Happy New Year

Happy New Year from Speak Easy Toastmasters and we hope you had a great Christmas. Did you make your new years resolution?….again, this year.

It is said that 90% of New Year resolutions will be discarded by the end of January and some of the reasons are, setting yourself too high a goal, not having a specific plan, keeping your resolution to yourself, not having the will power and so on.

So what about making a resolution that you really can keep, one whose goals are readily reachable and in which you will have a specific plan.

One with whom you do not have to keep to yourself and as for will power, all you need, is to want to, and you won’t believe the will power that you will achieve.

No one, but no one, will disagree that communication or lack of it is a serious issue in today’s world and it seems that face to face communication, in some situations, is a dying art.

In other words, people are not talking enough. People sending text messages instead of using their vocal chords. Even when one decides to make a phone call, you are likely to hear, “please leave your name” or the dreaded, “press 1 for accounts, 2 for repairs, “etc. People are spending hours staring bug eyed at tv or computer screens, be it at work or at home with the Xbox or ps3.

So what about in 2008 learning the art of communication? Communication is a two way process, talking and listening, meeting and interacting with people, oh yeah, I nearly forgot, enjoying yourself and having fun while you are at it.

Ok, I hear you asking, “what’s in it for me?”, why should I?”

How about this then? Personal Impact for a start.

You see, personal impact includes key elements of Communication; Presentation; Assertiveness and Influencing techniques. All these components enable you to make the impact you want. We all can improve our ability to influence others. You all cringe at that interview that went badly wrong or that appraisal you wish to forget.

Here is an opportunity to ensure that you will not repeat these experiences. In order to know making an impact works, there are a few areas you have to consider, and study.

• Knowing how and why things go wrong
• Improving your ability to influence others
• Understanding rules and conventions and boundaries
• Speaking your mind without offending
• Finding our how others see you

An awareness of all of these will increase confidence and raise self esteem. Come along to the next meeting, of Speak Easy Toastmasters, as a guest and see for yourself how we put these skills into practice. We do it in stages and in an encouraging way and you will be most welcome and don’t worry, guests are never asked to speak at a Toastmasters meeting and you can come as a guest as often as you like.

Speak Easy Toastmasters meet just once a fortnight for two hours, 7 to 10pm in The Hibernian Hotel, Mallow and our first meeting of 2008 is on Thursday, January 10^th.

Now, two hours every two weeks to learn the art of communication, meet new friends from all walks of life and all ages, and to really enjoy yourself is a must for 2008, don’t you agree?

After all, “you’re worth it”

So put Thursday, January 10’Th at 8pm, in your brand new 2008 diaries and alternate Thursdays from then on until the end of May.

Further information on Speak Easy Toastmasters can be had by visiting our website at www.speakeasytoastmasters.com

Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells,

“Jingle bells, jingle bells, jingle all the way” , Not only was there bells a-jingling at Speak Easy Toastmasters meeting last Thursday night in the Hibernian Hotel but the sound of glasses tinkling as members and guests were met by a combination of the delicious aroma of mulled wine and seasonal music.

There were also mince pies, Christmas crackers and a raffle during the evening.

What more could one ask for, as 30 Speak Easy members and guests enjoyed another fabulous evening which was started off by a warm welcome, from our President, Anne Buckley.

See our photo album

Sean Corcoran was our Toastmaster for the evening and he welcomed Brian McLoughlin from Mullingar Toastmasters and Conor O’Biren from The Galtees Toastmasters who were guest speakers.

First to speak was Liam Flynn with a speech entitled “The Red Planet” in which he told us some fascinating facts about Mars and its moons.

Next to the lectern was Conor O’Brien with his speech, “Experience Trumps Knowledge” A speech interspersed with anecdotes, quotes and personal experience to emphasise that you can’t beat experience.

Following Conor was Michael Walsh with an interpretive reading project which was a poem by Brendan Kenelly called “Begin”.

Next it was the turn of Brian McLoughlin with a speech entitled, “It’s only a Joke”, in which he gave us the theory of stand up comedy jokes, how they are formed and gave some brilliant examples.

Finally it was the turn of Mary Buckley who was doing a Speciality Speech called “The Roast” in which she poked fun at a toastmaster and praised at the at the same time. The subject of “The Roast” was none other than the previous speaker, Brian McLoughlin.

After the speeches it was the coffee break where we consumed those delicious mince pies and performed a most important part of any toastmaster meeting…. a chat among members and guests.

Immediately after the break it was the Table Topics Session in which Topicsmaster for the evening, Dennis Taylor got us to entertain ourselves by answering his topics. This is the part of the meeting where members hone their “speaking off the cuff” skills by talking for 2 minutes on any subject, unprepared, chosen by the Topicsmaster.

Finally, the “Evaluation Session”. This is the part of the meeting where members who gave speeches are evaluated by fellow members. The purpose of evaluations is twofold. A, to give positive feedback to the speaker, praise good points of the speech and recommend what improvements the speaker could make for future speeches and presentations and B, to practice and improve the listening skills of the evaluator.

Lorretto Barry was General Evaluator and she gave us her opinion on how the evaluators performed, commented on how the meeting was run and made recommendations on number of points.

Finally, as this was our final meeting before Christmas, President Anne Buckley wished all members of Speak Easy Toastmasters, guests and friends (and of course, readers of these notes) a happy and peaceful Christmas.

The next meeting of Speak Easy Toastmasters will be held on Thursday, January 10’th.

Further information on Speak Easy Toastmasters can be had from our website, www.speakeasytoastmasters.com

Visual Aids

In our image rich world people have become visual learners so when making a speech or presentation it is important to use an effective visual aid or prop to enhance your message and to make your audience remember it.

Here are a number of tips that will help you use such visual aids correctly.

Visual aids should be easy to see. Whatever aid is chosen it should be seen by all of your audience, so choose the size and colour so that the people at the back of the room can see it clearly.

Visual aids should look professional. Your audience should be able to look at your aid and immediately get the point. If you are using a Flip Chart, Overhead Projector or Powerpoint, keep text or bullet points to a minimum.

Visual aids should be explained clearly. Don’t assume that your audience will automatically know what the prop means. Explain what it is for, and what it represents.

Visual aids should not be distracting. The aid that you use is meant to enhance your speech. Show the aid at the appropriate stage in your presentation. As a rule of thumb, you should not pass around a visual aid around a room during your presentation as the audience will be looking at it and not listening to you.

Visual aids should be appropriate to your audience. Use common sense when choosing an aid to use in your presentation. Choose a visual aid with the same care and attention that you prepare your speech with.

The above are just a few tips on the use of visual aids for a speech or presentation. Use of such aids is an important skill that needs to be practised regularly.

In Speak Easy Toastmasters every fortnight, this skill and indeed all of the many skills that go into making competent and professional speeches are practised and perfected by club members.

A Toastmasters Club is not a classroom but a workshop where Toastmasters meet to hone their skills and most importantly to enjoy themselves.

Tonight in the Hibernian Hotel it will be no different….well maybe a little different as it will be our Christmas meeting. Members will be getting into the festive spirit which means that another great Speak Easy Toastmasters meeting will be a certainty.

