient Recognizing Carolyn Kepcher as a business Beauty, Poise an d .. . leader, writer and television personality . Speaking Skills! Beauty pageant winners from around 20 Rx for Better Health: Toastmasters the world credit Toastmasters with Research links health maintenance helping them win their titles. to club membership. By Katie De Boer By Theodore Lustig, DTM PAGE 24 23 How To: The Power of a Winning Voice How to hit the right notes when speaking. By Eve Cappello, Ph.D., DTM The Toastmasters Vision: Toastmasters International empowers people to achieve their full potential and realize 28 For the Novice: My Time is Your Time their dreams. Through our member clubs, people throughout the world can improve The time limits you learned in Toastmasters their communication and leadership skills, and find the courage to change. hold value in your professional life. The Toastmasters Mission: By Merrill J. Davies, ACG Toastmasters International is the leading movement devoted to making effective oral communication a worldwide reality. 30 Funny You Should Say That! I’m Not Impressed Through its member clubs, Toastmasters International helps men and women The perils of making a good first impression. learn the arts of speaking, listening and thinking – vital skills that promote self-actualization, enhance leadership potential, foster human By John Cadley understanding, and contribute to the betterment of mankind. It is basic to this mission that Toastmasters International continually expand its worldwide network of clubs thereby offering ever-greater numbers On the Cover: Nicole Flint, Miss South Africa 2009. of people the opportunity to benefit from its programs. Photo by Peter Morey

TOASTMASTER May 2 010 3 LETTERS Do you have something to say? Write it in 200 words or less, sign it with your name, address and club affiliation and send it to [email protected].

Surgical Speaking Strategies page reminds me of my middle you Toastmasters, for taking a huge The January issue arrived at a perfec t school newsletter. stress in my life and turning it into time in my life. Your special issue of Bring back John Cadley’s page a very enjoyable hobby. Communicating with Medical Provi - on humor! Mike Haine • Cowichan Toastmasters • Duncan, B.C., Canada ders was most helpful as I was in Ted Fuller, CTM • Walnut Creek Sunrise Club • Walnut Creek, California the process of dealing with doctors Storytellers Need Feedback Too and specialists prior to surgery in Help for the Table Topics Challenge Regarding “The Glory of the Story” early February. I found “A Visit Craig Harrison’s article “Turning the (March) by Craig Harrison, I wish to to the Doctor” by Florence Ferreira Table on Table Topics” (February) is commend Craig for his comparison particularly informative. a gem of reference material and hope of Toastmasters to storytellers and I have also used this ongoing for those of us who struggle with the the best features of each organiza tion. medical experience as the inspiration impromptu side of a Toastmasters Having been a member of both a for Project #1 in the Special Occasion meeting. I plan to pick one strategy storytelling guild and Toastmasters, Speeches manual – Mastering the at a time in future meetings, so I I have often contemplated what one Toast. The assignment was a great can eventually practice all of them. organization can offer the other. opportunity for me to thank Toast - This is a copy of the Toastmaster To clarify one point: Our guild masters International as well as the magazine I will not give away! meetings are also a safe place for members in my home club. Thank Celia Berrell, ACB • Mount Sheridan Toastmasters Club members to practice stories and Cairns, Queensland, Australia you, Toastmasters! receive feedback. When a storyteller Diann Redden, ACS • Dryden Toastmasters • Dryden, Ontario, Canada is working on a new piece, perhaps a A Hidden Passion story he or she has written, we offer “The Traveling Toastmaster” Last June, after many years of des- appreciation and feedback according Wanders Too Far pising public speaking, I joined to the storyteller’s requests on that Toastmasters. In less than a year, I enjoyed the interesting, helpful particular day. Storytellers might ask I have completed much of the features in the March issue, with listeners to look for specific points, Competent Communication manual one exception. The Postcards page just as we do at Toastmasters. We and found it to be quite exciting. featuring “The Traveling Toast - share how the story affected us as I now get the same thrill out of master” doesn’t do much to enhance listeners, ways to make it more effec - public speaking as I do out of any my speaking, listening and leader - tive and best audiences for the story. high-speed sport. Toastmasters has ship abilities. They’re nice-looking Carolyn Wilker,ACS, CL • Energetics Toastmasters uncovered a hidden passion. Thank Waterloo, Ontario, Canada folks with pleasant smiles, but the

Important Notice to All Members Preparing for Single Sign-On at www.toastmasters.org he way members log in at www.toastmasters.org will change when the Toastmasters Web site is upgraded Tin July 2 010. Each member will need their own individual e-mail address updated in their profile at www.toastmasters.org . This e-mail address cannot be shared with another member. Club and district officers will no longer be required to have a separate login to conduct club and district business. Your single member login will give you access to everything you need. Members with a complete profile at www.toastmasters.org will be able to conduct business, purchase products at member-only prices and enjoy other online membership benefits. Those who share e-mail accounts with another member will not be able to log in to the Toastmasters Web site after June 30, 2010. Simply log in at www.toastmasters.org/login , access “My Profile” and make sure your e-mail address and other information is complete and accurate.

4 TOASTMASTER May 2 010 By Chris Witt MY TURN How to Apologize Like a Celebrity Professional athletes, late-night In Southern California, where I If people keep bringing up your talk show hosts, financial gurus, live, it’s common to blame an array misconduct, you can sigh as if to corporate and theme park execu- of problems – arriving late, standing suggest it’s rude of them to harp on tives, celebrities and – surprise, someone up, being generally rude – something that happened so long surprise – politicians are once again on traffic. But no matter where you ago. Offer a quasi-apology – “I’m in the news for acting badly. And live, you can point the finger at any sure we’re all sorry that things they’re offering apologies. number of situations beyond your turned out the way they did” – and Even with the best of intentions control: the weather, the economy, suggest that there are more impor- we all, at times, do or say things the fickleness of computers, the sorry tant issues at hand and shouldn’t that fall short of our own standards state of the world we live in or the we be getting on with things. and that hurt other people’s feel- stress of having too much to do. ings. So learning how to apologize If, for example, someone criti- Hide Your Feelings is an essential life skill. Your club cizes you for missing a deadline, If you feel remorse, regret or even might want to devote an entire say with a put-upon sigh, “My com- guilt because of what you’ve done – meeting or, at least a Table Topics puter crashed – must have been a people with a conscience often session, to exploring the right way virus – and it took the guys in IT do – make sure no one knows it. to say “I’m sorry.” forever to fix it.” Not only have you Make an apology the way sincere As a starting point for your dis - shifted people’s attention away from people do. Tell people you’re sorry. cus sions, consider the many ways your failure to something you can’t Accept responsibility. Offer to make it can be done badly, and you’ll possibly be held accountable for, amends. Ask for understanding and soon under stand the basics – what you’ve also made yourself the victim. forgiveness. But, like some celebri- not to say. Here is a list – based on ties, make it sound as if you don’t a few recent public examples – Use the Passive Voice believe a word you’re saying. If of the five most common ways Toastmasters’ Competent Com muni - possible, read from a script. Speak in celebrities apologize: cation manual advocates using clear a monotone. Avoid eye contact. And and powerful English. To accom- never reveal a heartfelt emotion. Blame the Other Person plish this, you should avoid the If you follow these five simple Start by saying how sorry you are. passive voice. But the passive voice guidelines, people may complain that Then shift the focus from your actions is key to apologizing like a celebri- you haven’t apologized at all. They to the other person’s reactions: “I’m ty. Say, “Mistakes were made,” not may even feel more offended than sorry that you were offended by what “I made a mistake.” Say, “There was before. But hey, what’ more impor- I did or said.” Make it sound as if an error of judgment,” not “I was tant? Maintaining your influence, fame the other person’s thin-skinned sen- wrong.” Say, “Regrettably, things and financial standing – as celebrities sibilities, outdated notions of fairness turned out not at all as were antici- do – or making things right? and decency, or failure to under- pated,” not “I regret having done Now that you’ve seen how cele - stand what you really meant – not things that caused so much trouble brities do it, your club will surely your misdeeds – are the real culprits. and hard feelings.” discover some more appropriate This common ploy lets you sound words and actions. Try it in Table like you’re apologizing without Delay as Long as Possible Topics. You may not win an Oscar requiring you to express culpability You may feel inclined – decent for your performance, but you’ll or regret. If you’re clever enough, you people often do – to offer an apol- receive something far more impor- may even get people to apologize ogy the moment you realize you’ve tant: Forgiveness. T to you. “I’m sorry,” they might say. done something wrong. Avoid the “Maybe I was being overly sensitive.” urge. Avoid saying anything at all. Chris Witt, author of Real Leaders Wait and see how things play out. Don’t Do PowerPoint, is an Offer an Excuse Maybe people will forget about executive speech coach based in If you can’t blame someone else, what you did, or maybe someone San Diego. You can reach him at you can always blame extenuating else will do something even worse. chris@wittcom. com or read his blog circumstances. Then you’re off the hook. at www.lifeafterpowerpoint.com.

May 2010 TOASTMASTER 5 PROFILE By Paul Sterman

Northrop Grumman corporate club consistently produces leaders and results.

