WEBVTT
00:00:08.231 --> 00:00:10.816
You're listening to the Talkative Toastmaster podcast.
00:00:10.816 --> 00:00:12.846
I'm your host, melanie Surplus.
00:00:12.846 --> 00:00:23.132
In this podcast, we explore how Toastmasters can help you to polish your public speaking skills, communicate with confidence and amplify your authenticity.
00:00:23.132 --> 00:00:33.152
You'll hear from my fellow Toastmasters and I how this global organization has impacted our lives for the better and how it could impact yours.
00:00:33.152 --> 00:00:35.462
Now let's get talkative.
00:00:35.462 --> 00:00:41.835
Welcome, ladies and gentlemen, to episode 52.
00:00:42.616 --> 00:00:55.146
This week we're going to explore one of the specialist programs in Toastmasters that has elevated the art of public speaking worldwide, and that is the Toastmasters Accredited Speaker Program.
00:00:55.146 --> 00:01:05.093
Now, if you're a member of Toastmasters, you're probably familiar with the organization's reputation for helping individuals improve their communication and leadership skills.
00:01:05.093 --> 00:01:12.474
But did you know that they also offer an exclusive designation for professional caliber speakers?
00:01:12.474 --> 00:01:23.570
The accredited speaker designation is not only a mark of excellence in public speaking, but also a designation of credibility and impact.
00:01:23.570 --> 00:01:34.052
And if you go back to last week's episode that is, episode 51, you'll hear my conversation with one of these accredited speakers, dale Ann Clark.
00:01:34.052 --> 00:01:38.331
So if you haven't listened to that episode, go back and have a listen to it.
00:01:38.331 --> 00:01:44.828
And this week's episode just really gives a little bit more detail about the actual program.
00:01:44.828 --> 00:01:54.740
So today we'll look at how that program works, what the application process involves and the benefits of achieving this recognition.
00:01:54.740 --> 00:02:06.441
Now, all of the information is available on the Toastmasters website, and in fact, there's quite a detailed handbook about this process as well, but I just wanted to talk through it.
00:02:07.123 --> 00:02:17.409
So the accredited speaker program offered by Toastmasters International is designed for members who really want to demonstrate their skills at a professional level.
00:02:17.409 --> 00:02:26.062
It's a challenging program, obviously, that goes beyond Toastmasters' traditional focus on personal development and leadership.
00:02:26.062 --> 00:02:31.774
Really, its point is to emphasize polished, highly effective public speaking.
00:02:31.774 --> 00:02:47.194
As of today, fewer than 100 people worldwide have achieved the accredited speaker designation since the program was introduced in 1981, which really underscores the rigor and selectivity of this honor.
00:02:47.194 --> 00:02:51.586
So what exactly does it mean to be an accredited speaker?
00:02:51.586 --> 00:03:07.233
Well, this designation is for people who don't just speak well, but they have achieved a level of mastery where they can inspire, entertain, educate and even motivate audiences consistently.
00:03:07.233 --> 00:03:18.933
They're essentially recognised as accomplished professionals in the field, whether they're corporate trainers, motivational speakers, educators or other public-facing communicators.
00:03:18.933 --> 00:03:24.764
The accredited speaker badge is an official testament from Toastmasters to their skill.
00:03:24.764 --> 00:03:31.170
Accredited Speaker Badge is an official testament from Toastmasters to their skill, professionalism and ability to engage audiences of various types and sizes.
00:03:31.170 --> 00:03:36.915
One of the unique aspects of this program is its focus on professional level skills.
00:03:36.915 --> 00:03:51.152
While most Toastmasters pathways and projects are designed to help members improve incrementally, the accredited speaker program is really meant for those who are already operating at or near the top of their game.
00:03:51.152 --> 00:04:07.055
Candidates who pursue this designation should ideally have a significant amount of real-world speaking experience, with a proven track record of delivering effective speeches and presentations to large and diverse audiences.
00:04:07.055 --> 00:04:11.170
So let's explore how the program actually works.
00:04:12.001 --> 00:04:20.055
The accredited speaker designation is awarded through a two-level process that evaluates applicants' abilities on various fronts.