Joining President Anne Buckley at the top table tonight will be Toastmaster for the evening, Sean Corcoran and Topicsmaster, Dennis Taylor. General Evaluator is Lorretto Barry and Timekeeper, Gerry O’Callaghan. Speeches will be presented by Liam Flynn, Michael Walsh, Mary Buckley and Speak Easy Toastmasters are delighted to welcome our guest speaker from Mullingar Toastmasters, Brian McLoughlin.

So come along tonight to the Hibernian Hotel, Mallow at 7.50 for an 8.00pm sharp start. You, as our guest will be most welcome, the craic will be 90 and remember guests will not be asked to speak.

For further information on Speak Easy Toastmasters visit our website at www.speakeasytoastmasters.com

Another great evening at ~Speak Easy Toastmasters

Last Thursday night, Nov 29^th saw another fantastic meeting of the Speak Easy Toastmasters Club in the Hibernian Hotel, Mallow. Another night of fun, entertainment and education where members and guests saw and heard 4 great speeches by Speak Easy Members.

Our President, Anne Buckley, opened the meeting by welcoming members and guests and assured us of a great meeting to come. How right she was.

Toastmaster for the night was Gerry Kelleher and took us through the meeting with his efficient and individual style.

First to be introduced to the lectern was Dennis Taylor with a well rehearsed and delivered speech on the GAA and its role in irish rural life. A very appropriate speech that we could all identify with.

Next to the lectern was John Dillon with an Interpretive reading project. John choose a poem by Patrick Galvin; called “The White Monument”.

Following John was , Anne Buckley who delivered a speech on the health benefits of owning a pet, and finally it was the turn of Mary Buckley whose presentation was an educational session on speech preparation

Noel O'Connor was Topicsmaster for the night and kept members on their toes with a well researched bagful of topics which fulfilled the aims of any topics session which is to hone the skills of speaking unprepared or “off the cuff” while at the same time making sure that both members and guests enjoyed themselves.

General Evaluator for the evening was Gerry Mulcahy who conducted the evaluation session. This is the part of the meeting where members who have been nominated to evaluate the speakers, deliver their opinions with the object of helping fellow member become better speakers.

The next meeting of Speak Easy Toastmasters will be on the 12^th of December and it is our Christmas meeting. Members will be getting into the swing of the festive season and will be dressing up in their Christmas “gear”. Santa hats and outfits, rudolph noses (flashing of course) and whatever else comes to hand to make a Christmas atmosphere.

What an opportunity it will be for you to come along as our guest and meet the members of Speak Easy Toastmasters. See how we enjoy ourselves not only at this, our Christmas meeting but at every meeting.

Speak Easy Toastmaster meeting last for 2 hours on alternate Thursdays in The Hibernian Hotel, Mallow. Meetings start at 8pm sharp and finish at 10pm.

Guests are always very welcome at our meetings and will never be asked to speak.

Further information on Speak Easy Toastmasters can be had on our website www.speakeasytoastmasters.com or contact our PRO, Sean on 086 6054784

Effective Communication

Effective Communication is a ‘must have’ in this electronic age. Being an effective communicator takes real skill. Communication skills have to be developed, honed and added to on an on-going basis. Communication is the basis of interpersonal skills and the greater your awareness of how it all works, the more effective your communication will be. To be effective in business, you have to communicate well.

To be a good manager, you have to communicate exceptionally well. Communication is individual. We are not all the same. There is never one right way to communicate. Authentic effective communication always happens when we reply on those things we know to be true about or for ourselves.

Your personal style can say more for you than all the words you use can. Most people look at what is wrong with themselves and other people, rather than focusing on what already works. Remember many things have to be working well for you to have got this far already. The communication cycle works as follows and you can take responsibility for every stage:

Spoken - Heard - Understood - Agreed To - Acted On - Implemented.

In Toastmasters you will become aware of where you or others tend to fall off the cycle. So, can I give you any greater reason for joining Speak Easy Toastmasters?

Speak Easy Toastmasters meet in the Hibernian Hotel, Mallow, on alternate Thursdays from 8-10pm and we would love to meet you.

You can come along as our guest for the evening and rest assured, you will not be asked to speak as guests at a toastmasters meeting never are.

Tonight we will be in the capable hands of Toastmaster for the night, Jerry Kelleher. Keeping us on our toes with his chosen topics is Topicsmaster, Noel O'Connor. Jerry Mulcahy as General Evaluator will have the final say on how the meeting went. Members presenting speeches will be, Dennis Taylor, Liam Flynn, John Dillon, Anne Buckley and Mary Buckley

So why not come along to the Hibernian Hotel and see for yourself, you will be delighted that you did.

We meet at 7.50 for an 8pm start. Looking forward to meeting you.

Further information can be had from our website, www.speakeasytoastmasters.com.

Oh What a night

"Oh what a night" was the title of a hit song by the Four Seasons many years ago and it can also describe last Thursday night in The Hibernian Hotel, Mallow where Speak Easy Toastmasters hosted the second Inter Schools Public Speaking Contest

Yes, it certainly was a fantastic night of speeches which ranged from a cup of tea to hip hop beef, to teachers, the irish language and many subjects in between.

Everyone who took part was a winner and are to be congratulated for taking up what can be a daunting challenge.

The schools who took part were, The Patrician Acadamy, Mallow represented by, Killian Cronin, Brian Linehan, Sean O' Riordan.

St Mary's Mallow, Rebecca Casey, Danielle O'Riordan, Jess Rurrell'

Davis College, Mallow, Ian Buckley, Emer Haugh, Ciara Murphy and

Scoil Mhuire, Kanturk, Kelly Linehan, Claire O'Flynn, Aoife Sheehan.

After what was an extremely close contest, the winner and recipient of the Hibernian Hotel Perpetual Trophy was Sean O'Riordan, Patrician Acadamy. In second place was Rebecca Casey, St Mary's and in third place was Claire O'Flynn from Schoil Mhuire.

Mallow Credit Union Perpetual Trophy was won by St Mary's.

Speak Easy Toastmasters would like to sincerely thank the contest sponsors, Mallow Credit Union and The Hibernian Hotel.

Club President, Anne Buckley presided over the meeting with Mary Buckley as Contest Chair. Topicsmaster for the evening was Tony O'Regan and Liam Flynn, Timer. Margaret O'Regan gave a demonstration speech which was evaluated by Ray Ryan and General Evaluator for the evening was Pat Sexton.

Speak Easy Toastmasters will hold their next meeting on Thursday November 29^th at 8pm sharp so why not come along and see what we have to offer.

You will not be disappointed. Don't forget that guests are most welcome at all Toastmaster meeting and are never asked to speak.

Further information on Speak Easy Toastmasters can be had on our website www.speakeasytoastmasters.com

Oh What a night

"Oh what a night" was the title of a hit song by the Four Seasons many years ago and it can also describe last Thursday night in The Hibernian Hotel, Mallow where Speak Easy Toastmasters hosted the second Inter Schools Public Speaking Contest

Yes, it certainly was a fantastic night of speeches which ranged from a cup of tea to hip hop beef, to teachers, the irish language and many subjects in between.

