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Alternatives to Toastmasters: Finding Your Public Speaking Niche
Are you looking to improve your public speaking skills but feel Toastmasters isn't the right fit for you? Perhaps you crave a more specialized approach, a different learning environment, or a community with a unique focus. Whatever your reason, know that you're not alone! Many individuals seek alternatives to the traditional Toastmasters structure. This comprehensive guide explores a variety of compelling options, offering a detailed look at different programs, online resources, and self-learning methods to help you conquer your fear of public speaking and become a confident communicator. We'll dissect the pros and cons of each alternative, ensuring you find the perfect path to polish your presentation prowess.
Why Consider Alternatives to Toastmasters?
While Toastmasters International offers a structured and widely recognized program, it might not be the ideal solution for everyone. Some common reasons people seek alternatives include:
Cost: Toastmasters membership fees can add up, particularly over an extended period.
Structure: The highly structured format might feel rigid or limiting for some.
Location: Finding a local chapter that fits your schedule and location can be challenging.
Specific Needs: Toastmasters’ general focus might not cater to specialized communication skills, such as technical presentations or storytelling.
Learning Style: The group-based learning style might not resonate with everyone's preferences.
Top Alternatives to Toastmasters: A Detailed Exploration
Let's dive into the diverse world of public speaking improvement, exploring various alternatives to Toastmasters:
#### 1. Online Courses and Workshops:
Numerous online platforms offer comprehensive public speaking courses, often at a fraction of the cost of traditional programs. These courses often incorporate video lessons, interactive exercises, and personalized feedback. Platforms like Coursera, Udemy, and Skillshare offer a wide variety of options catering to different learning styles and skill levels. The benefits include flexibility, affordability, and often a more focused curriculum tailored to specific needs (e.g., overcoming stage fright, delivering compelling presentations). However, the lack of direct interaction and peer feedback might be a drawback for some learners.
#### 2. Improv Classes:
Improv training surprisingly provides significant benefits for public speaking. Improvisation hones quick thinking, adaptability, and confidence in the face of the unexpected – all crucial skills for effective communication. While not directly focused on formal speeches, improv builds a strong foundation for confident and engaging delivery. The playful nature of improv can also ease anxieties associated with public speaking. However, the direct application of improv skills to traditional presentations might require conscious effort.
#### 3. Public Speaking Coaches:
Investing in a one-on-one public speaking coach offers personalized guidance and tailored feedback. Coaches can identify individual weaknesses and develop customized strategies to improve specific aspects of your communication style. The high level of personalized attention and targeted feedback is a major advantage. However, this option tends to be the most expensive.
#### 4. Join a Debate Club or Society:
Participating in a debate club provides invaluable experience in structured argumentation, quick thinking, and responding to challenging questions. The competitive nature of debating sharpens your wit and enhances your ability to articulate your thoughts concisely and persuasively. However, this might not be ideal for those primarily concerned with polished presentations rather than spontaneous argumentation.
#### 5. Networking Events and Conferences:
Presenting at networking events or conferences offers valuable real-world experience. While not structured learning, these opportunities allow you to practice your skills in front of a live audience and receive immediate feedback. The opportunity to connect with professionals in your field is an added bonus. The lack of structured feedback and guidance might be a drawback for some.
#### 6. Community Theatre:
Participating in community theatre, whether on stage or behind the scenes, builds confidence and comfort in front of an audience. While not explicitly public speaking, it fosters strong communication skills, stage presence, and vocal projection. However, this requires a significant time commitment and might not directly translate to business presentations.
#### 7. Record and Analyze Yourself:
This self-learning approach involves recording yourself giving a presentation and critically analyzing your performance. Identify areas for improvement in body language, vocal delivery, and content. It’s a cost-effective way to track progress and focus on personal weaknesses. The lack of external feedback could limit the depth of improvement.
#### 8. Utilize YouTube and Podcasts:
Numerous YouTube channels and podcasts offer valuable tips, techniques, and insights into effective public speaking. These resources can supplement formal training or provide a foundation for self-learning. The wide variety of content makes it easy to find resources tailored to specific needs. However, relying solely on online resources might lack the structure and personalized feedback of formal training.
#### 9. Mentorship Programs:
Seeking mentorship from an experienced public speaker can offer invaluable guidance and support. A mentor can provide personalized feedback, offer advice on overcoming challenges, and act as a sounding board for new ideas. This personalized approach offers targeted support and valuable insights, but finding a suitable mentor requires effort and networking.
Sample Public Speaking Curriculum Outline: "Speak with Confidence"
Introduction: Overview of public speaking importance, common fears, and the program's goals.
Chapter 1: Understanding Your Audience: Analyzing your audience, tailoring your message, and effective communication strategies.
Chapter 2: Structuring Your Speech: Creating a compelling narrative, outlining key points, and effective storytelling techniques.
