"Be Your Best ......Impact The World"

2011-12-15T22:49:00.000-08:00

Seasons Greetings from Kim Siong & family

2011-12-12T21:23:00.000-08:00

We wish you the merriest Christmas or happiest holiday that you celebrate.

May your New Year be filled with happiness, health and prosperity!

Decide each day what you want to focus on, emphasize, remember and learn.

Decide what you want to do and how you respond to what happens.

These are critically important decisions and the freedom you have in a world where forces beyond your control often affect you in dramatic ways.

At the end of 2011, we wish for you the very best decisions for the coming year.

Have a strong finishing for 2011.....Hi 5 to 2012

2011-12-11T18:32:00.000-08:00

Season's Greeting....Kim Siong & family

2010-12-30T14:50:00.000-08:00

"A great 2011 ahead!"

Thank you for your friendship and support in 2010!

Wishing you & your family a great 2011 ahead!

Have fun & stay happy!

Your friend for life

Kim Siong

Past International Director

The Magic of Distirct 51 Toastmasters Convention

2010-06-17T22:06:00.001-07:00

With DG Richard Chong, DTM & PIP Johnny Uy

Leaders from District 51 & Many of my role model....

with KK TMC members Award for MAS

Pink Bat...Turning Problems into Solutions,

2010-04-28T21:32:00.000-07:00

Excerpt from:
Pink Bat...Turning Problems into Solutions,
by Michael McMillan

Everywhere you look today there are problems. Turn on your TV or computer - pick up a magazine or paper - and what do you see? Problems!

Talk to your spouse, co-worker, family members or friends, and within minutes someone will bring up a problem...or two or three.

Problems permeate the workplace, too - new products, old products, customer service, health care, retirement plans, sales, marketing, budgets, IT, personnel - the list of problems we confront each day is vast.

If that's not enough, consider the global problems we are facing - hunger, war, terrorism, economy, jobs, pollution, global climate change, disease, energy, health care, education, government corruption, trade barriers, overpopulation, sanitation, water - the world's problems seem endless.

In short, we are experiencing a "problem pandemic" like never before. What's scarier yet, is many experts predict there is no end in sight. So what can YOU do about this threatening pandemic?

Embrace it! This may seem strange at first, but by the time you finish reading this book, you will realize many "problems" aren't problems at all. In fact, most problems are opportunities and many are actually Pink Bats - unseen solutions just waiting to be found.

Can you imagine waking up each morning faced with a "solution pandemic?"

Start imagining. Maybe you think this idea seems impossible, but you're about to discover: "Pink Bat Thinking" makes the impossible possible.

The Ant and the Dove

2009-11-22T15:17:00.000-08:00

In one of Aesop’s Fables, an ant went to the bank of a river to drink, fell into the stream, and found itself on the brink of drowning. A dove sitting on a tree overhanging the water plucked a leaf and let it fall into the stream close to the drowning ant. The ant climbed onto it and floated in safety to the bank. Shortly afterward, a bird catcher came and stood under the tree and began laying a trap for the dove. The ant, seeing his intent, seized the opportunity to sting him in the foot. In pain the bird catcher threw down the trap, and the noise alerted the dove to fly away.

It is wonderful to be blessed by random acts of kindness. It’s even more wonderful when we can return the favor. Who has helped you get by? Is there a way you can show them your gratitude?

Thank You for the people who have helped me in life. Show me how I can be a blessing to others today.

Facing the Future with Confidence

2009-10-06T16:13:00.000-07:00

A message from our International President

It was 85 years ago this month that the first Toastmasters club was formed. That defining act by our organization’s founder, Dr. Ralph Smedley, forged a path to the future that we all benefit from today.

Here are other significant moments in our organization’s history:

January 1933: The first club outside California is established in Seattle, Washington

October 1935: The first club outside the United States is chartered in Victoria, British Columbia, Canada.

July 1946: Scotland becomes the first district organized outside the United States.

August 1973: Membership opens to women. October 1982: Membership reaches 100,000.

June 2004: Toastmasters charters its 10,000th club. Membership reaches 200,000.

June 2009: Membership reaches 250,000.

The most clubs and districts to date earn Distinguished or better status. August 2009: Members approve a bylaw amendment that improves global representation and support to every member and club across the globe.

In each of these examples, our organization took a leap forward to change, adapt and meet the evolving needs of our members. These changes were not easy, yet our volunteer leaders and professional staff blazed a path to a brighter future ahead. Despite the forward momentum of our organization, we can always improve on our successes. U.S. President Thomas Jefferson said: “I like the dreams of the future better than the history of the past.”

The next 85 years hold great promise for Toastmasters. We will continue to enhance and improve our educational programs, club and district officer training, and recognition programs. We will use emerging technologies to better deliver our programs to even more members. There will even be a day in the not-too-distant future when we’ll celebrate having more than one million active members of Toastmasters!

As you contemplate your own achievements as a Toastmaster, acknowledge where you have been, where you are now, and what the future holds for you. Is it time for you to earn your next educational award? Serve in a leadership role outside your club? Help start a new club?
Have the confidence to face your future with excitement, engagement and energy. The best days for you and our organization are ahead, not behind.

Let us work together to build our organization by building our members – with confidence, leadership and service. The future begins now!

Gary Schmidt, DTM

International President

Personal Branding

2009-10-05T18:47:00.000-07:00

Source: I trust, I can

Best Moments on 16th September 2009 with family!

2009-09-16T21:05:00.000-07:00

The best moments that we have together on 16th September 2009!

Delighted to share this special moment with you!

Thank you for your great understanding on the month of September 2009!

Your friend for life

Kim Siong

International Director 2008-2010

Mind Control

2009-09-08T18:33:00.000-07:00

Source: I trust, I can.

The Three E's To Reduce Nervousness

2009-09-08T18:28:00.000-07:00

“The mind is a wonderful thing. It starts to work the minute you're born, and never stops until you get up to speak in public.”
- John Mason Brown

To significantly reduce nervousness follow the three E's:

1. Earned the right to speak on the topic through experience or research
2. Excited to talk about the topic
3. Eager to share your experience or research with the audience

Source:The Dale Carnegie Course®

Eulogy for Jim Smith, DTM, Past International Director

2009-09-06T21:09:00.000-07:00

Jim Smith was a mentor to many toastmasters around the world.
I first met Jim in August 2002, at San Antonio Toastmasters International Convention. I can remember very well that he handed to me a piece of paper comprising of questions at a candidate’s caucus session which he had just attended.

He said, " John, you need it one day, please keep this paper. "
Since then, we have been in touch on phone at least once fortnightly.

I last spoke to him on Saturday morning before he passed. He said, “ John, I need more rest. I appreciate all of your prayers, thoughts and phone calls. Please continue to spread the good tidings of Dr. Ralph Smedley of making effective oral communication a worldwide reality. I know the world is waiting for us to invite them to join Toastmasters.” Jim told me that he was 77 years young. He was always young at heart, as age is a measure of a person’s wisdom.

Jim was always inspirational every time I called him. He was instrumental to mentor District 51 to achieve President's Distinguished District in 2002-2003. This was despite member countries in District 51 were badly affected by the worst regional health crisis – SARS. He said, “ John, ,never give up. Go for it and you shall lead District 51 to the Number One District in the World. “ We made it because of his unceasing efforts to encourage us.

He was a man who was kind and generous, ready to share his rich Toastmasters knowledge at anytime. He loved Toastmasters with joy and pride that light up his face every time we were together
There was never a time that I could not talk to him or that he would not offer advice.
Jim is a man that made sure that his Toastmasters friends were taken care of
even if it meant he had to sacrifice something important to him. Though he was sick, he still went to Mashantucket, Connecticut to participate at the Toastmasters International August, 2009 Convention. He extended his warm hand-shake to his Toastmasters friends and conveyed words of appreciations. And he told me at the convention, “John, I want to be thoroughly used up before I leave this world - for the harder I work the healthier I become. Young man like you have a lot to offer to the world. Go for it my friend! God will be with you always.“

He was an inspiration to many of us; he has transformed many of our lives.
He will be sadly missed by many Toastmasters around the world.

Jim spent his life caring for others,
He never put himself before others.
He would often go out of his way to reach those who were in need.
I knew I could come to him no matter what the reason or circumstance.

Jim, you have gone home now, guided by your faith and by the light of those you have loved and lost. At last you are with them once more, leaving those of us who grieve your passing with the memories you gave, the good you did, the dream you kept alive, and a single, enduring image - the image of a man on a boat; white mane tousled; smiling broadly as you sail into the wind, ready for what storms may come, carrying on toward some new and wondrous place just beyond the horizon.
May God Bless Jim Smith, and may he rests in eternal peace.
Good bye Jim………….good bye….

By John Lau,DTM
Third Vice President 2009-2010
Toastmasters International

DNAR's Leaders In Action...Connectcuit 2009

2009-09-05T00:43:00.000-07:00

LGET 2009-2010 with Poh Kim Siong (L) & LGM 2009-2010 with Mohamed Murad(R)

DG 2009-2010 with International President Gary Schmidt (L) & Group Photo (R)

Deadlines/Important Dates: September 2009

2009-09-04T21:30:00.001-07:00

SEPTEMBER

Checklist:
􀀀 Work with leaders to focus on chartering as many
clubs as possible for Distinguished District points.
􀀀 Submit club membership dues renewals online.
􀀀 Complete first-round club visits by area governors.
􀀀 Send out credential/proxy forms to club presidents
and vice presidents education at least two weeks in
advance of the district conference.

Deadlines/Important Dates:
September 1:
􀀀 Last day to report any district officer appoint -
ments, including area governors, to WHQ to
ensure volunteer credit is received.
September 15:
􀀀 Monthly treasurer report for the period ending
July 31 due to District Trio.
September 30:
􀀀 Report of club, area and division-officer training
due to WHQ. (85 percent of area and division governors
need to be trained, and reported to WHQ, in
order to qualify for Distin guished District Program).
􀀀 District Success Plan Matrix due to WHQ. (Required
in order to qualify for Distinguished District Program).
􀀀 Membership-building contest, Smedley Awards
end.
􀀀 Report of club officer training due to WHQ (affects
DCP credit).
􀀀 District budget due to WHQ.
􀀀 End of promotion for Distinguished District
points for chartering as many clubs as possible in
the months of August and September.

Tips:
􀀀 Submit club-officer training online.
􀀀 Work on club-building efforts.
􀀀 Stay on track; check your DPR reports regularly.
􀀀 Confirm submissions with WHQ.
􀀀 Network with other leaders.
􀀀 Don’t get overwhelmed, ask for help, delegate and
stay organized.
􀀀 Check on club performance by reviewing the DCP
and touching base with area governors.
􀀀 Make sure clubs know the value of the Speechcraft
program.

Source: Toastmasters International

The Power of Belief

2009-09-04T20:57:00.000-07:00

Source: I trust, I can

A Brief History of Toastmasters

2009-09-04T20:39:00.000-07:00

Board of Directors 2009-2010

Board of Directors 2008-2009(Left) &1962: Dedication of new World Headquarters building in Santa Ana, California (Right)

For 85 years, Toastmasters has helped people become better speakers and leaders. How much do you know about the organization's history?
More...

Timeline
October 1924 The first meeting of the Number One Toastmasters Club in Santa Ana, California. .
January 1926 The second Toastmasters club is chartered in Anaheim, California.

August 1927 Representatives of five Santa Ana Toastmasters clubs plan the formation of a
Federation of Toastmasters Clubs.

October 1928 The first manual for Toastmasters clubs is copyrighted by Ralph Smedley.

October 1930 The name Toastmasters International is adopted and officers are elected.

December 1930 Publication of The Gavel, the first Toastmasters newsletter.

December 1932 Toastmasters International is incorporated.

January 1933 First Toastmasters club outside of California is established in Seattle, Washington.

April 1933 The first Toastmaster magazine is published.

July 1935 District organization is instituted, starting with District 1 of Southern California.

October 1935 First Toastmasters club outside the United States is chartered in Victoria, British
Columbia, Canada.

January 1938 Charter No. 100 is presented to the Century Toastmasters Club in Santa Ana, California.

August 1938 Inter-Club Speech Contest started. First winner: Henry Wiens of Reedley, California.

July 1946 District 18 of Scotland becomes the first district organized outside the United States.

February 1948 First Toastmasters International Articles of Incorporation and Bylaws are published.

August 1950 The first “Certificate of Achievement” is issued for the new advanced course, Beyond Basic Training.

June 1951 First regional conference is held in Des Moines, Iowa.

October 1962 Dedication of new World Headquarters building in Santa Ana, California.

November 1964 The first Able Toastmaster (ATM) award is issued.

August 1968 The first Competent Toastmaster (CTM) award is issued for completing the manual Basic Training for Toastmasters.

August 1969 The Communication and Leadership Program manual is introduced at the International Convention in Cleveland, Ohio.

March 1970 The first Distinguished Toastmaster (DTM) award is issued.

August 1973 Membership opens to women.

