Speakers Bureau
Where you find top-drawer speakers
A speakers bureau isn’t really a chest of drawers filled with speakers. But it is a good way for organizations and individuals to find speakers to fit their needs, whether it’s for a national meeting keynote speaker or a storyteller for a primary school class.
In addition, a speakers bureau provides Toastmasters with opportunities for public speaking experience outside of their club. This experience can be helpful for members who wish to pursue a part- or full-time career in public speaking.
Of course, it’s also a way to bring awareness of Toastmasters to the community and build club membership.
If you’d like to join an existing speakers bureau, contact your district, division or area officers to see if a bureau has already been established. Some bureaus are more formal than others. Ask about their particular rules for membership.
If you want to start a speakers bureau, work with your club vice president education to appoint an experienced Toastmaster as the bureau chairman. The chairman, VPE and education committee should establish standards for members who will participate. Next, the chairman should introduce the idea to the club, explain the purpose of the speakers bureau and invite members to participate.
For complete rules and details about starting, growing and maintaining a speakers bureau, order How to Start a Toastmasters Speakers Bureau brochure (Item 127) from the online store.