What is Toastmasters?

Toastmasters is a non-profit international educational organization whose mission is to improve the communication and leadership skills of its members in a mutually supportive and positive learning environment. In Gothenburg, there are four other Toastmasters clubs. The meetings are conducted in English (this is the case for most clubs, however there is one Swedish speaking club in Gothenburg) to give you the opportunity to improve your English speaking skills. We meet every second Wednesday (see the "Meeting schedule" link in the left hand menu for details). Meetings last approximately one and a half hours.

What happens at a meeting?

The format varies from club to club, but the basics include: A Toastmaster of the meeting leads the program for the day Short impromptu speeches from members (also known as Table Topics). The Table Topics master will ask members or guests to answer a question or give an opinion on a specified topic. Prepared speeches from members. Members follow the techniques in the basic speaking manual (ten speech projects) and present a speech on the topic of their choice. Oral evaluations of the prepared speeches. Each speaker is evaluated and receives written and oral feedback - both positive and points to be improved. Reports from a General Evaluator, Timer, and Grammarian who each give feedback about the quality of the meeting.

What can I get out of Toastmasters?

Learn how to give a prepared speech on a subject of your choice, using time-proven techniques to get your message across to the audience. Improve your speaking skills with each speech that you give. Learn how to think on your feet and speak confidently, without knowing in advance the topic - skills that are useful in interview situations or department meetings. Learn how to lead an effective meeting. Learn how to listen, and give effective feedback. Build your self-confidence with the feedback from your presentations. A monthly magazine with personal growth tips and speaking techniques (worth the price of the membership alone!) A network of people in your company, in Scandinavia , in Europe and around the world.

For information about current activities in the clubs in Gothenburg and Scandinavia check our Web-site: www.toastmasters.se.

You are welcome to come as a guest! We are meeting every second Wednesday at AstraZeneca Mölndal, Sweden. Please see the "Meeting schedule" link in the left hand menu of this page for the calendar.