January 1978 The multi-manual Advanced Communication and Leadership Program is introduced.

April 1979 The first two Success/Leadership programs are introduced.

November 1981 The Accredited Speaker Program begins.

October 1982 Membership reaches 100,000.

July 1984 The Communication and Leadership Program manual is revised, and two new educational awards are introduced: the Able Toastmaster Bronze (ATM-B) and Able Toastmaster Silver (ATM-S).

April 1989 Membership reaches 150,000.

July 1989 The Distinguished Club Program, Distinguished Area Program and Distinguished Division Program are introduced.

June 1990 World Headquarters moves to Rancho Santa Margarita, California.

January 1993 Toastmasters International charters its 8,000th club.

January 1997 The revised Communication and Leadership Program manual is introduced.

July 1997 An improved two-track educational recognition system begins. The communication track includes the CTM, Advanced Toastmaster Bronze, Advanced Toastmaster Silver and Advanced Toastmaster Gold awards. The leadership track includes the Competent Leader and Advanced Leader awards. Requirements for the DTM award also change.

July 1999 The 10-goal Distinguished Club Program is introduced.

July 2001 Executive Director Terrence McCann retires and is replaced by Donna Groh.

June 2004 Toastmasters International charters its 10,000th club. Membership reaches 200,000.

January 2006 The Competent Leadership manual is introduced.

July 2006 Award titles in the communication track are renamed, and the leadership track is strengthened and expanded to include the Competent Leader, Advanced Leader Bronze and Advanced Leader Silver awards.

September 2007 Redesigned member and public Web sites debut.

August 2008 Executive Director Donna H. Groh resigns and is replaced by Daniel Rex.

June 2009 Toastmasters International charters its 12,500th club. Membership reaches 250,000 in 106 countries.

July 2009 The Toastmasters Learning Connection (TLC), an e-Learning education platform, is launched.

August 2009 Proposal A: Global Representation and Support is passed at the 2009 International Convention.

Source: Toastmasters International
http://http//www.toastmasters.org/FunctionalMenuCategories/CompanyInformation/Timeline.aspx

We share this best moment with you & dedicate this letter to our third baby (1st Sept 2009)

2009-09-01T12:25:00.000-07:00

This morning when Bee Own and I checked in to the hospital at 6.30 am for the elective general anesthesia caesarean, we knew it was going to be a long day, and all the nerves and jitters had already dissolved into tiredness by the time we got to the hospital.

I was shown into the delivery suite to wait, while Bee Own was wheeled in, because I’m not allowed into a GA caesarean theatre.

I’d always known it would be quick, but I wasn’t prepared for how fast our baby announced her arrival by yelling her lungs out – I could hear her in the delivery suite, outside the operating theatre, and I hadn’t even had time to finish my hot drink that I had made at the pantry before they wheeled her out for me to say hello.

I whispered into her little ears- first to thank her for being our child and help her mother to go through a smooth delivery. Each bore significance.

She is the most beautiful baby girl in the world at this best moment.

A life is born –out of another life.

It was truly an experience to welcome the birth of our child on the 1st Sept 2009. We share this chapter with you because we cannot contain the joy and elation of the new addition.
There are still many things to learn, much challenges to assume….
Let us look forward to another year of excitement.

From a new born family,

Papa Kim Siong, Mummy Bee Own, Sister Cheng Yee and Brother Cheng Hung.
**Although she may not understand at this moment, when she learns to read, she will surely understand the intent of the family.

PS. A family consists of at least three people.

Poh Kim Siong, DTM

International Director 2008-2010

The Parable of the Pencil

2009-08-23T07:33:00.000-07:00

The Pencil Maker took the pencil aside, just before putting him into the box.

"There are 5 things you need to know," he told the pencil, "Before I send you out into the world.

Always remember them and never forget, and you will become the best pencil you can be."

"One: You will be able to do many great things, but only if you allow yourself to be held in someone's hand."

"Two: You will experience a painful sharpening from time to time, but you'll need it to become a better pencil."

"Three: You will be able to correct any mistakes you might make."

"Four: The most important part of you will always be what's inside."

"And Five: On every surface you are used on, you must leave your mark. No matter what the condition, you must continue to write."

The pencil understood and promised to remember, and went into the box with purpose in its heart.

Always remember them and never forget, and you will become the best person you can be.

One: You will be able to do many great things, but only if you allow yourself to be held in God's hand. And allow other human beings to access you for the many gifts you possess.

Two: You will experience a painful sharpening from time to time, by going through various problems in life, but you'll need it to become a stronger person.

Three: You will be able to correct any mistakes you might make.

Four: The most important part of you will always be what's on the inside.

And Five: On every surface you walk through, you must leave your mark. No matter what the situation, you must continue to do your duties.

Allow this parable on the pencil to encourage you to know that you are a special person and only you can fulfill the purpose to which you were born to accomplish.

Never allow yourself to get discouraged and think that your life is insignificant and cannot make a change.

The Best of Times

2009-08-23T07:31:00.000-07:00

source: I trust, I can

World Champion Chosen August 15, 2009

2009-08-22T18:55:00.000-07:00

Mark Hunter, a school principal and coach from Brisbane, Australia, has claimed the title of World Champion of Public Speaking with his speech titled, "A Sink Full of Green Tomatoes." Second- and third-place winners of the World Championship of Public Speaking were Mary Cheyne of Somerville, Massachusetts, for "Nelly" and Erick Rainey of Portland, Oregon, for "Feed the Right Dog." The contest took place at the Toastmasters International Convention in Mashantucket, Connecticut, on Aug. 15, 2009.

Source: Toastmasters International

2008- 2009 President's Distinguished Distircts from DNAR

2009-08-22T18:43:00.000-07:00

District 51(Left) & District 85 (right)

District 79(left) & District 82(right)

Source: Toastmasters International

Being a more invested friend

2009-08-03T15:09:00.000-07:00

“The only way to have a friend is to be one.” - Ralph Waldo Emerson

In order to make friends, you have to treat others the way you would want to be treated. Here are a few tips on being a more invested friend:

Don't criticize, condemn, or complain

Become genuinely interested in other people

Be generous with your smiles

Be a good listener

Make the other person feel important

Source:The Dale Carnegie Course®

Toastmasters 2009: Stronger Than Ever

2009-08-03T15:01:00.000-07:00

Thanks to your service and dedicated support.
Now more than ever, you can count on Toastmasters to help you through life’s challenges. While the world has experienced a massive economic downturn in the past year, Toastmasters International has grown by nearly 6 percent, with 1,073 new clubs chartering – an all-time high in the history of the organization.

That means there are now more than 12,500 clubs with 250,000 members in 106 countries. In addition, fifty-six districts achieved Distinguished status, surpassing all previous years. Toastmasters remains strong thanks to the members’ hard work and commitment to helping others become more confident speakers and leaders.

Source: Toastmasters International

Choose Significance

2009-07-31T10:23:00.000-07:00

source: I trust, I can

Welcome......District Governors from DNAR 2009-2010

2009-07-27T15:34:00.000-07:00

Be a good listener

2009-07-26T20:58:00.000-07:00

“Be a good listener. Encourage others to talk about themselves.” - Dale Carnegie

Effective communication is essential in today's work environment. Good communication is as reliant on good listening as on coherent speaking. Here are some tips on how to be a better listener:

Look at the other person
Ask questions
Don't interrupt
Don't change the subject
Express emotion with control
Respond appropriately

Source:Leadership Training for Managers

Let us celebrate your success for 2008-2009!

2009-07-17T16:48:00.000-07:00

“We can discover this meaning in life in three different ways: (1) by doing a deed; (2) by experiencing a value; and (3) by suffering.” Viktor Frankl

Wow! Now allow us to congratulate you on a record-breaking year! We ended the year with an all-time high 56 Distinguished Districts in the world! We had more officers trained than ever before, as well as more distinguished clubs. That makes us so proud of you!

This is a year that could have gone either way. Districts could have used the economy as an excuse for poor performance or resolve that now more than ever, Toastmasters has what people need to give them The Courage to Conquer! Most of our districts chose the latter. Not to mention the many, many lives that we help to change.

In DNAR, we felt proud of our team of DNAR Leaders who have been our most dedicated and results focused leaders during the past year 2008-2009. We are equally proud of every individual Toastmaster who has subscribed to the International Presidential theme and have the Courage to Conquer! Congratulations!

Our heartiest congratulations to the following outstanding winners for achieving world accolades:

President’s Distinguished Districts

District 82
District 79
District 85
District 51

Select Distinguished Districts

District 81
District 71
District 67

Distinguished Districts

District 59
District 73
District 76
District 80
District 72
District 70

Excellence in Education & Training Award

District 75
District 34
District 69

From the bottom of our hearts, we thank you for the hard work and support you gave the members and the organization this year.

Your efforts made a difference.

Your directors,

Kim Siong & Murad

Life truly is a boomerang. What you give, you get

2009-07-17T05:16:00.000-07:00

“Life truly is a boomerang. What you give, you get.” - Dale Carnegie

Leadership is the creation of environments that influence others to achieve group goals. People support a world they help create. To develop the leader in you, try the following guidelines:

Develop personal leadership

Communicate to lead

Recognize human potential

Build cooperation

Make decisions

Manage conflict and change

Source:The Leadership Advantage

Rules for Beginners

2009-07-16T16:51:00.001-07:00

Source: I trust, Ican

Gary Schmidt's Presidential Theme 2009-2010

2009-07-03T16:13:00.000-07:00

Toastmasters: Confidence. Leadership. Service.

Toastmasters International is in the building business. We don’t build homes or automobiles or other structures; we build people—with confidence, leadership and service.

Confidence Before we become skilled communicators and leaders, we first gain the self-assurance and belief that we can indeed become who we were meant to be. Toastmasters provides the tools to build our confidence.

Leadership After we gain confidence, we develop our talents in leading others. Leadership is the process of influencing others to accomplish goals and objectives. Every single one of us is a leader, whether we serve as an elected officer, a mentor to a fellow club member, or simply invite a friend to visit a club. Leading others helps us lead our own lives in the direction of our dreams.

Service With our improved confidence and leadership skills, we then serve others. When you help others achieve their goals and dreams, they help you achieve yours. Your self-confidence continues to grow and expand, as do your leadership skills, and when these are combined, your capacity to serve others is enhanced. The circle of personal development grows and continues!
Serving the World Service extends beyond Toastmasters. With the confidence and leadership skills Toastmasters instills in each of us, it is our opportunity and responsibility to use those talents to serve and improve the world. Serve your family, your community and your profession. Make the world a better place than it was before you arrived.

Call to Action Whether you are a new member, an officer or a past leader, keep the ideals of confidence, leadership and service ever-present in your mind through the coming year. Continue to engage in Toastmasters’ education programs, achieve in the Distinguished Club, Area, Division and District programs, bring new members to your clubs, and involve yourself in all the programs and events Toastmasters International offers. With all these tools for the taking, you will improve your life, the lives of your fellow members, and the lives of all those in the world who are touched daily by the power of Toastmasters.

Source: Toastmasters International

Protect Your Recognition!

2009-06-09T16:42:00.000-07:00

June 30th Deadline No more grace periods!

Remember, there is no longer a grace period for distinguished programs. In the past, submissions were considered on time for credit in the distinguished programs if they were postmarked by June 30, and received at WHQ by July 7. Now, all materials for the distinguished programs must be received by WHQ no later than June 30 -- with no grace period. This concerns only those distinguished program deadlines that fall on June 30.

The reason for this was fairness. A club located close to World Headquarters could hand-carry in some paperwork on June 30th, while a club located farther away had to take mailing delays into account. Now, technology allows any club in the world to send in forms in a variety of ways that allows any club or district from around the world to submit items on time.

So, there is no longer a need for a grace period for on time credit. Toastmasters has changed policy to keep up with the times - and it affects your club or district. While we must all be more mindful of the calendar, every Toastmaster can also be happy about the fact that these new, solid deadlines will result in speedier recognition results at year-end.

Source: Toastmasters International

Listen, Learn, Lead

2009-06-07T22:34:00.000-07:00

Source: I trust, I can

The Courage to Conquer …. Love Your Members!

2009-06-07T22:24:00.000-07:00

People don't care how much you know, until they know how much you care!

The 10 most important words:

"I apologize for our mistake. Let me make it right."When something goes wrong, most people merely want to be heard and acknowledged. So listen, apologize, and then ask what you can do to make it right.

The 9 most important words:

"Thank you for your membership. Please come back for meeting again." Retain members cost less than new members and are often more loyal.

The 8 most important words:

"I'm not sure, but I will find out." It's ok if you don't know the answer; it's not ok to make the member keep searching for it. That's your job.

The 7 most important words:

"What else can I do for you?" Be prepared to go the extra mile, there is less competition there.

The 6 most important words:

"What is most important for you?"Your members will be pleasantly surprised when you ask what's important for them.

The 5 most important words:

"How may I serve you?" This question reinforces your role in the relationship. Play that role the best you can.

