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Here are some answers to typical questions. If you have more, please feel free to contact us.
When and where do you meet?
We meet on the second and fourth Tuesdays of every month from 7.45pm to 9.45pm at Tunbridge Wells Bridge Club, 40 London Road, Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN1 1DL.
There is no parking on the premises of the bridge club but there is a car park a few minutes away – Torrington Car Park in Vale Avenue – which is free after 6pm. There is also local street parking.
What is Toastmasters International?
Toastmasters International is a training and educational organisation which teaches its members communication, leadership, training and management skills, and in doing so builds their self-confidence. It is the largest and most successful organisation of its type in the world.
It is a non-profit organisation run as a network of clubs led by volunteers for volunteers.
How long has Toastmasters International been established?
Toastmasters International was founded in 1924 and now has around 10,000 clubs in over 90 countries around the world. As a Toastmaster you will be welcome in any of these clubs.
Why do people join Tunbridge Wells Speakers?
People join in order to | | » | | Develop the skills to persuade and convince others | | | » | | Learn to put their ideas across clearly and with conviction | | | » | | Improve their self-confidence before a group of people | | | » | | Learn to think quickly and clearly under pressure | | | » | | Learn to listen effectively and critically | | | » | | Train to become a good leader | | | » | | Have fun on Tuesday nights | |
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What specifically will you learn to do as a Toastmaster?
By regular practice, with immediate constructive feedback, you will learn
| | » | | How to give an impromptu speech | | | » | | How to give a prepared speech | | | » | | How to evaluate what you hear | | | » | | How to introduce speakers | | | » | | How to chair and run meetings | |
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All these skills will help you develop self-confidence.
How do you learn these skills?
When you join you receive a complete training kit covering all aspects of speaking and evaluation. This kit includes a Communication and Leadership manual which reflects the years of experience Toastmasters has in helping people just like you. It takes you step by step through the art of making and evaluating speeches.
In particular you learn by doing with your efforts evaluated by your fellow Club members. You will be gradually introduced to the various roles within a Toastmasters meeting. Gaining proficiency in these helps build up your skills.
How soon will I be an expert?
Members progress at their own pace. Some move faster than others but everyone who joins Tunbridge Wells Speakers and participates in the program can be sure they will become a competent speaker. Your skills develop steadily. As your confidence grows, the situations that once terrified you are taken in your stride.
Is it expensive?
No. In fact in comparison to various courses, seminars, programs, cassette and video kits offered through the media, Toastmasters is the least expensive and in our opinion the most effective way to learn public speaking and to develop confidence.
Membership of Tunbridge Wells Speakers and thus of Toastmasters International is £15 (one-off enrolment fee) plus only £36 for every six months. That's equivalent to just £6 per month!
What do I need to do to join?
Anyone over 18 may join. To see if you like it first, just come along to the club as a guest. Visitors can attend free and are always assured of a friendly welcome without any obligation.
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