After the long winter we’ve just had, spring’s arrival lifts our spirits. The green grass, the budding trees, and the early spring flowers are all signs of the earth’s renewal. Besides being a time of beauty, spring inspires us to get outside and often to tackle new projects.
Similarly, in Toastmasters spring is a time of energy and renewing our efforts. While it has been a great year and the year is nearly over, it is no time to rest on our past successes and just coast to the finish line! In doing so we would be missing some powerful public relations opportunities that spring offers us.
In May, for example, we vote for new club officers. Recognizing them in articles to our local papers not only honors their leadership efforts but also lets the public know about Toastmasters. Often clubs have formal officer induction ceremonies, sometimes involving a dinner, picnic, or other special activity. Inviting guests to these events can be a wonderful way to introduce people to the leadership opportunities in Toastmasters.
And while members have been achieving educational recognition throughout the year, many more double their efforts at this time so they can complete requirements for their next award by June 30th. Educational presentations, which are often a part of these requirements, can be particularly appealing to guests at meetings. Getting the word out to the community about these upcoming presentations can interest guests in attending and be a great public relations outreach.
To honor those members who have achieved awards during the current Toastmaster year, some clubs even have an awards ceremony at the end of June. These awards ceremonies may be used not only to recognize individuals, but also to recognize the club for its efforts to attain Distinguished status. Guests at these events learn about the opportunities for individual growth and teamwork that Toastmasters provides.
Socializing with non-Toastmasters during activities of mutual interest, such as sports, can open up yet more opportunities for promoting Toastmasters in an enjoyable, informal setting. Last year, for instance, several members of the Communicators and Toastmasters from some other Central Division clubs did this by playing on a softball team together. They had fun and opened the door to sharing Toastmasters with their non- Toastmaster teammates.
So as we experience the renewal and new energy that spring brings, we can renew our efforts to make the best of the season’s opportunities to revitalize our clubs. We can take advantage of the nicer weather to get out and share the benefits of Toastmasters with others who cross or paths. We can invite guests to special springtime club events. We can form a connection with people by finding common interests, which later opens dialogue about Toastmasters. Just as those budding trees hold great promise, so does each new person who joins our club. And as we enjoy the beauty of those spring flowers, may we be reminded once again of how Toastmasters can help us bloom, too, by “bringing out our best”!
Be sure to catch the District 65 Newsletter, The Focal Point, for more in-depth information!
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