The 4 most important words:

"How did we do?" Feedback is critical! Your members have a unique perspective and they appreciate being asked.

The 3 most important words:

"Glad you're here!" Members who feel welcome spend more time, more money and are more likely to return back to the club.

The 2 most important words:

"Thank you." Basic manners... but how often do you get thanked when you're the members?

The MOST important word:

"Yes." Become a yes person

Membership and Eligibility Requirements

2009-06-04T16:00:00.000-07:00

Maintaining good standing is arequirement for holding office, voting or participating in speech contests.

Are you eligible to run for Toastmasters office? Can you participate in a Toastmasters speech contest? Is your club eligible to vote at the district and regional conferences or at the International Convention? In order to be eligible for these and other Toastmasters benefits, each member and club must be in good standing with Toastmasters International.

Member

A member in good standing is one whose dues have been paid by the club and received at Toastmasters World Headquarters (WHQ) by May 31 for the April through September period and by November 30 for the October through March period.

A new member is in good standing as soon as the new member application and appropriate fees and dues are received at WHQ.

A member will remain delinquent after May 31 and after November 30 until dues have been received at WHQ.

A person must be a member in good standing of a Toastmasters club in good standing to be nominated for or to serve in any office in Toastmasters International.

Club

A club in good standing is one that has paid its dues to WHQ by May 31 for the April through September period and by November 30 for the October through March period.

A club will remain delinquent after May 31 and after November 30 until dues have been received at WHQ. If dues are not paid prior to the next dues renewal period, the club will be dropped from active status.

Source: Toastmasters International

COMMUNICATING EFFECTIVELY - STAR - WWHAC

2009-05-27T12:15:00.000-07:00

The STAR-WWHAC process enables us to communicate with presence, as well as to collaborate with members. It cuts down communication barriers, and minimizes communication distortion

STAR-WWHAC is an acronym with each letter indicating a deliberate action

Stop ... reacting, blaming, judging and jumping to conclusions
Think ..of the meaning and implications of the communication
Appreciate ..the intentions (purpose), and the situational influences
Respond ( not react ) ... with the WWHAC process

» What do we want to say
» Why are we choosing to respond this way, i.e determine the
purpose of our communication
» How to say it in a congruent and effective way
» Attend/Attention: attend to the person, ensure we get the
attention of the person
» Check understanding of our communication

1. STOP:
Clear our minds of blame, evaluations, presumptions and assumptions, prejudices and biases. Be objective and purpose-oriented.

2. THINK:
Sense and understand the meaning of the communication, both verbally and non- verbally, explicitly, as well as implicitly
I sense the message as ________________________________________________

3. APPRECIATE:
Ascertain, and accept the purpose of the communication. Consider the situational influences and, if necessary, make allowances for them.
I appreciate he/she wants to ( purpose ) ________________________________
and he/she is affected by ( situational influences ) _______________________

4. RESPOND:
Say what we want to say, not what people want us to say ( i.e. respond vs react ). Be aware and be mindful of our purpose and of our communication. Do an ecological check of self-enquiry.
a. WHAT do I want to say ?
______________________________________________________________

b. WHY do I want to say this ? What is my purpose ? What do I want to
achieve ?
_______________________________________________________________
c. HOW can I say it effectively and congruently ? Do an ecological check.
I will say ______________________________________________________
d. Attend to that person. Be non-verbally congruent. Ensure we get the attention of the person as we communicate with him/her.

e. Check the person's understanding of our communication. Seek his reflection if necessary

Source: PH Lau

Learn One Life Tip Everyday

2009-05-27T12:10:00.000-07:00

Source: I trust, I can

Districts Not Assigned to Region Report as at 22 May 2009

2009-05-27T12:05:00.000-07:00

An Adenturer's Creed

2009-05-18T00:27:00.000-07:00

Source: I trust, I can

History of District 51.75 & 80

2009-05-13T10:48:00.000-07:00

District 51, 75 & 80 : Origin of Toastmasters Clubs since 1954

Toastmasters International officially started on Oct 22, 1924. When did Toastmasters Club first arrived in Southeast Asia...

Not surprising, most Toastmasters Clubs were started by expatriates from USA, UK, Canada, Australia or New Zealand. Like other Toastmasters Clubs, some of these early clubs were running for a few years and then discontinued. Others restarted while the "oldest clubs" listed below continued non-stop from day one to the present.

District 75 (Philippines) had been in existence long before District 51 was given full District status in 1996. District 51 reached her peak in geographic size when District 51 covered clubs from Malaysia, Thailand, Indonesia, Singapore, Hong Kong, Macau and Brunei. To date, Thailand, Singapore, Hong Kong and Macau are now in another district - District 80.

HONG KONG since 1954According to "The Story of The Hong Kong Toastmasters Club 1954-2004" by Bernad Yue, a Scottish gentleman Adam Aitken at American International Assurance (HK) Ltd who was a Toastmaster at High Noon Hoon Toastmasters Club, New York City had helped to start the Hong Kong Toastmasters Club(Club 1364) in December 1954 with his fellow Jaycees members.

THAILAND since 1955I attended Bangkok Toastmasters 50th anniversary celebration in Bangkok, Thailand at the invitation of Paisal Sae Lor. Bangkok Toastmasters (Club 2010) was started in December 1955.

SINGAPORE since 1967The "oldest club" in Singapore is Toastmasters Club of Singapore (Club No. 357) was chartered in October 1967. The "second oldest club" in Singapore is the Lion City Toastmasters Club (Club No. 2086) which was formed earlier and then charted again in February 1977.I

NDONESIA since 1979It is not surprising the "earliest club" in Indonesia is in Jakarta. Jakarta Toastmasters (Club 4067) was chartered in Dec 1979.

MALAYSIA since 1978The "oldest club" in Malaysia is the Toastmasters International Kuala Lumpur (Club 1997) was chartered on July 1978. I had the opportunity of meeting one of the "founders" of this first club, a Mr. Sheppard from New Zealand during the Division C International Speech Contest in Kuala Lumpur.It was the "folks" from "TI KL" who helped chartered the Butterworth Toastmasters (Club 4388) in October 1980.

Members of Butterworth Toastmasters in turn helped to charter YMCA Penang (Club 5955) in August 1985.

In turn YMCA Penang was instrumental in the chartering of PDC Toastmasters (Club 7371) in April 1989. Bayan Baru Toastmasters (Club 7764) was chartered on Feb 1996 with PDC as the sponsoring Club.

Later, Bayan Baru members helped to sponsor Bayan Baru Mandarin (Club 7050) in Jun 1988, Penang Seagate (Club 6843) in Mar 2002, Farlim (Club 811512) in Jun 2005.

And the story continues....

Source: SMS Penang

Action Clears doubts

2009-05-13T10:45:00.000-07:00

Source: I trust, I can

Walk Your Talk

2009-04-30T20:55:00.001-07:00

Source: I trust, I can

17 Ideas on How and Where to Promote Toastmasters

2009-04-30T20:40:00.000-07:00

17 Ideas on How and Where to Promote Toastmasters in Your Community

From an article in the June issue of the Toastmasters Magazine.

Newspapers. The easiest way to secure media coverage is through press releases to local newspapers. Newspapers are usually more accessible than radio and television stations, and they allow you to communicate more information, such as the club’s contact information.
Electronic Media. videotaped commercials can be aired on radio and cable television stations. Local talk shows might be interested in featuring a Toastmasters officer discussing the importance of communication training in the workplace.
Local Government. Contact your city hall for information on how to get your message displayed on the city’s cable television programming. Also try to get your Toastmasters activities listed in the city’s community services calendar, published through the Parks and Recreation Department.
Chamber of Commerce. An ad in its newsletter or a presentation by a Toastmaster at one of its meetings will reach influential local business people. IF someone in your district is a chamber member, a group of Toastmasters may want to hold a chamber of commerce social hour.
Libraries. Submit extra copies of The Toastmaster magazine to the library’s periodicals department and attach a card with the club’s contact information. Also post fliers and ads on bulletin boards.
Corporate Publication. Editors for employee newsletters might be interested in camera-ready ads about your club as “fillers.” If the organization has an internal Toastmasters club, by all means use the newsletter as a vehicle for sharing your Toastmasters activities with other employees.
Employee Orientation. Make sure in-house Toastmasters clubs in corporations, hospitals, government agencies or other organizations have their clubs mentioned during new-employee orientation seminars.
“Welcome to the Community” packets. These are distributed to all new residents in a city and contain promotional materials from local merchants and organizations. Your ad or flier should be included in this package.
Universities and Community Colleges. Like cities, many Universities have internal cable TV and radio stations, as well as publications reaching students, staff and faculty. Arrange to have a Toastmaster give a presentation as a guest lecturer in a speech communication class. Or better yet, try to participate in communication-related campus events – like “Communications Week,” for example – and be prepared to host a booth and offer promotional fliers. If your district already has a University club, make sure it is publicized in campus media, as well as in new-student or freshmen orientations.
High Schools. Organize or judge speech contests for seniors, or give seminars on career planning. Even if students don’t join your club, this is an opportunity for media exposure and gives parents, staff and teachers a good impression of our organization.
Community Events. Participate in local fairs, parades, sports tournaments and holiday celebrations. Wear your Toastmasters pin, display your club banner and ribbons and offer handouts at a booth. Again, the community services or recreation departments in your city will have a list of these events.
Proclamations by Politicians (local, state or federal) honoring a specific event or anniversary. You can also ask them to proclaim an official Toastmasters Week (day or month) or Youth Leadership Week, etc.
Billboards. Just as television and radio stations are required to regularly air free public service announcements, billboards also must frequently exhibit messages by nonprofit organizations as a public service. Your only cost involved would be for printing the message, which can be done surprisingly inexpensively. Contact a public affairs representative in your area for more information.
Offer Speechcraft and Youth Leadership Programs. This is a great way of showing the public what Toastmasters is all about.
Create Club Business Club/ District Business Cards indicating your meeting time and place, and distribute them to friends and colleagues along with a personal comment on how Toastmasters training has benefited you.
Use TI Bumper Stickers and Mugs. Wear TI shirts, and display your Toastmaster trophies in a prominent place in your home and office.
Wear Your Toastmasters Pin! It’s a good conversation starter.

Source: Toastmasters International

Do you have stage fright or people fright?

2009-04-28T17:18:00.000-07:00

One of the biggest myths about public speaking is the whole notion of stage fright. Stage fright DOES NOT EXIST! If you doubt me, have you ever seen anyone go into a meeting room, auditorium or lecture hall and come out screaming, “Oh no! There is a stage in there. Run for your lives!”??? Never! What happens is, when people start speaking, they never are afraid of ‘the stage’. They only get afraid of people. It is not stage fright, it’s people fright.

ONE: How many people do you need in your audience before you get ‘afraid’? If you speak one-on-one, are you afraid? No? two on one? Five on one? How about 10 people in your ‘audience’? 20? 50? 100? 1000? There comes a point for most people when the NUMBER of people is what makes them nervous.

TWO: Sometimes it is WHO is in the audience. If you are with your best friends, are you nervous speaking? No? What about your top 5 bosses? A critical group of peers? A group of top clients? Celebrities? Sometimes people are afraid of individuals in the audience, another form of people fright.

THREE: Another common fear is from not knowing the subject matter. You are speaking to your church, temple, mosque, school or some other group of friendly people but you did not prepare your remarks. You think you will make a fool of yourself. Again, that is not stage fright, it’s people fright.

Get rid of the myth of stage fright and you can begin to work on what is REALLY the matter, your fear of people. In future blogs, we will address how to cope with people fright when speaking.

Source: Michael A. Podolinsky CSP

We Are What We Choose

2009-04-28T15:29:00.000-07:00

Source: I trust, I can

Tips on Appreciation

2009-04-23T14:50:00.000-07:00

“You have it easily in your power to increase the sum of this world's happiness now. How? By giving a few words of sincere appreciation to someone who is lonely or discouraged.”
- Dale Carnegie

It only takes a few short seconds for you to pass along a compliment or lend a helping hand. It does not benefit you to go through days, let alone weeks, without showing others appreciation or gratitude. Here are some tips on how to begin doing so:

Smile
Make the other person feel important, and do so with sincerity

Offer honest appreciation

Be a good listener, encourage others to talk about themselves

Make it a point to give at least one compliment a day -- you may be surprised at how this simple act will improve your day, too

Source: The Dale Carnegie Course®12 weeks, 3.5 hours one evening per week

Susan Boyle - The Power of Belief

2009-04-23T14:46:00.000-07:00

Source: I trus, I can

Become a Friendlier Person

2009-04-20T15:07:00.000-07:00

“Try honestly to make the other person feel important, and do it sincerely.”
- Dale Carnegie

To strengthen your relationships, become a friendlier person. Try following these principles:

Don't criticize, condemn, or complain.

Give honest, sincere appreciation.

Arouse in the other person an eager want.

Become genuinely interested in other people.

Smile.

Remember that a person's name is to that person the sweetest sound in any language.

Be a good listener. Encourage others to talk about themselves.

