My mind goes blank whenever I try to speak to a group of people. Is there any hope for me?
Yes, definitely! Everyone is able to learn public speaking, it is just a matter of practice. With practice you will train your mind to think ahead while you are speaking. It is something everyone can learn.

How long does it take to become a confident speaker?
People vary, but the only way is to start practising speaking in front of an audience. At Banyandah we focus on giving feedback in a very supportive way following the CRC – commend, recommend, commend structure and by following this you will make progress.
By working on your recommendations for improvement, that is precisely what happens.

You can begin to see small improvements as you focus on these and gradually become more confident. Also people begin to feel less nervous as they get used to presenting in front of others. Nervousness may or may not go away over time, but everyone is more able to manage it with practice.

Aren’t new speakers nervous in front of so many experienced speakers?
Yes, most are, but that is okay. Everyone, including the most experienced of speakers, remembers their own nervous start in public speaking. You will never find a more encouraging audience.

What is the Toastmasters training programme?
The Toastmasters training programme, Pathways, is self-paced, flexible, interactive with all learning resources available on-line. Communication and leadership projects are designed around 5 core competencies: Public Speaking, Interpersonal Communication, Management, Strategic Leadership and Confidence.

On joining Toastmasters, a new member chooses one of 11 Paths which will start them on a journey through 5 Levels of projects of increasing complexity. All projects have a speech component (project speech) and may, depending on the chosen Path, have a leadership component. Elective projects complement required projects in all paths.

In addition, Pathways has a strong focus on Feedback and Mentoring.

How would I measure my progress?
Pathways, the Toastmasters training programme is the education programme used by Banyandah Toastmasters. You choose one of 11 Paths, suitable to your needs. Your progress in your chosen Path is updated in your online education transcript every time you complete a project or level.

Will I be learning on my own?
No. At Banyandah Toastmasters all new speakers will be offered a mentor, an experienced speaker who helps a new speaker through the training program. After each exercise an Evaluator gives positive and helpful feedback.

Who can participate?
Banyandah Toastmasters is open to anyone 18 years or over.

If I visit Banyandah Toastmasters will I have to stand up and speak?
No. Visitors are invited to Banyandah Toastmasters to see how we train people in public speaking skills, visitors are not required to participate, but there is the opportunity if they feel comfortable

Is it expensive?
No. Banyandah Toastmasters is extremely affordable. It is easily the most cost-effective way to develop confident public speaking skills. The once-only joining fee is $30 and the ongoing cost is $80 for six months membership. Visitors are welcome to attend a meeting for no cost

How can I get more information?
Call Kym on 0402 883 543 or email speak@perthtoastmasters.com