Chapter 3: Mastering Delivery: Vocal projection, body language, stage presence, and handling nerves.
Chapter 4: Handling Q&A Sessions: Anticipating questions, crafting concise answers, and maintaining composure.
Chapter 5: Utilizing Visual Aids: Creating engaging presentations, using visuals effectively, and avoiding common pitfalls.
Conclusion: Recap of key learnings, strategies for continued improvement, and building confidence.
Detailed Explanation of Curriculum Points:
(This section would expand on each chapter outlined above, providing detailed explanations and actionable strategies for each topic. For brevity, this example is omitted but would comprise a significant portion of the blog post.)
FAQs:
1. What's the biggest difference between Toastmasters and other public speaking alternatives? The biggest difference lies in structure and focus. Toastmasters offers a highly structured program, while alternatives range from highly structured courses to entirely self-directed learning.
2. Are online courses as effective as in-person training? Online courses can be highly effective, particularly for those who prefer self-paced learning. However, in-person training provides valuable interaction and immediate feedback.
3. How can I find a public speaking coach who's a good fit for me? Search online directories, ask for referrals, and schedule consultations to find a coach whose style and expertise align with your needs.
4. What if I'm too shy to join a public speaking group? Start with self-learning methods like recording yourself and analyzing your performance. Gradually work towards joining smaller, more informal groups.
5. Is improv really helpful for public speaking? Yes, improv enhances quick thinking, adaptability, and comfort with unexpected situations—all vital for confident public speaking.
6. How much should I expect to pay for public speaking training? Costs vary greatly, from free online resources to thousands of dollars for one-on-one coaching.
7. What's the best way to overcome stage fright? Practice regularly, visualize success, focus on your message, and utilize relaxation techniques.
8. Can I improve my public speaking skills without formal training? Yes, you can improve significantly through self-learning, utilizing online resources, and seeking informal feedback.
9. How long does it take to see noticeable improvements in public speaking? The timeframe varies depending on individual effort, learning style, and the chosen approach. Consistent practice and focused learning lead to faster improvement.
Related Articles:
1. Overcoming Stage Fright: Practical Tips and Techniques: This article offers actionable strategies for conquering nervousness and building confidence before a presentation.
2. The Power of Storytelling in Public Speaking: Explores the art of using storytelling to connect with your audience and deliver a memorable message.
3. Mastering Nonverbal Communication: Focuses on the importance of body language, eye contact, and posture in delivering effective presentations.
4. Designing Engaging Visual Aids for Presentations: Provides practical tips for creating visually appealing and informative slides that complement your speech.
5. Crafting Compelling Opening and Closing Statements: This article emphasizes the importance of grabbing the audience's attention and leaving a lasting impression.
6. Handling Difficult Questions During Q&A: Offers strategies for maintaining composure, answering challenging questions effectively, and managing difficult audience members.
7. The Importance of Audience Engagement: Explores various techniques for actively involving your audience and creating a dynamic presentation.
8. Public Speaking for Introverts: Tips and Strategies: Provides tailored guidance for introverted individuals looking to improve their public speaking skills.
9. Building Confidence Through Public Speaking Practice: Explores the positive feedback loop between practice, confidence, and improved public speaking abilities.
| alternatives to toastmasters: Improve Your Communication and Speaking Skills Francis B. Plattner, 1994-09 |
| alternatives to toastmasters: Own Any Occasion Erik Palmer, 2017-10-01 The world is your stage. Own it. Great speaking does not come easy. But even the wallflowers among us can’t avoid speaking forever. In Own Any Occasion, speaker and educator Erik Palmer taps into his vast experience to simplify the process of extraordinary speaking, whether you’re giving a wedding toast or preparing for a one-on-one sales call. His approach is equal parts preparation and delivery: Never speak unless you have something worth saying, and never let a poor performance diminish a good message. In 11 steps, Palmer shows readers how to craft the perfect message and captivate audiences with exceptional delivery, no matter the circumstance. He demonstrates that the steps to impress when you meet your in-laws for the first time are the same ones that will help you succeed in front of an auditorium full of executives. Whether your audience is large or small, your message personal or professional, Palmer’s easy system will help you become the best speaker you can be in any situation. Own Any Occasion is for anyone who wants to master the art of speaking well, from first-time presenters to seasoned pros looking for a new process. Give yourself the tools to impress every listener and develop a more confident you. |