Talk in terms of the other person's interests.
Make the other person feel important - and do it sincerely.

Source: The Leadership Advantage3 days, 8 hours per day

Help Others, Help Yourself

2009-04-20T00:17:00.000-07:00

Source: I trust, I can

The Habit of Courage

2009-04-17T16:10:00.000-07:00

Act confidently, and soon enough you’ll feel confident.“Life shrinks or expands in proportion to one’s courage.” – Anais Nin

Most people come to Toastmasters to overcome their fear of public speaking. So at Toastmasters meetings, what you’ll see – among other things – are demonstrations of courage. Standing in front of a group of attentive listeners makes most people feel vulnerable. It also adds a burden of responsibility, expectation and opportunity. This can be overwhelming and downright scary.

In Toastmasters, members acquire the habit of courage through encouragement and support. Just as Outward Bound programs teach the habit of courage by putting people in life-threatening situations, Toastmasters is a sort of “Inward Bound” program. As with sky diving or rock climbing, speaking before an audience becomes easier the more often you do it. ”

Our members often face an internal demon that paralyzes them with fear. But we discover that when the fear is faced and conquered, we are propelled into a life with larger ambitions,” writes veteran Toastmaster Michael Landrum in an article titled “The Habit of Courage” in the Toastmaster magazine. He recommends the following four tips to alleviate that internal demon:

· Become “other-conscious.” Don’t focus on yourself and what the audience might think. Instead, replace your self-consciousness with other-consciousness. Try to focus on your audience! Find a single person in the audience and make eye contact with him or her. Stay with that person long enough to deliver a full sentence or complete thought. If you take responsibility for the audience’s understanding of your message, you will soon forget your sweaty palms and knocking knees.

· Anxiety feels worse than it looks. If you can refrain from calling attention to your fears and anxieties, nobody will know about them. “It’s a classic case of fake it 'til you make it,” Landrum says. “Act confidently, and soon enough you’ll feel confident.”

· Make it look easy. The audience wants to hear the speech, not worry about the speaker. Be humble: This is not about you – it’s about your speech! Your ideas and thoughts, and how they benefit the listeners are the most important part. Deliver these with grace, style and enthusiasm, but avoid ego-building enhancements. A speech easily delivered is gladly received.

· Let yourself be encouraged. Don’t be self-effacing or overly modest. Embrace the supportive atmosphere of a Toastmasters club and nourish visions of success! “Learn to give yourself the benefit of the doubt that you so easily would extend to anyone else!” Landrum says. “Persistence is the most useful virtue of the human heart. You are never beaten until you admit it.”

Consider the example of Eleanor Roosevelt, who was by nature timid, introverted and terrified of speaking in public. But because she was married to U.S. President Franklin D. Roosevelt, she had to speak in public often. She faced her fear and became one of the great speakers of the 20th Century. Let her words inspire you on your journey:

“You can gain strength, courage and confidence by every experience in which you really stop to look fear in the face. You are able to say to yourself, ‘I lived through this horror. I can take the next thing that comes along’… You must do the thing you cannot do.” – Eleanor Roosevelt

Source: Toastmasters International

Speak Positive Words

2009-04-17T16:08:00.000-07:00

Source: I trust, I can

The 2009 International Convention @ August 12-15, 2009

2009-04-14T21:59:00.001-07:00

The 2009 International ConventionAugust 12-15, 2009

Find Fun by the Bucket…in Mashantucket!

Curious for Convention news? You’ve come to the right spot.

With Convention time quickly approaching, the TI Web site is your one-stop source for information. You’ll learn everything you need to know about the 2009 event, which takes place August 12-15 in beautiful Mashantucket, Connecticut. The 78th Annual International Convention will be held at the MGM Grand at Foxwoods, a hotel that boasts a dizzying array of entertainment options. Here you’ll get to hear a variety of great speakers, attend educational sessions and enjoy the much-anticipated World Championship of Public Speaking.

Explore the various categories on this Web page for more details about the 2009 Convention.

· 2009 Schedule of Events
· Register Now! - 78th Annual International Convention
· Traveling to MashantucketHotel and Travel Information
· Sponsor and Exhibitor Information
· Interested in Volunteering?

Source: Toastmasters International

Goals Give Meaning To Life

2009-04-14T21:38:00.000-07:00

Helping Our Members Deal With Change

2009-04-14T21:32:00.000-07:00

Whether it be in the form of yet another revised policy or procedure to adopt, a new product to make and sell, the latest technology upgrade to learn, a corporate restructuring to figure out (and survive), a new set of job duties to make “happen” – or one of a myriad of other possibilities – continual change is a reality of life. And can be a painful reality for many people – including our members.

Certainly, as leaders, we also are subject to change. And we’re not exempt from the discomfort that comes with it. But we have to get past that … we need to “*bleep* it up.” We have to focus on our people (rather than ourselves) and be sensitive to their fears, concerns, and needs about stepping out of the comfort zones. Ultimately, we must be facilitators of change – not dictators, nor mere messengers, nor “victims” of it, ourselves. That is what leadership is all about … that’s part of the heat that comes with our leadership kitchens.

HOW TO HELP MEMBERS DEAL WITH CHANGE

1. Explain WHY the change is required / necessary.

2. Describe the expected benefits to be gained (“What’s in it for us”).

3. Provide training and resources necessary to implement the change.

4. Solicit / address any employee questions and concerns.

5. Be patient – expect mistakes as new habits are formed.

And most importantly …

6. Demonstrate support and commitment to the change, yourself.

Today’s lesson is from LEAD RIGHT: Every Leader’s Straight-Talk Guide to Job Success

2009-04-12T23:08:00.000-07:00

"SMILE"

A Smile costs nothing, but gives much

It enriches those who receive, without making poorer those who give.

It takes but a moment, but the memory of it sometimes lasts forever.

None is so rich or mighty that he can get along without it,

and none is so poor, but that he can be made rich by it.

A Smile creates happiness in the home, fosters good will in business,

and is the countersign of friendship.

It brings rest to the weary, cheer to the discouraged, sunshine to the sad,

and it is nature's best antidote for trouble.

Yet it cannot be bought, begged, borrowed, or stolen,

for it is something that is of no value to anyone, until it is given away.

Some people are too tired to give you a smile;

Give them one of yours, as none needs a smile as much as he who has no more to

give.

Have a Nice Day

Impossible Is Nothing

2009-04-12T15:10:00.000-07:00

The Order of Introduction/ Recognition

2009-04-12T01:28:00.000-07:00

The district governor (presiding
officer) should introduce any special guests
seated in the audience. When introducing guests in
the audience, introduce those of highest rank first.

The order of introduction/recognition would be:

1. Any local dignitaries or special guests who are
not seated at the head table (government officials,
media, etc.)

2. Toastmasters International officers (who currently
are serving on the Board of Directors and are
visiting the conference in an unofficial capacity)

3. International directors (who currently are serving
on the Board of Directors and are visiting the
conference in an unofficial capacity)

4. Past international presidents and past
international directors

5. Past district governors

6. Current district officers, such as the district secretary,
treasurer and public relations officer. Time
permitting, division governors and area governors
can be asked to stand and be recognized as a group.

Source: Toastmasters International District Leadership Handbook.

April 2009 - Checklist, Deadlines/ Important Date & Tips

2009-04-12T01:09:00.000-07:00

Checklist:

_ Submit club membership dues renewals online
_ Complete area governor second-round club visits
_ Prepare for district conference
_ Prepare for district executive committee meeting
_ Prepare for district council meeting
_ Order awards for speech contests (to order, e-mail:
supplyorders@toastmasters.org)

Deadlines/Important Dates:
April 1:
_ April dues renewals due to WHQ
April 10:
_ April dues renewals due to WHQ for Distinguished
Club Program credit
April 15:
_ Monthly treasurer report for the period ending
February 28 due to District Trio
April 30:
_ Second-round area governor club visits should
be completed

Tips:
_ Confirm submissions with WHQ
_ Work on club-building efforts
_ Stay on track; check your DPR reports regularly

California Sales Tax Increases to 8.75% on April 1, 2009

2009-03-26T22:35:00.000-07:00

Effective April 1, 2009, the State of California sales and use tax rate will increase by 1%.
The sales and use tax rate that Toastmasters International applies to orders shipped within California will be 8.75% (previously 7.75%) beginning April 1, 2009.

This will apply to all new member kits, charter kits and product orders that are shipped to California addresses.

Source: Toastmasters International

District Nominating Committee & Elections

2009-03-22T23:28:00.000-07:00

Checklist for District Nominations

Following is a checklist intended to facilitate your district nominations process. Please feel free to adapt the items or add additional items as appropriate for your particular district.

January
Publish a call for candidates in the district newsletter and on the district Web site. Be sure to include:
□ Officer descriptions, including the qualifications and responsibilities for each district position.
□ Copy of the District Officer Nominating Form.
Appoint nominating committee members
□ Nominating committee consists of at least five members
(Please note: Any member of the committee must be in good standing. No committee member can be considered for the ballot while serving in this capacity. One of the five members shall be appointed chairman. If possible, a diverse committee shall be appointed including representation from areas and divisions. If a member served as a committee member last year, they may not serve again)

February through March

(Districts may choose to complete some of these items in January)
□ Determine nominating committee meeting schedule and conduct meetings as defined
□ Nominating committee members seek out qualified members, in addition to those candidates who announce their intention to run for office
□ Nominating committee interviews all candidates (if feasible)
□ All candidates sign and submit to committee their Officer Agreement and Release Form (required).
□ Nominating committee completes the candidate checklist and evaluation form for each candidate.
□ Nominating committee votes
□ Nominating committee chairman or district governor notifies candidates of district officer selections. At that time, you will also want to confirm with selected candidates their agreement to assume the responsibilities of their new role. Candidates that are not selected should be informed of their eligibility to run for office from the floor at the district annual business meeting.
April

(Districts may choose to complete some of these items in March)
□ Nominating committee completes nominations report

□ District distributes nominating committee report to members of the district council at least two weeks in advance of annual meeting.
(Please note: Completed reports may contain a statement from each nominated candidate, if applicable, including a biographical sketch and overview of how he or she intends to fulfill duties of office and contribute to district success).

This report can be provided in one of two ways*:

1. Included with notice of meeting
2. In the district’s newsletter and/or on the district’s Web site. The notice of meeting should be included.
*If the report is not distributed within the established guidelines, the report is null and void. In this case, all candidates must then run from the floor.

□ Nominating committee chairman provides district governor with all Officer Agreement and Release Forms

□ Post district council meeting: district governor submits all Officer Agreement and Release Forms to TI.

April through May

□ Submit new officer contact information to TI

LEADERS MUST DECIDE WHAT MATTERS IN LIFE

2009-03-22T16:41:00.000-07:00

Kouzes And Posner wrote in their book, “ A Leader’s Legacy: People commit to causes, not to plans. Commitment is fuelled by what we cherish. If the values about which we care deeply are vividly clear to us, then the whims of fashion and the opinion polls won’t sidetrack us. A lasting legacy is built on a firm foundation of principles and purpose.

This means leadership development is first self development. Becoming a leader begins with exploration of the inner territory as we search to find our own authentic voice. Leaders must decide what matters in life before they can live a life that matters.

Leaders look into the future to gaze across the time horizon and communicate to us what they see. It is about being discerning and perceptive. It is about noticing what is around the corner.

Serve With Significance

Let us serve with significance. Exemplary leaders are interested more in others’ success than in their own. Their greatest achievements are the triumphs of those they serve. Knowing they make a difference in others’ lives, is what motivates their own giving leaders the strength to endure the hardships, struggles and inevitable sacrifices required to achieve great things.

Leaders serve selflessly to meet the needs of the team members and organizational objectives. They are not jealous to see the success of their team members. Leaders encourage, inspire and motivate their team members to excel in whatever they may be doing. They groom, coach and mentor their team members to achieve success.

Ask For Feedback

Serving requires feedback. When we ask, “ How am I doing ? “ they gain valuable insights into how they affect the performance of others. By asking the members how are we performing, will help us to correct any shortcoming and to fulfill the members’ needs by serving them to the best of our ability. This is what I call the “ Amazing Service. “

Core Values
Serving needs us to uphold the organizational core values. Toastmasters core values are integrity, dedication to excellence, respect for an individual and service to the members. We demostrate the traits and skills we want others to emulate. Whatever we do, let us ask ourselves, by what we are doing, does it add value to our organization ? Does it benefit our members ? Is it the truth ? How the community will benefit ? Thus whatever the leaders do, the team members can follow.

Keeping In Touch
Serving by keeping in touch with our team members. Members want to know our values and beliefs, our aims and aspirations, and our hopes and dreams. Thus it is important to have clarity of ourselves. Leadership is a relationship between those who aspire to lead and those who choose to follow. People follow people, not positions. If there is no personal relationship, then it is just less likely that people will want to follow. We need to treat every member as an individual. To be the best, we must reveal our humanity. It is the only pathway to a genuine connection with others.