Everyone who took part was a winner and are to be congratulated for taking up what can be a daunting challenge.

The schools who took part were, The Patrician Acadamy, Mallow represented by, Killian Cronin, Brian Linehan, Sean O' Riordan.

St Mary's Mallow, Rebecca Casey, Danielle O'Riordan, Jess Rurrell'

Davis College, Mallow, Ian Buckley, Emer Haugh, Ciara Murphy and

Scoil Mhuire, Kanturk, Kelly Linehan, Claire O'Flynn, Aoife Sheehan.

After what was an extremely close contest, the winner and recipient of the Hibernian Hotel Perpetual Trophy was Sean O'Riordan, Patrician Acadamy. In second place was Rebecca Casey, St Mary's and in third place was Claire O'Flynn from Schoil Mhuire.

Mallow Credit Union Perpetual Trophy was won by St Mary's.

Speak Easy Toastmasters would like to sincerely thank the contest sponsors, Mallow Credit Union and The Hibernian Hotel.

Club President, Anne Buckley presided over the meeting with Mary Buckley as Contest Chair. Topicsmaster for the evening was Tony O'Regan and Liam Flynn, Timer. Margaret O'Regan gave a demonstration speech which was evaluated by Ray Ryan and General Evaluator for the evening was Pat Sexton.

Speak Easy Toastmasters will hold their next meeting on Thursday November 29^th at 8pm sharp so why not come along and see what we have to offer.

You will not be disappointed. Don't forget that guests are most welcome at all Toastmaster meeting and are never asked to speak.

Further information on Speak Easy Toastmasters can be had on our website www.speakeasytoastmasters.com

Your Body Speaks

Tonight is the night for pupils of Davis College, St. Mary’s Secondary School and The Partician Acadamy of Mallow and Schoil Mhuire of Kanturk as they compete for the Mallow Credit Union Perpetual Trophy (overall school winner) and Hibernian Hotel Perpetual Trophy (individual winner) in the Speak Easy Toastmasters Inter Schools Public Speaking Contest.

The pupils have been busy preparing for this contest for the past number of weeks and finally, tonight, they will present their speeches before the judges in The Hibernian Hotel, Mallow at 8pm sharp.

This promises, once again, to be a great evening so why not come along, give your support and listen what these young people have to say.

Continuing on with our series of articles on the skills of public speaking or making a presentation, this week we look at body language and the correct way to use it.

Firstly, facial expression. Together with your voice and stance, tells the audience whether you are being serious or funny, happy or sad, friendly or angry.

Next, eye contact. Speak to the audience looking directly at them; you should strive to look into the eyes of as many people as possible in your audience. You are connecting with your audience and they will know that you sincere in what you are saying.

Thirdly, guestures. Hands are wonderful tools but they can also be distracting if you are fiddling with the podium or lectern, pens, glasses or papers and can make the audience feel uncomfortable and annoyed. Equally, hands jammed in pockets give the wrong vibes. Using ones hands to enhance a presentation needs to be learned and practiced but it is a skill well worth learning.

And lastly, whole body movement. Be careful when you are speaking that you are not a rocker or a sawyer or a pacer as these movements can make you look nervous and can make the audience uncomfortable. Try to stand straight but not stiff, balance your body, feet slightly apart, relax your shoulders, chest up and stomach in, head straight and arms hanging naturally. Learn to work the room so do not stand in only one position. Move from spot to spot purposefully.

The above is only a very brief outline of using your body to enhance a speech or presentation and is just one more of the skills that are learned and practiced at toastmasters meetings. Remember, toastmasters meetings are workshops not classrooms and where the emphasis is on members enjoying themselves and of course we all know that if you enjoy yourself then learning is a pleasure.

So why not find out for yourself, come along to any of our meetings in the Hibernian Hotel, Mallow. We meet on alternate Thursdays at 7.50pm for an 8pm sharp start and finish at 10pm. We would be delighted to meet you and be assured that guests are never asked to speak at any toastmaster meeting.

So don’t forget to come along tonight 15^th and support the Inter Schools Public Speaking Contest. It starts at 8pm sharp and will be a fantastic evening.

Toastmasters from all over Ireland and the UK are this week getting back to normal after a wonderful conference in Harrogate, North Yorkshire, last weekend.
We had a weekend of workshops, contests, a tour of the beautiful Yorkshire Dales and of plenty of retail therapy for those so inclined.
The Irish success story of the weekend was John Doyle from Thurles Toastmasters who won the Table Topics Contest.

The next District 71 Conference (Ireland and UK) will take place in the Gleneagle Hotel, Killarney, on the 9-11^th of May 2008

Speak Easy Toastmasters next regular meeting is on November 29^th.

Further information on Speak Easy Toastmasters can be had from our website, www.speakeasytoastmasters.com

Handbags and Haircuts

What a fantastic meeting we had last Thursday night in the Hibernian Hotel, Mallow where Speak Easy Toastmasters held their 5^th meeting of the Toastmasters year.

The meeting was opened as usual by our President, Anne Buckley, who welcomed us, one and all and handed control of the meeting to or Toastmaster for the evening, Marie Fitzpatrick, who guided us through the evening with her own individual style of continuity and introductions.

First to the lectern was Joe Hassett with a speech entitled, “And here’s to you Mrs Robinson” in which he told us of his experiences and thoughts on education. The objective of Joe’s speech was to “Work with Words” in which he had to use precisely the right words to communicate ideas clearly and vividly.

Following Joe was Vivien Buckley with a speech which was and educational presentation in which Vivien demonstrated the correct use of body language giving many examples in facial expressions, hand gestures, and body movement in which guests, new and experienced members alike found most informative.

Next to the lectern was Club President, Anne Buckley with a speech entitled, “Bags of Bags” in which she told us of here adventures in New York City and of finding a handbag heaven and the haggling and purchasing that resulted.

Finally it was the turn of Pat Sexton who was reading from author, Bill Bryson’s book, Letters from a Big Country. The chapter chosen was “A visit to the barbers shop”. Pat was completing a project from Interpretive Reading in which he had to interpret the work of an author and make the story come alive.

Topicsmaster was Liam Flynn who entertained us with his range of up to the minute topics in which members had to speak for two minutes on a subject of Liam’s choosing.

General Evaluator was Tony O’Regan and speech evaluators were, Mary Buckley, Michael Cronin and Sean Corcoran. Timekeeper was Jerry Mulcahy and Sgt at Arms, Joe Hassett and Mary Moynihan.

Also on the night was and address by Toastmasters International, Area 17 Area Governor, Pat Duggan who was on his first official visit to the club.

So what a enjoyable evening we had with the skills of using words correctly, in presentations, body language, storytelling, reading, listening (speech evaluations) and impromptu speaking all being practised.

