By Yow Kia

Remember in the past few years, I was always inspired by people who can communicate well, even until now. Joining a public speaking workshop is indeed a huge amount that I have to spend on and I really can’t afford it. However, that doesn’t mean that the fire in my heart to chase the dream of “becoming an effective communicator” has dampened out. I have come across Toastmasters Club 1.5 years ago through my ex-company as my ex-company was promoting the importance of communication during that time. The company even sponsored me to sign up as a Toastmasters Club member. The price is actually very affordable to public, because Toastmasters Club is a non-profit organization. But, I can guarantee that the experience and outcome that you can benefit from Toastmasters Club is far beyond than attending a workshop. Why? Do you know the secret formula to master a skill? It’s proven that there is ONLY ONE way to master a skill. That is through practice, practice and practice. The Toastmasters Club provides you a STAGE, AUDIENCE and ENVIRONMENT – It’s your Stage Time!

I have come across a lot of people asking me, the reason that I join Toastmasters Club - Is it because of wanting to be a Professional Speaker in the future? I was so surprised! They have misunderstood the objectives in becoming an effective communicator.

As a salesperson, you have to communicate your product values and benefits effectively in order to close the sales!
As a business owner, you have to motivate your staff, attract new clients and investors through your effective communication skills!
As a parent or teacher, you have to inspire, convince, motivate and build rapport with your children or students!
As a human, you have to convey a correct message to somebody you are talking to!
So, being good in communication is indeed a vital tool that we as a human should possess.

Being a Toastmaster for one year and three months, I have benefited a lot from the Toastmasters Journey. I still remember the first day I stepped out to deliver my first speech to my club members. It was a NIGHTMARE to me. However, I kept these words in my mind, “If it’s possible for others to be an effective communicator, definitely it’s possible to me! It’s just the matter of time and effort that I have to put in.” As months passed, the more speeches that I have delivered, the more confident I gain. The biggest challenge that I had taken was to participate in a speech contest! Guess what; I got my first trophy – 2nd runners up in a humorous speech contest in my area. THAT WAS MY FIRST PUBLIC SPEAKING COMPETITION AND I GOT A TROPHY! This is indeed nothing to be proud of. I am a normal man like you. I am not an expert in public speaking. BUT, I just follow the steps and ideas given by theToastmasters Club, at the same time, discovering the tips and strategies in internet and from other excellent speakers. I strongly believe that if I stick with what I am doing now, I surely will become an excellent communicator in the future.

Don’t procrastinate, take your action now. Being an effective communicator is indeed a great asset to you.