A Speechcraft Course is a short practical course in public speaking for the novice speaker. You'll be joining several other people who want to learn the basics of public speaking quickly in a supportive, friendly environment. Everyone is involved in all the activities each session. You'll make new friends, learn new things, and have a lot of fun! It's a great way to start your public speaking career!
How will I benefit from a Speechcraft Course?
A Speechcraft Course will help you to:
Gain confidence in public speaking Develop your communication and language skills
Learn to think quickly and clearly
Become an effective listener
Use body language and visual aids
Advance your social skills
Improve your job or promotion prospects
How are Speechcraft Courses run?
The Club appoints a Speechcraft Coordinator who is responsible for the organisation and running of the course, with experienced Toastmasters helping out with educational, evaluations and support. Click here for the contact informations of Whampoa Toastmasters Club President, or Vice President Education to discuss details, and find out exactly what's involved.
How much does a Speechcraft Course cost?
Our club have two types of Speechcraft Course fees namely :
$110 (Half year membership fees with one time registration fees, together with the Speechcraft Course Fees)
$190 (Full year membership fees with one time registration fees, together with the Speechcraft Course Fees)
What will I be doing in a Speechcraft Course?
During this practical course, you'll prepare and deliver several speeches. These are 4-6 minutes long, and on a subject of your choice. You'll also participate in impromptu speaking sessions (known as "table topics") and you'll learn how to evaluate other speakers using the criteria in the Speechcraft manual. Experienced Toastmasters will also deliver "educational talks", where you'll learn how to prepare your speech, hear tips on delivery techniques, and find out how to evaluate other speakers.
What manuals do I get?
When you begin the Speechcraft Course, you'll be given your own personal Toastmasters Speechcraft manual. This manual sets out the speech projects (or assignments) you'll complete during the course. Each project has set objectives, notes on to how to prepare your speech, and an evaluation guide for your evaluator.
For example, you will deliver an icebreaker speech, where you introduce yourself to your fellow Speechcrafters. Other projects include using your voice effectively, using props or body language, speaking with sincerity about a topic, using correct and concise word choice, and organising your speech into a specific format. Each project will challenge you, and the valuable information in the Speechcraft manual will help you prepare your speeches.
Where can I get help from if I need it?
Every Speechcrafter will be assigned a mentor. Mentors are usually experienced Toastmasters who are available for advice, help and support during the course. The Speechcraft Coordinator is always available for help as well.
What happens at the end of the course?
At the end of the course, you'll "graduate", and receive a Toastmasters International Speechcraft Course Completion Certificate. The club may organise a special graduation night, or may include graduation as part of their normal meeting. You'll be advised of the arrangements near the end of the course, or you may even want to organise your own graduation!
Remember, this is only a short course, and it is not possible to learn everything in just four weeks. To get the most benefit from the Toastmasters programme, it is likely to be in your best interests to join Whampoa Toastmasters Club so you can continue your learning by participating in the Toastmasters Communication and Leadership programme. The first three speech projects from the Competent Communication Manual are cross-credited on successful completion of the Speechcraft Course. Details of which speeches are counted are in the Speechcraft manual.
What comments or feedbacks have peoples said about the Speechcraft Course?
Here's what past Speechcrafters have said about the Speechcraft Course:
I have found the course excellent. I looked forward to Speechcraft course and felt exhilarated after the meeting. The meetings were more "fun" than I expected and way less stressful than I anticipated.
I gained skills in planning my presentation, talking to points, rather than reading my speech, overall confidence, receiving feedback and doing an evaluation.
I found the course very educational and rewarding. I gained a great deal, and feel the time was very well spent.
It was fantastic! I really felt that I became more confident with each speech I gave, and that I was totally supported by the Toastmasters running the course.
Can Speechcraft Courses be run for companies or other organisations?
Yes, Whampoa Toastmasters Club or interested Toastmasters may run Speechcraft Courses specifically for employees of a company, or members of a community organisation. Visit www.division-u.org or www.district80.org to find out more details.
What should I do if I'm interested to join the Speechcraft Course?
Check the Speechcraft Course schedule at the link below to see if there is any Speechcraft Course being run in Whampoa Toastmasters Club. Click here for club officers contact details, and to register your interest.
Contact Whampoa Toastmasters Club President, or Vice President Education to find out if they are intending to run a course in the near future. We welcome you to bring along yourself, your friends, your family members and your colleague to attend Whampoa Toastmasters Club next chapter meeting, future activities, and Speechcraft Course.
Click here to find out Whampoa Toastmasters Club upcoming monthly chapter meeting, activities, or Speechcraft Course.
