Toastmasters is a fine organization.
Over the decades, I’ve joined a few, the most recent time about 10 years ago. I know I need that kind of training, not for a job or anything in particular, but for my own self confidence.
I usually didn’t stay very long in any of those groups. Back then, work schedules or plain old stage fright would compell me to stop going.
It may be time for another try.
I have no fear of public speaking....but nobody wants to hear what I have to say...:)
A good public speaker can capture and hold their audiences attention. An example is when Reagan would give speeches for GE years ago. If you can find some videos of that take a look. That is a perfect example of how to hold an audiences attention and how to communicate effectively.
I once had a presentation to an executive team for both my employer and one of our largest customers. It was to show them the results of a massive product anylysis project where I reviewed hundreds of products they stocked, both from us as a supplier and all other suppliers.
I started my presentation with “Unlike many people, I don’t usually get too nervous when doing public speaking. Today is an exception. (referring to the customer) I don’t know any of you yet I’m about to tell you how to run your business.”
It got the expected laugh, broke the ice and went very well from there.