It is the quality of our relationship that most determines whether our relationship will be ephemeral or lasting.

Seeing Eye to Eye

Historian Doris Kearns Goodwin told the story of how American Past President Abraham Lincoln consciously and willfully assembled a cabinet made up of the very men he had defeated in the election, Kearns called them a “ team of rivals. “ Lincoln was a political genius of being able to form friendships with men who had previously opposed him to repair injured feelings, that if left unattended, must have escalated into permanent hostility.

Your enemies are your best teachers. Lincoln had tapped on this and be became one of the most remembered Presidents of the United States of America.

We need to make it possible for people to argue with each other – up, down, in, out and sideways if we are to realize the best from today’s and talented workforce. We should not strive to win every skirmish, but instead endeavor to unite our decisions so that we can win the battles that matter most.

Conclusion

Leaders require opening doors that are shut, walking into darkness that are frightening and touching the flame that burns. But at the end truth prevails. Strive for the betterment of mankind selflessly and this world will be a better world in which to live peacefully.

By PH Lau

The Proxies are Coming!

2009-03-09T17:07:00.000-07:00

Voting

Club Presidents will soon receive International Proxies

On March 31, proxy cards for the regional conferences and the Annual Business Meeting at the International Convention will be sent to club presidents of record. The proxy mailing is being sent in a blue envelope with “IMPORTANT PROXY INFORMATION” printed on the front of the envelope. Please watch for this important mailing.

These proxies are needed for your club to cast its votes to nominate international director candidates at the regional conferences and to elect the international officers and directors at the Annual Business Meeting. They will also be used when voting on a very important matter, Proposal A.

Proposal A: Global Representation and Support will be presented to the membership for approval. Complete information on the proposal will be included.

If your club is sending a delegate to these meetings, complete the appropriate proxy and send it to the meeting with your delegate. If you aren’t sending a representative, complete the appropriate proxy and mail it to your district governor, whose name and address appears on the reverse side of the proxy.

If your club doesn’t receive its proxy card by the end of April, please check with your previous club president, who may still be listed as president in your club’s records at WHQ.
If the proxies do not arrive or are lost, each club or a district officer may request a duplicate proxy card. Only one duplicate card will be provided for each club, so it is important that up-to-date and correct club president name and address information accompany the request. Proxies will be sent to the club president only; they cannot be sent to district officers or members of other clubs. Only the actual Credential/Proxy form, properly filled out and provided to the credentials desk at both of the meetings, will be honored; photocopies or facsimiles will not be honored.

Should you require a duplicate proxy, please e-mail your request to duplicateproxies@toastmasters.org. Include the club/district number and the name and address of the club president. Duplicate proxy requests will be honored beginning April 27.

Your vote is important! It is your club’s right and duty to cast its votes. We hope to see all clubs represented this year.

Source: Toastmasters International

Did you know?....Assets at the District and Club Levels

2009-03-04T15:55:00.000-08:00

Section VI D 7

ASSETS AT THE DISTRICT AND CLUB LEVELS

It is not within the scope of districts and clubs to own assets beyond what is necessary to deliver the Toastmasters program. Any assets are held for the benefit of the respective districts and clubs.

Acceptable assets include, but are not limited to, bank accounts and incidental items which are used in the conduct of a meeting or conference, such as, lecterns, banners, stationery, mailing supplies, timing lights, recognition awards including trophies, audiovisual equipment, sound systems, coffee makers and similar equipment, and educational materials. Districts may also own other assets such as computers, printers, copy machines, FAX machines, and answering machines, with advance permission from World Headquarters.

Assets not acceptable at the district and club levels include, but are not limited to: motor vehicles, office space, real property, furniture, telephones, and telephone systems, whether rented, leased, purchased, or donated.

Each district and club must maintain a written list of its assets and a written procedure to ensure that the assets are accounted for and transferred smoothly to the next administration.

It is assumed that the administration of the districts and clubs will occur on a volunteer basis by officers and members using their own personal equipment and furniture.

Source: Toastmasters International

March 2009 - Checklist, Deadlines/ Important Date & Tips

2009-03-01T20:40:00.000-08:00

MARCH 2009

Checklist:
Remind clubs to submit membership dues renewals online
Complete area governors second-round club visits
Order awards for speech contests (to order, e-mail: supplyorders@toastmasters.org)

Deadlines/Important Dates:
March 15:
Monthly treasurer’s report (July 1 – January 30) due to District Trio
March 31:
Report of club-officer training due to WHQ

Tips:
Submit club-officer training online
Confirm submissions with WHQ
Delegate!
Look ahead; what’s coming up?
Work on club building efforts
Stay on track; check your DPR reports regularly

Source: Toastmasters International

How to Quickly Respond to Difficult Questions

2009-03-01T14:43:00.000-08:00

In the course of your career, you may be called upon to make presentations to your colleagues. Presenting in front of your peers is a hard task in itself. It becomes much more difficult when a question and answer period is required. Question and answer periods are a great way to clarify the message and reinforce key points. It is important to remain composed and positive throughout the entire session. Here are some ideas that can help you prepare for your next meeting:

Show a genuine interest - When a person is asking a question, show interest and desire to understand the question by listening and asking for clarification. If a person has a question with a negative tone, showing interest can help diffuse the negativity.

Buy time - When answering a tough or complicated question most people can't respond immediately. Buy time by repeating the question in your own words. You may also ask for clarification on the question. These techniques allow you to quickly organize your thoughts as well as confirm you will be correctly answering the question.

Disagree Agreeably - Acknowledge the other person's point of view by rephrasing the question, and show respect by using a cushion to introduce the idea you think would be best. An example of a cushion is to reply, "I hear what you are saying" (pause), then say, "how about this angle". Remember to show evidence to support your points.

Suggest a private meeting- A private meeting can be less tense than speaking in front of your peers. A one-on-one meeting also can be more effective because feedback is immediate and there is time to discuss ideas in a calmer setting.

Source: Dale Carnegie Training

Global Representation and Support

2009-03-01T14:35:00.000-08:00

The Future of Toastmasters

Take a Stand. Make a Difference.

In August 2009, every Toastmasters club in the world will be asked to vote on a very important set of governance changes that are scheduled to take effect in 2010. If passed, these changes will improve the way the organization is structured on a global scale, ultimately enhancing service to the member.

Toastmasters is Global. Toastmasters is You.

The heart of the Toastmasters world is the club, and the lifeblood of each club is the satisfaction of its members. But how does each member relate to Toastmasters International on a global scale? The answer lies in the structure of Toastmasters, and all the various ways we provide support and service to the member. Toastmasters International is improving the structure of the organization, with the aim of achieving the following two goals:

· A more fair and equitable system of global representation.
· Improved service and support for every member, regardless of where he or she may live in the world.

Global Representation.

Toastmasters International has grown into every part of the world, but the way we currently operate does not adequately account for this growth. The solution is:

· 14 regions spanning the entire globe.
· One board member from each region.
· One region advisor marketing per region.

Local Support.

Member satisfaction is the key to our ongoing success. By regionalizing the Toastmasters world, we ensure every member gets the support they need to succeed. Through the enhanced training of our leaders, we enable improved support to our clubs. As the club is strengthened, the member experience is enriched. As the member experience is enriched, each Toastmaster is better able to achieve his or her personal and professional goals. This is the heart of the Toastmasters program.

Put simply, effective leaders = enhanced club support = an enriched member experience.

The Future is Yours.

When it comes time to vote, mark “YES” on your ballot. In doing so, you stand for a global organization that is committed to making a difference by representing, supporting and ensuring success for every Toastmaster in the world.

Toastmasters is Global. Toastmasters is You.

For the most current version, consult the information above, and view the most current Board of Directors report. Please e-mail questions to governance@toastmasters.org.

Source: Toastmasters International

The Courage To Conquer...The Fermi Paradox

2009-02-27T15:26:00.000-08:00

"If there are billions of planets capable of supporting life, if there are millions of intelligent species out there, where are they?" The Fermi Paradox - Enrico Fermi

Planet Earth is one of trillions of planets in a universe billions of years old. It is subjected to the same physical laws, effects, and chances. It is not unique.

Even if life occurs in one out of a billion planets, even if intelligent life develop over billions of years, there should be millions of planets with intelligent life. So, where is everybody?

For many years our scientists have been searching the skies for intelligent life forms. They sent space probes, they transmitted radio signals. and they listened through giant antenna dishes but they found nothing.

Public speakers face the exact same challenges.

Are you directing your message to the right audience? Are you communicating in a way the audience can understand? Do you know how to listen to feedback?

The bad news for the scientists is, there may really be no one out there.

The good news for you and I is we definitely have an audience before us.

Have the Courage to conquer, find your voice, serve your world. Do it now!

By Gea Ban Peng DTM

District 80 Governor 2004-2005

Six Keys to Connecting at a Keynote Speech: Start by Immersing Yourself in the Experience!

2009-02-27T15:03:00.000-08:00

Darren LaCroix,
2001 World Champion of Public Speaking

If you are a celebrity speaker earning tens of thousands of dollars per speech, you don't need any help "connecting" with your audience. You are famous. You have their attention.

For the rest of us, to best serve our audiences, we need to go above and beyond to connect with them. In fact, when I first began speaking professionally, I was a comedian struggling to do a strong ten minutes of material for an opening act. Now, I have to be up there for an hour! As I became more experienced, I learned to do anything and everything I could to connect. I interviewed people ahead of time, read newsletters, dove into their website, and for sure, showed up early.

While there are many different topics relating to connecting... today's article will focus specifically on what I do when I'm on-site at a conference.

Last week, I spoke for a transportation company at the National Safe Driver Awards Banquet. (I even brought my video camera to show you exactly what I do and how I do it!)

At this event in Jacksonville, FL, I realized that I still incorporate many of the techniques I developed from my early days, especially when I know the audience is in a different industry than I'm accustomed to. This was an audience of 150 truck drivers and their wives. I knew I wanted to arrive early and spend as much time with them as possible.

The problem was, I was teaching a coaching boot camp with Patricia Fripp the day before and was traveling from Vegas to Florida. With the time difference, most of the flights wouldn't get me in until just before the start of my speech. This poses two problems. First, never take the last flight of the day to get to a speech. If you miss a connection, it can be devastating to both your career and the speakers bureau that booked you. Second, by arriving "just in time," I would miss all of the "common" afternoon activities. It became a no-brainer. I took the overnight flight and arrived in Florida late-morning.

I presume you know your topic and are an expert (or an expert-in-the-making) on your speech topic. Your message may be clear -- and because you know it so well -- you probably believe it's an obvious point for your audience. However, it's still our job to help the audience understand what we're trying to teach them. It may be the first time they've heard this idea, and many adult learners are "looking" for reasons not to change or why it won't work for them. Arriving early and spending time with the audience beforehand helps you discover ways to tie your message into their world.

Here are a few things you can do on-site to connect your message with your audience before speaking:

#1 ~ Immerse Yourself in the Experience! Conferences can range from small (with presentations only) all the way to huge (with activities, games, trade shows, and gala evenings). Whatever the attendees are doing, immerse yourself in their experience and do what they do, while always observing what's happening around you. Every once in awhile, you may feel like you've wasted time -- but remember, you're looking for just a couple gems to anchor your message. If there's a tradeshow, walk it. If there are sessions before yours, sit in on them. If there are fun activities, have fun!

At this event, my client had a million dollar "driving simulator." It's designed to train and test divers on how to handle adverse conditions, but here, it was used as a fun, hands-on activity. Though most of the drivers were men, many of their wives jumped in and tried the simulator. They were having fun! I watched and observed a few of them, and made sure I learned the names of the people who were 'driving.' Later, during my keynote, I had a lot of fun with it.

The added bonus is when these people see you up there speaking, you can tell that they're thinking, "Hey, that's the guy we saw in the simulator!" By spending fun-time with the attendees, I now have many friends in the audience. It always helps having friendly faces of people who are connected to you on a deeper level.

#2 ~ Ask Questions and SHUT UP! It's not about you! Though I may be the keynote speaker, I don't care if they like me... but I DO care that they get my message. The same is true when I'm doing my "on-site" research. You only have a limited time to learn about your audience. If you spend the whole time talking about yourself, you're decreasing the time you have to learn about them. I went into the simulator, did a lot of eavesdropping, and when it was my turn, I asked the simulator operators (Bob and Randy) a few questions. Then I did the best thing I could -- I shut up and took notes!

#3 ~ Recognize the People They're Honoring This particular event was an awards banquet. As the keynote speaker, it was also important that I mention their honoree(s), as well. I also honored the past National Champions. How do we honor them? Sometimes a simple verbal recognition is fine... sometimes a copy of a book or CD... sometimes sharing one of their stories. It will vary from speech to speech. As the keynoter, you get to decide what's appropriate. Don't spend too much time on it though. Be real, be quick, and make it fun, if possible.