This weekend, 9^th to11^th, all roads for Toastmasters in Ireland and the UK lead to Harrogate in England for the Autumn Conference. In May and November each year, Toastmasters in Ireland and the UK meet for a weekend of Speech Contests and Workshops, not to mention revelry and merrymaking. The theme for this conference is “Toasties and Ghosties”. Don’t you just wish you were going?

On Thursday 15^th of November, next Thursday, students from Mallow schools, The Patrician Academy, St. Mary’s Secondary School, Davis College and Scoil Mhuire, Kanturk meet in the Hibernian Hotel Mallow for the “Speak Easy Public Speaking Schools Contest”. This is the second year of this contest and promises to be a fantastic night. So don’t forget, put it in your diary and come along for a great night. Remember, Speak Easy Toastmaster meetings start at 8pm sharp. See you there..

Further information on Speak Easy Toastmasters can be had from our website www.speakeasytoastmasters.com

Using Humour in Speeches and Presentations

Doesn’t time fly? Another fortnight gone and its Speak Easy Toastmasters meeting night again.

Over the past number of alternate Thursdays we have been looking at various skills in making a speech or presentation.

This week we look at another very important skill, the use of humour.

Humour is a great “ice breaker”. It shows especially, if you are in a position of authority over your audience that you are indeed human and you don’t take yourself or the occasion too seriously. Humour is also a great tool to win over audience, people pay more attention to a speaker who uses humour and of course humour keeps a presentation from becoming boring not to mention that an audience will be more likely to remember your message if you use humour to illustrate it.

But, caution is needed when using or attempting to use humour, as used incorrectly it can backfire. Let’s have a look at a few simple rules for using humour in a presentation.

Firstly, humour has to fit the content and tone of your speech. If humour doesn’t fit your speech then don’t use it.

Don’t tell an unrelated joke at the start of our speech, what is a lot more effective is a humorous story that introduces the theme of the talk.

You must also consider not only the age of your audience but also their cultural background and their mood when choosing humour for your speech as not all audiences respond the same type of humour. I.e. references local characters or restaurants would not be understood outside your area.

Needless to mention, off colour humour is not appropriate around children and audiences who would be offended by it. Be careful here.

The best way to use humour is to illustrate a point and the best humour comes from your own experience. Talk about a humorous situation you had and what you learned from it. Your audience will be drawn to your story because it is personal and real. They can also relate to similar experiences they had. Using your own experiences will make you speeches fresher than if you culled jokes out of joke books.

Humour is an integral part of Toastmasters. It is a skill that all Toastmasters aspire to use confidently in all our presentations. It is what makes a Toastmaster stand out from the crowd when delivering a speech or presentation.

Two speech contests in Toastmasters are devoted to it, The Humorous Speech Contest and The Tall Tales Contest and also a number of training manuals.

So tonight, November 1^st, why not come along to our Toastmasters meeting in the Hibernian Hotel and see for your self how easy it is to gain the confidence to stand before an audience and deliver a truly memorable speech.

Best of all though, you will have fun learning and by joining Toastmasters International you will be a member of an international organization with over two hundred thousand members in ten thousand clubs in over ninety countries.

So come along tonight, Thursday, November 1^st to the Hibernian Hotel in Mallow at 7.50pm where the members of Speak Easy Toastmasters will be delighted to meet you and show you what we do. Don’t worry, guests at a Toastmasters meeting are never asked to speak so you can just sit back and enjoy the evening.

We will be in the capable hand of Toastmaster, Marie Fitzpatirck and handing out the topics to the members will be Liam Flynn and speakers on the program are Dennis Taylor, Joe Hassett, Anne Buckley, Pat Sexton and Vivien Buckley.

So see you later; you’ll be glad you came.

Further information on Speak Easy Toastmasters can be had on our website www.speakeasytoastmasters.com

Digging for Diamonds

Last Thursday night, Oct 18^th, in the Hibernian Hotel Mallow was the place to be.

Why? Speak Easy Toastmasters held another brilliant meeting, that’s why.

President, Anne Buckley welcomed us all and assured us that we were in for a great evening. How right she was.

Noel O’Connor was Toastmaster for the evening and smoothly led us through the program.

First to speak was Liam O’Flynn with the intriguing title of , “Digging for Diamonds on Sunday Morning”, in which he told us of the history of the Car Boot Sale, and his passion of attending them. Liam told us of the many bargains that were to be had at these car boot sales and even gave us a lesson on the art of haggling.

Next the lectern was Joe Hassett with a speech entitled, “1984 is here” in which he pointed out that with all the technology of today, big brother is indeed watching. Internet and mobile phone records are being kept on everybody, CCTV cameras are everywhere and if you go for a walk in London you will be recorded on 300 cameras before your walk is over. Who guards the guards? Thought provoking indeed.

Following Joe was Loretto Barry with a project from the Interpretive Reading Manual, the oratorical speech, in which she interpreted Abraham Lincoln’s famous speech, “The Gettysburg Address”. Loretto prefaced the speech with a short interesting history of Abraham Lincoln before showing us all the skills of making an oration in this challenging speech project.

And finally, Mary Buckley gave a presentation called, “Take the Terror out of a Talk” in which she gave us some valuable tips on making that speech or presentation. What breathing exercises to do beforehand and how to channel nerves into energy to enhance the talk were among the many valuable items we learnt. Mary was giving us the benefit of her experience being, Past President of Speak Easy Toastmasters and a regular participant in speech contests

Jerry Mulcahy as Topicsmaster kept us on our toes with a selection well thought out topics. This is the section of our meeting in which we practice the skill of thinking on our feet. Members are asked to speak for 2 minutes on a subject of the Topicsmasters choosing.

On Saturday 28^th last in the Radisson Hotel Cork Airport, Toastmasters from all over Cork, Kerry and West Limerick gathered for the Humorous Speech and Table Topics Contests. Two contestants from each of the five toastmaster areas took part and representing Area 17 (North Cork) were Margaret O’Regan and Richard Coughlan who both gave marvellous performances. Well done.

Inter Schools Public Speaking Contest

The second annual Inter Schools Public Speaking Contest hosted by Speak Easy Toastmasters takes place in the Hibernian Hotel, Mallow on Thursday 15^th of November.

Participants from Davis College, St Mary's Secondary School, The Patrician Acadamy and Scoil Mhuire Kanturk will take part in what promises to be a fantastic night if last years standard is anything to go by.

Remember the date, Thursday November 15^th at 8pm and come along to the Hibernian Hotel to see and support these students compete for the Mallow Credit Union Perpetual Trophy (overall school winner) and Hibernian Hotel Perpetual Trophy (individual winner).

Our next meeting takes place in the Hibernian Hotel on Thursday night, November 1^st at 7.50 for an 8pm start. Put the date in your diary and come along, you will be glad you did. We are always delighted to welcome guests and you will not be asked to speak.

Further information can be had on our website, www.speakeasytoastmasters.com

Nerves and Contests

Over previous weeks we discussed how to make a presentation with reference to the “opening body and conclusion” and “preparing yourself”. This week we look at presenting your talk or preparation.

