Icebreaker

Last night I gave my first speech at Toastmasters. This speech is called the Icebreaker speech. It’s a 4-6 minute speech on yourself.

This speech gave me a glimpse into what it takes to be a great speaker. The preparation and practice can be overwhelming. However I have great models and inspiration from my father, Andy Stanley and Jeff Henderson. All are speakers who rarely use notes to communicate their messages.

I memorized my outline for the speech and hit on every point. Giving the speech is much like performing music live. You try out phrases and words you’ve never practiced. Ideas come to you in the middle of speaking. Giving speeches and playing music are in the same family.

One invaluable aspect of Toastmasters is the immediate feedback you get. After you give your speech an evaluator goes to the lectern and tells you where you succeeded and where you can improve. You must stand while the evaluator gives the feedback. Shakir Ramsey, who gave an extraordinary speech on my first visit, evaluated my speech and I was excited to hear his comments because he’s a great communicator. Mr. Ramsey gave me great feedback. The most valuable suggestion he gave was to truly make eye contact with the audience. Don’t simply glance, hold eye contact and get an emotional connection with the audience.

After the meeting ended I got even more useful feedback from the other members. I’m looking forward to giving more speeches and becoming a great communicator.