#4 ~ Recognize the People Who Made Their Conference a Memorable Experience...As speakers, we get much of the glory and have most of the fun at a conference. There are many people who put in hours and hours of effort to make the conference flow smoothly. They rarely get the recognition they deserve. Having a keynote speaker recognize them goes a long way to "Good Karma." It's just the right thing to do. Depending on the situation, I may give them a free copy of my book. It will mean a great deal to them. I made sure to recognize Randy and Bob during my keynote.

#5 ~ Always "Play Up" to Your Audience During Johnny Carson's stint with the Tonight Show, he was asked in an interview, "Why do you think you were so successful?" He paused, gathered his thoughts and said, "I always played up to my audiences."

In this day and age, when it's getting tougher to entertain, many comedians are becoming negative and cutting people down during their gigs. Johnny always respected the audience's intelligence. He always put himself down, rather than the audience.

When you're the "outsider," please keep this in mind. Even when I do my famous "gestures" routine, I always tell my helper that they can do what they want to me, but I won't put them in a tough situation. They're "one of them." If I was mean or negative to my helper, my audience would turn on me. If my helper embarrasses me, the audience loves it, because the helper is an extension of them.

#6 ~ Always Recognize Guests, But...If you are a Toastmaster reading this article, I'm not talking about saying, "Mr. Toastmaster, Fellow Toastmasters, and Guests." I'm talking about going much deeper than that. Recognizing one "specific" person and an actual observation goes much deeper to create a connection.

CLICK HERE to watch this week's YouTube clip and see exactly what I did during my keynote.

It doesn't have to take much time, but should be "real." All acknowledgements should be strategically placed in your speech. At this particular keynote, I recognized people before I even started the presentation.

Keynote audiences vary greatly, and each of them should be looked at on a case-by-case basis. I hope these guidelines give you a framework for finding deeper ways to connect.Here's the big question: Will you make it a habit to immerse yourself in the "attendee experience?"

Stage time,

By Darren LaCroix, 2001 World Champion of Public Speaking

Inter-District Speech Contest Information

2009-02-22T15:56:00.000-08:00

The purpose of the International Speech Contest is:

To provide an opportunity for speakers to improve their speaking abilities and to recognize the best as encouragement to all.

To provide an opportunity to learn by observing the more proficient speakers who have benefited from their Toastmasters training.

The District International Speech Contest is currently held at the Annual Convention. The first place contestant advances to the Inter-District level contest at the International Convention during the third week of August of the same year. The first place contestant at the Inter-District level would advance to compete at the International Convention at the end of August of the same year in the World Championship of Public Speaking.

We are delighted to share with you the information for the coming Inter-District Speech Contests in August 2009:-

Contest A

District 80
District 72
District 74
District 76
District 79
District 85
District 70
District 75
District 71

Contest B

District 81
District 73
District 82
District 51
District 59
District 69
District 34
District 67

Note: The contestants must present an entirely new and different speech for the Regional and for the International level contests than given in any contest that same year (e.g. at the District level).

Board of Directors Report 14th Feb 2009

2009-02-22T15:46:00.000-08:00

We finished and returned home just a few hours ago from Toastmasters International Board meeting at California. This meeting is an all-consuming event for board members during the month of February. That is why we have not been in touch, but we are incredibly proud of ALL of your teams!! We boasted about you at every opportunity!

The Board of Directors Report will highlight some of the board decisions and remind you of some upcoming priorities.

Let us go for greatness with the courage to conquer whatever lies ahead of us.

Your directors,

Kim Siong & Murad

Checklist, Deadlines/ Important Date & Tips

2009-02-03T05:53:00.000-08:00

2009 FEBRUARY

Checklist

Train club officers
Prepare for proxy/credentials
Complete area governor second-round club visits
Order awards for speech contests (to order, e-mail: supplyorders@toastmasters.org)

Deadlines/Important Dates:

February15:

Mid-year audit due to WHQ
Monthly treasurer’s report (July 1 – December 31) due to District Trio

February 28 (29 on leap years):

Last day to complete club-officer training

Tips for February:

Submit club-officer training online
Confirm submissions with WHQ
Work on club building efforts
Stay on track; check your DPR reports regularly

Source:Toastmasters International

2009-02-03T04:10:00.000-08:00

Non-discrimination

Toastmasters is for all people 18 yearsor older who want to improve theircommunication and leadership skills.

Toastmasters International is a non-discriminating organization. No person shall be excluded from membership in a Toastmasters club, and no member shall be deliberately discriminated against, in the conduct of Toastmasters programs, because of the following:
age (except those persons under 18 years of age)

race
color
creed
gender
national or ethnic origin
sexual orientation
physical or mental disability

Each club member, through his or her own efforts, must be able to participate in the program.

Source: Toastmasters International

How to Relax For Your Talk

2009-02-03T03:54:00.000-08:00

How to Relax For Your Talk

We've all heard that many people fear of public speaking. If you're looking for one of the least expensive and most effective methods of promoting your service or product, or impressing your boss, we need to concentrate on the positive results of delivering a presentation well. Think of the contacts and prospective clients you'll be generating with just 20 minutes in front of a Service Club audience.

Perhaps you will get a promotion? In case accentuating the positive isn't enough to keep the butterflies in your stomach in line, before you step up to the podium, take time to work through these exercises to help you channel all that nervousness into energy.

Physical Preparation: Warm up and relax your body and face.

1. If you're wearing high heels, take them off. Now, stand on one leg and shake the other. When you put your foot back on the ground, it's going to feel lighter than the other one. Now, switch legs and shake. You want your energy to go through the floor and out of your head. This sounds quite cosmic; it isn't. It's a practical technique used by actors.

2. Shake your hands...fast. Hold them above your head, bending at the wrist and elbow and then bring your hands back down. This will make your hand movements more natural.

3. Warm up your face muscles by chewing in a highly exaggerated way. Do shoulder and neck rolls. Imagine that you're eye level with a clock. As you look at 12, pull as much of your face up to 12 as you can; now move it to 3, then down to 6 and finally over to 9.

All of these exercises serve to warm you up and relax you. Those exaggerated movements make it easier for your movements to flow more naturally. Now concentrate on the potential customers you'll be cultivating with your talk. Aren't you getting a warm feeling just thinking about that?

Go on—step up on the podium and profit from the experience.

by Patricia Fripp, CSP, CPAE

Sales Presentation Trainer, Keynote Speaker, Executive Speech Coach

District Performance Report....Districts Not Assigned to Region Report as at 30-Jan-09

2009-01-31T21:39:00.000-08:00

Districts Not Assigned to Region Report as at 30-Jan-09

2009-01-29T00:12:00.000-08:00

Governance Reshaping Update

Timeline

􀁺 March 2009
􀂄 Districts link websites to TI page (WHQ to contact DGs)
􀂄 Articles in TIPS and District Newsletters (bi-monthly)
􀂄 Proxy package mailed to Club Presidents
􀂄 Mailing to district leaders from Jana Barnhill
􀁺 April / May 2009
􀂄 Allow time on Spring Conference agenda for visiting officer to present proposal
􀁺 June 2009
􀂄 Presentation and material distribution at Regional Conferences
􀁺 August 2009
􀂄 Variety of information delivery mechanisms at Convention
􀂄 Vote at Convention

Current Resources

1. Shaping the Future of TI, 2nd Edition (PDF)
A PDF document describing the current state of the Toastmasters governance reshaping proposal as of October 2008.
2. Shaping the Future of Toastmasters, Part 2
3. Board Report: Planning TI's Future
4. Board of Directors ReportFebruary 16, 2008
Summary of the Board of Directors report on February 16, 2008.
5. Board Report: Planning TI's Future
6. Meet Toastmasters' 2008-2009 International President Jana Barnhill, DTM, AS
Our new president shares her theme and goals for her term in office.
7. International Officers

Source: Toastmasters International

The Courage to Conquer...Methods to better organize your presentations

2009-01-28T23:50:00.000-08:00

“A talk is a voyage. It must be charted. The speaker who starts nowhere, usually gets there.” - Dale Carnegie

We have a personal and professional responsibility to present ourselves, our organization and our ideas in the best possible light. Here are some methods to better organize your presentations:

*Select a positive, attention-getting opening
*Determine the main points of your message
*Select positive illustrations that support your message
*Leave the audience with a favorable, memorable impression

Source:High Impact Presentations

Back to Basics....District Alignment

2009-01-28T18:42:00.000-08:00

Are you within policy?

District AlignmentDistricts must review and amend, if necessary, their alignment of the club, areas, and divisions once each year. The alignment is subject to the approval of the district council at its annual business meeting in April/May. Changes cannot be made after the approval by the council, so it’s important to ensure that the alignment is correct and will be effective throughout the year.

The District Alignment Committee

It is never too early to form an alignment committee to look at the district’s alignment and put forward a structure for the next program year. The committee should consider an alignment that services the clubs in the most effective way possible and meets the TI policy requirements. It will be important for the district to consider club growth as well as club loss when thinking through a possible alignment. When an area has less than 4 clubs, we are concerned about long-term growth potential and when an area has more than 6 clubs, we are concerned that the district is over-extending human resources, via the area governor role, and that the clubs may not be effectively supported.

Timelines and Expectations

It will be important for the district leadership team to define expectations and the challenge of the alignment committee to ensure their efforts are appropriately executed. District leaders should take necessary time to discuss strategy with the committee. Here’s a proposed schedule for your district’s use:

· December: Form an Alignment Committee. Orient the committee and ensure that they have the background, resources and information necessary to prepare an effective alignment

· January-February: The committee does its work. They should contact clubs and area and division governors for input, especially where changes are being considered.

· February/March: Working with the district leaders, the committee prepares the alignment proposal and provides it to the district executive committee for review and change, if necessary. If questions arise during the process, feel free to contact the Volunteer Support Services Department at WHQ . The district needs to send out appropriate notice to clubs.

· April/May: Final alignment is approved by the district council.

· June/July: Report alignment to WHQ and provide clubs, areas and divisions with the final alignment.

Important Considerations

The committee will need to take several things into account when recommending changes to the alignment. Clubs are typically assigned to an area based on geographical proximity to other clubs in the area. Advanced clubs or other clubs that have members sharing a special interest cannot be segregated into separate areas or divisions and should be integrated with other clubs in the district. Clubs that charter after the alignment is approved by the district council and prior to June 30 as well as after July 1 must be placed into existing areas. Remember, once the district council approves the alignment no changes can be made, so it is important that the committee put together a strong alignment plan.

Things to Consider While Aligning:

· Remain within TI policy · Each division must have a minimum of 3 areas

· Each area must have a minimum of 4 clubs and no more than 6 clubs

· Geographic aspects · Plan for possible growth and possible loss

· Discuss potential changes with current district leaders and area and division governors

· Strategically align the clubs within areas and divisions with focus on the benefits for all

· Communicate the alignment with clubs, areas and divisions. · Once the alignment has been approved by the district council, there can be no changes made, so make sure the alignment is correct.

· Provide the information to WHQ as soon as possible but no later than July 15.

Please note: Alignments that do not meet TI policy requirements cannot be accepted. The alignment committee will need to ensure that the alignment is within TI policy prior to bringing it forward to vote and submission to WHQ.

Source: Toastmasters International

The Courage to Conquer...advice for any leader

2009-01-27T22:11:00.000-08:00

An Old Chinese poem that offers wonderful advice for any leader:

GO to the people

LIVE among the people

LEARN from them

LOVE them.

START with what they know,

BUILD on what they have.

But of the BEST leaders,

When their TASK is accomplished,

Their WORK is done,

The PEOPLE will remark,

"WE HAVE DONE IT OURSELVES."

The Courage to Conquer ...Stay In Control During Stressful Situations

2009-01-21T15:06:00.000-08:00

Stay In Control During Stressful Situations

Are you concerned about the financial turmoil? Is your worry affecting your work performance? Are you concerned about losing your job? Probably-- and it's not doing your health any good to worry about it either.

Here are some strategies to keep you going through the next few months:

1. Keep busy.With companies closing doors and laying off employees so quickly, you're fortunate to have the next few weeks to collect the information you need and set up a plan of action. First, list all the people at your current job who would give you a good recommendation when a new opportunity for employment arises. Next, evaluate your skills. Research jobs available in your area and try to determine what skills they would require. Since you are in human resources yourself, call some human resource contacts to determine if any openings will be, or are available. Begin updating your resume should you come across any job opportunities you believe you may be interested in.

2. Cooperate with the inevitable.Everyone has unexpected changes that occur in their lives. The office is closing, and you'll need a new job. Those facts are beyond your control, and worrying about them will only affect your work performance and have a negative affect on your health. However, what you can control, is how you will handle this situation, and have a positive outcome from this. This is a great time to look into a career change you may have been considering, or perhaps a new type of work environment, or just a different department to work in.

3. Decide just how much anxiety this is worth and refuse to give it more.You've realized your situation, and you've come up with a plan. Now, you'll likely find that concentrating on your future is going to be your main concern. Also, remember that you're a very capable worker, or you wouldn't have been with your current company for as long as you have. You have the skills to utilize at other companies.

