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FAQ
Q: What is Toastmasters about?
A: Toastmasters is essentially a self-help organisation. Through a network of clubs, we help people learn the skills of speaking in front of an audience and gaining confidence to speak in public. We do this by providing a variety of regular speaking activities, including prepared and impromptu speeches. We also offer opportunities to develop leadership skills. See The Toastmasters Programme for more details.
Q: How long do meetings go for, and how often are they?
A: It varies from club-to-club. Most clubs are fortnightly; some dinner clubs are monthly. Meetings at early morning or lunchtime clubs generally run for one hour, evening clubs from 1.5 to 2 hours, sometimes with a supper break. At Manuka Club, we hold meetings fortnightly, and our meetings are one hour, although we are considering extending this to 90 minutes, due to recent strong growth in membership and high demand.
Q: What does it cost?
A: There is a once-only joining fee (currently $28), annual fees payable to Toastmasters International, and club fees levied to cover costs such as venue hire, supplies, etc. Fees are calculated on a pro-rata basis, depending on the month joined. For a full explanation of fees, check out our How to Join page.
Q: Can I go along and see a meeting?
A: Yes. Guests and visitors are welcome to attend Toastmasters Clubs.
Q: Do I have to join at the first meeting?
A: No! You may attend as often as you wish before making up your mind. They may ask you if you wish to join each time you attend, but you can take your time. You may also wish to visit several different clubs before deciding on the best one for your needs. But, keep in mind, the sooner you join, the sooner you gain the benefits of the Toastmasters Program.
Q: Can I attend more than one club?
A: Whilst you are just visiting and deciding whether to join Toastmasters, you may attend as many clubs as you wish. Once you join, you belong to a club. You can then visit other clubs as a visitor, but would not have membership rights at others clubs, unless you also join them.
Q: How do I find other Toastmaster clubs in my area?
A: A directory of the clubs in NSW and ACT (District 70) can be found here: http://www.d70toastmasters.org/find_a_club.htm
Q: What do I get when I join?
A: Every new member receives a number of guides to help develop speaking and evaluation skills. The main item provided is the Communication & Leadership manual, which contains 10 speech projects. The first is an "Icebreaker" speech of 4-6 minutes, which is designed to introduce yourself to your fellow club members. You will also receive a monthly copy of the award-winning "Toastmaster" magazine.
Q: What age groups attend meetings?
A: Again, it depends on the club joined. Although some clubs around the world are based in university campuses, and others in retirement villages, most clubs in Canberra have a mix of experience and age. At Manuka Club, many of our members are aged between 25-45.
Q: How many people attend meetings?
A: Numbers vary from club-to-club and meeting-to-meeting. A dynamic meeting can occur with as few as 5-10 members, but 15-25 members usually mean a great meeting environment. At Manuka Club, we have more than 25 members, and have approximately 15+ at most meetings.
Q: Are all the members good speakers?
A: NO!! In every club, including Manuka, you will find a mix of beginners, some very experienced, and several in the middle range. But, no matter how long you stay in Toastmasters, you are always learning.
Q: Do you provide individual tuition?
A: The program works on feedback and advice from fellow members. Nevertheless, the club can appoint an experienced member as a mentor if you wish.