I've been in toastmasters for a while now, and I have to agree with a lot of what was said here so far.
It is a positive experience. The main thing that I draw from it is that it has helped me speak more effectively. I never give a speech with more than a 3x5 card for notes, and rarely look at it. I am able to hit all of my topics within the timeframe that I have, and can easily get back on topic when sidetracked by questions/comments, and don't have an abrupt change, or period of confusion.
The "sweet spot" seems to be meetings of about 12 people. Much less than that, and too many people are too busy doing too many things. Much more, and everyone is bored.
--Doku |