| alternatives to toastmasters: Ask a Manager Alison Green, 2018-05-01 From the creator of the popular website Ask a Manager and New York’s work-advice columnist comes a witty, practical guide to 200 difficult professional conversations—featuring all-new advice! There’s a reason Alison Green has been called “the Dear Abby of the work world.” Ten years as a workplace-advice columnist have taught her that people avoid awkward conversations in the office because they simply don’t know what to say. Thankfully, Green does—and in this incredibly helpful book, she tackles the tough discussions you may need to have during your career. You’ll learn what to say when • coworkers push their work on you—then take credit for it • you accidentally trash-talk someone in an email then hit “reply all” • you’re being micromanaged—or not being managed at all • you catch a colleague in a lie • your boss seems unhappy with your work • your cubemate’s loud speakerphone is making you homicidal • you got drunk at the holiday party Praise for Ask a Manager “A must-read for anyone who works . . . [Alison Green’s] advice boils down to the idea that you should be professional (even when others are not) and that communicating in a straightforward manner with candor and kindness will get you far, no matter where you work.”—Booklist (starred review) “The author’s friendly, warm, no-nonsense writing is a pleasure to read, and her advice can be widely applied to relationships in all areas of readers’ lives. Ideal for anyone new to the job market or new to management, or anyone hoping to improve their work experience.”—Library Journal (starred review) “I am a huge fan of Alison Green’s Ask a Manager column. This book is even better. It teaches us how to deal with many of the most vexing big and little problems in our workplaces—and to do so with grace, confidence, and a sense of humor.”—Robert Sutton, Stanford professor and author of The No Asshole Rule and The Asshole Survival Guide “Ask a Manager is the ultimate playbook for navigating the traditional workforce in a diplomatic but firm way.”—Erin Lowry, author of Broke Millennial: Stop Scraping By and Get Your Financial Life Together |
| alternatives to toastmasters: The Mom Test Rob Fitzpatrick, 2013-10-09 The Mom Test is a quick, practical guide that will save you time, money, and heartbreak. They say you shouldn't ask your mom whether your business is a good idea, because she loves you and will lie to you. This is technically true, but it misses the point. You shouldn't ask anyone if your business is a good idea. It's a bad question and everyone will lie to you at least a little . As a matter of fact, it's not their responsibility to tell you the truth. It's your responsibility to find it and it's worth doing right . Talking to customers is one of the foundational skills of both Customer Development and Lean Startup. We all know we're supposed to do it, but nobody seems willing to admit that it's easy to screw up and hard to do right. This book is going to show you how customer conversations go wrong and how you can do better. |
| alternatives to toastmasters: String Theory For Dummies Andrew Zimmerman Jones, 2009-11-16 A clear, plain-English guide to this complex scientific theory String theory is the hottest topic in physics right now, with books on the subject (pro and con) flying out of the stores. String Theory For Dummies offers an accessible introduction to this highly mathematical theory of everything, which posits ten or more dimensions in an attempt to explain the basic nature of matter and energy. Written for both students and people interested in science, this guide explains concepts, discusses the string theory's hypotheses and predictions, and presents the math in an approachable manner. It features in-depth examples and an easy-to-understand style so that readers can understand this controversial, cutting-edge theory. |
| alternatives to toastmasters: UNMUTE! Lauren Sergy, 2021-07-07 Have virtual meetings become the most dreaded part of your workday? You open your calendar and feel your heart rate spike as you stare at them. Virtual meeting after virtual meeting, replete with all-to-familiar irritations: technical glitches, awkward conversations, Bob’s nose hairs. (Seriously, doesn’t Bob know his camera is pointed right up his nose?) Like it or not, being able to mug for the webcam is now an important addition to your CV. But there’s more to having a good videoconference than turning on your webcam. And UNMUTE! will show you how to do it. In this hilarious and fast-paced book, communication expert Lauren Sergy takes you on a deep-dive into virtual meetings: what works, what doesn’t, and how to make the most of this communication medium without it taking over your life. With energy, wit, and a bucketful of relatable stories, Lauren will help you - Polish not-so-small on-camera skills like eye contact, gesture, and speaking mannerisms - Set up your virtual meeting space like a pro...without turning your office into a production studio - Boost meeting attendees’ focus and engagement - Manage those annoying technical glitches - Dial down your stress and kick Zoom Fatigue to the curb UNMUTE! is a must-read book for anyone who uses videoconferencing at work. You and your colleagues can master virtual meetings; it’s time to take action! |
| alternatives to toastmasters: The War of Art Steven Pressfield, 2002-06-03 What keeps so many of us from doing what we long to do? Why is there a naysayer within? How can we avoid the roadblocks of any creative endeavor—be it starting up a dream business venture, writing a novel, or painting a masterpiece? The War of Art identifies the enemy that every one of us must face, outlines a battle plan to conquer this internal foe, then pinpoints just how to achieve the greatest success. The War of Art emphasizes the resolve needed to recognize and overcome the obstacles of ambition and then effectively shows how to reach the highest level of creative discipline. Think of it as tough love . . . for yourself. |