00:04:20.055 --> 00:04:30.439
Level one is essentially a qualifying round where candidates submit a written application and a video showcasing a live presentation.
00:04:30.439 --> 00:04:43.194
This presentation must be at least 20 minutes long, delivered to a non-Toastmasters audience, and show the candidate's ability to engage and deliver that value to the audience.
00:04:43.194 --> 00:05:06.452
This requirement is really designed to ensure that applicants can perform well outside of the familiar Toastmasters club environment, and applications are judged on factors such as speech structure, style, originality and audience engagement, amongst other criteria, and those criteria are listed in detail in the handbook.
00:05:06.452 --> 00:05:10.266
The submission itself involves some paperwork, of course.
00:05:10.266 --> 00:05:20.103
Along with the video, applicants need to provide details about their professional speaking experience, client references and background information.
00:05:20.103 --> 00:05:30.432
The application must also be accompanied by a letter from the applicant's district director or a past international director validating their readiness for the program.
00:05:30.432 --> 00:05:41.971
This initial level functions as a filter to ensure that only candidates who are genuinely ready to operate at a professional standard proceed to that next stage.
00:05:42.720 --> 00:05:49.468
If candidates make it through level one, they then move on to level two, which involves a live evaluation.
00:05:49.468 --> 00:06:06.396
This stage takes place at the Toastmasters International Convention in any given year, where the candidates deliver 20 to 25 minute presentations in front of a live audience and a panel of judges including other accredited speakers.
00:06:06.396 --> 00:06:09.605
This live performance is the ultimate test.
00:06:09.605 --> 00:06:17.788
It's where candidates demonstrate not only their speaking skills but also their capacity to engage a large audience on the spot.
00:06:17.788 --> 00:06:32.896
Judges at this stage are seasoned evaluators who look for qualities that signify a professional speaker, that is, presence, control, content, connection with the audience and overall impact.
00:06:32.896 --> 00:06:41.223
The judges score candidates rigorously and only those who meet Toastmasters high standards receive the accredited speaker designation.
00:06:41.223 --> 00:06:54.382
If you go back again to last week's episode with my discussion with Dale, there's a link to her presentation at the annual convention last year, which is when she achieved this designation.
00:06:54.382 --> 00:06:58.053
She also talks about this part of the process Now.
00:06:58.093 --> 00:07:12.680
The evaluation process itself is thorough and uncompromising and, as I've mentioned, candidates are evaluated across multiple dimensions, each intended to highlight their skills in different aspects of professional speaking.
00:07:12.680 --> 00:07:22.786
The judges are looking for speeches to ensure that they have a clear, logical flow that's easy for audiences to follow.
00:07:22.786 --> 00:07:29.487
The content is scrutinized for its relevance, originality and ability to resonate with the audience.
00:07:29.487 --> 00:07:38.913
Delivery and body language are crucial factors, as they show how well a speaker can command the room and establish a connection with listeners.
00:07:38.913 --> 00:07:51.298
And, furthermore, candidates need to be adaptable, adjusting their approach based on the audience's responses, as any speaker in any general forum would need to be able to do so.
00:07:51.338 --> 00:07:56.154
The accredited speaker designation isn't just about delivering a polished presentation.
00:07:56.154 --> 00:08:02.103
It's about excelling in every aspect of speaking that a professional environment demands.
00:08:02.103 --> 00:08:11.134
Given the extensive requirements and rigorous evaluation, it's no wonder that only a select few earn the accredited speaker title.
00:08:11.134 --> 00:08:17.437
However, the exclusivity of the designation is part of what makes it so valuable.
00:08:17.437 --> 00:08:23.617
So let's look at just a couple of the benefits of becoming an accredited speaker.
00:08:23.617 --> 00:08:26.658
Firstly, earning this designation serves as a credential that can enhance your reputation and marketability as a speaker.
00:08:26.658 --> 00:08:31.151
Firstly, earning this designation serves as a credential that can enhance your reputation and marketability as a speaker.
00:08:31.793 --> 00:08:37.812
In a field where credibility matters, the accredited speaker badge can act as a distinguishing factor.