Now, regardless of your preparation beforehand, nervousness, to varying degrees is inevitable….and natural. Even the most experienced of speakers are nervous before a speech or presentation but they know how to control that nervousness and indeed turn in into positive energy that adds to their presentation.

If your palms sweat and your knees shake, let them. Focus on your material, you have it prepared and rehearsed and very soon into your delivery you will find that your nervousness will dissipate.

When you are being introduced or just before you start, take a deep breath and slowly exhale. This will make your voice sound resonant and natural.

While speaking, make eye contact with as many members of the audience as possible so no one feels left out of your talk.

There are of course many more skills to be learned in making a presentation such as, how to use hand gestures, when to use humour, body movement, voice projection etc and these are learned and practiced at every Toastmasters meeting.

Remember that Toastmasters is about people developing their public speaking and leadership skills by practising in a comfortable sociable environment with other learners.

Why don’t you come along to any one of our meetings and see for yourself?

You will be delighted that you did and we would be delighted to meet you.

Speech Contests.

On Monday night last in the Firgrove Hotel, Mitchelstown, members of the Toastmasters Clubs in North Cork gathered for what was described as “a fun night of friendly rivalry”.

It was the Area 17 final of the Humorous Speech and Table Topics Contests.

Congratulations to Margaret O’Regan who won the Humorous Speech Contest with her speech entitled “The Greatest” and to Richard Coughlan who won the Table Topics Contest.

Margaret and Richard now compete in the Division Final (Cork,Kerry and West Limerick) which will take place next Saturday night, 20^th in the Radison SAS Hotel, Cork Airport at 8pm sharp with the winners competing in Harrogate, England in Movember.

The very best of luck to you both.

Tonight’s meeting.

Speak Easy Toastmasters meet again tonight,18^th, in the Hibernian Hotel Mallow at 7.50pm for an 8pm sharp start.

We will be in the capable hands of Toastmaster for the evening, Noel O’Connor, Topicsmaster, Jerry Mulcahy and speeches will be by Liam Flynn, Joe Hassett, Loretto Barry and Mary Buckley.

Why don’t you come along and join us for a great evening? You will be glad you did and we will be delighted to meet and talk to you.

Further information on Speak Easy Toastmasters can be had from our website www.speakeasytoastmasters.com

Humorous Speech and Table Topics Contest

Last Thursday the 4^th of October saw one of the highlights of the Speak Easy Toastmasters calendar with the club holding the Humorous Speech Contest and Table Topics Contest.

This was the first round of a series of contest culminating in the District Finals which will be held in Harrogate in England on November 10^th.

“Romans delay Irish Investments” was the title of Joe Hassetts speech and Pat Sexton’s speech was titled, “The Frogs Chorus”.

Mary Buckley’s speech was entitled, “Our Day Will Come” and Michael Cronin’s was entitled, “The Long and the Short of it”.

The Table Topics Contest took part in the second half of the meeting with 4 members taking part, Liam Flynn, Mary Buckley, Michael Cronin and Joe Hassett.

The topic in which each had to speak for 2 minutes, unprepared, was, “Which would you prefer, to be loved or respected”

Winner of the Humorous Speech Contest was Michael Cronin with Pat Sexton as runner up.

Table Topics winner was also Michael Cronin with Mary Buckley in second place.

Michael will now represent Speak Easy Toastmasters in the Area final which will be held in the Firgrove Hotel, Mitchelstown next Monday night 15^th October at 8.00pm sharp.

So why not come along and join us, together with members of the other Toastmaster Clubs in North Cork for a great night.

President Anne Buckley presided over the meeting and was joined at the top table for the evening by Toastmaster/Contest Chair, Ray Ryan Jnr. And as Topics Master with his usual brand of humorous and entertaining topics was Pat Duggan.

Also on the evening Speak Easy Toastmasters welcomed President of The Galtees Toastmasters, Maire Corbett as Chief Judge.

Speak Easy Toastmasters will meet again on Thursday night 18^th of October at 7.50pm for an 8pm start so put it in your diary now.

Further information on Speak Easy Toastmasters and Toastmasters International can be had by logging on to our continuously updated website at www.speakeasytoastmasters.com

Pracatice Makes Perfect

Following on from the Speak Easy Notes on Sept 20^th in which we discussed the way to structure a speech or presentation with the “Opening, Body and Conclusion”, this week we look at preparing yourself to make that presentation.

How do you do that? By rehearsing.

Practice the talk until you are comfortable with it.

You won’t need to memorise the body of the talk since you already know all about the subject. As mentioned already, you should memorise your opening and conclusion.

Present the talk to a family member or friend and ask for comments.

They may give you some helpful suggestions. If you have a tape recorder, record the talk and listen to it carefully making any necessary improvements to improve your speaking ability. Rehearse as often as it takes until you are comfortable with your presentation. Use visualizing techniques in which you imagine yourself in front of your audience delivering that perfect presentation.

Another very important aspect of making your presentation is appearance.

Be well groomed and appropriately dressed. When you look right, you feel good about yourself. You will then forget about your appearance and concentrating about presenting your talk. You will have increased confidence because you know you have made a good first impression on your audience.

All these presentation skills and many more are learned and practiced at every toastmaster meeting. A toastmaster meeting is not a classroom or lecture but a workshop in which the emphasis is on mutual support, learning but most importantly on enjoyment, fun and friendship.

Don’t just take my word for it, come along and see for yourself.

As a guest you will be most welcome and you will not be asked to speak

So why not come along tonight, 4^th of October to the Hibernian Hotel, Mallow at 7.50pm and join us.

Tonight we present the Club Humorous Speech Contest and Table Topics Contest in which is one of our highlights of the toastmaster year.

Here you will see club members using their speaking skills just to make you laugh.

Remember, tonight at the Hibernian Hotel, Mallow at 7.50pm

Looking forward to meeting you

Further information on The Speak Easy Toastmasters Club can be obtained by logging on to our website at www.speakeasytoastmasters.com

Tips....Rehearsing that Presentation

Following on from the Speak Easy Notes on Sept 20^th in which we discussed the way to structure a speech or presentation with the “Opening, Body and Conclusion”, this week we look at preparing yourself to make that presentation.

How do you do that? By rehearsing.

Practice the talk until you are comfortable with it.

You won’t need to memorise the body of the talk since you already know all about the subject. As mentioned already, you should memorise your opening and conclusion.

Present the talk to a family member or friend and ask for comments.

They may give you some helpful suggestions. If you have a tape recorder, record the talk and listen to it carefully making any necessary improvements to improve your speaking ability. Rehearse as often as it takes until you are comfortable with your presentation. Use visualizing techniques in which you imagine yourself in front of your audience delivering that perfect presentation.

Another very important aspect of making your presentation is appearance.

Be well groomed and appropriately dressed. When you look right, you feel good about yourself. You will then forget about your appearance and concentrating about presenting your talk. You will have increased confidence because you know you have made a good first impression on your audience.

All these presentation skills and many more are learned and practiced at every toastmaster meeting. A toastmaster meeting is not a classroom or lecture but a workshop in which the emphasis is on mutual support, learning but most importantly on enjoyment, fun and friendship.

