Voyagers » FAQs

FAQs

How do I get started with Toastmasters?

Attend a Voyagers Toastmasters meeting on Thursday morning! You’ll have to the chance to observe, ask questions and even participate if you wish.

What if I am afraid to speak?

You are not alone! One of the biggest fears people have is public speaking and that’s why Toastmasters International is so helpful. At Voyagers, we provide a supportive, fun environment to help you overcome that fear. You just have to come to the meetings to learn some helpful techniques that will lead you to be an effective public speaker.

Why should I join Voyagers Toastmasters?

The whole purpose of Toastmasters is to help people learn and grow in a supportive, informative and challenging atmosphere. Voyagers is one of the most skilled groups in the San Diego area with many members at high levels of distinction. This is great for new members, as the veterans are always eager to help new members grow and for advanced speakers, it’s an opportunity to hone your skills even more.

What happens during a Toastmasters Meeting?

Meetings provide an opportunity for participants to give prepared speeches, lead different portions of the program, receive individual & group feedback, and for “impromptu” speaking. See “Sample Meeting ” for more details.

When should I arrive & what is the dress code?

Voyagers Toastmaster meetings start promptly at 7:00 am. It is helpful for newcomers to arrive 5-10 minutes early to meet other members and guests. There is no dress code and Voyagers’ members wear casual to business professional attire.

How often are the meetings?

Where are the meetings?

Café Coyote, located in Old Town at 2461 San Diego Avenue, San Diego, 92110. Free parking is available on the street or in Café Coyote’s underground parking structure.

Is there a meeting fee?

There is a $6 meeting fee which includes coffee, tea and ice water (The meeting fee also covers our room rental and other incidental expenses). You are welcome to bring your own breakfast food item, if you wish.

How often should I plan on attending meetings?

The more you participate, the more you will benefit. Members are encouraged to attend as many meetings as possible and there are multiple speaking roles during each meeting. Members are scheduled 4 weeks in advance for functionary positions and most members, even those who have been members for many years try to attend each meeting.

How often can I/must I give a speech?

You are welcome to develop your speaking skills at your own pace and we do encourage new members to speak as often as possible to gain experience. For scheduling purposes, when you join Voyagers you’ll be asked to indicate how frequently you want to give a prepared speech. (Every few weeks, once a month or, even once every other month.)

How quickly can I become a Competent Communicator (CC)?

There are 10 speech projects to complete for your CC. At the pace of one speech every six weeks, you would earn the distinction of Competent Communicator (CC) in just fifteen months.

How much does it cost to join Voyagers?

Toastmasters is a very inexpensive way to improve your communication skills. At Voyagers, there are Semi-annual dues of $54 and the initial membership fee for Toastmasters International of $21.50 including tax. You’ll receive many valuable materials, speech manuals, tips, a certificate and a monthly magazine on public speaking with your dues.

What resources are there to help me overcome my nervousness?

Relying on the expertise of the Voyagers members is one of your best resources and you’ll find the members of our group to be especially supportive. Toastmasters International (TI) also has a wide range of materials available via its Web site. As a Toastmasters member, you’ll receive tips and suggestions in your Communication and Leadership Program and the monthly TI magazine.

Do you have a mentor program?

Each new member is invited to select a mentor. Mentoring is one of the quickest ways to learn the ropes, become familiar with the way meetings are run, learn how speeches are given, how to evaluate, and how to complete any of the various manuals to reach a new level of Toastmasters distinction. We encourage all new members to use a mentor!

How do I advance as a public speaker?

Many Voyagers have been public speakers for 10 plus years and they will be able to assist you in your growth. Attending and competing in club, area and regional speech contests with expert speakers from all over the San Diego area will also help you. Just watching the contests is a great way to learn. There are also other organizations and networks Voyagers members can help you explore.