| alternatives to toastmasters: Principles of Management David S. Bright, Anastasia H. Cortes, Eva Hartmann, 2023-05-16 Black & white print. Principles of Management is designed to meet the scope and sequence requirements of the introductory course on management. This is a traditional approach to management using the leading, planning, organizing, and controlling approach. Management is a broad business discipline, and the Principles of Management course covers many management areas such as human resource management and strategic management, as well as behavioral areas such as motivation. No one individual can be an expert in all areas of management, so an additional benefit of this text is that specialists in a variety of areas have authored individual chapters. |
| alternatives to toastmasters: QF32 Richard de Crespigny, 2012-08-01 QF32 is the award winning bestseller from Richard de Crespigny, author of the forthcoming Fly!: Life Lessons from the Cockpit of QF32 On 4 November 2010, a flight from Singapore to Sydney came within a knife edge of being one of the world's worst air disasters. Shortly after leaving Changi Airport, an explosion shattered Engine 2 of Qantas flight QF32 - an Airbus A380, the largest and most advanced passenger plane ever built. Hundreds of pieces of shrapnel ripped through the wing and fuselage, creating chaos as vital flight systems and back-ups were destroyed or degraded. In other hands, the plane might have been lost with all 469 people on board, but a supremely experienced flight crew, led by Captain Richard de Crespigny, managed to land the crippled aircraft and safely disembark the passengers after hours of nerve-racking effort. Tracing Richard's life and career up until that fateful flight, QF32 shows exactly what goes into the making of a top-level airline pilot, and the extraordinary skills and training needed to keep us safe in the air. Fascinating in its detail and vividly compelling in its narrative, QF32 is the riveting, blow-by-blow story of just what happens when things go badly wrong in the air, told by the captain himself. Winner of ABIA Awards for Best General Non-fiction Book of the Year 2013 and Indie Awards' Best Non-fiction 2012 Shortlisted ABIA Awards' Book of the Year 2013 |
| alternatives to toastmasters: Speak Like a CEO: Secrets for Commanding Attention and Getting Results Suzanne Bates, 2005-04-21 An award-winning news anchor presents methods for better communication in any business environment During her 20 years in broadcasting, award-winning news anchor Suzanne Bates conducted more than 10,000 interviews, during which she witnessed business leaders, politicians, and celebrities at their best and worst. Now a top CEO communication coach, Bates is renowned for her uncanny ability to transform even the shyest oratorical mouse into a public-speaking lion. In Speak Like a CEO, Bates: Reveals the secrets for communicating in any situation Describes simple techniques for acing speeches, presentations, media interviews, Q&A sessions, business meetings, and more Outlines self-improvement plans that can easily be customized to your needs Shares secrets from top leaders, including Mario Cuomo's technique for overcoming stage fright and Colin Powell's secret for projecting authenticity |
| alternatives to toastmasters: Teaching at Its Best Linda B. Nilson, 2010-04-20 Teaching at Its Best This third edition of the best-selling handbook offers faculty at all levels an essential toolbox of hundreds of practical teaching techniques, formats, classroom activities, and exercises, all of which can be implemented immediately. This thoroughly revised edition includes the newest portrait of the Millennial student; current research from cognitive psychology; a focus on outcomes maps; the latest legal options on copyright issues; and how to best use new technology including wikis, blogs, podcasts, vodcasts, and clickers. Entirely new chapters include subjects such as matching teaching methods with learning outcomes, inquiry-guided learning, and using visuals to teach, and new sections address Felder and Silverman's Index of Learning Styles, SCALE-UP classrooms, multiple true-false test items, and much more. Praise for the Third Edition of Teaching at Its BestEveryone veterans as well as novices will profit from reading Teaching at Its Best, for it provides both theory and practical suggestions for handling all of the problems one encounters in teaching classes varying in size, ability, and motivation. Wilbert McKeachie, Department of Psychology, University of Michigan, and coauthor, McKeachie's Teaching TipsThis new edition of Dr. Nilson's book, with its completely updated material and several new topics, is an even more powerful collection of ideas and tools than the last. What a great resource, especially for beginning teachers but also for us veterans! L. Dee Fink, author, Creating Significant Learning ExperiencesThis third edition of Teaching at Its Best is successful at weaving the latest research on teaching and learning into what was already a thorough exploration of each topic. New information on how we learn, how students develop, and innovations in instructional strategies complement the solid foundation established in the first two editions. Marilla D. Svinicki, Department of Psychology, The University of Texas, Austin, and coauthor, McKeachie's Teaching Tips |
| alternatives to toastmasters: Introduction to Business Lawrence J. Gitman, Carl McDaniel, Amit Shah, Monique Reece, Linda Koffel, Bethann Talsma, James C. Hyatt, 2024-09-16 Introduction to Business covers the scope and sequence of most introductory business courses. The book provides detailed explanations in the context of core themes such as customer satisfaction, ethics, entrepreneurship, global business, and managing change. Introduction to Business includes hundreds of current business examples from a range of industries and geographic locations, which feature a variety of individuals. The outcome is a balanced approach to the theory and application of business concepts, with attention to the knowledge and skills necessary for student success in this course and beyond. This is an adaptation of Introduction to Business by OpenStax. You can access the textbook as pdf for free at openstax.org. Minor editorial changes were made to ensure a better ebook reading experience. Textbook content produced by OpenStax is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License. |
