FAQ

What is Toastmasters International?

Toastmasters International is a nonprofit educational organization that teaches public speaking and leadership skills through a worldwide network of clubs. Since 1924, it has helped people from diverse backgrounds become more confident speakers, communicators, and leaders. To find out more about the organization's mission, history, etc., visit the Toastmasters International Website.

Why is it called "Toastmasters"? 

The original meaning of the word comes from someone who announces a "toast" by standing up and holding a glass, for example at a wedding banquet. Often, the "Toastmasters" also introduces other speakers.

How does one benefit from Toastmasters?

To benefit from the Toastmasters experience, you don't need to aspire to become a professional keynote speaker or someone who has to present in front of a large audience regularly. While some of our club members are professional speakers or coaches, the majority has backgrounds that do not primarily relate to public speaking. If you've ever tried to excel in a job interview, convince your boss of an idea or think faster on your feet, then the skills you learn at Toastmasters can definitely benefit you. In addition, being part of the Toastmasters organization offers many opportunities to hone your leadership skills in a safe environment.

What is Pathways?

The Toastmasters Educational Program is called Pathways. It is a highly structured program with 11 "Paths" to choose from, focusing on topics such as Presentation Mastery, Dynamic Leadership or Effective Coaching. Once you become a member of a Toastmasters Club, you will be granted access to the Pathways e-learning platform to choose a path and progress through the program. Delivering speeches at club meetings according to your pathways assignments will be an important part of completing your Pathways projects.

To find more about the Pathways program, click here.

Can I join a meeting online?

Yes, we can arrange a hybrid meeting, but only if you register 3 days before the meeting.
The registration form is on our homepage.

Do I have to register to attend?

Can I visit your club as a guest?

Yes of course! We would love to welcome you at one of our meetings. If you have any questions, please drop us a line. We look forward to getting to know you soon!

How often can I visit the club without joining the club?

Our club doesn't have a strict rule, so you are welcome to visit as a guest any number of times, but we encourage you to join the club officially after the third visit.

Do I have to speak if I visit a meeting?

No. You are encouraged to join in our Table-Topics, but you don't have to.

How can I join Toastmasters?

Just come to one of our meetings and talk to us about the next opportunity to become a club member! You will also find detailed information on the process here.

How much does it cost to join / be a club member?

Currently, you pay a fee of 80 Euro for a 6-month term (plus 20 Euro one-time sign-up-fee for first-time Toastmaster International Members). 

Our terms run October thru March and April thru September. Fractional payment (if you join during a term) is possible.

I am already member of another TM Club. Can I join your club as well?

Yes, definitely! We have numerous club members who are active in more than one TM club. When you join our club, the initiation fee is waived. However, please be aware that you will need to pay full annual membership fees to all TM Clubs that you are a member of.

I cannot commit to joining every meeting. Can I still join?

Of course! Attendance of club meetings is entirely voluntary. However, to reap the benefits of the Toastmasters program and stay connected to the club, we recommend attending at least one meeting per month.

What language are your meetings held in?

Blue-Danube-Speakers is an bi-lingual-speaking club. Many members use it as an opportunity to improve their English and English-language presentation skills but can also do a presentation in German if they like.

What does a club meeting look like?

Each Toastmasters meeting is generally opened and closed by the Club President.

The body of the meeting is divided into three major parts:

Impromptu speeches (known as "Table Topics" at Toastmasters)

Prepared Speeches and

Evaluations Speeches

Members also take on different roles such as Toastmaster of the Evening (similar to a Master of Ceremony), General Evaluator, Table Topics Master, Joke Master and others that contribute to the overall Learning experience of meeting attendees (Ah Counter, Grammarian, etc.). You can find out more about Toastmasters Meeting Roles here.

Throughout the meeting, members and guests in attendance give written feedback and encouragement to the speakers and evaluators (optional) and vote on the best speaker or evaluator. Winners are announced at the end of the meeting and rewarded with a ribbon and lots of applause!

Feel free to also take a look at this video to get a better sense about Toastmasters Club Meetings

How often do your club meetings take place?

Generally, we meet every two weeks each month. Please look up our homepage for upcoming dates. No meetings are planned on Austrian public holidays.

Do I have to start speaking as soon as I join a Toastmasters Club?

One of the nice things about Toastmasters in that you progress through the educational program at your own speed. Members generally start out by taking meeting roles such as Timer, Ah Counter or Ballot Counter. You can find out more about Toastmasters Meeting Roles here.

However, based on experience, it is best not to wait for too long before giving your first speech (your "ice breaker") in front of the club. Also, we do recommend committing to attend a club meeting at least once a month - to keep the momentum going


Further Information