Page 24 - September 2020 Voices

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Club Success: It Takes a Village

Lisa Hutton, DTM
VP Membership, Marylhurst Toastmasters

Some people are curious by nature and stumble explain the three portions of the meeting and
into Toastmasters without knowing exactly what the various roles? It can be challenging to

they are looking for. It was recommended to understand the format of the meeting at first. It’s
them and they are checking it out. Some people helpful to have a structured opening where the
come with specific intentions to improve their roles and responsibilities are explained. Do you
public speaking skills. Whatever the reason invite them to participate in Table Topics? Do

behind their initial interest, it’s important to you inquire what they liked about the meeting?
make sure they get something out of attending Do you invite them to attend again and join the
each meeting. If you think that this is someone club? Do you follow up afterwards to see if they
else’s ‘responsibility’ then STOP reading right have any questions? Do you understand the value

now. I’m not going to waste your time convincing of asking someone questions? Authentically
you that everyone is responsible for the culture of connecting with guests will encourage them to
the club. If you DO care about cultivating a club become a member of your club.
that is fun, engaging, has a diverse membership, Does your club embody the mission—“to

and is something that you look forward to provide a positive and supportive learning
attending, then Ok, this article is for you. (Please experience . . .”?
keep reading.) When we meet the needs of our members,
A first impression is made from the moment we achieve so much more than helping them to

someone checks out your club’s website and it transition from one Pathways level to the next.
gets solidified when they attend as a guest. Do Confidence, poise, and a feeling of ease when
you encourage guests to contact the club to attend speaking to a group can feel elusive until you
– obtain Zoom link? Does your club warmly start to measure your progress and get specific

welcome a guest? Do you have a packet for them feedback from caring people. Is there a foolproof
with pertinent information about Toastmasters recipe to create the perfect club environment? I
and an application to join? Does the Toastmaster don’t think it’s a recipe per se. However, I do know

24 ONE COMMUNITY