Dunboyne Toastmasters to host open night

Most people would rather die than give a speech, as fear of public speaking outranks the fear of death by a two-to-one margin! Unrealistic as this may seem, the fact remains that while many people lack the training and stamina to effectively deliver a clear thought, today's fast-paced, technological world is in desperate need of good communicators and leaders. The person with strong communication skills has a clear advantage over tongue-tied colleagues - especially in a competitive job market. Toastmasters International, a non-profit educational organisation, has been working for more than 75 years to provide for this need and help people conquer their pre-speech jitters. One local club in Dunboyne, Phoenix Tara Toastmasters, has been helping members to build self-confidence and communication and leadership skills since 2006. The group of about 30 members meets twice every month in Dunboyne. Meetings are held from 7.45pm to 10pm on the second and fourth Mondays of the month at Dunboyne Castle Hotel. Toastmasters clubs like Phoenix Tara are 'learn-by-doing' workshops in which men and women learn and practice public speaking techniques in a comfortable, friendly atmosphere. After joining, members progress through a series of 10 speaking assignments designed to instill a basic foundation in public speaking. When finished with the basic speech manual, members can select from among 15 advanced programmes to develop speaking skills that are geared to specific career needs. One member said: "Since joining Phoenix Tara in January 2009, I have made three speeches in front of 30 people, something I never thought I would be able to do two years ago. Phoenix Tara Toastmasters has taught me how to control my nerves and overcome that initial fear." Dunboyne Phoenix Tara Toastmasters is having a visitor night on Monday 25th January next in Dunboyne Castle Hotel. All are welcome from 7.45pm until 10pm for what could be the beginning of great learning experience. For more information, contact John Byrne on (01) 825 7680 or (086) 395 9146 or see www.toastmasters.org