00:08:37.812 --> 00:08:42.489
Dale pointed to this in the conversation I had with her.
00:08:42.489 --> 00:09:19.989
It signifies to potential clients, organizations and event planners that you're not only a capable speaker but also a recognized expert who has met Toastmasters' international high standards For speakers seeking to expand speakers for conferences or events in an event planning capacity, that these extra kinds of qualifications and designations definitely do help people to stand out.
00:09:19.989 --> 00:09:31.873
I mean, obviously, when you are choosing a speaker, you want to look at their show reels and look at how they are in front of an audience and you want to read testimonials from their clients.
00:09:31.873 --> 00:09:44.570
But if they can show some sort of designation from a very recognizable organization like Toastmasters, I personally feel it adds that extra level of credibility.
00:09:45.350 --> 00:09:51.735
Further, achieving the accredited speaker designation brings lifelong benefits in terms of networking.
00:09:51.735 --> 00:10:01.126
Accredited speakers form a unique community within Toastmasters, offering opportunities for professional collaboration, mentorship and support.
00:10:01.126 --> 00:10:06.259
So it's really that next level of networking in the organization.
00:10:06.259 --> 00:10:17.730
Members often share speaking engagements, collaborate on projects and provide referrals, creating a mutually supportive ecosystem that can be highly beneficial for career advancement.
00:10:17.730 --> 00:10:29.948
Additionally, the designation opened doors to speaking engagements at Toastmasters events around the world, giving accredited speakers a platform to show their talents to new and diverse audiences.
00:10:29.948 --> 00:10:51.745
And in my interview with Eliza a couple of episodes ago, she had organized a global 20-hour speech fest celebrating the 100th anniversary of Toastmasters and I believe she had something like 17 accredited speakers speaking at various stages through that event.
00:10:51.745 --> 00:11:01.071
So there does seem to be many speaking opportunities within the organization for our accredited speakers.
00:11:01.793 --> 00:11:06.486
The accredited speaker designation also obviously provides personal growth.
00:11:06.486 --> 00:11:14.553
Many speakers attest to that pursuing the designation pushed them to refine their skills and enhance their self-awareness as communicators.
00:11:14.553 --> 00:11:20.859
By all accounts, the feedback received during the evaluation process is invaluable.
00:11:20.859 --> 00:11:28.379
It provides insight from experienced evaluators who offer constructive advice on areas for improvement.
00:11:28.379 --> 00:11:39.447
This feedback loop allows candidates to refine their craft even further, making the accredited speaker journey a transformative learning experience For those who achieve it.
00:11:39.447 --> 00:11:46.510
The accredited speaker title is a culmination of years of hard work, dedication and self-improvement.
00:11:46.510 --> 00:11:50.668
But this designation is more than just a personal milestone.
00:11:50.668 --> 00:11:58.553
It's a commitment to continued excellence, which again is one of the hallmarks of the Toastmasters organisation.
00:11:58.553 --> 00:12:09.746
Accredited speakers are encouraged to maintain their skills and grow as professionals contributing back to the Toastmasters community and the broader world of public speaking.
00:12:09.746 --> 00:12:29.198
They often mentor other Toastmasters members, providing guidance to those who aspire to improve their speaking skills or to pursue the accredited speaker title themselves, and I've seen this with a number of professional speakers who are still in Toastmasters.
00:12:29.198 --> 00:12:49.611
They're very engaged with the organization, often taking on leadership roles or mentoring roles or whatever it might be, and their willingness to help other Toastmasters I think is one of the great elements of the program and obviously part of the broader culture of Toastmasters.
00:12:50.225 --> 00:12:57.371
Now, if you're considering applying to the program, here's a couple of tips that may help you on your journey.
00:12:57.371 --> 00:13:02.397
This is just gathered through my own research and just speaking with different people.
00:13:02.397 --> 00:13:08.499
So, firstly, develop your speaking portfolio by gathering videos of your live presentations.
00:13:08.499 --> 00:13:16.551
If you don't already have footage, start by recording your speeches in various settings and to different types of audiences.
00:13:16.551 --> 00:13:26.239
Make sure these presentations showcase your range, allowing the judges to see how you handle diverse topics, audience sizes and environments.