Engineering a First-Rate Club y nature, engineers tend to to a tremendous amount of consis - aircraft, satellites and nuclear sub - be highly disciplined and task- tency – people you can count on.” marines. Its aerospace division Boriented individuals, and those Davis worked at Northrop from alone is a $ 10 billion business. who work for Northrop Grumman 1985 to 2000, primarily as a budget Corporate club members pay Corporation – the second-largest analyst. When she started, she was their own dues, but Northrop offers defense contractor in the United admittedly shy and hesitant in financial assistance for Toastmasters- States – are among the most accom - group settings. A senior member related items. “Toastmasters clubs plished in their industry. It should in her department once told Davis: offer employees a way to develop come as no surprise, then, that the “You know what you’re doing – communication and organizational Northrop Grumman Toastmasters has why don’t you speak up more?” skills, which we see as useful in the been extremely successful in achiev - After joining the corporate club, workplace,” says Jim Hart, manager ing its goals and producing leaders. her confidence improved markedly. of external affairs for Northrop’s The club is located at Northrop’s “When I started taking on aerospace division. aerospace-systems facility in El leadership roles, like club officer Club members agree that such Segundo, California. The defense positions, area, division and district participation pays dividends in their contractor sponsors 20 corporate governor, that’s when [my confi - careers. Many kinds of engineers clubs in the United States, but the dence] really kicked in,” she says. work at the aerospace plant, and El Segundo club stands out in many “I found myself speaking up more they grapple with complex technical ways. It is 57 years old and has in business meetings. Then I got issues: aging aircraft, flight software, produced numerous district leaders a promotion and started making spacecraft designs and hydraulic over the years, including six district more presentations to management systems, for example. When talking governors. One, Marsha James Davis, and customers.” to managers, colleagues or clients, also served on Toastmasters’ Inter - Davis is a Distinguished Toast - they need to express themselves national Board of Directors from master and now works for Tecolote effectively. Yet club president 1999 to 2001. Research, Inc., as a principal analyst Mayur Patel notes that engineers In addition, the 45-member club and earned-value management spe - are often so deeply immersed in has earned President’s Distinguished cialist, but she still attends occasional their technical training and research status four of the past six years and Northrop Grumman club meetings that they overlook developing clear- Select Distinguished the other two. to stay connected. She says her time communication skills. “Its part of the aerospace culture in the group changed her life – not “Toastmasters helps bridge that to plan things out and set goals,” only professionally, but personally gap by providing opportunities to says Michael Jue, DTM, a past dis - as well: It was a fellow Northrop speak and to experience leader - trict governor and member of the club member who introduced Davis ship,” says Patel, who started as El Segundo club. “The thing about to her husband, Glen Davis, DTM. an engineer at Northrop but is now our club being made up largely of a project manager. “If you have a aerospace engineers is that there’s Why Club Membership Pays Off great solution to a technical prob - a certain amount of stability.” Northrop Grumman was founded in lem but you don’t have the com - Jue is a prime example: He’s been 1939, and now employs about 120,000 munication skills to get it across, a member for 32 years. Davis also people worldwide. Head quartered in you’re going to be at a loss.” points to the club’s culture: “The Los Angeles, it has government and “The reason many people join is majority of members are very struc - commercial clients, and develops because they need to make techni - tured individuals, so that lends itself military tools, including unman ned cal presentations at work and have

6 TOASTMASTER May 2 010 3Northrop Grumman Toastmasters enjoy a holiday party at Deluca Trattoria Restau rant in El Segundo, Calif. Michael Jue (far left) is a 32-year club member.

difficulties,” adds Jue, who retired man, he had a severe stuttering This corporate club is open to from Northrop last year after a 35- problem. In 1977, when Miner the public, with almost half its year career. started working for the U.S. Naval members coming from outside the Patel says Toastmasters training Research Laboratory in Washington, company. Northrop employees gave him the confidence to deliver D.C., he joined an in-house Toast - say it’s great to have such diverse speeches outside of work, as masters club: the now-defunct perspectives brought in by members well. Earlier this year, he gave a Thomas Edison Toastmasters. such as Darrell Winfrey, the host presentation on risk-management “Over 20 years’ experience in of a jazz radio show, and Nate processes to a local branch of the Toastmasters, I gradually gained a Chittick, a former National Football National Sojourners (a Masonic fluency that, back in high school, League player who now works as a Veterans group). I could only dream about,” he said financial advisor for Morgan Stanley “It felt great – that feeling of in a recent telephone interview. Smith Barney. satisfaction from being able to pro- “Before I joined Toastmasters, I “In the business world, commu- vide value and benefit to others,” could not have held a conversation nication is such a big part of every- says Patel. like the one we are having now.” thing,” says Chittick, who played for Miner eventually moved to the Super Bowl-winning St. Louis Speaking at the Shipyard Virginia and started working at Rams in 1999. When he was a pro Wade Miner, DTM, is a Computational Northrop Shipbuilding. In 2004 he athlete, he adds, he sometimes gave Fluid Dynamics engineer for North- helped start its first Toastmasters speeches to community organiza- rop Grumman Shipbuilding, which club, called Spear and Gear. The tions. Now the Northrop club helps employs 20,000 people, in Newport following year, he was instrumental keep the former football champ in News, Virginia. He says the skills in chartering the At the Helm club. speaking shape: “public speaking is that shipyard engineers hone in like a muscle – you have to keep Toastmasters are vital in their work More Job Benefits using it.” designing ships for the U.S. Navy, Engineers aren’t the only employees As for Patel, he says serving as the unit’s main client. who benefit from the Northrop a club officer taught him a great “When there’s a meeting between Toastmasters groups. Hoa Hoang, deal about leadership, which our people and one of the Navy who handles applications support helps him as a project manager. organizations, our engineers need and training in the business devel- “It’s taught me a lot about how to be able to communicate compe- opment department, joined the to relate to people of different tently and clearly,” says Miner, Northrop Grumman club in El age groups and backgrounds,” he president of the corporate club At Segundo club two years ago, after says. “In a volunteer organization, The Helm. “They need to be able to attending its annual Speechcraft you also learn about what gets com municate with confidence. Some program. people motivated.” T future decisions can easily depend “The club has helped me be on how well they communicate.” more comfortable when I do the Paul Sterman is a Toastmaster in Miner’s own Toastmasters story training and give presentations,” Orange, California, and an associate is particularly powerful. As a young she notes. editor of the Toastmaster magazine.

May 2010 TOASTMASTER 7 His tory’s By William H. Stevenson, III Most I mpo From Pericles to Mandela, orators’ words echo through the ages. Speeches

uthor Terry Golway faced a daunting crimes of Chauri Chaura or the mad outrages of Bombay. .. . I knew that I was playing with task: He needed to identify the 50 fire. I ran the risk and if I was set free I would best speeches of all time for a new still do the same. .. . I wanted to avoid violence. A Non violence is the first article of my faith. It is book. He pored over dramatic orations, also the last article of my creed. But I had to given by all sorts of public figures, such make my choice. I had either to submit to a system which I considered had done an as Mahatma Gandhi. irreparable harm to my country, or incur the Gandhi, of course, was the Indian leader who risk of the mad fury of my people bursting forth famously preached non-violent resistance to British rule when they understood the truth from my lips. in his quest for India’s independence. The people acted Gandhi’s words were stirring – their impact, epic. on his call for mass civil disobedience, but despite his His willingness to become a martyr to the cause of emphasis on nonviolence, fighting did break out in Indian independence, and to his principles, influenced several cities, and Gandhi was put on trial. many other nonviolent “freedom fighters” throughout the In a speech on March 18, 1922, Gandhi accepted years, such as Martin Luther King Jr. responsibility for the bloodshed. Though he anguished History is full of memorable speeches. Golway makes over the possibility of such crimes, he had to preach a case for the greatest of these in Words that Ring disobedience, he told the judges. His heartfelt words, through Time: The Fifty Most Important Speeches in delivered extemporaneously, elevated his cause to an History and How They Changed Our World. He looks at almost-religious level: which speeches made a huge impact on their audience Thinking over these things deeply and sleeping and still affect us today. over them night after night, it is impossible for Gandhi, for example, demonstrated how a man’s words me to dissociate myself from the diabolical and spirit unified a country, says Golway: “Gandhi had

Mahatma Gandhi Pericles susan b. anthony

8 TOASTMASTER May 2 010 r tant

no armies at his command, and yet he mobilized tens of millions, and his words still do so today.”

Great Speeches Share Traits The book’s collected speeches span a time from the days of Moses to Barack Obama’s recent U.S. presidential campaign. As different as these selections are, they all share two characteristics. First, the speaker connects his listeners to something greater than themselves – often an idea or an ideal such as democracy, justice or freedom. One theme that occurs again and again is self-determination. Sometimes that’s expressed as a person’s desire to be an equal member of society (Susan B. Anthony advocating for women’s right to vote), sometimes as the desire of a people to be an independent nation. A second characteristic is eloquent simplicity, words that everyone can relate to. King Albert of Belgium, for example, gave a radio address to his countrymen in 1914, just as World War I was beginning. “Everywhere in Flanders and Wallonia, in the towns and in the country - side, one single feeling binds all hearts together: the sense of patriotism,” he said, simply and eloquently. Golway’s selections show how speakers throughout the ages have crafted their addresses for maximum impact.