| alternatives to toastmasters: There's No Place Like a Nursing Home Karen Shoff, 2002-10 Four powerful steps begun in one's middle years will allow readers to avoid a future nursing home placement. This plan preserves assets and removes the burden of caregiving from loved ones. All will be able to receive the highest level of care in dignity at home. |
| alternatives to toastmasters: Panic Attacks Workbook: Second Edition David Carbonell, 2022-03-29 Master your anxiety and regain your freedom to drive, travel, and do everything else that panic has taken from you, with proven techniques and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) exercises. Panic attacks trick millions of people into fearing disaster and giving up so many of the activities they used to enjoy without fear. This practical workbook full of proven strategies and helpful advice on how to master your anxiety and panic is here to help you reclaim your life. Author and clinical psychologist David Carbonell, PhD, uses his extensive clinical experience to help you understand the true nature of your panic attacks, including the vicious cycle of habitual responses that lead to debilitating attacks, how you can halt this self-destructive process, and the many ways you can start on a step-by-step journey that promotes recovery. Inside you’ll find helpful methods from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) that will help you regain the life you want to live, including: Diaphragmatic breathing Progressive exposure Desensitization Mindfulness meditation Keeping a panic diary Quieting the voice of anticipatory worry Stepping out of the struggle with panic And much more! Now you can regain all of the freedoms you enjoyed before panic invaded your life with the research-backed charts, worksheets, and programs featured in Panic Attacks Workbook. |
| alternatives to toastmasters: Slash Your Debt Gerri Detweiler, Marc Eisenson, Nancy Castleman, 2001-03 -- Why a 13% credit card can cost more to pay off than a 19% one-- Where to get consolidation loans with no credit check-- How to create a rapid repayment plan based on your personality-- The eight essential keys to successful debt consolidation-- How to avoid consolidation traps that can lead to bankruptcy or foreclosure |
| alternatives to toastmasters: Confessions of a Public Speaker Scott Berkun, 2009-10-20 In this hilarious and highly practical book, author and professional speaker Scott Berkun reveals the techniques behind what great communicators do, and shows how anyone can learn to use them well. For managers and teachers -- and anyone else who talks and expects someone to listen -- Confessions of a Public Speaker provides an insider's perspective on how to effectively present ideas to anyone. It's a unique, entertaining, and instructional romp through the embarrassments and triumphs Scott has experienced over 15 years of speaking to crowds of all sizes. With lively lessons and surprising confessions, you'll get new insights into the art of persuasion -- as well as teaching, learning, and performance -- directly from a master of the trade. Highlights include: Berkun's hard-won and simple philosophy, culled from years of lectures, teaching courses, and hours of appearances on NPR, MSNBC, and CNBC Practical advice, including how to work a tough room, the science of not boring people, how to survive the attack of the butterflies, and what to do when things go wrong The inside scoop on who earns $30,000 for a one-hour lecture and why The worst -- and funniest -- disaster stories you've ever heard (plus countermoves you can use) Filled with humorous and illuminating stories of thrilling performances and real-life disasters, Confessions of a Public Speaker is inspirational, devastatingly honest, and a blast to read. |
| alternatives to toastmasters: The Popol Vuh Lewis Spence, 2024-06 The Popol Vuh: The Mythic and Heroic Sagas of the Kichés of Central America, a classical book, has been considered important throughout the human history, and so that this work is never forgotten we at Alpha Editions have made efforts in its preservation by republishing this book in a modern format for present and future generations. This whole book has been reformatted, retyped and designed. These books are not made of scanned copies of their original work and hence the text is clear and readable. |
| alternatives to toastmasters: The Oxford Book of Aphorisms John Gross, 1983 Gathers witty quotations about nature, religion, fear, hope, fame, wealth, politics, marriage, happiness, knowledge, language, and death |
| alternatives to toastmasters: Pitch Perfect Bill McGowan, 2014-04-01 Media guru and Emmy Award-winning correspondent Bill McGowan—coach to some of the biggest names in business and entertainment, including Eli Manning, Kelly Clarkson, Jack Welch, Thomas Keller and Kenneth Cole teaches you how to get your message across and get what you want with pitch perfect communication. He is also a trusted advisor in the C-suites of tech companies like, Facebook, Spotify, AirBnB, Dropbox and Salesforce.com. Saying the right thing the right way can make the difference between sealing the deal or losing the account, getting a promotion, or getting a pink slip. It’s essential to be pitch perfect—to get the right message across to the right person at the right time. In Pitch Perfect, Bill McGowan shows you how to craft the right message and deliver it using the right language—both verbal and nonverbal. Pitch Perfect teaches you how to overcome common communication pitfalls using McGowan’s simple Principles of Persuasion, which are highly effective and easy to learn, implement, and master. With Pitch Perfect you can harness the power of persuasion and have people not only listening closely to your every word but also remembering you long after you’ve left the room. |