4. Live in "day-tight compartments."Handling each day as it comes will keep your workload manageable in size, and the situation will be easier to handle. Deal with each situation as it arises. Set goals for yourself each day, and as you complete them, you'll realize that you can handle more and maintain focus.

Realizing that change is a part of life, and not reserved as something that happens only to ourselves, we can gain control of a situation by working on how we will react to it. Worrying and panic may seem like the natural response, however in the long run, these reactions will only have a negative effect. Keep in mind to handle each situation as it comes, living day by day, and that taking control of the situation by making a plan for yourself will help you overcome this hurdle.

Source: Dale Carnegie Training

A Powerful Presentation Lesson I learned from Dr Wayne Dyer

2009-01-21T14:51:00.000-08:00

As a presenter, have you ever walked into a packed room with lots of energy and couldn't wait for your chance to take the stage? It's exciting! On the flip side, have you ever walked into a room with only 25% of the seats filled and no energy? How did you feel? Did it affect your presentation? It used to hurt mine terribly.

First, do you know who Dr. Wayne Dyer is? He is a very spiritually-based motivational author and speaker. Some of his favorite quotes are: "You'll see it when you believe it" and "Stay focused on what you are for rather than what you are against." When I was first introduced to the world of motivation, I loved listening to Zig, Tony, Brian, and Dr. Dyer.

While at church last week, we watched his new film, Ambition to Meaning. The quote at the top of this article comes from that movie. It's an interesting philosophy... As we grow in life (or as presenters), we must realize that some of the things we once believed in and lived by are no longer true. We must let go. As Craig Valentine would say, "What got you here, won't get you there."

As I was watching the film, I was reminded of a lesson I learned from him at one of his live presentations many years before. It's a lesson that I still need to be reminded of on occasion.

Early in my career, Dr. Dyer came to Worcester, MA. I had read his book, Real Magic, and couldn't wait to see him in person. I wanted to become a professional speaker, and right here in my backyard was a "celebrity" in the business. Cool!

The room was set for a thousand people. One of the local insurance companies had brought him in to speak to their company, and then decided to open it up to the public to help cover costs.

Seven minutes before showtime, I noticed that only about 25% percent of the seats were filled. Oh my! What a difficult and uncomfortable setting! I was embarrassed for him because so few people were in attendance. It was weird, I felt bad for him, though I had nothing to do with the promotion of the event.

As Dr. Dyer took the stage, he had a certain calmness about him. He carefully looked around. Someone must have said something to him, or apologized for the low turnout. The first thing he said to the audience was, "It's OK. The people who are supposed to be here... are. That's all we need."

WOW. It took me a while to absorb his words.

At that point in my career, I would have freaked out. I would've been upset with someone. Bottom line... to him, it didn't matter. He was OK with it. He didn't let it affect him. In fact, he was excited to help whoever was there, and it didn't matter that the "setting" wasn't perfect.

We all need to remember this. Of course we want to have a full room with lots of energy, but sometimes it just won't happen.

Once we optimize the setting for our presentation, our goal as a speaker is to help the people in front of us the best we can, no matter what the setting, or how many people are there. As much fun as a full room can be, we're there to change the lives and inspire the ones that are present. Don't let your own ego get in the way of your connection with your audience, like I used to.

Dr. Dyer, thanks for helping me to "grow up" as a speaker. And, thanks for helping me understand that confidence on stage is good... ego is not. How will you look at the next presentation when there's a low turnout?

Stage time!

By Darren LaCroix

2001 World Champion of Public Speaking

The Courage to Conquer...Leadership Essentials

2009-01-20T05:56:00.000-08:00

Leadership Essentials

Leadership is difficult to define. It’s an abstract concept that evokes as many different reactions as there are different kinds of people. Yet most of us know good leadership when we see it, and we can often tell when good leadership is missing by the way a team or organization struggles without it.

At Toastmasters, our leadership training program identifies the following areas as essential to quality, effective leadership:

* Mission. A clear mission helps the leader to focus the team so that they can ignore distractions and pay attention to what’s most important.

* Values. When a leader demonstrates values that are in sync with the company’s mission and the team’s goals, everyone benefits.

* Planning and goal-setting. With clear goals and effective planning, leaders make their expectations understood and team members know what to do at all times.

* Delegating authority. The job of leadership is usually too big to handle alone. By sharing responsibilities with the team, a leader instills a sense of purpose and empowerment.

* Team building. Establishing trust, playing to individual strengths, encouraging people to work together – all are important aspects of team building.

* Giving feedback. Constructive, concise and timely feedback is essential to each team member’s success, and to the success of the team as a whole.

* Coaching team members. A good leader must take on the role of trainer now and then, providing expert advice, encouragement and suggestions for improvement.

* Motivating people. By providing a good example, learning each team member’s needs and giving rewards and incentives when appropriate, a leader can inspire people to achieve higher levels of performance.

* Working for the team. Great leaders encourage participation, facilitate communication and provide an environment where team success is more likely to occur.

* Resolving conflict. Conflict between team members is inevitable, and not always a bad thing. A leader’s job is to resolve the conflict in a just and reasonable way so that productivity and morale do not suffer.

Source: Toastmasters Inetrnational

Tips you can use to drive innovation

2009-01-19T22:19:00.000-08:00

“The key question isn't, 'What fosters creativity?' But it is, 'Why isn't everyone creative?'”
- Abraham Maslow

Creative ideas result in new discoveries, better ways of doing things, reduced costs and improved performance. Here are some tips you can use to drive innovation in your club:

* Visualize your goal or objective

* Get the facts with regard to the situation and then state what the problem is

* Brainstorm possible ideas/solutions with your team. Evaluate each idea/solution

* Once the solution is determined, get "buy-in"

* Implement the solution, follow up on it and evaluate it

Source:Leadership Training for Managers

The Courage to Conquer...Problem Solving

2009-01-19T11:10:00.000-08:00

SUCCESS TIPS Problem Solving

This deceptively simple formula will amaze you. Try it. . .

Problem Solving: The Four Question Approach

1. What is the problem?

2. What are the causes of the problem?

3. What are the possible solutions?

4. What is the best possible solution? Once you've discovered the best possible solution, take action!

Source: Dale Carnegie Training

Avoid 4 Major Presentation Pitfalls

2009-01-18T21:27:00.000-08:00

Avoid 4 Major Presentation Pitfalls

Whenever you open your mouth, whether your audience is one person or a thousand, you usually want to get a specific message across. Maybe you want your opinions heard at meetings, or you're giving a formal talk. Or perhaps you're in a position to advise your sales team or CEO on an important presentation. Anyone who sets out to present, persuade, and propel with the spoken word faces these major pitfalls.

1. UNCLEAR THINKING. If you can't describe what you are talking about in one sentence, you may be guilty of fuzzy focus or trying to cover too many topics. Your listeners won't understand either.

2. NO CLEAR STRUCTURE. Make it easy for your audience to follow what you are saying. They'll remember your message--and you will too as you present your information and ideas. If you waffle, ramble, or never get to the point, you lose your listeners.

3. NO MEMORABLE STORIES. People rarely remember your exact words. Instead, they remember the mental images that your words inspire. Support your key points with vivid, relevant stories. Help them "make the movie" in their heads by using memorable characters, exciting situations, dialogue, suspense, and humor.

4. NO EMOTIONAL CONNECTION. The most powerful communication combines both intellectual and emotional connections. Intellectual means appealing to educated self-interest with data and reasoned arguments. Emotional comes from engaging the listeners' imaginations, involving them in your illustrative stories by frequently use of the word "you" and from answering their unspoken question, "What's in this for me?"

by Patricia Fripp, CSP, CPAE

The Courage to Conquer...Checklist, Deadline & Tips

2009-01-14T00:12:00.000-08:00

* Checklists to measure success

* Deadline/important date reminders

* Tips to overcome challenges

JANUARY 2009

Checklist:
Publish the call for candidates (if not yet published)
Mid-year review – Check the DPR – if your district is not at 50% of goal achievement, re-think your district’s strategy
Complete mid-year audit
Train club, area and division officers
Area governors - second-round club visits begin
Prepare for proxy/credentials

Deadlines/Important Dates:
January 15:
Monthly treasurer’s report (July 1 – November 30) due to District Trio

Tips:
Submit club-officer training online
Work on club building efforts
Stay on track; check your DPR reports regularly
Confirm submissions with WHQ
Check out what other districts are doing – look at other district Web sites for ideas

Logos...Keep it official!

2009-01-13T18:20:00.000-08:00

Logos

Keep it official!

The Toastmasters “globe” logo is recognized worldwide. But over the years, the organization has also used a graphic image of the Toastmasters name as an alternative or in addition to using the official logo. This text emblem can, at times, be a better representative of Toastmasters International, depending on the project at hand. Both the logo and the alternative text emblem are acceptable to use on official Toastmasters materials. You’re encouraged to use the text emblem as it best suits your needs: in addition to the logo or instead of the logo. But you should know the rules for using the logo and the text emblem, in any case:

Using Existing Toastmasters Products. Toastmasters’ manuals, programs, and other materials are copyrighted and may not be reproduced in any form without advance written permission from WHQ. So if you find materials that carry a logo or text emblem, be sure to ask for permission by e-mailing trademarks@toastmasters.org before copying and distributing any of it.
Using the Logo or Text Emblem on Your Own Materials. The names “Toastmasters” and “Toastmasters International” as well as the logo are trademarks and cannot be printed, engraved or placed on any other items (e.g. badges, trophies, plaques, certificates, coffee mugs, clothing, etc.) without written approval from WHQ. Any such use is a violation of trademark law and TI policy. For example, Club 9999 may not purchase trophies from a local shop and have “Toastmasters International” engraved on them. They can be used, however, for official Toastmasters documents, such as a club or district newsletter.
Use these logos to create official Toastmasters International documents. Be sure to read the page on terms and conditions for logo use. To request authorization for logo use, send an e-mail to trademarks@toastmasters.org.

**Source: Toastmasters International website

Districts Not Assigned to Region Report as at 2009 Jan 09

2009-01-13T17:53:00.000-08:00

Districts Not Assigned to Region Report as at 2009 Jan 09

The Courage to Conquer....New Clubs as at 7th January 2009

2009-01-08T00:05:00.000-08:00

NEW CLUBS – Congratulations on all the new clubs in DNAR since 1st July 2008!!! Wow, We have a total of 110 New Clubs into our DNAR’s family as at 7th January 2009.

1. District 34 has 6 new clubs!
2. District 51 has 11 new clubs!
3. District 59 has 7 new clubs!
4. District 67 has 4 new clubs!
5. District 69 has 1 new clubs!
6. District 70 has 4 new clubs!
7. District 71 has 4 new clubs!
8. District 72 has 6 new clubs!
9. District 73 has 4 new clubs!
10. District 74 has 2 new clubs!
11. District 75 has 3 new clubs!
12. District 76 has 1 new clubs!
13. District 79 has 8 new clubs!
14. District 80 has 15 new clubs!
15. District 81 has 5 new clubs!
16. District 82 has 19 new clubs!
17. District 85 has 10 new clubs!

Let us go for greatness with the courage to conquer whatever lies ahead of us.

DANR Online Mid Year Training - Part 1 - Gap Analysis

2009-01-07T15:18:00.000-08:00

Gap Analysis

Objective: Make mid-year adjustments in order to meet year-end goals

Overview:

Mid-year is a good time for districts to review your performance, the district budget
and district success plan.

* How is the district faring in terms of goal achievement in the Distinguished District program?

* What will the district need to do to achieve the goals by year end?

Once district leaders have determined where they are in relation to their goals and identified
what will need to happen in order to achieve year-end goals, the district leaders should measure
that against the district success plan and budget

* Do items in the district success plan need to be adjusted in order to reach the goals?

* Does the budget need to be re-thought?

* What about human resources?

* Are the right people matched to the appropriate positions so they can execute the remaining goals?

Lights, Camera,...HUMOR! The Rule of Three

2009-01-06T14:42:00.000-08:00

Lights, Camera,...HUMOR! The Rule of Three by Darren LaCroix

One of my favorite techniques to teach is the Rule of Three - with a humor twist. You may be aware that in professional presentations a "list of three" is often used to illustrate examples. For instance, in my observations about happiness, I talk about the excuses we all make. We would be happier IF: "If I just had a little more money... If I just had a little more time... If the kids were just a little older."

Three illustrations are optimum because two may not give full clarity or allow the audience to recognize themselves. Four items seems to belabor the point. Unless it is an unusually difficult concept to grasp, no one likes it when people over explain.

This concept works very well with the setup/punch format. And anyone can develop the technique. The setup "creates an expectation." The punch line " changes that expectation." We can use the Rule of Three to develop a pattern. Establishing the pattern then allows for us to break the pattern and get a laugh!

I was giving a humor workshop in Sarasota and so I scheduled an appearance at a comedy club in town that same night. Some of the attendees mentioned that they were coming to the show. I decided to challenge myself and create a local joke based on the Rule of Three so they could see it "in action."