A Greek Orator Inspires In the year 430 B.C., the Athenian leader Pericles gave a funeral oration honoring soldiers who died in the ongoing

“Gandhi had no armies at his command, and yet he mobilized tens of millions, and his words still do so today.” King Albert John F. Kennedy

May 2010 TOASTMASTER 9 war with Sparta. Rather than give a showy speech laced ern women’s suffrage movement. It would take almost with melodrama and heated descriptions of battle, he another 50 years, but when the 19th amendment was began by saying the deeds of the fallen spoke more passed in June 1919, American women finally had the powerfully than any words. Pericles didn’t thrill his right to vote. Anthony’s words helped keep the dream audience with battle scenes. He didn’t give them the alive throughout the time it took to reach that goal. Iliad, updated. Instead of speaking of the men who fought, he spoke of the ideals they fought for. They A King’s Powerful Appeal died for Athens, the greatest state in Greece. And why The coming of the 20th century brought technological was it great? Because Athens was a democracy and had advances that enabled a speaker to reach an audience a spirit of freedom and openness: beyond the power of his voice. In August 1914, King Albert of Belgium went on the radio to speak to millions. The administration is in the hands of the many World War I had just started and the German army was and not of the few ... when a citizen is in any preparing to pour across the Belgian border in its rush way distinguished, he is preferred to the public toward France. “Albert sought to rally his countrymen service, not as a matter of privilege, but as a against an overpowering aggressor, knowing full well reward of merit. Neither is poverty an obstacle, that the odds were against Belgium,” says author Golway. but a man may benefit his country whatever the He had no easy task, since Belgium was a mosaic of obscurity of his condition. ethnic groups, some speaking Dutch, some French, and Pericles urged his listeners to rededicate themselves to others speaking additional languages. How could he draw the struggle at hand – as citizens of a police state ruled them together? In his address the king subtly appealed by an oligarchy – and reminded them that the fallen to all Belgians to put aside their differences and focus soldiers would have the greatest memorial of all, one on something greater than themselves – their country: “graven not on stone, but in the hearts of men.” In this Everywhere in Flanders and Wallonia, in the quiet but moving oration, Pericles elevated the living as towns and in the countryside, one single feeling well as the dead by reminding them of cherished ideals. binds all hearts together: the sense of patriotism. Speaking Out for Women’s Suffrage One single vision fills all minds: that of our inde- pendence endangered. One single duty imposes In 1872, Susan B. Anthony was arrested by a United itself on our wills: the duty of stubborn resistance States Deputy Marshal. Her offense? Voting in an election. ... I have faith in our destinies; a country which Two weeks earlier, she had cast a ballot in the presiden- is defending itself conquers the respect of all; tial election, in defiance of a law that allowed only men such a country does not perish! to do so. Before her trial she embarked on a speaking tour to justify her actions. She made her case a symbol Note the repeated use of simple but powerful words for something greater, “the disfranchisement of one conveying unity and inclusiveness: one single feeling, entire half of the people.” Anthony referenced a sacred one single vision, one single duty, all hearts, our wills. document in the eyes of 19th-century Americans – the The Belgian people responded to their sovereign’s United States Constitution: appeal with such spirit that “Little Belgium’s” resistance has been a byword for courage ever since. It was we, the people, not we the white male citizens; nor yet we, the male citizens; but we, Kennedy and the Berlin Wall the whole people, who formed the Union ... And Just as King Albert and Mahatma Gandhi sought to unify it is downright mockery to talk to women of their their countries with their speeches, John F. Kennedy enjoyment of the blessings of liberty while they wanted to reunify East and West Germany under a free are denied the use of the only means of securing government when he gave his famous Berlin Wall speech them – the ballot. in 1963. “John Kennedy’s speech in Berlin is one of my Anthony then cited the dictionary definition of the favorites,” says Golway, “because we hear the voice of word citizen: “Webster, Worchester and Bouvier all pure outrage. The Berlin Wall, Kennedy said, was a define a ‘citizen’ to be a person in the United States, perfect symbol of the difference between West and East, entitled to vote and hold office. The only question left between freedom and totalitarianism.” With the infamous to be settled now is: Are women persons?” wall as a backdrop, Kennedy discarded his prepared While her parsing of Webster might be questioned, speech and spoke from the heart: Anthony’s point was clear and simple: Women are people, There are many people in the world who really and, thus, should have the same rights as men. Her words don’t understand, or say they don’t, what is the greatly inspired her followers and gave hope to the mod-

10 TOASTMASTER May 2010 great issue between the free world and the the oppression of one by another and suffer the Communist world. Let them come to Berlin!... indignity of being the skunk of the world. All free men, wherever they may live, are citizens Mandela’s ideas are elevated but his words are com- of Berlin, and, therefore, as a free man, I take monplace, even earthy. Will there ever come a time when pride in the words, “Ich bin ein Berliner.” they are not understood, or when they fail to inspire? Kennedy’s German may not have been perfect, but “Nelson Mandela’s inaugural address was one of everyone understood his meaning: “I am a Berliner. those rare ceremonial occasions that are the stuff of Your struggle is mine.” history,” says Golway. “The world will remember his inauguration as a milestone toward the creation of a Mandela’s Milestone Address new and hopefully more just global society. His speech Nelson Mandela’s 1994 inaugural speech as president of was a testimonial to the power of determination, South Africa was an extraordinary event. Although he had patience and forgiveness.” been imprisoned for 27 years in the cause of equality in No doubt there will be as many great speeches in the South Africa, Mandela spoke without bitterness, sounding next 2,500 years as there were in the last. And the the same theme that Pericles spoke of so many years before speakers who deliver them will likely follow the same – the desire of all people to have a fair chance in life: formula of expressing a lofty ideal in down-to-earth lan- guage. No matter how their speeches are phrased, one We shall build the society in which all South thing is clear: Their words will be heard, hearts will find Africans, both black and white, will be able to resolve and history will change course as a result. T walk tall, without any fear in their hearts, assured of their inalienable right to human dignity – William H. Stevenson, III, is a freelance writer in a rainbow nation at peace with itself and the Hunts ville, Alabama. He has been a member of three world ... Never, never, and never again shall it Toastmasters clubs in the Huntsville area. Contact be that this beautiful land will again experience him at [email protected].

May 2010 TOASTMASTER 11 By Eugene Finerman

Late speechwriter and columnist leaves a towering legacy

William Safire: Language Legend

bituaries described William Safire as an author, “Bill gave me some of the best lexicographer, speechwriter, pundit and maven. He professional advice that I ever re - O ceived: ‘Write what you experience would have relished those words, not simply as a tribute to and see,’” Noonan recalls in an inter- him but as a display of the rich diversity of the English lan- view with the Toastmaster magazine. “He felt that those who are living guage. Safire could have told you the derivation of each word. history (and everyone who works at the White House is living history) Author is from Latin, lexicographer read column he wrote for the New have a responsibility to record it is Greek, speechwriter is Anglo- York Times Magazine for 30 years, as accurately, as truly, as possible – Saxon – a dialect of German, made him one of the world’s best- to not let it go, and disappear into pundit is Hindi and maven is known arbiters of English vocabu- anecdotes told late at night.” Yiddish. Safire loved English for its lary and language usage. Safire’s prodding paid off, says vitality, earthiness, expansiveness Safire was also a Pulitzer Prize- Noonan, grateful for the encourage- and humor. People loved him for winning political columnist for the ment and support. the very same qualities. New York Times, a noted speech- “He urged me to write, each Toastmasters, in particular, writer for United States president day, a thought or two. I told him admired his eloquence. Anyone who Richard M. Nixon and a high-profile it was a great idea but I didn’t have has struggled to write a speech that public relations man before that. time; I got home from the office at articulates exactly what it should – Peggy Noonan, a Wall Street 10 p.m., and I was tired. He said, with wit, precision, style and poetry Journal columnist who achieved ‘Just a sentence, anyone can do – understands the value of this fame as a speechwriter for Ronald that!’ I agreed anyone could, and man’s accomplishments Reagan and George H.W. Bush, tried. What he knew is that no The erudite New York native, praises Safire’s abundant contribu- writer writes just a sentence. By who died last September at age tions, calling him a “giant” in the getting me to agree to write one, 79, wielded enormous influence in world of media and politics. He he was getting me to agree to a the communications arena. “On was also a generous mentor and page or two or three. Because of Language,” the witty and widely friend, she says. this I didn’t ‘lose’ my White House,

12 TOASTMASTER May 2010 I kept it; I recorded it to the best In 1959, the United States and the administration as a speechwriter. of my ability.” Soviet Union enjoyed a thaw in the Ironically, in the five years he In his language column, Safire Cold War, and the powers sponsored served as a White House speech- wrote with wisdom and humor cultural exchanges. That year the writer, Safire is best remembered about linguistic trends, grammar “American National Exhibit” came to for a punch line. Assigned the role issues, political rhetoric and the Moscow and Safire was there, over- of the administration’s partisan endless permutations of words and seeing the model-home exhibit pro- defender, Vice President Spiro phrases. He delved into subjects duced by his client – a home-con- Agnew denounced critics as ranging from “blargon” (blog jargon) struction company. Then-U.S. Vice “nattering nabobs of negativism.” to the grammatical nuances of the phrase “enough already!” Other columns were etymological “His 13,000 columns and many excavations, with Safire digging into books established him as one of the origins of slang and the history of words as basic as “soap.” He the world’s leading commentators once tracked the evolution of the on the English language.” word galumph, tracing it back to its birth as “galumpher” in Lewis Carroll’s Alice in Wonderland. Ever wonder about the word canoodle? President Richard Nixon hosted the That unique phrase, so distinct from Safire’s sleuthing found it may be event’s opening ceremonies, and the usual political rhetoric, made a related to the German dumpling the guest of honor was the Soviet sensation. It reflects Safire’s flair for called “Knoedel.” Premier Nikita Khrushchev; the two language as well as his love of “I am a language maven, a word leaders might have browsed past (Continued on page 27) with a range of senses, from ‘afi- the model home but Safire thought cionado’ to ‘enthusiast’ to ‘scholar’ of a way to make them the inadver- to ‘connoisseur,” Safire once wrote. tent promoters of his client. Even football was fair game. The exhibit had planned for a When the Rolling Stones performed smooth, one-way flow of traffic. A Sample at the halftime show of the 2006 Safire made a slight alteration, rear- Super Bowl, Safire took the famous ranging the cordons so that tourists frontman Mick Jagger to task for were coming from both directions of Safire using bad grammar. Introducing and blocking the access of Nixon ne of Safire’s most famous their hit “Satisfaction,” Jagger said to and Khrushchev. Along with their columns was his “Rules for the crowd, “Everything comes to he interpreters and other dignitaries, O Writers,” in which he listed who waits.” Here was another half- they were trapped inside the model’s 18 rules by cannily demon - time malfunction, noted Safire – this kitchen. One thing led to another, strating what not to do. Here time verbal. The columnist’s profes- and somehow Nixon and Khrushchev are a few examples: sorial explanation of Jagger’s error: ended up pointedly discussing “Because he is the subjective case nuclear weapons. This episode “A writer must not shift of the third-person male pronoun, famously became known as the your point of view.” it cannot be the object of the pre - “kitchen debate.“ It included a “And don’t start a sentence position to. The pronoun must be memorable photograph – which with a conjunction. (Remem - the objective case him.” Safire had slyly set up – of Nixon ber, too, a preposition is a Got that? poking his finger into Khrushchev’s terrible word to end a Imagine having William Safire chest. That image solidified Nixon’s sentence with.)” as your club’s grammarian. It no credentials as a man who could stand “Don’t overuse exclamation doubt would have been an educa- up to the Soviets. The vice presi- marks!!” tional experience. dent had to admire the savvy publi- “Writing carefully, dangling Safire first came to American cist who manipulated the encounter. participles must be avoided.” national prominence in the late William Safire had won a new client. “Take the bull by the hand 1950s, when he was an executive at When Nixon became U.S. presi- and avoid mixing metaphors.” a New York public relations agency. dent in 1968, Safire joined the

