As Toastmasters we are blessed to have a variety of projects to keep us growing in our communication and leadership skills. Our marketing focus this year will be on membership growth, retention and building new clubs so more people in our District can benefit from Toastmasters. They include:
Building New Clubs
The marketing team will be active in defining potential new community and corporate clubs and gaining support through charter and mentors to help new clubs become strong and viable. Lots of help is needed in all phases of this process … but seeing a new club take root, then take off to be a health club is one of the most rewarding experiences in all of Toastmasters … Why don’t you join in the fun!
Club Membership Growth
Currently over one-third of the clubs in District 13 have 12 members or less, qualifying them to request a Club Coach. Some may just be in a down swing in membership and will have their numbers up on their own in short order. Others could use some assistance from an experienced Toastmaster. If you are a struggling club please consider the Club Coach program. Not sure if your club could use a coach? Why not download the January 2009 Toastmaster magazine article “What’s the Scoop on Your Group?” for a self-analysis by your members?
Experienced Toastmasters, consider reaching out to these struggling clubs by serving as a Club Coach. Not only will you grow in your leadership skills, you will fulfill one of the qualifications for Advanced Leader Silver. Contact your Area Governor to learn more about the program or to request to be assigned. The District Governor or Lieutenant Governor of Marketing must submit Club Coach assignments.
Club Membership Retention Tips
- Make a goal to add five (5) new members during Toastmasters International Membership drives:
- August/September–the Smedley Award
- February/March–Talk Up Toastmasters!
- May/June–Beat the Clock!
- Club Officers – make a commitment to attend TLI on July 16, 2011 and January 14, 2012 at Westmoreland Community College. Strive complete Goal #9 of the Distinguished club program by meeting requirement of getting at least four (4) of your seven (7) club officers trained twice a year. Well-trained officers bring quality to their clubs, which in turn attracts new members.
- Collect your club dues in a timely manner and have them sent to Toastmasters International whether online, by fax or by postal service to ARRIVE by September 30, 2011 and March 31, 2012.
- Keeping your member’s dues current ensures they receive credit for the educational awards and allows them to participate in contests.
- To keep your club in good standing you need to submit a minimum of 6 member’s dues by the September 30 and the March 31 deadline. More is better but take advantage of meeting the deadline of being on time!
