Author: d93web

Toastmasters helps build self-confidence BY STEVE FISHER WHETHER YOU are an extrovert or an introvert, speaking in public, for professional or personal reasons, is a daunting task. The key is being prepared. The trick is finding a place that provides a warm and supportive atmosphere in which to learn and practice. That place is Toastmasters International. Toastmasters was started in 1924 by Ralph C. Smedley, who was working for the YMCA in Bloomington, Illinois. He recognized a need for men to "learn how to speak, conduct meetings, plan programs and work on committees," according to the Toastmasters website (toastmasters.org). (Women weren’t officially admitted until 1973.) Since its founding, the organization has helped more than 4 million men and women become more confident in their speaking and leadership skills. Membership now…

Original Link : http://www.koreaherald.com/view.php?ud=20111108000657 Korea Toastmasters held their annual fall conference at Seoul Women’s Plaza on Saturday. About 200 people attended the meeting, the second national conference of the year for the Korean branch of the international leadership and communication skills-building organization. After the semi-annual business meeting in the morning, there were presentations on how to enhance one’s leadership, improve body language when speaking and be a better evaluator. Keynote speaker Cathrin Hatcher talked about the importance of identifying your aims and sticking to them at all times. Hatcher had earlier held a session on color and the psychological impact of what you wear on the people around you. For example, brown projects efficiency and reliability, but does not give off an impression of authority or tenderness. By contrast, green…