May 2010 TOASTMASTER 13 LOOKING AT LANGUAGE By Craig Harrison, DTM

Eschew hackneyed phrases in favor of inventive expression.

Avoid Clichés Like the Plague he judicious use of clichés, No use crying over spilled milk descriptions. Your readers and lis- those stereotypical expressions Old as dirt teners will appreciate it. Twe hear so often, can be I wasn’t born yesterday effective, both in speech and in What goes around comes around Opening Salvos print. When used appropriately, Yada, yada, yada Perhaps the most common cliché clichés are a form of shorthand that Moving forward heard in Toastmasters is the speech can get listeners to nod knowingly At the end of the day opener “Mr./Madam Toastmaster, while furthering the intended course It’s déjà vu all over again fellow Toastmasters and most wel- of action. Yet excessive reliance on It’s like putting lipstick on a pig come guests.” Yet have you ever clichés can be fatal to speeches and When all is said and done noticed that none of the contestants stories, and should be avoided Laughing all the way to the bank in the World Championship of whenever possible. It’s now or never Public Speaking starts his or her A cliché, by definition, is a trite, Tried and true speech this way? It’s not that they commonplace expression – a sen- It’s a slam dunk don’t use this line, and they clearly tence or phrase usually conveying No man left behind mean no disrespect to the audience a popular or common thought or That goes without saying and judges, but they avoid mud- idea. But the very fact that it has Talk is cheap dling up their speech opening with become a cliché, through popular Where there’s smoke, there’s fire a sentence so common and bland. use – and overuse – suggests that Why would they? the phrase has lost originality and If I Had a Nickel … While some would argue the ingenuity and, thus, impact. By attending Toastmasters meet- merits of beginning each speech Using a cliché is like taking a ings regularly, you’re likely with the customary “Mr./Madam familiar shortcut. At times, it can exposed to a separate set of Toastmaster, fellow Toastmasters reassure listeners or allow you to clichés. Examples: and most welcome guests,” I express yourself without thinking believe strongly that each speech Without further ado too much. Yet it shows a lack of should begin not with a cliché Put your hands together for imagination and robs the language (especially one that only applies to This speaker needs no of interesting word combinations Toastmasters audiences) but with a introduction and fresh descriptions. The danger unique statement, exclamation or And so on and so forth is that this path will lead you to question specific to that speech. Think outside the box stale thinking. My advice: Avoid You can easily follow up, after your In the final analysis clichés ... like the plague! speech’s first sentence, or its first In conclusion paragraph, with some sort of greet- Day-To-Day Clichés To which I respond: ing. Don’t miss the opportunity to Every culture and language has its open your speech powerfully with a clichés. Many embody universal Get Thee to a Thesaurus tailor-made statement. truths. Some come from farming, Don’t be lazy. Replace these over - sports, business or the political used phrases. A good first step is Can You Do the Twist? arena. Others come from the consulting a thesaurus for appro- Let’s face it: Clichés are common. In influences of foreign cultures. priate alter natives. Seek precision place of clichés, be creative in your Consider the following: in your speeches and stories. writing and speaking. Be inventive. Focus on specificity in your Eschew the mundane.

14 TOASTMASTER May 2010 Among the great joys of the many of these clichés you hear during English language are the creative the meeting – but don’t yell “Bingo!” ways in which sentences can be aloud. For advanced credit, expand 6 Download a blank Cliché Bingo chart at: http://tinyurl.com/yjxdr8j fashioned. Take pride in mixing and this table to 4” x 4” or 5” x 5.” T matching words to create new, evocative combinations that enrich Mr./Madam your stories, speeches and essays. Toastmaster, fellow Put your hands This speaker needs If nothing else, modify the cliché. Toastmasters & most together for no introduction For example, at a recent meeting welcome guests of the LaughLovers club in Oakland, California, I began my speech with the salutation “Good evening, ladies and Laughlovers!” Because it was a Without further ado TOASTMASTERS Think outside ® twist on a standard cliché (ladies INTERNATIONA L the box and gentlemen), it garnered a laugh. You, too, can surprise and delight your audiences by employing twists And so on In the to common clichés and create fresh And in conclusion and so forth final analysis word sequences that are simultane - ously familiar and different.

Cliché Bingo Craig Harrison, DTM, of Berkeley, California, is a member of several Toast - Bring this Cliché Bingo sheet to masters clubs. He is a professional speaker and founder of Expressions of your next club meeting. See how Excellence. Contact him via www.ExpressionsOfExcellence.com .

May 2010 TOASTMASTER 15 The Best-Kept Ne

From holding office to hhh. Come closer. Don’t tell, but I’m about to expose visiting the International the biggest secret in Toastmasters. For a lot of Convention – Toastmasters SToastmasters, membership is about getting over the offers opportunities for fear of public speaking. For some, it’s about reducing ahs networking and fun. and ums. For others, it’s about improving their ability to

manage a team or lead a meeting. While it’s important, of course, to learn all of those things, almost all Toastmasters will tell you that oppor - By Heather O’Neill tunities for networking are also important. The relationships you build

16 TOASTMASTER May 2 010 3 Dianne Boulay of Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada (right) talks to Past International Director Suezy Proctor, DTM, during the 2008 International Convention in Calgary, Alberta, Canada.

with mentors, contest opponents turned friends, and unique opportunity to grow and get to know so many new people you meet at conventions are indispensable different people.” reasons why Toastmasters everywhere are successful and Writer Anais Nin said, “Each contact with a human fulfilled enough to remain members for years. being is so rare, so precious, one should preserve it.” I attended the 2009 Toastmasters International Con - Remember each smile, extended hand or words of wis- vention in Mashantucket, Connecticut, with the intention dom from a mentor. And remember that life is cyclical. of doing research on networking within Toastmasters. Sometimes you receive the words of encouragement and Beyond all expectations, I made contacts with interest- sometimes you give them. Most Toastmasters will tell ing, accomplished speakers from around the world. Not you that they found the biggest gift when giving back only did I find experienced people to interview, I made to a person, their club or the organization as a whole. a new business contact in Canada and reconnected with Networking is mentoring, giving back, learning, growing old friends. Opportunities abound when you open your and building relationships in all capacities. It’s extremely eyes to them. You can create a strategic alliance, make beneficial in all aspects of our lives – and yet somewhat a new friend or find a new job. It’s true that networking daunting to execute. Here are some easy steps you can might take you out of your comfort zone. So what? take to improve your networking skills. Didn’t you prepare to leap over the boundaries of your comfort zone the moment you joined Toastmasters? Some Fine Tips I learned a great deal from Debra Fine, professional Give of Yourself and It Comes Back Tenfold speaker and bestselling author of The Fine Art of Small Past District 59 Governor Odile Petillot has found Talk: How to Start a Conversation, Keep it Going, Build networking opportunities within her home club and Rapport and Leave a Positive Impression. Fine offers beyond. Her bilingual club in Paris, The Europeans, many helpful tips, but one jewel that stood out for me gains an average of 16 new members each year from was, “Assume the burden of other people’s comfort.” all over the world, in places such as Spain, Russia, It can be uncomfortable to start a conversation or join Ireland, Japan, Germany, Argentina and North America. a group of people. As I looked around at my fellow etworking Secrets

She enjoys learning about the new members’ countries attendees during the last International Convention, many and cultures, but she and fellow club members also were talking on cell phones or reading the Convention benefit from business relationships sometimes formed program. I realized many of those people were probably with these new members. just trying to look busy so they could avoid the discom- Petillot maintains that the first step to better network- fort of speaking to someone new. I’m one of the more ing is to become a club officer. She elaborates: “The gregarious people (some may say obnoxious or forward) higher you go up the [leadership] ladder [in Toastmasters], and I still felt uncomfortable walking up to people I the more you extend your horizon and the circle of didn’t know. I could only imagine how uneasy more potential relationships. When I was the governor of reserved or introverted individuals might feel. District 59, I had a team of 40 people working with So I decided to “assume the burden of other people’s me in 17 European countries – the number of countries comfort.” I began a conversation with a very nice but in our district at the time. I learned how to work with somewhat nervous woman in line. She seemed startled people whose methods and characteristics were very at first but then opened up. She was a new member and different from mine. It was a lifetime experience; I had the advantage of living within driving distance of can’t thank our organization enough for giving me this the conference. How brave she was to jump feet-first

