Back in July, I blogged about the display table at Toronto Go-Getters (back when it was still Toast IT). I’ve got some updated shots of the table, that I’d just like to share.

On the left: We now have a nice guest book, instead of relying on an interview sheet for guests to fill out. It reduces the writing that guests are asked to do before the start of a meeting, and gives us more incentive to actually talk with them so we can do a better job of introducing them at the start of a meeting. Next to the guest book is a role sign-up sheet for members. Above that are the usual advertising materials (the pamphlets and cards) with the Toastmasters catalogue, ad flyers, and order forms at the top.

In the middle of the table, the latest three issues of The Toastmaster are present, along with the workbook for “From Speaker to Trainer” (a great educational module from the Success/Communication series). This helps give guests an idea of what’s in store if they join up. We’ll soon be using the latest two issues of the magazine, as well as the Competent Communication and Competent Leadership manuals instead, but the main point is to demonstrate the programs and other materials that Toastmasters provides to members to encourage their ongoing growth.

Finally, on the right side of the table are the member progress charts. Because of the depth of the desk, the CC chart overlays the bottom of the AC chart. Taped to the closet door is the Competent Leadership chart. The DCP chart is taped to a paper stack on an easel for quick references, if needed, during club business.

Instituting a display table for club meetings is a project I would encourage every Toastmasters club to undertake. The primary purpose of the table is to advertise both your club and the benefits of Toastmasters to guests; therefore the best people to work out the logistics of what goes on and around the table should be the vice-presidents of education and public relations. Just don’t forget that the club meeting itself is your number one tool for building membership (not the Speechcraft program, although it’s great too).

Related articles by Zemanta

• C is for Confidence: The Toastmaster's Greatest Asset and Liability