FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
What is Toastmasters International?
Toastmasters International, founded in 1924 by Ralph Smedley in California, is a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing its members with a positive and supportive learning environment where they can develop their communication and leadership skills.
What is a Toastmasters Club?
A Toastmasters club is a group of people who want to improve their communication and leadership skills. Club members follow the Toastmasters education program at their own pace. The program focuses on learning through practice, and club meetings are designed to give members opportunities to speak in front of an audience, either by preparing a speech or presentation or by taking on a role during the meeting. Members support one another by providing evaluations and constructive feedback and by participating in the mentorship program.
When was your club founded?
The CN Collaborators Toastmasters Club was founded in 1988.
Can I visit your club to see if Toastmasters is for me?
Yes! Visitors are welcome to attend up to three complimentary meetings at the CN Collaborators Toastmasters Club. You are welcome to drop in, or you can fill out our contact form in advance to let us know you are coming. Meetings start at 6:00 p.m.; please arrive 10 minutes before the start of the meeting.
Do members or participants need to be CN employees?
No. CN Collaborators is a public club, and we welcome visitors and members from all employment sectors and backgrounds.
What is the cost to join the CN Collaborators Club?
Membership costs $90 for six months. New members must also pay a one-time $30 processing fee to Toastmasters International. Snacks and beverages are included at each meeting at no additional cost.
What language is spoken at the CN Collaborators Club?
We are a bilingual club, offering both English and French. Members are free to use either language, and both French and English are used during most meetings.
What do I need to prepare for my first meeting?
Nothing! Just come and enjoy the meeting. You are welcome to drop in, or you can fill out our contact form in advance to let us know you are coming. Meetings start at 6:00 p.m.; please arrive 10 minutes before the start of the meeting.
What is the format of a meeting?
Most meetings follow a similar format, with opportunities for members to give prepared speeches, participate in Table Topics, take on meeting roles, and provide evaluations and feedback. You can see an example of our meeting schedule here.
What is expected of me at my first meeting?
Please arrive 10 minutes before the start of the meeting (6:00 p.m.). We will welcome you and ask you to fill out a short form with some basic information, which we will use to introduce you to the club. If you wish, you can also participate in the Table Topics (impromptu speaking) session.
Once I become a member, do I have to attend all meetings?
No, you do not have to attend every meeting. However, to get the most out of your membership, we encourage you to attend and participate as often as possible.
Can I get a receipt for expense purposes?
Yes. Upon payment of your membership fees by cheque or cash, the Treasurer will provide you with a receipt, which you may use for your accounting or expense purposes.
What is the Pathways program?
Pathways is Toastmasters International’s education program, designed to help members develop their communication and leadership skills. It offers a variety of learning paths and projects that members can complete at their own pace. Read more here.
How does the CN Collaborators Club perform in competitions?
Our members have achieved top-three placements at the district level in several Toastmasters contests, including Evaluation, Table Topics, Humorous Speech, and International Speech contests. Our members participate in both English and French competitions, with many club members taking part in a variety of contests.