May 2010 TOASTMASTER 17 table, then afterward introduce each other to the interesting Networking Tips from new people we met?” Who could resist that opportunity? Conversation Expert Debra Fine: Think Globally At this same training, I learned about an international Don’t wait to start until you need something networking experience involving Toastmasters in a talk ... start today. Increase your visibility now. given by Dr. Ward Thrasher, assistant dean and MBA director for the University of Bridgeport, Connecticut Assume the burden of other people’s comfort. (the sponsor for the event). Dr. Thrasher mentioned a Come prepared with topics you can discuss and strategic relationship that may lead to a new Toast masters questions to ask. If you are going to a conven- club in China. While teaching as an adjunct professor in tion, you can ask attendees about exhibits they China, he was approached for advice on enhancing a recommend, what they liked about a breakout new program aimed at improving the doctors’ English session or the best practices of their home club. communication at a local hospital. Of course, Dr. Learn each person’s name. If you don’t think Thrasher included Toastmasters in his recommendations, you understood it properly, repeat it – several and the hospital has considering starting a new club. times if necessary – until you do. Taking the When I asked Dr. Thrasher about his advice on net- time to learn and repeat a person’s name in working, he said, “Networking is not an event-driven conversation demonstrates respect. process. Anyone you interact with is an opportunity. You Don’t get too personal. Asking a tactful don’t know what bridge is going to lead to what destina- question like, “What keeps you busy outside tion.” So take those business cards with you everywhere. of work?” doesn’t make an assumption about You might run into someone at the grocery store who the person but gives them the chance to would benefit from Toastmasters. Or you might end up divulge what they wish about themselves. affecting someone’s life halfway around the world. Poet Alfred Lord Tennyson said, “I am a part of all Respect differences. Follow the actions of that I have met.” Every person you meet leaves a piece others to build comfort, particularly when of himself with you ... and you with him. Now that talking with people from different countries. you know the secret gem of Toastmasters – be open to Let them lead. Model your behavior after theirs networking within your club, at contests, conferences (eye contact, handshake, etc.) to respect any and the International Convention. Step outside your cultural differences. comfort zone and take on an officer position – or simply Give a full response. If someone asks you start a conversation. a question, try not to respond with a bland Don’t let your networking end when you leave your “good.” Elaborate to give them something meeting or a conference. Join a Toastmasters group on they can connect with. Facebook, Twitter or LinkedIn. When you join an online group, you are instantly connected to a wealth of exper- tise. You can post a question and receive responses and into a convention with thousands of people from around suggestions from Toastmasters all over the globe. Pranay the world! Juyal, past president of Infosys Toastmasters in Bangalore, Fine also offers tips on meeting new people and writes: India, uses many of these applications, though LinkedIn “Don’t sit with someone you know.” She says we often is his favorite. Whether online or in person, Juyal is cer- use people we know as a crutch, but we have to remem- tain of the power of meeting others and says, “Networking ber that networking is about meeting new people, finding is the single most important tool I use in Toastmasters.” future resources and making connections. A few months So the next time you are talking to a prospective new ago, several members of my home club attended a member, don’t just say, “You’ll grow and challenge your- Toastmasters Leadership Institute. As we looked for seats self as a speaker.” Also say, “When you join Toastmasters, in the auditorium, we naturally chose a row where we you’ll meet the most amazing group of people ever! T could sit together. I thought about Ms. Fine’s words and realized that we were missing out on a golden opportunity Heather O’Neill is a writer, speaker and the VPPR for the to meet new people. You certainly wouldn’t want to hurt Barnum Square Toastmasters in Bethel, Connecticut. She anyone’s feelings by abandoning your group. However, is a small-business owner who has grown her business you could arrange an agreement ahead of time by saying primarily through the power of networking. Reach her something like, “How about we each sit at a different at [email protected].

18 TOASTMASTER May 2010 Announcing Toastmasters’ 2010 Golden Gavel Recipient: Carolyn Kepcher This summer, at the 2010 Inter - have the faintest idea of how national Convention in Palm Desert, to get ahead or move to the California, Toastmasters International next level of their careers.” properties. Known for her aggres- will honor Carolyn Kepcher with the Through the company she found- sive sales and operating budgets, prestigious Golden Gavel award for ed, WorkHerWay.com, Kepcher she found success relying on her her achievements as a business leader, leads a team of more than 150 con- ability to determine new trends in writer and television personality. tributing authors and subject-matter the golf industry. Kepcher’s business Kepcher is widely known for her experts, offering advice to women savvy and hands-on leadership in role as an Executive Vice President in the workplace. When faced with these and other real estate projects with the Trump Organization, specif- tough times, Kepcher recommends led to her position as Executive Vice ically for her five seasons on NBC’s to “avoid going into survival mode President of the Trump Organization hit series, The Apprentice, presided and focusing entirely inward.” On and COO for Trump Golf Properties. over by Donald Trump. When Trump the contrary, Kepcher says this is A major part of her role on The had to choose people to fire as part the time to give of yourself, “to offer Apprentice was to explain why peo- of The Apprentice, Kepcher’s input yourself up to those who could ple were fired, but now Kepcher has helped him make the selections. benefit, whether it’s through volun- taken steps in her current positions “I worked for Donald Trump for teering, mentorship, becoming the to help people avoid this fate. When 11 years, and in that time I learned ‘field expert’ in the local newspaper a change is unavoidable, she advis- that it is possible for a woman to for your profession, starting a blog, es: “Sometimes you have to know survive and do well in a male- or reading and commenting in Web when to call in the troops. You have dominated culture,” says Kepcher, a communities relevant to your work.” a support system out there, in the resident of Ridgefield, Connecticut. Kepcher developed her business form of friends, family and col- With her high-level insights into skills by creating budgets, implement- leagues. Don’t hesitate to use it, and corporate and career survival, Kepcher ing operational systems, negotiating to pay that forward when you can.” is a regular guest on national tele - management contracts and designing Kepcher pays it forward by vision programs such as Good marketing programs for the Beck supporting entrepreneurs in their Morning America, the Today Show Summit Hotel Management Group, dreams of launching a business. She and the Oprah Winfrey Show. She a company that owns and operates has part nered with Microsoft in the also writes the weekly “Your Career” hotels throughout the United States. launch of new accounting software column for the New York Daily News. As a manager of four golf clubs that will aid startups, and she has Her book, Carolyn 101, rose for the Trump Organization, Kepcher partnered with Microsoft and to No. 2 on the New York Times played a crucial role in acquiring, Yahoo! to develop mentoring best-seller list and focuses on developing and marketing new programs for entrepreneurs. T helping readers learn “skills such as sizing up a situation, spotting Carolyn Kepcher will speak at the Golden Gavel Dinner on August 13 opportunities for advancement, at the Toastmasters Inter na tional Convention in Palm Desert, Califor nia. and anticipating your next move.” Don’t miss your opportunity to learn from this extraordinary workplace In it, Kepcher writes, “I’m often expert. For Convention details and registration information, please visit surprised to find very bright and www.toastmasters.org/2010Convention. well-educated people who don’t

May 2010 TOASTMASTER 19 By Theodore Lustig, DTM

Research links health maintenance to club membership.

Rx for Better Health: Toastmasters “Take in two Toastmasters In the first century A.D., Roman that can benefit a person’s health. moralist Juvenal touted the impor- To be sure, Toastmasters engage meetings and call me tance of “a sound mind in a sound in stimulating and interactive in the morning.” body.” Now 2,000 years later, mod- types of activities; they meet and ern medical and health-related become friends with a diverse oes this sound like an research supports the notion that a group of people, and they learn unlikely prescription from person’s active involvement in orga- and improve themselves in a Dthe doctor? Based on med- nizations that engage the mind – mutually supportive environment. ical and sociological research, it’s such as Toastmasters International – All of these activities can benefit a actually sound advice for improving benefits one’s health. It can posi- member’s sense of well-being as one’s well-being. Pick up any piece tively affect a variety of conditions, well as physical health. of Toastmasters literature or visit including stress, mild depression, Let’s take this concept a step www.toastmasters.org and you’ll heart problems and some of the further by looking at some specific find an array membership benefits: debilities of advancing age. health problems that are endemic in improved communication and lead- Nothing in this broad spectrum today’s society. Positive social rela- ership skills, personal and career of research specifically names Toast - tionships often help people deal enhancement, development of self- masters. Therefore, I’m not suggest- with these issues. High among these confidence, networking and cama- ing membership in Toastmasters as problems is stress, which can help raderie. But what you might not a substitute for necessary medical people be productive but is also find on this list is a mention that treatment. But the research does debilitating in many ways. Toastmasters membership can be indicate that socially oriented orga- Mark Gorkin, a Washington, D.C., good for your health! nizations like ours provide settings social worker, says, “A person, in

