My Vision for Toastmasters

Some of you have asked about my vision for the organization in the future. This question came up almost from every one on the Nominating Committee. I will share just a few of my thoughts in this regard:

• Name Recognition – As an organization we need to focus more on promoting the “brand” and create a larger and better name recognition. Too large segments of potential members never heard of Toastmasters. Last year, Hilton Corp made a commercial which mentioned Toastmasters very favorably. We should be going out and producing such promotionals in partnership with recognized brands.
  
• Corporate Partnerships – I know T.I. is already working on that, though I have not heard much besides the Caterpillar University. We need to build and strengthen partnerships with national and international major corporations.

• Youth Development – This too has an ongoing initiative already, though no results of the pilot programs have been announced yet. Probably there was a de-emphasis due to the preoccupation with the governance issues. This program needs to be revitalized after the governance changes. The Youth constitutes our future leaders not only in North America, but around the world. They will not only develop into better leaders, but also will be supporter of Toastmasters in wherever field or organization they settle.

• Organizational Partnerships – A couple years ago I witnessed a joint conference (district level) with the national parliamentary organization. It was a great success and a wonderful and enriching experience. Sessions were held in parallel and members of each organization could attend the other’s sessions. It broadens the experience and learning for Toastmasters and at the same time exposes other organizations to the quality of our organization, how it can help their organization, and helps to build brand recognition.

• Transparency of Operations – I have noted over the years that the Executive Committee and the Board make many recommendations, decisions, and establish policies which are then promulgated. True, it is explained why we do what we do. However, I find we provide insufficient information on the rational and reasoning behind these decisions. I think we could do a better job in this area.

• International Meetings – Along with many others I was disappointed in the cancellation of the Sydney, Australia Conference in 2010. I can understand that there were logical reasons, though insufficient rational was given (see my last point). It is a MUST, that we have a conference outside North America, and soon at that. Yes, cost may be a factor, but this year’s conference is expensive and not easy to get to either. At some point in the near future we must take the risk and move in the direction of ex-North America. Long term, we should entertain and study the thought of more than one international conference. Maybe starting with two or three (North & South America, Europe & Asia, Australia, New Zealand & Pacific Rim) ultimately possibly leading to “Continental Conferences”.

• Printing & Distribution – I am aware of the fact that there is some local distribution of Toastmasters material from international sites. However, with ever increasing shipping costs and customs issues we need to explore and strengthen local printing and distribution across the world. It will be less expensive and more efficient. I am told in some parts of the world new members wait for months for their materials, as do districts when ordering supplies.

• Dues – That’s a tough one, I admit, but should be addressed at some point. Our dues structure is tied to the US Dollar. The way economies are today and will develop in the future, at some point we need to think of a different reference point, some sort of index number. This would make Toastmasters available to large areas and multitudes of people who can simply not afford to join, yet need the opportunities we can offer them, such as Africa, to name just one area.