I talked to a new practitioner the other day.  He said he was invited to be a spokesman for a professional group on a TV commercial.  On the spot, he was asked to give a short speech for the cameras.  Yikes!  Talk about impromptu! 

He said he was not nervous, but he was energized and excited.  He used a short promotional speech that he remembered, and the marketing person loved it.  So my question to you is…

 Are you ready?  What if you were asked tomorrow to give a speech to a group in your town?  Would you know what to do?  What would you say?  Would you have to decline because you were nervous? 

How do you get past these scared, terrified, feeling?  One word - TOASTMASTERS. 

I have been a member of two Toastmasters clubs over the past year and a half, and I’m a believer.  Even though I’ve been speaking for years in front of classes and groups, and I’ve given formal presentations and graduation speeches, I felt I needed more polish and “pizzazz” in my speaking, so I joined Toastmasters.  I’m really glad I did.

I am proud to announce that I have completed my first 10 speeches and I’m moving on toward my goal of the ultimate achievement in Toastmasters - the Distinguished Toastmaster. 

Stop a minute and get this picture:  You are at your first Chamber of Commerce meeting in the town where you have established your practice.  You are being introduced to someone, who comments, “You’re wearing a Toastmasters pin, I see.  You’re a Toastmaster too?”  “Yep,” you say, and away you go.  You have made a new friend and possibly a new patient or client for your practice.  In any case, you have instant credibility because of your Toastmasters affiliation. 

I talked to one health care provider who has a steady stream of Toastmasters people in his office, and many of them are not even from his club.   I met my coach and a business partner through Toastmasters, and I have many great friends in the clubs I have been a member of.

So, if  you’re looking for a way to conquer your fear of public speaking AND develop some great business contacts, join Toastmasters.  (go to www.toastmasters.org) to find a club near you.