20 TOASTMASTER May 2010 response to prolonged stress and business reversal or the loss of a Being an active member of physical, mental or emotional job. Most therapists urge those Toastmasters can also help with strain, detaches from work and struggling with mild depression to heart problems. In 2004, a study other meaningful relationships.” avoid isolating themselves and to presented at a meeting of the The result is lowered productivity, engage in supportive activities that American Heart Association showed cynicism, and a feeling of being offer education, reassurance or that men and women who join drained. Con sequently, health confidence-building. clubs or other groups that extend problems emerge. Again, the Toastmasters program their circle of friends, “have signifi - fits the bill. Members learn a great cantly lower blood pressure and Combat Stress with Social Support deal by delivering and listening to other heart disease risks.” Experts say these stress-related speeches on a wide range of sub - In a 2004 issue of Psychosomatic problems can be diminished when jects, and they develop self-esteem Medicine , another study reported people develop a strong social by building their communication on women prone to heart problems. s upport system and become involved and leadership skills. Those women who established in activities that spark their interest and sharpen their cognitive skills. One solution, says Dr. Andy “Successfully preparing and Morgan, a psychiatry professor at delivering speeches can counteract Yale Uni versity in New Haven, Connect icut, is to seek a sense several basic causes of stress.” of personal accom plishment, so that stress becomes a challenge and not a burden. Another major result of stress – large social networks that included The Toastmasters program pro - burnout – is usually job-related. club memberships not only had vides both the environment and the Whereas most stress is a result of fewer heart-risk factors, the report opportunity to fulfill such goals. events that have a beginning, mid - showed, they also had survival Successfully preparing and deliver - dle and end, burnout is a prolonged rates double those who did not ing speeches can counteract several process that leads to physical, have such lifestyles. basic causes of stress: tensions gen - mental and emotional strain. The connection between group erated by an inability to communi - The Rev. Dennis Kenny, who is social support and heart health cate, lack of self-esteem, and the also a psychologist, says that when has always been there, says Dr. feeling that one is isolated from and the values we hold in the work - Tim Gardner at the Hospital of the unsupported by other people. place are no longer being realized, University of Pennsylvania. “It was “That’s when we often hit the wall.” just a matter of looking for it,” he Remedy for Depression and Burnout To mitigate burnout, one has to says. “We need to pay more atten - Stress is often a precursor for restore flexibility and balance in tion to the behavioral aspects of another, more acute ailment: life, says Kenny. One way to do our health.” depression. This condition can that, he adds, is to get involved “Our biology likes positive relation - take two forms. The first, called with activities that challenge you, shi ps,” adds psychologist Teresa clinical or unipolar depression, where you learn new talents and Seeman, Ph.D., Professor of Medicine can be life-threatening, requiring broaden your horizons. and Epidemiology who conducts medical treatment and extensive geriatric research at the UCLA School therapy. The second, called mild Stretch Yourself in Toastmasters of Medicine. depression, can affect energy levels, Toastmasters provides a more This is particularly true of the self-esteem and concentration, but relaxed environment for both the brain. Cognitive skills tend to is usually less debilitating and of workaholic and the burnout victim, worsen as people get older, and shorter duration. (It still, however, while also offering the opportunity neurologists have typically believed may involve therapy and medica - to learn career-enhancing communi - this process is inevitable and affects tion of some form.) cation and leadership skills. This all mental functions, from memory Mild depression is often triggered can improve a person’s currently and problem-solving to spatial ori - by a loss, such as the death of a untenable job situation or provide entation and complex judgments. family member or friend, the end the additional skills needed to seek New research paints a less gloomy of a close relationship, an illness, a a job that’s a better fit. picture, however.

May 2 01 0 TOASTMASTER 21 Keep the Brain Sharp ties, but also in adding to a per- In his latest book, Outliers: The According to an article in Consumer son’s vocabulary and word usage Story of Success, Malcolm Gladwell Reports, recent studies have raised through Word of the Day activi- looks at the case of a Pennsylvania the prospect that cognitive decline ties at club meetings. Table town, Roseto, where it was discov- can be minimized by “stimulating, Topics improves our mental ered in the 1950s that virtually no fueling and protecting the brain as agility as we tackle the challenge one under the age of 55 had ever it ages.” The challenged brain can of impromptu speaking. had a heart attack. This was a time when heart attacks were the princi- pal cause of death in men under “You won’t get the full benefit by age 65 and before the advent of involving yourself only occasionally. cholesterol-lowering drugs and or other aggressive measures to You need regular participation.” control heart disease. Moreover, researchers found that many of these people ate diets high in fats, generate new circuitry that will help The second cognitive skill smoked heavily and did not engage it grow, adapt and sometimes even involves learning and memory, both in much exercise, all among the improve in certain areas, experts developed through the preparation usual contributors to heart disease, maintain. It may also delay the and presentation of speeches. Gladwell notes. onset of Alzheimer’s disease. Learning is aided in two ways, first But the researchers also dis- Membership in Toastmasters by researching facts and using them covered that almost all of Roseto’s helps boost specific cognitive in writing your speech, and second, inhabitants were immigrants from skills. The first involves language, by becoming more knowledgable the same area in Italy, or their and here Toastmasters excels, not from listening to the speeches of direct descendants. When it came only in improving speaking abili- others. Memory development comes to well-being, this bond apparently when you memorize aspects of a transcended any other health fac- speech – or the entire speech itself. tor, the experts concluded. Up until The third boost comes in the then, none of the experts had ever area of management skills, when thought about health in terms of you serve in the administration of community. the club. The mental benefits This same concept carries over include learning how to plan and into all Toastmasters clubs. Members organize, as well as how to stay are of different age and educational flexible and adapt to changing levels, and come from different circumstances. In learning how to societal, religious, political and manage the club, one also learns ethnic backgrounds. But within the to manage one’s self. club’s confines, they meet to fulfill But don’t think your involvement a common purpose: to learn com- can be off-and-on if you want to munication skills together and enjoy truly improve, says Dr. Robert support from each other. Friedland of Case Western Reserve Belonging to Toastmasters makes University in Cleveland, Ohio. each member part of an inclusive “What’s important is that you do community. Perhaps, in the same these activities consistently,” says way as the people of Roseto, their Friedland, chief of the school’s continued membership provides laboratory of neurogeriatrics. them protection to some degree “You won’t get the full benefit by from a variety of health problems. involving yourself only occasionally. Only time will tell. T You need regular participation.” To stay well and happy, a person Theodore Lustig, DTM, is a member must not only receive support from of the Round Rock Chambermasters these relationships, but must give club in Round Rock, Texas. He can support as well. be reached at [email protected].

22 TOASTMASTER May 2010 By Eve Cappello, Ph.D., DTM HOW TO

How to hit the right notes when speaking. The Power of a Winning Voice “In today’s high-tech world of nose and mouth. That area is stage fright, reduce stress and begin sound, no other means of commu- known as the “mask.” a song or speech confidently. nication surpasses the human voice,”
Repeat the words “zim, zim” to says Dr. Morton Cooper, author of help you find your mask area. Putting Pizzazz in Your Voice Change Your Voice, Change Your
Read a newspaper or magazine Before you begin your next presen- Life. “Twenty-five percent of all aloud, but hum the words. The tation, take a controlled, deep breath Americans use a voice too low in buzz or tingle in your mask area and give your first comment on the their throats and 50 percent use a will tell you if you are using exhale. Your voice will come out voice too high, nasal and thin ... your voice correctly. fuller and richer – you’ll project They often go through life unheard
Repeat slowly: “Really one. Really energy and enthusiasm. When you and unappreciated.” two. Really three.” Control your project these qualities, your audience Your voice is crucial in achieving sound by repeating both the is excited to hear what you say. success as a speaker. As a profes- word “really” and the number Imagine this scene: You step sional speech coach, I’d like to in the same tone of voice. up to the lectern. You’re dressed offer some valuable techniques I for success. You know exactly what teach my clients – techniques you To find your winning voice, it’s you are going to talk about. But can practice for just five minutes important that you practice breathing you’re still nervous. As a result, a day to make your voice healthy properly. Your breath – when duly your voice may falter or maybe and strong, and give your speeches controlled – adds quality to your you mumble or say too many ahs more pizzazz. voice. Practice this control by inhal- and ums. What can you do? What does your voice say about ing slowly through your nose as Face your audience and think you? Do you sound confident? you inflate your stomach. Think of about using the techniques you have Credible? Even if you know your inflating a balloon while breathing practiced. Take the kind of controlled, subject and dress appropriately, your voice can turn off an audience. Here’s a simple test you can use to “Concentrate on what you have practice different voice sounds using to do, not on how you feel.” the word hello. Look at yourself in the mirror and say “hello” in an angry voice, then a happy voice, in. Now say the word “hello” while deep breath you’ve been preparing then a sad voice. exhaling. Think of the balloon de- and open with your first sentence on Notice the different sounds. Is flating and pull in your stomach as the exhale. Concentrate on what you your voice usually too high or too you speak. Notice how the sound have to do, not on how you feel. With low? To bring out your best voice, comes out fuller. concentration, your voice will come it is important to move in the right Breathing in this way is the out stronger and you will sound direction. Knowing which direction opposite of the way we normally more confident. Enjoy the power of to go is the key to finding your breathe. It takes a little practice a winning voice – it’s awesome! T winning voice. Practice these tech- before you can master the tech- niques to build a credible and con- nique so it isn’t obvious when you Eve Cappello, Ph.D., DTM, is a fident voice that commands audi- speak. Taking the occasional breath speech coach and author of eight ence attention: like this when you’re at the lectern books. She has more than 40 years can help you overcome nervous- of experience in voice projection –
Close your lips and hum “Happy ness and project a winning voice. as a professional singer as well as Birthday.” You should be able to Singers and speakers use this deep- motivational speaker. Reach her at feel a vibration around your breathing exercise to overcome www.drevetraining.com.

May 2010 TOASTMASTER 23 Beauty, Poise and...