| alternatives to toastmasters: The Procrastination Equation Piers Steel, 2010-12-28 DON'T WAIT TO READ THIS BOOK: The world's leading expert on procrastination uses his groundbreaking research to offer understanding on a matter that bedevils us all. Writing with humour, humanity and solid scientific information reminiscent of Stumbling on Happiness and Freakonomics, Piers Steel explains why we knowingly and willingly put off a course of action despite recognizing we'll be worse off for it. For those who surf the Web instead of finishing overdue assignments, who always say diets start tomorrow, who stay up late watching TV to put off going to sleep, The Procrastination Equation explains why we do what we do—or in this case don't—and why in Western societies we're in the midst of an escalating procrastination epidemic. Dr. Piers Steel takes on the myths and misunderstandings behind procrastination and motivation. With accessible prose and the benefits of new scientific research, he provides insight into why we procrastinate even though the result is that we are less happy, healthy, and even wealthy. Who procrastinates and why? How many ways, big and small, do we procrastinate? How can we stop doing it? The reasons are part cultural, part psychological, part biological. And, with a million new ways to distract ourselves in the digitized world, more of us are potentially damaging ourselves by putting things off. But Steel not only analyzes the factors that weigh us down but the things that motivate us—including understanding the value of procrastination. |
| alternatives to toastmasters: Never Eat Alone Keith Ferrazzi, Tahl Raz, 2014-06-05 An updated and expanded edition of the runaway bestseller Never Eat Alone by Keith Ferrazzi Proven advice on networking for success: over 400,000 copies sold. As Keith Ferrazzi discovered early in life, what distinguishes highly successful people from everyone else is the way they use the power of relationships - so that everyone wins. His form of connecting to the world around him is based on generosity and he distinguishes genuine relationship-building from the crude, desperate glad-handling usually associated with 'networking'. In Never Eat Alone, Ferrazzi lays out the specific steps - and inner mindset - he uses to reach out to connect with the thousands of colleagues, friends, and associates on his Rolodex, people he has helped and who have helped him. He then distills his system of reaching out to people into practical, proven principles. Keith Ferrazzi is founder and CEO of Ferrazzi Greenlight, a marketing and sales consulting company. He is the author of the #1 New York Times bestseller Who's Got Your Back and has been a contributor to Inc., the Wall Street Journal, and Harvard Business Review. Previously, he was CMO of Deloitte Consulting and at Starwood Hotels & Resorts, and CEO of YaYa media. He lives in Los Angeles and New York. |
| alternatives to toastmasters: Beyond Bullet Points, 3rd Edition Cliff Atkinson, 2011-04-15 Unlock the amazing story buried in your presentation—and forget boring, bullet-point-riddled slides forever! Guided by communications expert Cliff Atkinson, you’ll walk you through an innovative, three-step methodology for increasing the impact of your presentation. Discover how to combine classic storytelling techniques with the power of visual media to create a rich, engaging experience with your audience. Fully updated for PowerPoint 2010, and featuring compelling presentation examples from classroom to boardroom, this book will help transform your presentations—and your business impact! |
| alternatives to toastmasters: The Power of Words Mohammed Qahtani, 2020-09-01 a biography about Mohammed Qahtani, the 2015 World champion of public speaking who became the best speaker in the world despite that fact that he suffers from sever stuttring |
| alternatives to toastmasters: Manager's Guide to Effective Coaching, Second Edition Marshall Cook, Laura Poole, 2011-09-02 Boost productivity by making the switch from “boss” to COACH! Effective managers know their job is to help employees succeed, not to give them orders. They create relationships that build collaboration and meaningful performance improvement. These managers know that when they facilitate the success of their team members, they facilitate their own success. Effective Coaching teaches you practices you can use immediately to engender employee commitment and help employees gain the skills necessary to sustain and grow any type of organization. You’ll learn: The attributes of a successful coach How to set up an effective coaching session How to use coaching to correct unproductive behavior How to use coaching to be a better trainer Briefcase Books, written specifically for today’s busy manager, feature eye-catching icons, checklists, and sidebars to guide managers step-by-step through everyday workplace situations. Look for these innovative design features to help you navigate through each page: -Clear definitions of key terms and concepts -Tactics and strategies for coaching employees -Tricks of the trade for executing effective coaching techniques -Practical advice for minimizing the possibility of error -Warning signs for when things are about to go wrong -Examples of successful workplace coaching -Specific planning procedures, tactics, and hands-on techniques |
| alternatives to toastmasters: Advice to Those who Stutter Stuttering Foundation of America, 1998 This publication has articles written by men and women who stutter themselves and who are now or have been speech pathologists. |