"I'm excited to be visiting Sarasota. My friends were delighted to show me the local wildlife. They took me to see the dolphins at Miaka, the alligators at Sonata Island, and the drivers on Route 41."

Notice the pattern.

AB AB AB (a pattern needs to be created in order to "change the expectation.")

A: Location
B: Animal

Notice, too, that the "wildlife" gets progressively wilder. That is why I started with dolphins rather than alligators.

You are creating a pattern... A pattern creates an expectation... An expectation is a setup for a nice "humor twist."

Setup: Creating an expectation Punch line: Changing that expectation

But how is the idea created? What is the process? Humor often stems from tragedy. I started by asking about some of the common local complaints. One thing that screamed out from the top of the "pet peeve" list was the drivers. (You usually don't have to look too far!)

The local drivers were going to be my punch line. So now I went back and looked at how I could "hide" the punch line and "setup" the joke. Noticing that there were many vacationers in Sarasota, the idea of vacations seemed like a logical way to hide the punch line.

A great example from a student of humor

John Gupta, DTM Past International Director of a Toastmasters group in Montreal introduced me, he used the Rule of Three that I had taught him at a previous conference.

"When people find out that I'm an Indian, people think I practice Yoga, I meditate, and I'm poor... (pause). The third one is correct! He used a 1,2,3... then bang formula. It was very funny! What John did was use an unfortunate stereotype to his advantage. At the same time, he loosened up the audience, showed that he takes himself lightly, and set a creative tone for his presentation. The magic was he did all of that in just 23 words. Brilliant!

The greatest benefit to his creation is that he can use it whenever he speaks to an audience. A little effort goes a long way. John can use this bit for many years to come. It is a nice "ice breaker."

What can you do?

Make It an Encore Year

2009-01-05T21:51:00.000-08:00

Make It an Encore Year

Whether the coming year is exciting and new or redundant and boring is up to you. To create an encore year-the kind of year you'd like to repeat again instead of forget about forever-develop a plan. Here's what I suggest:

Be a game changer.

Why does Starbucks get so much attention? They were a game changer. Historically coffee shops served coffee; Starbucks brewed up a new experience.

Gary Hamel classifies businesses in three categories: the rule makers, the rule takers and the rule breakers. Big companies often become the rule makers and most of us regrettably occupy the territory of rule takers. The winners set out to break the rules. Yes, it is risky, but risk is always the price of big success.

Focus on finding and creating value.

Creation results in revenue; consumption is an expense. Enron and the subprime mortgage debacle have reminded us that if something seems too good to be true, it is neither. The winners are always those who discover, uncover or create real value.

Michael Lewis, author of Panic: the Story of Modern Financial Insanity was interviewed by the Wall Street Journal in December 2008. He said, "We have entered a period of risk aversion unlike anything we've seen in our lifetime. Investors will be too wary for a while. You'll read stories about people who got rich betting against subprime mortgages and then about people who combed through the wreckage and found bargains. The next rich wave will be those who figure out where the value is (emphasis added). As for the average American investor, he'll be a deer in the headlights for years. It will be a while until greed gets comfortable again."

Do less and accomplish more.

Business shouldn't be about busy-ness. Leaders know that results, not activity, are what count. One of the great paradoxes of life is that we can accomplish more of importance when we schedule less activity.

People tell me that "must" do things that aren't important. I don't get it. More often we "choose" to do things that aren't important and rationalize our decision. If you work for a boss who demands you do work that doesn't add to the success of your organization directly or indirectly, it is time to find a new boss.

Honestly assess what you're doing and how you spend your time. Much of our daily effort is consumed by the routine and habitual, not the important and productive.Identify and destroy time-wasting activities. Watch TV if you really need to relax, but don't do it as a default activity.

Make improvement intentional and consistent.

In my book, The Encore Effect: How to Achieve Remarkable Performance in Anything You Do, I describe the need for "a new kind of PDA: a Performance Development Agenda." I've observed that few people make improvements in their performance intentional. And yet our performance, skills and ability rarely if ever improve accidentally.

To have more of what you desire in life, become more of who you need to be. It is important to read the right books, attend the right seminars and take the right courses. The key is in the word "right." What makes an improvement activity "right" for you depends on how you're trying to improve. For many, their efforts toward improvement are neither directed nor purposeful.

High performers determine how they want to improve and then find and utilize the resources that will enable them to do it.

I wish you health, prosperity and fulfillment in 2009. And remember: go for the encore!

By Mark Sanborn

The Courage To Conquer.....Leading Your Team

2009-01-05T01:48:00.000-08:00

Johnny Uy, DTM
International President 2006-2007

The Courage To Conquer.....Leading Your Team

Effective teamwork doesn’t just happen. As a Leader, you need to
be a coach so that every member of the Team will cooperate. No
amount of individual talent can make a Team perform well if they’re
just thrown together. Here are coaching techniques Leaders can apply
to make the Team succeed:

1) Turn individual goals into Team Goals. With a shared sense of purpose, people can work together to accomplish tremendous things. A good leader focuses individual energies into a clear vision, definite, and an understanding of what the Team. Unless the whole team wins, no one wins. That’s why most good leaders speak so often in the first person plural, “WE need, OUR deadline, the job before US.”

2) Respect people for who they are. A good leader realizes that when individuals come together as a team, their individuality doesn’t suddenly disappear. They still have different personalities, different skills, and different ways of looking at things. Learn to recognize those differences, appreciate them, and use them to the advantage of the team.

3) MMIF (Make Me Feel Important). A good leader understands that people need to feel their contributions are important; otherwise they won’t exert the effort to accomplish the Team’s goals. Listen to the team members. Let as many ideas as possible come from the troops. Encourage participation and don’t dictate solutions. Avoid saying, “This is the way we’ve always done it before.” Take every opportunity to build up the confidence in every team member.

4) Share the glory, accept the blame. When the team does well, it is the leader’s responsibility to spread the benefits around, to acknowledge every member of the team for their efforts, to allow them to bask in the limelight. A public pat on the pat, a note to say “Good Job,” leading in a round of applause for a team member…whatever form that recognition takes; everyone should get a generous share of it. But if the Team doesn’t do well, good leader accepts the responsibility for the outcome and doesn’t blame anyone else for failure. As President Truman said so eloquently, “The buck stops here.”

5) Be a mentor. Good leader develop the talents and strength of the people on the team. The leader must take a genuine responsibility for the improvement and development of the members of the team. “How can I help you improve?” “What are your plans for the future?” “What new responsibilities would you like to take on next?” A leader asks all those questions and uses his/her knowledge and experience to help team members achieve and be the leaders of tomorrow.

Sun Tsu, author of “The Art of War” said, “When the leader’s job is done, the people say, ‘We did it ourselves.’”

Johnny Uy, DTM
International President 2006-2007
Toastmasters International

The Courage to Conquer....Welcome 2009

2008-12-31T18:14:00.000-08:00

Welcome 2009

Hours of happy times with friends and family
Abundant time for relaxation
Prosperity
Plenty of love when you need it the most
Youthful excitement at lifes simple pleasures

Nights of restful slumber
Everything you need
Wishing you love and light

Years and years of good health
Enjoyment and mirth
Angels to watch over you
Remembrances of a happy year!

Warmest Greetings for a Very Happy and Prosperous New Year!
And
Wish you Every Success in All Your Future Endeavors

The Courage to Conquer... Appreciation with love

2008-12-30T21:26:00.000-08:00

As this year comes to a close, we would like to thank you for allowing "Impact The World" to be a part of your life. It is our hope that in some small way, we've made a positive difference.

As we all know, for many people, 2008 has been filled with personal and professional challenges. Therefore, we hope you'll reach out to encourage those who may be going through difficult times.
Sometimes a kind word at the right moment can change a life forever.

There are times when we need to remind ourselves that life can be complicated, but happiness is really pretty simple. Like everyone else, we have doubts, fears and disappointments in our life, and need to remember what's most important.

A little joy can be a wonderful thing!

Here's to a healthy and happy 2009!

Season's Greeting...Kim Siong & family

2008-12-23T02:13:00.000-08:00

The Courage to Conquer...The Butterfly Effect

2008-12-21T21:36:00.000-08:00

The Butterfly Effect

When you change one thing, you have changed everything.
- the butterfly effect

In the early 1960s
Professor Emeritus Edward N Lorenz
of Massachussetts Institute of Technology
investigated the extend to which weather is predictable.

He discovered that
a slight change in one variable in a system
causes profound changes on the whole system.

A butterfly flapping its wings in Beijing
could affect weather thousands of miles away some days later.
This is the butterfly effect.

If you were to travel backwards in time
you will come back to a very different world
because your visit to the past
would set of a chain of effects that would alter the course of history.
This is the butterfly effect.

If you were to help a member become a better speaker
you help him become the man he has always wanted to be
and you help him live the life he dreamt of.
This is the butterfly effect.

If you were to ask a member to do his next project speech
you contribute towards positive changes to his life
as well as to the lives of his children,
his children's children and their children after them.
This is the butterfly effect.

Call a fellow club member.
Ask him to do his next project speech.
Do it now.

by Gea Ban Peng DTM

District 80 Past District Governor

Apparently random and unpredictable behaviour is governed by deterministic law.
The appearance of randomness arose out of our ignorance of the causes at work.
There is no such thing as chance, only patterns we do not understand.

The Courage to Conquer....Promise Yourself

2008-12-21T15:21:00.000-08:00

Promise Yourself

To be so strong that nothing can disturb your peace of mind;

To talk health, happiness, and prosperity to every person you meet;

To make all your friends feel that there is something in them;

To look at the sunny side of everything and make your optimism come true;

To think only the best, to work only for the best, and to expect only the best;

To be just as enthusiastic about the success of others as you are about your own;

To forget the mistakes of the past and press on to the greater achievements of the future;

To wear a cheerful countenance at all times and give every living creature you meet a smile;

To give so much time to the improvement of yourself that you have no time to criticize others;

To be too large for worry, too noble for anger, too strong for fear; and too happy to permit the presence of trouble;

To think well of yourself and to proclaim this fact to the world, not in loud words, but in great deeds;

To live in the faith that the whole world is on your side so long as you are true to the best that is in you.

By C.D. Larson" Your Forces and How to Use Them"

The Courage to Conquer......8 Steps to Charismatic Leadership

2008-12-11T00:13:00.000-08:00

The Courage to Conquer......8 Steps to Charismatic Leadership

A leader is someone who inspires, who makes decisions that affect the group in a positive way, and who can pull together a team with diverse skill sets to achieve a common goal. But if being a manager does not make one a leader, what does? Charisma is a quality that many people use to describe a successful leader, and it is often mistaken as a quality that one is born with. However, the true answer is deeper than that - and you can develop a charismatic leadership style if you develop the following fundamental skills:

* Knowledge - Know your stuff. A successful leader must know the details of the business in order to direct the team toward the organization’s goals.

* Trust - If you want something done right, train someone how to do it and put them in charge of it. Then let them go. Don’t micromanage your team. If you have trained them properly, they will do the right thing.

* Integrity - An organization will soon learn to work around a “leader” who is not trustworthy or does not keep their word.

* Decisiveness - A leader is valued for their ability to make a decision, especially in high-pressure situations. Combining Knowledge and Integrity are essential to being able to make the correct decision.

* Assertiveness - Leaders are often chosen or appointed to direct a team, group, or organization. A successful leader understands that they represent the interests of the team members as well as the macro-interests of the entire team, and that leader will stand up for the members who have put their trust in their leader.

* Optimism - Be realistic but confident. Your employees and your own leaders will lose faith and confidence in you if your attitude is pessimistic or negative. As a leader it is your job to manage less-than-perfect situations and turn them around. Figure it out and concentrate on the positive aspects.

* Results - Keep track of the solid decisions and successful outcomes that you have been responsible for. This record is something you can point to when a leadership opportunity comes your way, as well as something that you can look at to build or restore your own confidence in the tough times.

* Vision - As a leader you are expected to set goals that guide your team or organization in a specefic direction, the “preferred future”. You must be able to think broadly and make strategic actions part of your daily routine. This will help your team to grow in the right direction for success.

by Phil Gerbyshak

"Why should I believe you?" ...Essential Part of an Effective Presentation

2008-12-10T22:09:00.000-08:00

"Why should I believe you?" ...Essential Part of an Effective Presentation

“Experience teaches only the teachable.” - Aldous Huxley

The use of evidence is an essential part of an effective presentation. A question often in the mind of audience members, albeit one that may seldom be expressed, is, "Why should I believe you?" It is not the audience's responsibility to be convinced, rather, it is responsibility of the presenter to convince the audience. The greatest tool with which we might do this is the evidence we've discovered that made us believers in the first place. This list provides a great model for the successful delivery of any such information that may help sell your case and conviction:

* Demonstrations
* Examples
* Facts
* Exhibits
* Analogies
* Testimonials
* Statistics

Districts Not Assigned to Region Report as at 5th December 2008

2008-12-10T01:48:00.000-08:00

Districts Not Assigned to Region Report as at 5th December 2008