Speaking Skills! 24 TOASTMASTER May 2010 Beauty pageant winners from around the world credit Toastmasters with helping them win their titles. By Katie De Boer

What does it take to win a beauty pageant today? You might be surprised.

contestant’s communication since her sister died from the disease, she’s been a pas- and leadership skills are as sionate advocate for early detection. Boothe-Grooms competed in her first pageant at age Aimportant as her poise and appearance, 19 and won several titles. She took a break to focus on which is why a number of pageant contes- family, becoming a mother of four, but returned to the pageant scene in search of opportunity and challenge. tants – and winners – from around the During the interviewing process she discovered that much had changed since she last competed, and she world are members of Toastmasters. They credit the found it difficult to communicate her answers clearly. program for helping them become confident speakers Fellow contestants told her about Toastmasters and she and leaders, enabling them to impress judges and serve soon joined the AT&T Middletown club in Middletown, gracefully during their terms as reigning beauty queens. New Jersey. Ceylone Boothe-Grooms, a Toastmaster from Middle - She credits Table Topics with building her skills and town, New Jersey, won the title of Mrs. New Jersey in confidence. “It felt like someone had spoon-fed me my 2009. “It is true – winning the contest is dependent on answers and I was able to grab my audience’s attention,” how well you can answer your interview questions,” says Boothe-Grooms about her winning responses. says Boothe-Grooms. “Just like in Table Topics, the Boothe-Grooms now uses her pageant-title platform questions are simple and off the cuff, which you are to promote the importance of regular health checkups. required to answer quickly and clearly.” She is also starting her own foundation to help friends A contender needs to intelligently voice opinions on and family members of cancer patients find resources current events and controversial topics – if she wants to related to medical care and support. win. “Be educated,” says Kristen Dalton, Miss USA 2009. “My experience in Toastmasters has been incredible,” “You need to know what is going on in the world.” As it says Mrs. New Jersey. “My club is extremely supportive. turns out, opinions are easy to come by, because these I am so thankful to have met such wonderful people.” women have plenty to say. Ultimately, for a true beauty queen it’s not about Rachael Rees, the title, the crown or the attention; it’s about the 2009 Miss World, experience and the passion “to promote and speak New South Wales, Australia about a platform – a cause that is important to you,” Rachael Rees, 21, always says Boothe-Grooms. dreamed of competing in a Here’s what a few beauty-contest winners from beauty pageant and knew around the world say about their Toastmasters training: public speaking skills were critical in carrying out the Ceylone Boothe-Grooms, duties of being Miss World. Mrs. New Jersey “When I first entered the United States, 2009 Miss World competition, I had Boothe-Grooms won the Mrs. a fear of public speaking,” says Rees, who discovered New Jersey crown – all con- the importance of communication skills – particularly testants are married – at the tone of voice – in such competitions. She turned to the age of 38. She entered the Wagga Wagga Toastmasters for help. competition, in part, because The club in Wagga Wagga, New South Wales, Australia, of her interest in raising quickly became one of her strongest networks of support. awareness for the early detec- From providing help on her Ice Breaker speech to lend- tion of cervical cancer. Ever ing support when she took on leadership roles, members

Opposite page: Nicole Flint, 2009 Miss South Africa. Photo courtesy of Peter Morey May 2010 TOASTMASTER 25 were always available to offer guidance, advice and her busy schedule slows down, she plans to join a club reassurance. in the Pretoria area. She noticed a dramatic improvement in her poise under pressure. “I have become such a strong and confident Nadia Moffett, 2010 Miss public speaker that I now have the ability to give a 20- North Carolina USA minute presentation without any written [notes],” says After being crowned Miss Rees. “It is a great feeling when you can get a laugh North Carolina in November from your audience; you know they are enjoying the 2009, Nadia Moffett expressed experience as much as you are.” gratitude to Express Yourself Like other pageant winners, Rees has used her Miss Toastmasters in Tobaccoville, World platform to be a health advocate, serving as an North Carolina, where as a ambassador and community representative for Multiple member she developed grace, Sclerosis Australia. eloquence, confidence and the This once-shy girl has chosen a career in the media ability to articulate – all skills industry. She is a graduate of the National Institute of necessary to ace her personal interviews with the judges. Dramatic Art (NIDA), a highly competitive training When she started participating in beauty pageants, institute in Kingston, New South Wales, for students of Moffett realized she needed help with her speaking theater, film and television. Rees now says speaking off skills. “Rambling was my biggest downfall,” she says. the cuff – connecting and laughing with her audience – “I would make a point and wouldn’t stop.” In Toast - is her favorite part of giving a speech. masters, she learned to control the content of her answers. She didn’t want to ramble, but she still wanted Nicole Flint, to say enough to connect with the judges and audience. 2009 Miss South Africa “Something else that is really important to grasp is to Nicole Flint, 21, is no stranger know how to let your words flow,” says Moffett. “Be to Toastmasters. Her father, connected in your heart and how you are feeling. It is Ian Flint, DTM, has been a important to trust your instincts.” member for 26 years and Toastmasters training allowed her to develop the served as District 74 Governor skills she needed to follow those instincts. “I was able in 1991. Ian impressed his to confidently speak my views, thoughts and opinions daughter with the value of on various topics with no hesitation,” she says. Toastmasters by conducting As Miss North Carolina, Moffett, 25 this month, is Youth Leader ship programs constantly meeting, speaking and interviewing people. (YLP) at her primary school. Nicole started modeling in “Every time I put my sash on, I get to meet a whole high school but realized the value of vocal projection slew of new people ... I’ve always been a social butterfly, and joined her school’s public speaking team. She also but this takes it to another level.” participated in two additional YLP courses. “This expo- After graduating from college, Moffett went to work sure to Toastmasters improved her self-confidence, and at American Express in Greensboro, North Carolina, this, I firmly believe, made the difference in her pageant and two years ago joined its corporate club, Express successes,” says her father, a member of the Forum Club Yourself Toastmasters. She had no idea how big of an in Pretoria, Gauteng, South Africa. impact Toastmasters would make on her career and Nicole agrees heartily, saying Toastmasters helped personal aspirations. her add the finishing touches to her professional perfor- Susan Mitchell, Express Yourself club president, says mances. “It’s being able to understand how important Moffett “is an asset to American Express and our Express manners are in the presenting of a speech,” she says. Yourself club. Her positive attitude and willingness to “I have learned that it’s the little things that make the help make her unique.” difference between good and bad delivery.” Moffett is also co-founder of the “Make Me a Queen” Nicole learned not only how to speak confidently and foundation, dedicated to helping young women build effectively but discovered other valuable Toastmasters self-esteem. Toastmasters helped build hers. “I have skills. “It is important to arrive on time and ensure gained the level of confidence needed to perform my proper preparation for all engagements,” she says. best as I prepared for my title, and now prepare for the On the heels of her Miss South Africa success last Miss USA contest [in May], and as I work to be my best December, Nicole is giving back to her community as in my career in corporate America,” she says. a guest speaker at various Toastmasters events. Once

26 TOASTMASTER May 2010 Brittany Hoff, 2004 Miss is most likely because she is over-thinking her answers. Lewis County, Washington, I know, because I used to do the same thing.” and 2006 Miss Nampa, Idaho As Miss Lewis County, she made more than 80 Brittany Ann Hoff, ACB, CL, appearances in one year, promoting her platform of a discovered Toastmasters healthy lifestyle and the dangers of diabetes. To connect from her parents as a senior with her audiences, she started using props and learned in high school. But she to involve audience members in her presentations. wasn’t convinced to join Two years later, in 2006, Hoff moved to Idaho. She until 2004, after her first soon joined another club, entered the Miss Nampa, Idaho, pageant interview in Lewis competition – and won. She continued to spread her mes - County, Washington. sage and made more than 60 appearances in six months. The interviews at the county level lasted 30 minutes, Hoff, 23, will soon graduate from Boise State with an additional 10 to 12 minutes for questions. “It’s University and looks forward to traveling the world. more like Table Topics on fire,” says Hoff. The board had Hoff credits her Toastmasters mentors with her suc - brought in Toastmasters from the community to “practice cesses so far. “It is extremely important to have a mentor judge” the interviews, Hoff says, and after the evaluations and learn how to become a mentor,” says Hoff, whose it was apparent she needed help with her excessive own mentor is current District 15 Governor Dave rambling. “There are a lot of things I love to talk about, Manning. Because of his advice, she is now serving as so I needed to learn how to keep focused.” an area governor. Hoff did not expect to come this far Like the other winning contestants, Hoff credits her in Toastmasters. She says, “It has been an incredible Toastmasters training with helping her organize her journey and experience.” T thoughts. “The most important thing is to state all the points you will cover in your speech and then explain Katie De Boer is the Editorial Assistant for the each one separately,” says Hoff. This helped her keep Toastmaster magazine. her answers succinct. “Typically when you see a young Chuck Blethen, DTM, also contributed to this article. He is contestant who stumbles or rambles in her interview, it the public relations officer for District 37.

William Safire of taking me seriously. The young confusing “fortuitous” with “fortu- are used to being patronized. Bill nate” – but he was not a hide- (Continued from page 13) didn’t patronize. He had a wholly bound traditionalist. On the contrary, egalitarian sense that he could learn Safire once wrote, “I welcome new alliteration, which he displayed from everyone, whatever their age words, or old words used in new throughout his career. or stage, and they could learn from ways, provided the result is more After working as a speechwriter, him, too.” precision, added color or greater Safire became a tenacious and acer- Safire’s love of language began expressiveness.“ bic commentator for the New York early. Growing up in New York, The gifted wordsmith, who was Times, winning the coveted Pulitzer he wandered through the various a popular pundit on the Sunday Prize in 1978. But despite the fear neighborhoods and overheard a morning talk shows, also wrote a he could inspire in targets of his world of languages: Italian, German, number of books, including novels political columns, he was known Ukrainian, Chinese and Yiddish. and a memoir. One of his books as a warm and accessible man, par- Even in the neighborhoods where was Lend Me Your Ears: Great ticularly generous to other writers. English was prevalent, the dialect Speeches in History. Several others Noonan says he was a great help often had a distinct Irish brogue. books were compilations of his when she started as a speechwriter He wrote his “On Language” “On Language” columns. in the White House. column from 1979 until a few When Bill Safire died last fall, he “Bill was a generation older than weeks before he died. His 13,000 left us his love of language as his I,” she notes. “He encouraged me in columns and many books estab- legacy and his talent as a standard. T the way that is always most needed lished him as one of the world’s and most appreciated by the young, leading commentators on the Eugene Finerman is a freelance writer and that is he listened to me when English language. Safire might living in Chicago, Illinois. Reach him we spoke and paid the compliment rue common mistakes – such as at www.finermanworks.com.

