http://d71.org/docs/NewClubs/SouthsideSpeakersArticleJan2006

Southside Club Boosts Speaking Confidence A new Speaking Club in Pollokshields is proving to be a success for residents who want to increase their confidence and to learn to communicate more effectively. Southside Speakers is open to everyone who wants to improve their speaking skills, whether for social or business reasons. The club provides a supportive and friendly atmosphere and is looking for more members in 2006.

Club founder Jane Cameron says “whatever your goals in life, your success often depends on your ability to communicate well. Everyone has something worthwhile to say but many people wish to overcome their nerves or speak with more confidence. At Southside Speakers we practise a variety of techniques which allow our members to develop their own style of speaking and to practise this at their own pace. Making small changes to your voice or body gestures can greatly improve the impact of what you say and, of course, preparation and practise is very important” Members of Southside Speakers work through the Communication and Leadership Programme, comprising a series of projects working on a range of communication skills.

This involves giving short talks, practising different skills and even learning how to deal with impromptu speaking, “believe it or not, you CAN learn how to speak off-the-cuff” says Jane Cameron. All the learning at the club is supported by positive and constructive evaluations by fellow members. “Often we are our own harshest critics so it is a great confidence booster to receive positive feedback from others and to hear constructive ideas on how we can improve” says Jane.

Southside Speakers is affiliated to Toastmasters International, a not-for-profit organisation committed to improving speaking skills (NOT to be confused with the Guild of Toastmasters who are professional public speakers!). There are over 200 Toastmaster Clubs in UK and the organisation is currently expanding in Scotland.

Club meetings will include educational seminars and guests are welcome to attend meetings FREE of charge. Jane stresses that “guests are not obliged to speak at meetings unless they are keen to do so and all our meetings are friendly – it is a good chance to meet a wide range of people and to share the learning experience with them” Southside Speakers meets at Pollokshields Burgh Hall on the 2nd and 4th Thursday of each month at 7.00pm and more information can be found at www.southsidespeakers.org.uk or by contacting Jane on 0141 946 9223.