Overview

Toastmasters International (TI) is an educational organization that operates clubs worldwide for the purpose of helping members improve their communication, public speaking, and leadership skills. Through its thousands of member clubs, Toastmasters International offers a program of communication and leadership projects designed to help people learn the arts of speaking, listening, and thinking. A Toastmasters club meeting consists of three basic parts: Prepared speeches: During this portion of the meeting, several members present speeches based on the Competent Communication and Advanced Communication manuals. Usually at least three speakers are scheduled; however, this may vary depending on the meeting program and length of the meeting. Evaluation: Each prepared speech and leadership role is verbally evaluated by a fellow member in a helpful, constructive manner using given evaluation criteria. In addition, the evaluator prepares a written evaluation, and all members are invited to submit written comments, too. Table Topics: In this segment, members and guests have an opportunity to present one- to two-minute impromptu talks.