Tuesday 2 June 2009

Stand and Deliver!

Last night I was talking about Career Safari to members of Women in Banking and Finance Speakers, a group affiliated to Toastmasters International. I was reminded how important communication is for career progression: the ability to prepare effectively, to think quickly and order your thoughts before speaking to make the greatest impact, and to research new information and present it in a compelling way.

The great opportunity that Toastmasters groups provide is a regular opportunity to stand and speak. Speaking effectively, whether it be on a one to one basis, from a stage, in a group meeting or over the phone, cannot be wholly learned from a book or a seminar. In order to be a good speaker, you have to speak - and speak on a regular basis and get encouraging and constructive feedback - a big focus of the Toastmasters format.

Remember, you don't need to be good to start, but you have to start to be good! Toastmasters International has groups all over the world and you can find your nearest on their web site.

Stand and deliver!

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