[Stephen]

Originally Posted by awu

Keep in mind that, just as you will enjoy working at one company more than at another, you will like one Toastmasters club better than another. The kinds of people who go as well as the meeting format seriously influence the kind of experience you will have.

Generally speaking, I have found I prefer clubs with shorter meetings (<90 minutes), and a more diverse membership (people of all ages, backgrounds, races, etc.). I once went to a club that had 2.5 hour meetings, starting out with a 30-45 minute parliamentary-style "business meeting" in which they discuss club activities and finances. It wasn't fun. But other clubs I've been to are gems. They get right into speeches and impromptu speaking soon after the meeting starts, and give everyone the chance to speak.

So go out there and give a club a shot. Attend as a guest at least 2 or 3 times before deciding whether to join. If you're not totally happy, dump it and try another club until you find one that meets your needs. Like clothing, Toastmasters clubs are not one-size-fits-all.

Good points awu. I think to attend and not speak would be discouraging.