Page 27 - 8.2016 Voices

can’t identify with the speakers, they won’t be Here is a short sample notice—
inspired to join your club. Keep the evening
light, socially interactive, and fun. Leave lots of You Don’t Say!
time for networking and one-to-one face time.
Join us (day, and date of event), (start
Okay. The evening is on the community’s and end times of event) at (event loca-
schedule, you’ve got your committees working tion), (address of event), for an evening of
on finding the right speakers, food is being light refreshments and rollicking good
organized, and everything appears to be under fun as seasoned storytellers share tales
control.
from the library of life.
But wait—haven’t you forgotten something? Hosted by (your toastmasters club)
How will your target audience know about your
event? Word of mouth? Maybe. But wouldn’t a RSVP to (contact info).
notice promoting your event be more effective? Price of admission:
(I know, I’ve finally gotten around to the subject
of this month’s article.) A Great Sense of Humor

While a national press release may not be You could write a human interest article
appropriate for your local event, a write up in about the speakers. A longer article might
the local newspaper or community’s newsletter mention the storytellers names and a small
would certainly be worthwhile. Consider creating byte of information about their topics. But be
a flyer for the community’s bulletin board and cautious! Your article should not be overly long
posting it on social media. Don’t forget about or too detailed. It is after all just a taste of what’s
creating an event on Craig’s List, Meetup, and to come.
Facebook, to name a few. Two of my favorite free
sites for posting upcoming, community events Next month, we will explore how to decide if
are Americantowns.com and Oregonlive.com. what’s happening in your club is “news worthy.”
Both provide bulletin boards for promoting
events. The point is to broadcast your event in Phyllis joined Toastmasters in 2008. She is the
as many media outlets as possible. 2016-17 D7 Public Relations Manager, editor/
publisher of Voices!, a member of several clubs, officer
But what do you write? What would appeal to in four, and a leadership mentor and coach. She is
your target audience? What’s your hook? What currently completing the paperwork for her 3rd DTM.
would keep them reading and inspire them to
attend your event?

Easy. Go back to your research on your
target audience. Craft your notice and postings
to appeal to their interests. For example, I am
retired from paid employment. I love getting
together with friends and sharing a good laugh
or two. If there is free food, count me in!

“The art of effective listening is essential to clear
communication, and clear communication is necessary
to management success”

James Cash Penney
Founder of J.C. Penney stores

Volume 3 Issue 2 - AUGUST 2016 27