00:13:26.239 --> 00:13:32.509
It's no doubt also helpful to seek feedback from professionals outside your immediate network.
00:13:32.509 --> 00:13:41.158
You could invite experienced Toastmasters or professional evaluators to observe your presentations and offer constructive feedback.
00:13:41.158 --> 00:13:50.971
This external perspective can highlight areas that may need improvement and give you the chance to fine-tune your performance before submitting your application.
00:13:51.835 --> 00:13:56.892
Another important tip, I feel, is to approach the program with patience and resilience.
00:13:56.892 --> 00:14:06.716
The accredited speaker program is one of the most challenging paths within Toastmasters and it may take several attempts before achieving success.
00:14:06.716 --> 00:14:10.424
And it may take several attempts before achieving success.
00:14:10.424 --> 00:14:18.897
Even Dale was saying that she didn't get through level one the first time, but got through in the end and ultimately became one of the accredited speakers.
00:14:18.897 --> 00:14:24.857
So you know, remember, if you don't succeed the first time, the experience gained is invaluable.
00:14:24.857 --> 00:14:39.456
It's also crucial to immerse yourself in the speaking community within and beyond Toastmasters, and the best speakers I know definitely network with other speakers and really immerse themselves in that world.
00:14:39.456 --> 00:14:50.729
Attend workshops, join professional speaker associations and study renowned speakers to expand your understanding of what makes a truly memorable speech and speaker.
00:14:50.729 --> 00:15:06.277
Cultivating a professional approach to speaking will not only enhance your application, but also prepare you for the live evaluation stage, where your ability to think and respond like a seasoned professional is put to the test.
00:15:06.940 --> 00:15:18.076
The Accredited Speaker Program represents one of the highest forms of recognition within Toastmasters, and the effort required to achieve it is substantial but not unachievable.
00:15:18.076 --> 00:15:23.549
However, for those who persevere, the awards extend far beyond the title itself.
00:15:23.549 --> 00:15:27.879
Accredited speakers are seen as leaders in the field of communication.
00:15:27.879 --> 00:15:37.347
They set high standards for others to aspire to and often play a vital role in inspiring other members to improve their skills.
00:15:37.347 --> 00:15:42.019
The accredited speaker designation is more than just a goal.
00:15:42.019 --> 00:15:48.041
It's a journey that embodies the Toastmasters spirit of growth, excellence and community.
00:15:48.041 --> 00:15:58.110
By challenging yourself to pursue this program, you commit to the process of continuous improvement that will benefit you both personally and professionally.
00:15:58.110 --> 00:16:07.576
You'll develop resilience, hone your craft and join a prestigious community that celebrates the art and science of public speaking.
00:16:14.784 --> 00:16:23.073
So, to wrap up our episode today, whether you're an aspiring professional speaker or simply a Toastmasters member with a passion for impactful communication, the Accredited Speaker program offers a rewarding path.
00:16:23.073 --> 00:16:34.333
It's rigorous, no doubt, but the journey to becoming an accredited speaker will undoubtedly shape you into a more skilled, confident and inspiring speaker.
00:16:34.333 --> 00:16:47.100
So if you're ready to take your speaking to the next level, consider embarking on this path, and I'll pop the links to all the accredited speaker resources in the description below.
00:16:47.100 --> 00:16:49.647
So thank you for joining me on this episode.
00:16:49.647 --> 00:17:03.398
I hope you found value in understanding some of the elements of what it takes to become an accredited speaker with Toastmasters International, whether you're interested in applying or simply inspired by the pursuit of excellence.
00:17:03.398 --> 00:17:10.567
Remember that the journey to becoming a better speaker is a rewarding one, however you choose to do it.
00:17:10.567 --> 00:17:20.575
Keep practicing, keep improving and, who knows, maybe one day you'll be the next Toastmaster to earn this prestigious designation.
00:17:20.955 --> 00:17:25.556
If you're ready to unlock your potential, consider joining a Toastmasters club near you.
00:17:25.556 --> 00:17:34.074
Check out the find a club link on the Toastmasters international website at wwwtoastmastersorg.