Don’t just take my word for it, come along and see for yourself.

As a guest you will be most welcome and you will not be asked to speak

So why not come along tonight, 4^th of October to the Hibernian Hotel, Mallow at 7.50pm and join us.

Tonight we present the Club Humorous Speech Contest and Table Topics Contest in which is one of our highlights of the toastmaster year.

Here you will see club members using their speaking skills just to make you laugh.

Remember, tonight at the Hibernian Hotel, Mallow at 7.50pm

Looking forward to meeting you

Further information on The Speak Easy Toastmasters Club can be obtained by logging on to our website at www.speakeasytoastmasters.com

Speak Easy on Sept 20th

Thursday 20^th last saw another fantastic evening of speeches, fun and entertainment at the Speak Easy Toastmasters meeting in which club members were joined by 11 guests.

The meeting began with a welcome by acting President for the evening, Ray Ryan Jnr Toastmaster for the evening was Michael Walsh who guided us smoothly along for the duration of the meeting.

First to the lectern was the youngest member of our club, Kieran Butler with a speech entitled “The Clinton Syndrome” in which he was President of the US and all that went with it including the secretaries, well, especially the secretaries. Kieran kept us entertained for the duration of his speech and showed what a talented speaker he is.

Kieran was followed by Pat Sexton who is one of the founder members of the club an. Pat’s presentation was on how to answer topics or how to think on our feet in any given situation. Answering topics (topics are questions in which members have to speak for 2 minutes on any subject without preparation) gives confidence, encourages spontaneity and sharpens thinking. Pat’s message was to “Get hot on Topics, don’t get bothered”

Then it was the turn of Margaret O’Regan who entertained with a speech entitled, “The Greatest”….men. She has been observing them for years, she said, and shared with us her hilarious observations. “Most men will take a command, once” but it must be very simple and precise. A world without men would be like a “black and white television, bland”.

The final speaker of the evening was Michael Cronin with a speech entitled “The Lions Den” in which he gave details of his experience at a “Dine to meet” which is the latest way to meet members of the opposite sex. Michael took us through his experiences of the evening as only he can, and at the end of the “Dine to meet” evening he came home with….the napkin.

Tim Ahern was Topics Master of the evening and kept us on our toes with a well thought out range of topics.

Our next meeting is on Thursday, October 4^th and is the club’s Humorous Speech Contest which is one of the highlights of the year and is an evening not to be missed.

The Table Topics Contest also takes place on the night..

We invite you to come along as a guest and see what Toastmasters has to offer and also to see the skills and confidence that anyone can learn by being a member of a Toastmasters Club

Remember the date, October 4^th, at 7.50pm in The Hibernian Hotel, Mallow.

Further details on Speak Easy Toastmasters can be had by logging on to our website at www.speakeasytoastmasters.com

Opening Body and Conclusion

What is common between any of the following? Back to college? Joined a new club or association? Started a new course? New job?

Well at some stage you are going to have to make a presentation, or put forward a point of view in front of others from a lectern, the top table or in a committee.

Doing this correctly will mean that you and the point you are making will be heard or that presentation will stand out above the others.

Over the next few weeks in the Speak Easy Toastmasters notes we’ll be looking at the various ways in which you can prepare yourself to deliver that perfect speech, presentation or viewpoint.

This week it’s the “Opening, Body and Conclusion.

Like any good story, your talk needs a clear beginning and ending. Create an interesting opening sentence that captures the audience’s attention, Memorize it, if necessary and use it even if a better idea occurs to you just before you speak.

Then devise a good closing and memorize it also.

Giving your audience too much information will only overwhelm them. A memorized beginning and ending enable you to start and finish your talk with confidence and ease.

In any speech it’s best to select a few main points (three or four at the most) and emphasize them by using examples, stories for anecdotes. If you merely state a face and then continue most of your audience will miss the point, say it again in different words, illustrate the point and then state it once more in order to be clearly understood. This is a good skill to learn.

If you need notes, write a brief speech outline on for example, 3x5 cards which you can place on the lectern or table. Refer to them only when you need them.

Remember, you’re speaking, not reading.

Many speakers begin by writing out the entire speech or presentation, then breaking it down into parts with a key word for each part and finally writing just the key words on note cards.

The above skills are some of the many that are learned and practiced at every toastmaster meeting so why not come along tonight to The Hibernian Hotel, Mallow at 7.50pm and see for yourself.

You will be very welcome and remember that guests are never asked to speak at a toastmasters meeting.

Tonight we are in the capable hands of Toastmaster Michael Walsh with Tim Ahern as Topics master. Speakers are, Kieran Butler, Michael Cronin, Margaret O’Regan and Pat Sexton.

Remember, tonight, at The Hibernian Hotel Mallow.

Looking forward to meeting you.

For further information about Speak Easy Toastmasters, log on to our website at www.speakeasytoastmasters.com

Familiar Faces are Back

September 6^th saw familiar faces, friends and welcome guests greet a new year of Speak Easy Toastmasters. Anne Buckley was warmly welcomed as incoming President. The able Jerry Mulcahy acted as Toastmaster or MC for the evening and demonstrated his prowess as genial host. Three speakers from the club entertained with prepared speeches.

Liam Flynn demonstrated his passion for astronomy with a history of Edwin Hubble, after whom the Hubble space telescope is named. Liam enumerated the benefits of the space race and the many achievements of the telescope, concluding by putting into perspective our place in the Universe. Sean Corcoran evaluated Liam’s speech.

Marie Fitzpatrick recounted her depressing experience with false tan. A wedding led her to try tanning wipes with disastrous consequences! Bridie O’Connell evaluated Marie’s speech.

Ray Ryan demonstrated his enthusiasm for history and his easy ability to educate and entertain with a history of MPs for Mallow from the 17^th to the 19^th century, culminating in the election of Wm O’Brien. Margaret O’Regan evaluated Ray’s Speech

Following the coffee break, Michael Cronin was a source of inspiration as topics master and got the audience into lively discussions.

Topics, delivered to members only included “the attraction of watching the Rose of Tralee competition”, “the safety of letting a bunch of Toastmasters loose in a brewery”, and “whether men or women lie most”!

Other participants in the meeting included Mary Buckley, General Evaluator, Mary McCarthy, Timekeeper, Joe Hassett and Mary Moynihan, Sergeants at Arms. Pat Duggan acted as Grammarian.

Put this date your diary, Thursday 20^{th of} September, next Thursday. Come along to our meeting, and experience what Toastmasters is all about.. You will be most welcome.

Learn the skills of public speaking, enhance your listening skills, and learn how to think on your feet and do all this in an atmosphere of fun and friendship.

So come along and meet us next Thursday night 20^th, at 7.50 pm in the Garden Room of the Hibernian Hotel, Mallow.

Remember that guests are never asked to speak at a Toastmasters meeting.

For further information on Speak Easy Toastmasters and Toastmasters International, log on to our website, www.speakeasytoastmasters.com

Speak Easy Returns Tonight

Hello there …After a long enjoyable Summer, the mind turns to the big question. What will it be this year? You possibly have covered everything from Conversational Japanese to Set Dancing to Personal Finances and you have the Certificate to prove it.