May 2 010 TOASTMASTER 27

FOR THE NOVICE By Merrill J. Davies, ACG

How the time limits you learned as a club leader hold value in your professional life.

My Time is Your Time “ ne of the lessons to be that can benefit others. Or you may invited several weeks or months in practiced in speech training have been invited because of your advance. A phone call or e-mail Ois that of expressing a humor and ability to entertain. No confirming the date and time can be thought within a specific time,” matter why you were asked, always invaluable. It is not uncommon to says the Toastmasters Competent keep in mind that by attending and write down the wrong date or time, Communication manual. It’s too listening to you, the audience is giv- or learn that not every participant bad many speakers have never ing up other activities. So respect was notified of a program change. learned that. My husband was once the audience members’ time and the On the day of the event, arrive in asked to be the second speaker at other presenters on the program. plenty of time to get oriented to the an event that should have lasted In club meetings, Toastmasters location, set up any equipment and about an hour. After an hour and always check the timing on speeches consult with the program planner. 15 minutes, the first speaker was and the timer holds them account- If you’re using audio visuals, don’t still in front of the audience. My able. You’ll find this practice of assume that anything will be provid- husband quietly told the person in watching the clock useful in your ed. If you need the host to provide charge that he would come another professional presentations, too. any equipment (even an extension time, packed up his projector and Always ask how long the speech cord), or if you need the room set presentation materials and left, should last and then stay within up in a special way, ask about it the wondering if he was being rude. those limits – better to leave them day before. You may not be able to Whose responsibility is it to wanting more than to have them check out these needs at program make sure a program moves along sighing! If necessary, ask your host time without delaying the program. in a timely fashion? When the to give some kind of signal when program planner and the speaker your time limit is close. If your host The Program Planner work together, the program runs will not give a limit, determine the As a program planner your job is smoothly and the audience enjoys best timing for your audience’s needs to ensure that the program moves the presentation. When one does and insist on adhering to it anyway. along smoothly and that the needs not take responsibility, the program My husband asked the pastor of a of the audience and participants can still work if the other one steps small church where he was speak- are respect ed. Your Toastmasters in and does his or her part. But ing how long the presentation training should have prepared you when neither the program planner should be, and the pastor said, for this. To start, you can decide nor the speaker assumes responsi- “Oh, just take as long as you need! beforehand how long the program bility for time management, it can It’s okay.” If your host says that, should last and then plan the event become a disaster, as it did in my don’t believe it; it’s not okay with in such a way that it begins and husbands case. Let’s look at it from the audience, and it’s not okay with ends on time. You’re on the road both angles: other speakers on the program. to success when you contact your It’s a good idea to check in with first speaker. The Speaker the person who invited you to speak Determine the length of each It’s an honor to be asked to speak to a few days before the speaking presentation by the overall duration a group. You may have knowledge engagement, especially if you were of your program and number of

28 TOASTMASTER May 2010 plan to allow only a specific amount of time. Finally, don’t be afraid to take charge if a speaker doesn’t respect time limits. It’s acceptable to stand, thank the presenter and tell the audience that it’s time to move on to the next speaker. Remem- bering skills you’ve learned as a Toastmaster will help you to take control of the meeting and guide your speakers. Different cultures and situations require that programs be adapted to meet the needs and expectations of the audience, but in all situa- tions program planners and pre - senters must respect the fact that people have busy schedules and are often concerned about time. When my husband went to the event I mentioned in the beginning of this article, he missed an impor- tant meeting in order to make his presentation. If the other speaker or the program planner had used Toastmasters training and assumed responsibility for conducting the presenters, and consider meals and other matters that will require time. Then, when you invite your speak- “Always ask how long the speech should ers, be sure to tell them exactly last and then stay within those limits.” how long their speeches should be, so they can plan accordingly. Also ask them to arrive at the event early. How many times have If you have contacted speakers program in a timely manner, the you been in a meeting where the weeks or months in advance, be incident could have been avoided. audience is waiting for the first sure to confirm the engagement a It is often said that time is money. speaker to arrive? They probably week before the presentation. Keep If this is true, then we must spend weren’t Toastmasters meetings! in mind the way your club confirms one another’s time wisely and Discuss equipment requirements meeting agendas in advance. with consideration. T with your speakers – remind them When the speakers arrive, it’s to set up early, and make clear helpful to remember your timer’s Merrill J. Davies, ACG, is a member what equipment they expect you training. Offer to work out a signal of two clubs: the Rome Toastmasters to provide and whether you can with your speaker that is inconspic- and the Floyd Medical Center do so. You can avoid problems uous and will allow time for that Toastmasters, both in Rome, by remembering how a Sergeant person to end the presentation Georgia. She is a retired English at Arms helps speakers to set up grace fully. Most speakers will teacher and freelance writer. Reach for a Toastmasters presentation. appreciate this. Be clear that you her at http://.merrilldavies.com.

May 2010 TOASTMASTER 29 FUNNY YOU SHOULD SAY THAT! By John Cadley

The perils of making a good first impression. I’m Not Impressed After 30 years in professional life, off me for an entire hour, not even they see you.” If a person has to be I don’t have to worry about making to blink. I felt like saying, “Do you told this, making a good impression a good first impression anymore. have eyelids?” is the least of his problems. If they’re not impressed by now, Then there’s this business of And let’s not forget body lan- they’re never going to be. All I knowing when to arrive. Obviously, guage, which research says consti- know is I must have impressed arriving late for a job interview will tutes 55 percent of a first impres- somebody, because they’re still not make a good first impression. It sion. You’re supposed to act calm, giving me a paycheck. In fact, I won’t make any impression, since confident and relaxed when in fact now conduct job interviews, mean- you’re not even there yet. But far you’re as nervous as a long-tail cat ing people have to make a good too many job candidates seem to sitting next to a rocking chair. first impression on me. Yet I’m more think, “If arriving late is bad, then Have you ever seen people try nervous than they are. Whenever arriving early is good, and arriving to relax when they’re not? It makes I see someone trying to make a really early is really good.” me squirm. They sit back in the good initial impression, it’s a sure No, it is not. If there’s one thing chair and nonchalantly cross their sign he needs Toastmasters to learn I hate, it’s getting a call from the arms over their chest, which is how to avoid the following: front desk at 9:30 a.m., saying that really saying, “I feel threatened. First, I’d like to shake the hand my 10 o’clock appointment has Don’t hurt me.” They throw one of the person who told everybody arrived. That gives me half an hour leg casually over the other – while to use a firm handshake – not to to feel like I’m late for the inter- their foot is going up and down congratulate him but to show him view. One insightful business guru faster than a hummingbird’s wings. how his disciples interpret “firm.” suggests that if you arrive too early, And then, God help us, they smile. He’d be on his knees begging for you should spend the time in the They’re thinking: Does he like me? mercy. Just for the record: Firm rest room. No, you should not. It I should have worn the brown suit. does not mean a bone-crunching will make people wonder who you There’s dandruff on my shoulder. vice grip where I still can’t make a are and what you’re doing there. Am I getting that red nervous rash fist an hour after the interview. And At the very least they’ll think you’re on my neck? He hates me. I’m fin- I’m talking about men and women. strange, and they might even call ished! I’ll never work again! Okay, Women seem to think they’ve got to security. Then you’ll have to now smile.” squeeze even harder just to prove explain what you’re doing there, A smile like that looks like plas- they’re as tough as a man. They are, which will make you late for the tic surgery gone bad. trust me. I’ve had a 5-foot female meeting you were so early for. The irony is that all this advice – weighing 100 pounds get me up on Coming into a job interview late all these drastic changes you should the tips of my toes with tears com- while being introduced as “the make in your dress, speech and ing out of my eyes. weirdo who was loitering in the behavior to be deemed socially And speaking of eyes – what’s men’s room” does not make a good acceptable – is given in the context with eye contact? Let’s dial that one first impression. of, “just be yourself.” As in: Don’t way back, okay? A little goes a long Physical appearance and hygiene be yourself. Just be yourself. No way. I don’t need to be locked into are supposed to be important, too. wonder there’s a 10 percent unem- a laser Vulcan hypno-beam where I Now there’s a searing insight. One ployment rate. T feel like I’m being X-rayed. I know consultant even feels it necessary to you’re talking to me; I’m the only say – and I quote – “Always bathe John Cadley is an advertising copy- person in the room. I met with a the morning of the interview. They writer in Syracuse, New York. Reach man once who never took his eyes shouldn’t smell you coming before him at [email protected].

30 TOASTMASTER May 2010

Toastmasters International Convention 2010

Register Now!

August 11 -14, 2010 Desert Springs JW Marriott Resort and Spa Palm Desert, California

Discover what everyone’s talking about! Each year, nearly 2,000 Toastmasters travel to International Convention to learn, share and grow. If you haven’t yet attended a Toastmasters convention, make this the year you discover what you’ve been missing. Convention 2010 will be bigger and better than ever. Here’s what you can expect:  Opening ceremonies and keynote  10 communication and leadership skill-building sessions to help you grow personally and professionally  Nine International Speech Contest Semifinals  Hall of Fame Ceremony  Golden Gavel Dinner  World Championship of Public Speaking  President’s Dinner Dance  Networking with Toastmasters from all over the world

Early-bird registration ends July 9, so make your plans today! To register, view the schedule of events and learn more, go to www.toastmasters.org/2010Convention. TOASTMASTERS See you in Palm Desert! INTERNATIONAL®