00:17:34.074 --> 00:17:39.555
It's worth visiting a couple of different clubs as a guest to see which club best suits you.
00:17:39.555 --> 00:17:45.391
If you do take the leap and visit a meeting, I would absolutely love to hear your experience.
00:17:45.391 --> 00:17:56.071
Feel free to message me at talkativetoastmaster at gmailcom or tag me in the comments if you found this podcast on YouTube, facebook, instagram or Twitter.
00:18:04.987 --> 00:18:06.573
Thanks for listening to today's show.
00:18:06.573 --> 00:18:15.798
Head to talkativetoastmastercom, where you'll find the show notes for this and all other episodes, as well as links to some awesome Toastmasters resources.
00:18:15.798 --> 00:18:26.356
If you found value in today's content, I'd really appreciate if you could share it with friends and colleagues who may be interested, or leave a review on iTunes.
00:18:26.356 --> 00:18:28.613
This will help more people to find us.
00:18:28.613 --> 00:18:41.114
Until next time, remember the words of Eleanor Roosevelt you gain strength, courage and confidence by every experience in which you really stop to look fear in the face.
00:18:41.114 --> 00:18:46.795
So let's face that fear and step into the spotlight with confidence and grace.
00:18:46.795 --> 00:18:48.357
Have a great week.
00:00:08.231 --> 00:00:10.816
You're listening to the Talkative Toastmaster podcast.
00:00:10.816 --> 00:00:12.846
I'm your host, melanie Surplus.
00:00:12.846 --> 00:00:23.132
In this podcast, we explore how Toastmasters can help you to polish your public speaking skills, communicate with confidence and amplify your authenticity.
00:00:23.132 --> 00:00:33.152
You'll hear from my fellow Toastmasters and I how this global organization has impacted our lives for the better and how it could impact yours.
00:00:33.152 --> 00:00:35.462
Now let's get talkative.
00:00:35.462 --> 00:00:41.835
Welcome, ladies and gentlemen, to episode 52.
00:00:42.616 --> 00:00:55.146
This week we're going to explore one of the specialist programs in Toastmasters that has elevated the art of public speaking worldwide, and that is the Toastmasters Accredited Speaker Program.
00:00:55.146 --> 00:01:05.093
Now, if you're a member of Toastmasters, you're probably familiar with the organization's reputation for helping individuals improve their communication and leadership skills.
00:01:05.093 --> 00:01:12.474
But did you know that they also offer an exclusive designation for professional caliber speakers?
00:01:12.474 --> 00:01:23.570
The accredited speaker designation is not only a mark of excellence in public speaking, but also a designation of credibility and impact.
00:01:23.570 --> 00:01:34.052
And if you go back to last week's episode that is, episode 51, you'll hear my conversation with one of these accredited speakers, dale Ann Clark.
00:01:34.052 --> 00:01:38.331
So if you haven't listened to that episode, go back and have a listen to it.
00:01:38.331 --> 00:01:44.828
And this week's episode just really gives a little bit more detail about the actual program.
00:01:44.828 --> 00:01:54.740
So today we'll look at how that program works, what the application process involves and the benefits of achieving this recognition.
00:01:54.740 --> 00:02:06.441
Now, all of the information is available on the Toastmasters website, and in fact, there's quite a detailed handbook about this process as well, but I just wanted to talk through it.
00:02:07.123 --> 00:02:17.409
So the accredited speaker program offered by Toastmasters International is designed for members who really want to demonstrate their skills at a professional level.
00:02:17.409 --> 00:02:26.062
It's a challenging program, obviously, that goes beyond Toastmasters' traditional focus on personal development and leadership.
00:02:26.062 --> 00:02:31.774
Really, its point is to emphasize polished, highly effective public speaking.
00:02:31.774 --> 00:02:47.194
As of today, fewer than 100 people worldwide have achieved the accredited speaker designation since the program was introduced in 1981, which really underscores the rigor and selectivity of this honor.
00:02:47.194 --> 00:02:51.586
So what exactly does it mean to be an accredited speaker?
