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For anyone interested in having the opportunity to speak every week in some capacity, the answer might be Toastmasters, an international club dedicated to the practice and enhancement of one’s public speaking techniques. While most clubs gather weekly, a few are scheduled for twice a month. Located throughout the world, the clubs offer various hours and days: some meet early in the morning, some over lunch breaks, and many others in the evening hours.

The value of Toastmasters is undeniable. Supportive of all, their members seek to improve their presentation skills and become proficient in the informative, persuasive, and impromptu speech as well as becoming more accurate in the timing of their delivery.

There is much comradery throughout the various clubs as well as competitions scheduled from the local level all the way up to the world championship.

You can find clubs in your area simply by checking on the internet; and, more good news is that the fee to belong is minimal. You are likely to find good contacts as part of your membership which could move you towards a career in public speaking if that is your goal.

While you may feel that you are too nervous to be required to speak every week, this is exactly why joining a group like Toastmasters could be to your benefit. One of the primary motivators for belonging to this type of organization is to learn how to control your nervousness. Every member you will meet has been in the same situation as you and they will be most supportive in working with you. Their constructive criticism is fair and not meant to disparage but instead to help you hone your skills.

While informative and persuasive speeches are the common order of business, Toastmasters also offers the ability to practice the impromptu. Speaking extemporaneously on a topic you have not previously prepared is an excellent means of learning how to think on the spot. As frightening as it may sound, the impromptu is not as difficult as you may believe. And, from my experience with my clients and students, I have found that they not only learned a lot from the opportunity of speaking without prior preparation but that they enjoyed it as well.

Whatever your level of ability in public speaking, you might consider joining a local Toastmasters. The experience could be invaluable to you

There are still presenters who, when introduced and take the platform, will start their presentation by telling a joke or a story that bears no relationship to their topic. In this article I want to share ways for presenters to develop strong and effective “Signature Stories” that will succeed in getting the audience’s attention.

Personal “Signature Stories” about Other People’s Experiences

• These can be motivating stories about an historical person — please, not Thomas Edison! Do your factual research about the character, the times in which he or she lived — what they wore, what they ate, and other details you won’t use, but need to know yourself. Then craft a story that has meaning and pizzazz.
• These can also be stories about someone you know or have known — be sure, if they are still living that you have permission, even if you give them a different name. This type of story — because it isn’t about you — can tell of accomplishments and triumphs. Just remember that you never want to tell a story that you wouldn’t feel comfortable telling if the person it is about is a member of the audience.

Original, Traditional Stories with a Twist, or Fairy/Folk Tales

• I fear that many presenters feel that “Signature Stories” must have been something that actually happened. Not necessarily true! I have a cockroach story that is based on the “Pied Piper of Hamlin” that I have told for years. I have also heard excellent presentations based on Aesop’s Fables — they offer a plethora of plots and morals, of course.
• If you love stories and go both ways — as I do as a speaker and storyteller — use the fairy or folk tales that mean something important to you. It will add such a good change of pace to your presentation, your listeners will sit up and take notice. And, love you for it too!

Ingredients to Use When Developing Your “Signature Story”

• I would be remiss at this stage not to mention some of the ingredients that help you develop, prepare, and tell an effective, compelling story. A good story has a beginning, middle, and end. It must include conflict or crises, and a climax or resolution. It is not merely a descriptive anecdote. It must have plot.
• Make your stories short, punchy, and meaningful. Include pauses, drama, suspense, and not too many details. Think in images and create those pictures for your listeners.
• Finally, have fun creating your stories. And, practice, practice, practice them on friends, family and even strangers!

I guarantee that the next time you present, you will WOW your audience with your “Signature Story.”