This September, why not try something different? Join Toastmasters. Did I hear you say, ‘are you mad.’? The answer to that is “no! I am not”. At the last meeting of Toastmasters in May, Certificates were presented to members who attained the status of Competent Toastmaster, and also to those who attained the Advanced Toastmaster status.

These performances were the culmination of years of hard work and a little fun thrown in. The Certificates were not the big issue of the night. What was most important was the assertiveness, confidence and total ease with one’s self that all the speakers had achieved.

Next year it could be you. Come along to our meeting tonight, the 6^th September at 7.50 pm at the Hibernian Hotel, Mallow where President, Anne Buckley will be presiding over her first meeting and will be ably assisted by Toastmaster for the evening, Jerry Mulcahy. Michael Cronin is Topicsmaster and watching over the entire meeting is General Evaluator, Mary Buckley

You may come as a guest without any commitment until you get the ‘measure’ of us, and be assured you will not be asked to speak unless you wish to do so during the topics session

What is assertiveness? It is the weapon that makes life easier for every human. Some have a natural gift of assertiveness, others need to learn the art. A great way to do so is by joining our club. We will nurture you and bring you along by the hand. Now while it is not possible to make a gentle soul into Margaret Thatcher, one does learn how to set clearer boundaries for others.

The idea is to feel better about saying ‘no’ or giving your opinion without changing who you are. Here at Speakeasy Toastmasters Club you learn to present clear messages; gain increased confidence, handling difficult situations; In general you will start shaking hand with yourself and saying the odd affirmation. For example ‘yes I handled that appraisal well’ or yes I won that round with my teenager.

So come along tonight to the Hibernian Hotel, Mallow at 7.50pm, and sample the experience that is Speak Easy Toastmasters. You will be delighted that you did.

For further details log on to our continously updated website, www.speakeasytoastmasters.com

A what in a Brewery?

Happy New Year

"Happy New Year” was the greeting from our incoming President Anne Buckley(left), last Friday evening at a special launch for the beginning of the new Toastmasters Year,

This launch took place at Beamish & Crawford in Cork City and marked the beginning of the Toastmasters year which is from September to May

Club Presidents and members/guests from the four clubs in the area attended, Mallow Fermoy Charleville and Mitchelstown including Area 17 Governor Pat Duggan .

We were warmly welcomed by Speak Easy President Anne Buckley who organised the event, and also by Cyril Keane of Beamish and Crawford, who gave us a brief history of the brewery and we were strongly encouraged to sample their products especially the Beamish (which tasted like more).

Anne opened the event with a very positive message to all present and she spoke of Toastmasters as a life changing gift, conquering any fears. She advised us to avail of these opportunities and hoped that we achieve the goals and aspirations that we set out to achieve.

Michael Cronin, club treasurer, was our M.C. for the evening. He is 13 years in Toastmasters and posed the question “why do I keep coming back”?….for Michael it is the memories and the sheer delight of seeing people making progress within Toastmasters.

Fermoy club President Michael Sheehan informed us that his club is the third oldest in the Ireland, It is 37 years in existence. He spoke of his personal experiences in Toastmasters and how it diminished his fears of public speaking.

Emanon Rea, from The Galtees Toastmasters Club described the Galtees as the baby or kindergarten club, just three years old, “we enjoy ourselves we don’t take things too seriously”, he said.

Stephen McKeogh from Fáilte Toastmasters in Charleville spoke passionately about their club theme night last January a tribute to the “Fire in Dromcollogher”and hoped that another theme night among the four clubs in the area will be organised.

Pat Duggan our Area Governor spoke on a very positive note, of the help available in Toastmasters, where we develop the skills of speaking, listening and thinking on our feet not forgetting the brilliant social side to Toastmasters

Sean Corcoran, Public Relation Officer spoke about getting our message across to the public, and that every Toastmaster is a public relations officer for his/her club

Finally President Anne Buckley thanked Beamish & Crawford for their hospitality and everybody for their help and support in making the launch a success.

We then relaxed in an atmosphere of fun and laughter sampling house products and good food. M.B.

There are lots more great nights in store for Toastmasters as we look forward to our meetings which for The Speak Easy Club begin on next Thursday 6^th of September

Are you looking for something different this September? Would you like to learn the art of public speaking in a fun and relaxed atmosphere and make new friends as well?

Of course you would.

So why not come along to our meetings and see for yourself. You will be most welcome and remember, guests at Toastmaster meetings are never asked to speak.

For further details visit our continuously updated website at www.speakeasytoastmasters.com

Toastmasters International History

Speak Easy Toastmasters

September is almost with us again and Toastmasters from North Cork will be looking forward to returning to regular forthnightly meetings.

Just a reminder on what the Toastmasters International organization is..

A brief history; the Toastmasters organization began in 1924,more than three million men and women have benefited from its the communication and leadership programs. The first club was formed in October 1924, when a group of men assembled by Dr. Ralph C. Smedley met in the basement of the Santa Ana, California YMCA to form a club "to afford practice and training in the art of public speaking and in presiding over meetings, and to promote sociability and good fellowship among its members."

The group took the name "Toastmasters."

A year later, a second club was started in Anaheim, California, followed by a third in Los Angeles. By 1930, it was apparent that a federation was necessary to coordinate activities of the clubs and to provide standard methods. After formation of a club in Victoria, British Columbia, the group became known as Toastmasters International.

Growth was slow during the early years, but the number of clubs increased steadily. The forerunner of today's Communication and Leadership program, Basic Training, was introduced in 1942 and has been expanded and updated many times since then to keep abreast of the times and members' needs.

Membership in Toastmasters International increased rapidly after the end of World War II, and by 1954 the number of Toastmasters clubs had approached 1,500.

Today there are over 10,500 clubs worldwide with 200,000 members in 90 countries.

In the Cork, Kerry, West Limerick area alone, there are 22 Toastmasters Clubs with almost 400 members.

To “kick off” the new toastmaster season Speak Easy Toastmasters are hosting launch evening in The Beamish and Crawford Brewery tomorrow evening, 24^th, at 8pm.

Speak Easy Toastmasters meetings will resume on September 6^th in the Hibernian Hotel, Mallow at 7.50pm.

Further information from our website www.speakeasytoastmasters.com

Speak Easy Special Awards Meeting

It was our last meeting in our Toastmaster calendar 2006/2007 and it was a special evening as it was awards giving. Members were accredited for their achievements in completing a set project i.e. the first manual which contains ten speeches which every toastmaster member begins with and continues to progress at ones own pace. The advanced manuals have structured guidelines for each of the ten speeches too, each with its own objectives which makes it easy when preparing and compiling the speech.

First to the podium was Ann O’Sullivan who told us all that Toastmasters had done for her what she had learned and the confidence she has gained, and the experience of serving on the committee. Second speaker John Dillon demonstrated to the audience his artistic talents and his world of art is to be commended. Third speaker Sean Corcoran introduced us to a new therapy, to get those endorphins really going he even brought his banjo to get us started and within minutes we were all convinced and singing our hearts out. Fourth speaker Angels Sheehan who had a very interesting speech on things she did for the first time i.e. like eating an olive thinking it was a grape.

