Young Professionals Launch Toastmasters Group

Have you ever felt your heart race as you walked up to the podium, or felt your body tense up when asked to give a report in front of an audience? If so, you are not alone. More than 75% of people count public speaking as one of their greatest fears. But in the business world, public speaking is a highly regarded skill that sets leaders apart.

One of the main goals of the Young Professionals is to create opportunities for emerging leaders to develop their professional business skills. This month, YP is launching a Toastmasters group aimed at providing members with a forum to refine their public speaking abilities.

Toastmasters International has grown to become a world leader in helping people become more competent and comfortable in front of an audience. Most Toastmasters meetings are comprised of approximately 20 people who meet weekly for an hour or two. Participants practice and learn skills by filling a meeting role, ranging from giving a prepared speech or an impromptu one to serving as timer, evaluator or grammarian.

The Toastmasters group is open to YP members only and limited to 20 participants. Early sign-up is recommended. Registration is available online at www.dallaschamber.org/events. For more information on the YP Toastmasters group, please contact Megan Kinsey at megan.kinsey@frostbank.com.

If you are interested in joining the Young Professionals, a group for emerging leaders ages 25-40, please contact Julie Tanner at 214-746-6741.