00:02:51.586 --> 00:03:07.233
Well, this designation is for people who don't just speak well, but they have achieved a level of mastery where they can inspire, entertain, educate and even motivate audiences consistently.
00:03:07.233 --> 00:03:18.933
They're essentially recognised as accomplished professionals in the field, whether they're corporate trainers, motivational speakers, educators or other public-facing communicators.
00:03:18.933 --> 00:03:24.764
The accredited speaker badge is an official testament from Toastmasters to their skill.
00:03:24.764 --> 00:03:31.170
Accredited Speaker Badge is an official testament from Toastmasters to their skill, professionalism and ability to engage audiences of various types and sizes.
00:03:31.170 --> 00:03:36.915
One of the unique aspects of this program is its focus on professional level skills.
00:03:36.915 --> 00:03:51.152
While most Toastmasters pathways and projects are designed to help members improve incrementally, the accredited speaker program is really meant for those who are already operating at or near the top of their game.
00:03:51.152 --> 00:04:07.055
Candidates who pursue this designation should ideally have a significant amount of real-world speaking experience, with a proven track record of delivering effective speeches and presentations to large and diverse audiences.
00:04:07.055 --> 00:04:11.170
So let's explore how the program actually works.
00:04:12.001 --> 00:04:20.055
The accredited speaker designation is awarded through a two-level process that evaluates applicants' abilities on various fronts.
00:04:20.055 --> 00:04:30.439
Level one is essentially a qualifying round where candidates submit a written application and a video showcasing a live presentation.
00:04:30.439 --> 00:04:43.194
This presentation must be at least 20 minutes long, delivered to a non-Toastmasters audience, and show the candidate's ability to engage and deliver that value to the audience.
00:04:43.194 --> 00:05:06.452
This requirement is really designed to ensure that applicants can perform well outside of the familiar Toastmasters club environment, and applications are judged on factors such as speech structure, style, originality and audience engagement, amongst other criteria, and those criteria are listed in detail in the handbook.
00:05:06.452 --> 00:05:10.266
The submission itself involves some paperwork, of course.
00:05:10.266 --> 00:05:20.103
Along with the video, applicants need to provide details about their professional speaking experience, client references and background information.
00:05:20.103 --> 00:05:30.432
The application must also be accompanied by a letter from the applicant's district director or a past international director validating their readiness for the program.
00:05:30.432 --> 00:05:41.971
This initial level functions as a filter to ensure that only candidates who are genuinely ready to operate at a professional standard proceed to that next stage.
00:05:42.720 --> 00:05:49.468
If candidates make it through level one, they then move on to level two, which involves a live evaluation.
00:05:49.468 --> 00:06:06.396
This stage takes place at the Toastmasters International Convention in any given year, where the candidates deliver 20 to 25 minute presentations in front of a live audience and a panel of judges including other accredited speakers.
00:06:06.396 --> 00:06:09.605
This live performance is the ultimate test.
00:06:09.605 --> 00:06:17.788
It's where candidates demonstrate not only their speaking skills but also their capacity to engage a large audience on the spot.
00:06:17.788 --> 00:06:32.896
Judges at this stage are seasoned evaluators who look for qualities that signify a professional speaker, that is, presence, control, content, connection with the audience and overall impact.
00:06:32.896 --> 00:06:41.223
The judges score candidates rigorously and only those who meet Toastmasters high standards receive the accredited speaker designation.
00:06:41.223 --> 00:06:54.382
If you go back again to last week's episode with my discussion with Dale, there's a link to her presentation at the annual convention last year, which is when she achieved this designation.
00:06:54.382 --> 00:06:58.053
She also talks about this part of the process Now.
00:06:58.093 --> 00:07:12.680
The evaluation process itself is thorough and uncompromising and, as I've mentioned, candidates are evaluated across multiple dimensions, each intended to highlight their skills in different aspects of professional speaking.
00:07:12.680 --> 00:07:22.786
The judges are looking for speeches to ensure that they have a clear, logical flow that's easy for audiences to follow.
00:07:22.786 --> 00:07:29.487
The content is scrutinized for its relevance, originality and ability to resonate with the audience.