Helen O Sullivan was our Topics master of the evening dressed in appropriate black gown and giving members awards for different personal achievements while unrehearsed they had to acknowledge this award.

The final business of the meeting was the handing over of the presidents chain of office by outgoing President, Mary Buckley to Anne Buckley the incoming President.

Anne then introduced her new committee and presented them with their officer manuals.

Overall what a wonderful evening we had we are off on our summer holidays first to Mallow races on June 10^th for our annual outing. Our first meeting back is September 6^th at 7.50 in Hibernian Hotel when we would love to meet you.

Have a great summer.

Elections

I have news for you - Politics is an honorable profession. So said the Church of Ireland Archbishop Alan Harper. Where is there a more suitable learning ground for future politicians to hone their speaking skills than at Speakeasy Toastmasters? Michéal Martin is/was a Toastmaster. Listening to the lovely charismatic vocal sounds that he emits, made even sweeter by his charming smile is proof of the value of Toastmasters. Election fever is sweeping the country and our Club got the bug. On Thursday 17^th May the Annual General Meeting took place. Election was the buzz word of the night. The team which will be entrusted with the organization, promotion and loving care of the Club for the year 2007 – 2008 are:-

President - Anne Buckley

Vice President of Education - Ray Ryan

Vice President of Membership - Bridie O’Connell

Treasurer - Michael Cronin

Secretary - Loretto Barry

Sergeant at Arms - Mary Moynihan & Joe Hassett

All of those elected have already proved themselves in the past, and will run a great Club next year. We wish them every success in the year to come. So when you arrive to the first meeting of the year in September, the faces welcoming you at the door will be different, but the welcome will be just as sincere as last year. They will have the kettle on the hob and will serve you a great cup of coffee and the best biscuits in town at the interval. A great big thank you to the outgoing President and her crew. Well done folks - you did a great job keeping the show on the road in the past year.

Prior to the election we had business as usual. Having charged every one €5 on the way in, we had to have entertainment. And value for money it was - Gerry O’Callaghan, a staunch member of the Club since its inception excelled himself as Topics Master. He put great preparation into the task; it was original; innovative; and entertaining. We were all ‘in stitches’. He went from, in this case, the ridiculous to the sublime. The co-operation from the audience was super. We could have gone on for an hour with his well chosen topics, but time was limited.

On the Speech front we were equally entertained. Vivienne Buckley started with an ‘After Dinner’ speech. She spoke about her grand uncle’s experiences as a Missionary Priest in Africa. While it was sometimes sad, she also included humour. Vivienne is noted for good speeches. She was followed by Liam Flynn, who is just a year in Toastmasters. His speech called ‘the anvil of life’ was a well thought out speech with a profound message. I cannot print the content now, so just imagine what you have missed by not attending our meetings! Liam is a fund of information, and a brilliant speaker. Marie Fitzpatrick did an advanced speech on the Art of Conversation. Every one made notes during her speech. Her advice was good. It could be applied to the politicians that are breaking down our doors at the moment (they will go to ground next week for another five years); the car salesman or the green young teenager on his/her first date, that is if green young teenagers still exist. Well done Marie, Liam and Vivienne.

Our next and last meeting of the Club year is on Thursday 31^st May at the Hibernian Hotel Mallow at 7.50 sharp. The weather is great at the moment, and one is tempted to avail of the sunny evening, but just think what words of wisdom, and great fun you missed by not coming last week. Do come along for our last night. It promises to be good. Should you require any information about our Club or Toastmasters in general log on to our web page and all will be revealed. www.speakeasytoastmasters.com Slán libh go leir.

To get or not to get that Job!

The employment interview is a crucial communicative experience. The outcome may enhance your career aspirations or simply ensure that your rent gets paid. Either way you often have a lot at stake in an interview situation. To be successful you have to ask yourself these questions

• Why do you want the job?

• Aside from money, what is your reason for seeking this particular job?

• What information can you gather about the Company before the interview?

• What homework should you do to indicate that you are seriously interested in the Company?

• What working conditions are you willing to accept?

• What is the most appropriate apparel for the interview?

Next stop is the actual interview. An interview seldom gets down to business in the initial moments of the interview. There is a brief time for exchanging social talk. This time allows one to relax and to establish a communicative relationship with the interviewer, and assess what approach he may take. He may be relatively informal or totally businesslike. Follow the interviewer’s lead. When s/he is ready to move to more formal questions, the interviewee should be able to shift gear, and begin answering and asking questions. You will be expected to ask questions as well as respond to them. Have a couple of relevant questions ready. Be sensitive to the interviewer’s cues that the session is coming to an end. All your prospective employees out there - we wish you success in your job search, and invite you to join our Club in September to sharpen your communication and interview skills.

Speakeasy Toastmasters are holding their next meeting at the Hibernian Hotel, Mallow on Thursday 17^th May at 7.5O pm. You are welcome to come as a guest to view for yourself what we have to offer. Guests will not be asked to speak but are welcome to join in our Topics session.

USING LANGUAGE TO COMMUNICATE

The race is on. We are confronted on all sides by people willing to communicate with us and elicit promises from us. So I thought it would be a good idea to explore the effectiveness of word choices. Communicating with precision is not easy. There are a number of essentials to adhere to - the virtues of 1. Accuracy. 2. Simplicity. 3. Coherence. 4. Appropriateness. These are the primary essentials of effective word choices. Choose words that are the exact shade of meaning you wish to communicate. Abraham Lincoln once said “speak so that the lowliest can understand you, and the rest will have no difficulty. Simplicity does not mean that your language must be simplistic, or that you should talk down to your audience. Use short easily understandable words that convey precise concrete meanings. Audiences do not have the luxury of going back over your points as they do in reading, hence the need for coherence.

Besides being accurate, clear, and properly intense, your language should be appropriate to the topic and to the situation. Solemn occasions call for diction that is restrained and dignified. Joyful occasions for word choices that are informal and lively. Suit your language to the tone of the occasion. These suggestions will help you in the construction of your future speeches. Good luck with them.

On May 3^rd we had our club meeting. An entertaining and very full programme. We had five speakers. Joe Hassett; Pat Duggan; Anne O’Sullivan; Mary Buckley; John Dillon.

A great variety of speeches. All very informative and entertaining. The Topic Session which was the longest this year – fortyfive minutes – was run by Pat Sexton. Pat has done many and varied topic sessions, but this was his best to date. I can honestly say that while he raised eyebrows at times, he certainly raised peals of laughter. Whoever said laughter is the best medicine is correct. He got great response from the audience. Well done Pat. A great night was had by all. Our next meeting is on May 17^th at 7.50 pm at the Hibernian Hotel Mallow. This meeting which will have the same programme of speeches and topics will also be our AGM. Do come along and test the waters for yourself. Full details on our web page www.speakeasytoastmasters.com.