Florida TM — What’s your secret?
What is the secret behind good communication and speqaking off the cuff?
Residents often find themselves asking what the secret is behind those well-spoken individuals they find delivering speeches at work, on special occasions and at functions.
According to the Florida Toastmasters, the secret is learning how to speak through the Toastmasters courses. They were reminded of that question during two excellent speeches at their meeting on Tuesday 1 October. Mark van Vuuren was awarded the Best Prepared Speech and Toastmasters Area S3 Governer Nikki Quinn was awarded the Best Impromptu Speech.
“Delivering his Wealth of South Africa speech, Mark evoked wonderful mental images in his audience’s minds, injected just enough humour and kept everyone enthralled by incorporating some peculiarities about our society,” Florida Toastmasters public relations officer Dawn Hemming told the Record.
“Nikki’s speech, They’re making a movie about my life, revolved around her love of travelling.
“When Nikki is not travelling she dreams of travel and look for inspiration for her next adventure.”
Barry Nelson was declared the Best Evaluator of the evening.
Dawn believes that the people who really need to join Toastmasters “are those that put themselves on the forefront by assuming leadership positions in their societies and work environment.
“As the Festive Season is approaching, people are bound to deliver speeches, be it a celebratory speech, award acceptance speech or the opportunity to speak at a special occasion, it is a great time to learn what we can teach you.
“Visit us during our next club meeting; guests are always welcome and you won’t regret a second of it.”
The Florida Toastmasters meet every first and third Tuesday of the month at the Huguenot Restaurant in Flora Centre, Florida.
For more information, contact Cleone Carter-Smith on 082 415 2820 or via email at cleoneC@joburg.org.za.
Alternatively, contact Florida Toasmasters president Robert de Kramer on 082 823 1387 or via email at robertk@nfp.nedbank.co.za.
Dawn says that the many lessons learned as a Toastmaster include:
• not letting emotions overcome logic in difficult situations
• time management
• clear communication
• concise communication
• the ability to speak off the cuff confidently
• good presentation
• the value of backing up your argument