00:07:29.487 --> 00:07:38.913
Delivery and body language are crucial factors, as they show how well a speaker can command the room and establish a connection with listeners.
00:07:38.913 --> 00:07:51.298
And, furthermore, candidates need to be adaptable, adjusting their approach based on the audience's responses, as any speaker in any general forum would need to be able to do so.
00:07:51.338 --> 00:07:56.154
The accredited speaker designation isn't just about delivering a polished presentation.
00:07:56.154 --> 00:08:02.103
It's about excelling in every aspect of speaking that a professional environment demands.
00:08:02.103 --> 00:08:11.134
Given the extensive requirements and rigorous evaluation, it's no wonder that only a select few earn the accredited speaker title.
00:08:11.134 --> 00:08:17.437
However, the exclusivity of the designation is part of what makes it so valuable.
00:08:17.437 --> 00:08:23.617
So let's look at just a couple of the benefits of becoming an accredited speaker.
00:08:23.617 --> 00:08:26.658
Firstly, earning this designation serves as a credential that can enhance your reputation and marketability as a speaker.
00:08:26.658 --> 00:08:31.151
Firstly, earning this designation serves as a credential that can enhance your reputation and marketability as a speaker.
00:08:31.793 --> 00:08:37.812
In a field where credibility matters, the accredited speaker badge can act as a distinguishing factor.
00:08:37.812 --> 00:08:42.489
Dale pointed to this in the conversation I had with her.
00:08:42.489 --> 00:09:19.989
It signifies to potential clients, organizations and event planners that you're not only a capable speaker but also a recognized expert who has met Toastmasters' international high standards For speakers seeking to expand speakers for conferences or events in an event planning capacity, that these extra kinds of qualifications and designations definitely do help people to stand out.
00:09:19.989 --> 00:09:31.873
I mean, obviously, when you are choosing a speaker, you want to look at their show reels and look at how they are in front of an audience and you want to read testimonials from their clients.
00:09:31.873 --> 00:09:44.570
But if they can show some sort of designation from a very recognizable organization like Toastmasters, I personally feel it adds that extra level of credibility.
00:09:45.350 --> 00:09:51.735
Further, achieving the accredited speaker designation brings lifelong benefits in terms of networking.
00:09:51.735 --> 00:10:01.126
Accredited speakers form a unique community within Toastmasters, offering opportunities for professional collaboration, mentorship and support.
00:10:01.126 --> 00:10:06.259
So it's really that next level of networking in the organization.
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Members often share speaking engagements, collaborate on projects and provide referrals, creating a mutually supportive ecosystem that can be highly beneficial for career advancement.
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Additionally, the designation opened doors to speaking engagements at Toastmasters events around the world, giving accredited speakers a platform to show their talents to new and diverse audiences.
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And in my interview with Eliza a couple of episodes ago, she had organized a global 20-hour speech fest celebrating the 100th anniversary of Toastmasters and I believe she had something like 17 accredited speakers speaking at various stages through that event.
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So there does seem to be many speaking opportunities within the organization for our accredited speakers.
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The accredited speaker designation also obviously provides personal growth.
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Many speakers attest to that pursuing the designation pushed them to refine their skills and enhance their self-awareness as communicators.
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By all accounts, the feedback received during the evaluation process is invaluable.
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It provides insight from experienced evaluators who offer constructive advice on areas for improvement.
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This feedback loop allows candidates to refine their craft even further, making the accredited speaker journey a transformative learning experience For those who achieve it.
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The accredited speaker title is a culmination of years of hard work, dedication and self-improvement.
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But this designation is more than just a personal milestone.
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It's a commitment to continued excellence, which again is one of the hallmarks of the Toastmasters organisation.
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Accredited speakers are encouraged to maintain their skills and grow as professionals contributing back to the Toastmasters community and the broader world of public speaking.
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They often mentor other Toastmasters members, providing guidance to those who aspire to improve their speaking skills or to pursue the accredited speaker title themselves, and I've seen this with a number of professional speakers who are still in Toastmasters.
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They're very engaged with the organization, often taking on leadership roles or mentoring roles or whatever it might be, and their willingness to help other Toastmasters I think is one of the great elements of the program and obviously part of the broader culture of Toastmasters.