| alternatives to toastmasters: Resonate Nancy Duarte, 2013-07-02 Reveals the underlying story form of all great presentations that will not only create impact, but will move people to action Presentations are meant to inform, inspire, and persuade audiences. So why then do so many audiences leave feeling like they've wasted their time? All too often, presentations don't resonate with the audience and move them to transformative action. Just as the author's first book helped presenters become visual communicators, Resonate helps you make a strong connection with your audience and lead them to purposeful action. The author's approach is simple: building a presentation today is a bit like writing a documentary. Using this approach, you'll convey your content with passion, persuasion, and impact. Author has a proven track record, including having created the slides in Al Gore's Oscar-winning An Inconvenient Truth Focuses on content development methodologies that are not only fundamental but will move people to action Upends the usual paradigm by making the audience the hero and the presenter the mentor Shows how to use story techniques of conflict and resolution Presentations don't have to be boring ordeals. You can make them fun, exciting, and full of meaning. Leave your audiences energized and ready to take action with Resonate. |
| alternatives to toastmasters: Ed School Follies Rita Kramer, 2000-12 Rita Kramer’s extraordinary ethnography of schools of education opens one’s eyes to many things, including the degree to which equality has driven out achievement in the ideals and practices taught to future teachers. All those concerned about what our children will learn and what tomorrow’s adults will know should read this book.” —James S. Coleman, Professor of Sociology and Education, University of Chicago |
| alternatives to toastmasters: The Language of Leadership Joel Schwartzberg, 2021-07-13 The impression you make as a leader has the power to build, enhance, or sabotage your authority and ideas. Discover how to convey the essence of leadership with every interaction. Every communication leaders make—speaking, writing, posting, sharing, and even listening—has the power to either secure or sabotage their impact. But wanting to inspire and engage their team and knowing how to do it are two different things. In this book, Joel Schwartzberg suggests mindsets, tactics, tips, and examples to help readers reach that goal using the most powerful leadership tool available: a leader's voice. Whether managers are giving speeches, telling stories, sending emails, posting messages, recording videos, or running Zoom meetings, these are essential tools for establishing authority and galvanizing an audience. Readers will learn how to inspire instead of inform, communicate with purpose and power, and sell—not just share—their most important ideas. |
| alternatives to toastmasters: Rethinking the Sales Force: Redefining Selling to Create and Capture Customer Value John DeVincentis, Neil Rackham, 1999-02-05 In today's markets, success no longer depends on communicating the value of products or services. It rests on the crucial ability to create value for customers. Sales forces need to retool current strategies by recognizing the customer's dominant power in today's economy and what that means for those who sell. Capitalizing on research into the practices of cutting edge companies, the authors show how the successful sales force breaks away from traditional thinking and transforms themselves into complex business processes with multiple sales approaches and selling mdoels that meet the demands of today's sophisticated customers. |
| alternatives to toastmasters: Clean ABAP Klaus Haeuptle, Florian Hoffmann, Rodrigo Jordao, Michel Martin, Anagha Ravinarayan, Kai Westerholz, 2020-11-24 ABAP developers, are you looking to clean up your code? Then pick up this official companion to the Clean ABAP GitHub repository. This book is brimming with best practices, straight from the experts, to help you write effective ABAP code. Start by learning when to apply each clean ABAP practice. Then, dive into detailed code examples and explanations for using classes, methods, names, variables, internal tables, and more. From writing code to troubleshooting and testing, this is your complete style guide! In this book, you'll learn about: a. Clean ABAP Concepts What is clean ABAP and why is it important to write clean code? Understand clean ABAP concepts with insight from the experts, including special considerations for legacy code and performance. b. Best Practices Walk through the what, why, and how behind clean ABAP best practices. Learn to improve your code, including using classes and interfaces appropriately, handling method design and control flow, designing and running unit tests, and much more. c. Practical Examples See clean ABAP practices in action! Improve your understanding of how to write effective code. Use detailed examples for each best practice that demonstrate the difference between clean and messy code. Highlights include: 1) Classes and interfaces 2) Methods 3) Names 4) Variables and literals 5) Internal tables 6) Control flow 7) Comments 8) Formatting 9) Error handling 10) Unit testing 11) Packages |
| alternatives to toastmasters: The Fundamentals of Drawing Barrington Barber, 2005-01-10 This internationally bestselling guide covers essential drawing techniques, written by expert practical art author Barrington Barber. The Fundamentals of Drawing is a practical and comprehensive drawing course from beginner to advanced levels. Opportunities for practice and improvement are offered across a wide spectrum of subjects with step-by-step examples to guide you through. Subjects include: • Still life • Plants, nature and animals • Portraiture and life drawing • Perspective and composition The methods used in this book are time-honored and proven, having been practiced through the centuries by art students and professional artists. Barrington Barber brings his invaluable expertise as a working artist and teacher to the task of showing you how to use them effectively to create successful drawings. No matter what your level of expertise, you will find his clear approach encouraging and his way of teaching inspirational. |
