Friends with benefits….

No it’s not that kind of post and it’s not that sort of club. So what type of people do you get at Worthing Speakers?

In short, the best. My initial completely sceptical view is that it would be full of people who loved the sound of their own voices . That couldn’t be further from the truth. I couldn’t wish to spend two Thursday evenings a month with a better bunch of people.

They are friendly, funny and inspiring. Everyone seems happy to put guests at ease and be open when they speak , nothing to hide , nothing to brag about just people speaking and sharing stories. Being able to laugh at yourself seems a pre- requisite.

It’s such a diverse group , from all walks of life and a lovely spread of ages and experiences. The membership has a smattering of members who have grown up in different parts of the world .

This leads it’s self on to beautiful speeches. You don’t know what you are going to get. Many a times I have sat in audience and thought I didn’t see that coming or I didn’t know anything about that. I think there is something quite magical about a good speech.

Now the wonderful benefits of this friends is that they are knowledgeable. Happy to advise you on how to improve your speaking and the skills required. I have learnt so much from the them.

One thing apparent is the delight the membership takes in the achievement of other members. Nothing is better than seeing someone develop from nervy speaker to confident and knowing everyone is rooting for them.

I have enjoyed many a great conversation in the interval and at our social events and count these people not just fellow Toastmasters but as friends. I love the camaraderie.

It’s not only the members of our club I feel connected with. At competitions and training days it’s always good to speak with members from other clubs and hear and share their experiences. The Toastmaster magazine makes me aware of larger community we are in but share so much .

I know when we meet at the end of the night three things always happen. I will have laughed, learnt and been entertained. Friends with benefits for sure.