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Now, if you're considering applying to the program, here's a couple of tips that may help you on your journey.
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This is just gathered through my own research and just speaking with different people.
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So, firstly, develop your speaking portfolio by gathering videos of your live presentations.
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If you don't already have footage, start by recording your speeches in various settings and to different types of audiences.
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Make sure these presentations showcase your range, allowing the judges to see how you handle diverse topics, audience sizes and environments.
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It's no doubt also helpful to seek feedback from professionals outside your immediate network.
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You could invite experienced Toastmasters or professional evaluators to observe your presentations and offer constructive feedback.
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This external perspective can highlight areas that may need improvement and give you the chance to fine-tune your performance before submitting your application.
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Another important tip, I feel, is to approach the program with patience and resilience.
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The accredited speaker program is one of the most challenging paths within Toastmasters and it may take several attempts before achieving success.
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And it may take several attempts before achieving success.
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Even Dale was saying that she didn't get through level one the first time, but got through in the end and ultimately became one of the accredited speakers.
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So you know, remember, if you don't succeed the first time, the experience gained is invaluable.
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It's also crucial to immerse yourself in the speaking community within and beyond Toastmasters, and the best speakers I know definitely network with other speakers and really immerse themselves in that world.
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Attend workshops, join professional speaker associations and study renowned speakers to expand your understanding of what makes a truly memorable speech and speaker.
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Cultivating a professional approach to speaking will not only enhance your application, but also prepare you for the live evaluation stage, where your ability to think and respond like a seasoned professional is put to the test.
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The Accredited Speaker Program represents one of the highest forms of recognition within Toastmasters, and the effort required to achieve it is substantial but not unachievable.
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However, for those who persevere, the awards extend far beyond the title itself.
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Accredited speakers are seen as leaders in the field of communication.
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They set high standards for others to aspire to and often play a vital role in inspiring other members to improve their skills.
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The accredited speaker designation is more than just a goal.
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It's a journey that embodies the Toastmasters spirit of growth, excellence and community.
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By challenging yourself to pursue this program, you commit to the process of continuous improvement that will benefit you both personally and professionally.
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You'll develop resilience, hone your craft and join a prestigious community that celebrates the art and science of public speaking.
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So, to wrap up our episode today, whether you're an aspiring professional speaker or simply a Toastmasters member with a passion for impactful communication, the Accredited Speaker program offers a rewarding path.
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It's rigorous, no doubt, but the journey to becoming an accredited speaker will undoubtedly shape you into a more skilled, confident and inspiring speaker.
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So if you're ready to take your speaking to the next level, consider embarking on this path, and I'll pop the links to all the accredited speaker resources in the description below.
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So thank you for joining me on this episode.
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I hope you found value in understanding some of the elements of what it takes to become an accredited speaker with Toastmasters International, whether you're interested in applying or simply inspired by the pursuit of excellence.
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Remember that the journey to becoming a better speaker is a rewarding one, however you choose to do it.
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Keep practicing, keep improving and, who knows, maybe one day you'll be the next Toastmaster to earn this prestigious designation.
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If you're ready to unlock your potential, consider joining a Toastmasters club near you.
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Check out the find a club link on the Toastmasters international website at wwwtoastmastersorg.
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It's worth visiting a couple of different clubs as a guest to see which club best suits you.
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If you do take the leap and visit a meeting, I would absolutely love to hear your experience.
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Feel free to message me at talkativetoastmaster at gmailcom or tag me in the comments if you found this podcast on YouTube, facebook, instagram or Twitter.
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Thanks for listening to today's show.
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Head to talkativetoastmastercom, where you'll find the show notes for this and all other episodes, as well as links to some awesome Toastmasters resources.
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If you found value in today's content, I'd really appreciate if you could share it with friends and colleagues who may be interested, or leave a review on iTunes.
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This will help more people to find us.
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Until next time, remember the words of Eleanor Roosevelt you gain strength, courage and confidence by every experience in which you really stop to look fear in the face.
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So let's face that fear and step into the spotlight with confidence and grace.
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Have a great week.