| alternatives to toastmasters: Reflections on Classroom Thinking Strategies Eric Frangenheim, 2005-09-15 `Frangenheim aims to lead teachers and learners out of their ''comfort zone'' towards the goal of independent learning. His classrooms must be exciting places for both groups' - Debate This book is designed specifically to create a more successful classroom climate in which all students are empowered to be better thinkers. The four main parts of this book deal with - Beliefs about the thinking classroom - Strategies for Analysis and Evaluation - Strategies for Creative Thinking - Strategies for Co-operative Thinking There is also a bonus section in which the author has supplied a large range of posters for the classroom dealing with the subjects above. Everything in this book was forged and tested in the classroom. It is a book about teaching, by teachers, for teachers. It is designed to encourage passion for teaching with an eye on that important ingredient FUN. Teachers are invited to reflect on how the ideas in this book can complement what they do in the classroom, curriculum meetings and staff meetings. Enjoy it! |
| alternatives to toastmasters: Small Talk, Big Results Diane Windingland, 2010-10-30 Little tips and techniques for big success in business. |
| alternatives to toastmasters: On that Point! John Meany, Kate Shuster, 2003 This is the first parliamentary debate textbook for secondary school students. The text is designed to provide a theoretical and practical foundation for effective participation in parliamentary debate in competition or in the classroom. |
| alternatives to toastmasters: 1,001 Ways to Make More Money as a Speaker, Consultant or Trainer: Plus 300 Rainmaking Strategies for Dry Times Lilly Walters, 2003-12-31 A treasure trove of tips on how to increase your income as a speaker--and keep your clients coming back for more This extraordinary book contains wonderful insights, ideas and strategies that you can apply immediately to be more successful as a speaker, trainer or consultant, than you ever thought possible. --Brian Tracy, Speaker, Author of Goals! A must-read! Lilly Walters and the world of paid professional speaking--two names that go hand in hand. When you want ideas you can use today to increase your income in this industry, Lily is the one to ask! --Mark Victor Hansen, Co-creator, #1 New York Times bestselling series, Chicken Soup for the Soul, Co-author, The One-Minute Millionaire Lily has done it again! Another great tool to help anyone in the experts industry access the market and profit from it. --Jack Canfield, Co- creator and co- author, Chicken Soup for the Soul 1,001 Ways to Make More Money as a Speaker, Consultant, or Trainer draws upon bestselling author Lilly Walters' lifetime of experience as a top speaker and consultant. She also combed through a recent survey of more than 7,000 speakers, consultants and trainers who were asked to describe their revenue-generating strategies. The result is a priceless compendium of sure-fire incomegenerating tips, tricks, strategies, and techniques that no speaker, consultant, trainer, or seminar leader will want to be without. More than 1,300 proven strategies to help speakers, trainers, and consultants to grow their incomes in any economic climate Includes the best practices of thousands of successful speakers, trainers, and consultants A quick-reference format featuring simple bulleted sentences categorized by topic |
| alternatives to toastmasters: How to Give a Speech Gary Genard, 2016-11-05 Want to be a better speaker? Get How to Give a Speech! World-renowned speech expert Dr. Gary Genard reveals the secrets of a great performance every time in this powerful handbook. Inside are 101 quick-tips to dramatically improve your public speaking success. This is the fastest and easiest guide to better speaking skills you'll ever find. |
| alternatives to toastmasters: Why Bad Presentations Happen to Good Causes Andy Goodman, Cause Communications, 2006 |
| alternatives to toastmasters: DreamTracking Bambi Corso-Steinmeyer, 2021-03-05 You have the ability to transform your life by paying attention to your dreams. Applying the DreamTracking techniques will help you understand the language of your dreams, gain insight into their meaning, and live a more authentic life. |
| alternatives to toastmasters: From Invisible to Icon John Fareed, Sean Hunter, 2024-04-30 From Invisible to Icon: How to Become a Known Expert in Your Industry is a timeless guide to personal branding that has captivated readers since its original publication in 2013. Now, in its revised and expanded edition, this book takes you on a transformative journey, empowering you to transcend invisibility and emerge as an influential figure in your field. Unveiling powerful strategies and insights, this comprehensive resource equips you with the tools needed to craft a compelling personal brand that resonates with your target audiences. Whether you’re an aspiring professional or a seasoned veteran, From Invisible to Icon paves the way for your success, helping you harness your unique strengths, amplify your voice, and leave an indelible mark on your industry. Get ready to unlock your full potential and embark on a path toward becoming a true icon in your field. |
| alternatives to toastmasters: Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) American Psychiatric Association, 2021-09-24 |
