Toastmaster Leadership Institute (TLI) report

Area E5 of District 27 had a good showing today at district training: Toastmaster Leadership Institute (TLI). It was held at the South Government Center in Alexandria, VA. So, it was a bit of a drive, but not too bad; as it was a Saturday, traffic was light and I made good time. It took me about 1 hour and 15 minutes each way from my home in St. Leonard, Calvert county, Maryland.

We had 2 of our 5 clubs represented; that I know of.

Club Talk of the Town had in attendance VPPR Hyrum S. (me), VPE John H., and secretary hopeful Tita H.

Club Elocution had in attendance VPE Brian S. and and VPPR Carol C.

Linda C., president of Talk of the Town club and Mary B., president of Calvert club were planning to attend, but their plans were usurped by unexpected events. From what I understand, both plan to atten the next district TLI on August 1st.

So, what did I learn?

I attended three sessions:

1. VPM & VPPR combined core training
2. Growing Club Membership
3. Web pages, social marketing & newsletters as ways to recruit and retain members

From these sessions I learned the following:

1. Don't Do Anything Alone!
2. Receive, Read, and Redistribute the quarterly District 27 Newsletter!
3. Participate in seasonal district promotional contests
4. Clubs under 12 members should be assigned a club coach or mentor
5. The Smedley award contest runs during the months of July and August. Any Toastmaster member who recruits 5 new members earns this award.
6. Clubs should set a minimum goal of recruiting one new member a month
7. Our district produces a TV show; we are invited to participate and be featured in a show
8. Surveys can be a useful tool within a club
9. Club websites must be updated with fresh content

Did I get any awards?

Why yes! I received a Certificate of Achievement to frame and put on my wall with the rest of my Toastmaster awards, ribbons, certificates, and trophies! One of the many reasons I love Toastmasters; I'm recognized as a winner. Gosh it's good to be loved!