Speech

About Giving Speeches

Delivering prepared speeches is at the heart of the Toastmasters experience. Each speech you give is part of your Pathways educational journey, designed to help you develop specific communication and leadership skills.

Speech Length and Timing

Most prepared speeches are 5-7 minutes in length, though this can vary depending on your specific Pathways project:

• Standard speeches: 5-7 minutes
• Some advanced projects: May be shorter (3-4 minutes) or longer (8-10 minutes)
• Contest speeches: Typically 5-7 minutes with specific contest rules
• Special project speeches: Length varies by project requirements

Always check your specific Pathways project manual for exact timing requirements.

Before the Meeting

Connect with Your Evaluator

Important: Before the meeting, reach out to your assigned evaluator to discuss:

• What specific aspects you'd like them to focus on
• Any particular feedback you're seeking
• The speech objectives from your Pathways project
• Any concerns or areas where you want extra attention

This conversation helps your evaluator provide more targeted and useful feedback.

Pathways Project Selection

Work with your VP Education to:

• Choose appropriate Pathways projects for your skill level
• Understand the specific objectives of each project
• Plan your learning path progression
• Access project resources and evaluation forms

During Your Speech

Key Focus Areas

Depending on your Pathways project, you might be working on:

• Vocal variety: Pace, volume, tone
• Body language: Gestures, posture, movement
• Speech organization: Structure, transitions, conclusions
• Audience engagement: Eye contact, interaction, relevance
• Visual aids: Slides, props, demonstrations
• Persuasion: Convincing, influence techniques
• Storytelling: Narrative structure, emotional connection

Managing Nerves

Remember:

• Everyone feels nervous - it's completely normal
• Focus on your message, not your fear
• The audience wants you to succeed
• Mistakes happen - keep going with confidence
• Every speech builds your experience and skill

Types of Speeches in Pathways

Your speeches will cover various formats as you progress:

Introductory Speeches

• Ice Breaker speech (your first speech)
• Personal introductions and background

Informational Speeches

• Teaching audiences about topics you know
• Sharing expertise and knowledge

Persuasive Speeches

• Convincing audiences to take action
• Presenting arguments and evidence

Inspirational Speeches

• Motivating and uplifting audiences
• Sharing personal stories of growth

Special Occasion Speeches

• Toasts, introductions, presentations
• Context-specific speaking situations

Getting the Most from Your Speech Experience

Preparation Tips

• Start preparing well in advance
• Practice out loud, not just in your head
• Record yourself to hear how you sound
• Time your speech multiple times
• Prepare for potential questions

Learning from Each Speech

• Set specific goals for each speaking opportunity
• Ask your evaluator targeted questions
• Keep a speech journal to track your progress
• Celebrate improvements, no matter how small
• Build on feedback from previous speeches

Your Speaking Journey

Each speech is a step in your personal development journey. Whether it's your first Ice Breaker or an advanced leadership presentation, every speaking opportunity helps you:

• Build confidence in public speaking
• Develop clearer communication skills
• Learn to organize thoughts effectively
• Practice engaging with audiences
• Grow personally and professionally

Remember: The goal isn't perfection - it's progress. Every Toastmaster started exactly where you are now!