11/22/2008

I Really Flopped on this one

Well, Thursday night was the night I was to tell the story of Rick being Rodeo Clown. Earlier this week I realized that the story was simply not coming together. I wasn't going to meet the 5-7 minute time limit, and no matter how I practiced it, it was not good. So, at the meeting I backed out. Told the MC that I the 'speech' simply didn't come together. I wasn't the only one, by the way.

But, upon realizing that with a few of us backing out left only 2 speakers, we were convinced to give it a go. Knowing that I would go over the allotted time meant I wasn't eligible to win the contest, and warning the group that no matter how much I worked on this story it didn't feel right, I did it.

Ok, I say I flopped, but in reality it was a good story. Just didn't meet the requirements for the contest. Those in attendance enjoyed it and encouraged me to participate next year.

So, I tried. I don't like to flop/fail/not do well, but it was a good experience. I don't do comedy, nor do I have much experience storytelling - so this was a good night for me to learn from.

11/11/2008

Toastmasters and Me

Well, I must say that I am truly enjoying being a member of Toastmasters. I knew I would, but am surprised by how much.

According to the 15 or so regular members, they're enjoying me, too :)

Brag time!

I gave my second speech, about beads and beading, two weeks ago and got terrific feedback. At the time, the most encouraging was - "great eye contact and movement. I'm ready to take up beading!"

Last week I gave my third speech, about how communicating is much more than talk, and am thrilled with the feedback. The most important to me is the one from my mentor, an established and accomplished speaker who has been a professional speaker for about 2 years. His comments were "you have a speaker's presence. Keep the work going because you are making your presence known." Wow.

I'm prepping my fourth speech - a humorous tall tale - to be given on the 20th. Of course, I'll be talking about my hubby's attempt at being a rodeo clown (a story soon to be posted). No, it's not a tall tale, but trust me - most people don't believe us when we tell it :)

This Friday (the 14th) I'm attending an all day event being presented by the National Speakers Association. There will be 11 presentations given by well-known speakers and plenty of opportunity to network. I'll be taking notes because each speaker will be giving pointers on how to improve and study the craft. Then, I'll be handing out at least 100 business cards (that's because more than 100 people are registered to attend!) and promoting my research business.

Speaking of my research business, I'm meeting with the President of the NSA/Kentucky chapter to discuss his research needs for his three businesses :) Yes, the meeting will be included in the price - consultation fee!

Okay, back to work. Then back to refining my speech for next Thursday!