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looking for a new job and thought Toastmasters could help me practice quick responses for inter-
views. I only planned to stay in Toastmasters until I found a new job. However once in Toastmas-
ters I discovered the next level of opportunities for leadership, organizational skills, and further
educational opportunities. I learned Canva, Indesign, and marketing techniques. I met a couple
of my closest friends in Toastmasters. These kinds of rewards need more than a few months of
membership.

2. A move from Local Loyalty to Like Minded

In the past people depended on their local community to fulfill socialization needs and be
a support during emotional or financial hard times. Nowadays communities are
disposable. Socialization, advice, even financial support are just a few clicks away
online.

Today people crave not just connection but connection with like-minded people. People
with the same interests or values. Michael Brand calls this finding your tribe.

We see people have no loyalty to their community and will move far away from home
because they think another city’s vibe is more in sync with them. Some people move to
Portland hoping to find their tribe in the more casual, outdoorsy environment, yet also
enjoying the progressive political and artistic atmosphere.

At Toastmasters the search for a tribe explains why we are having success with theme
clubs. They allow people to easily find their tribe. Here are some examples of these
theme clubs in our District; Feedbackers focuses on evaluations, Notary Masters centers
on a career field, Progressive Toastmasters is home to political activists, and
Podmasters focuses on a hobby/career.

3. Time input and reaping clear results

Time is vital for the younger generation who are perhaps working and in school, or working a
job and a side hustle, or balancing family and career. Respect their time. There are many ways to
convince people Toastmasters is time well spent.

One way is by keeping our meetings beginning and ending on time. We can teach newcomers
our time management techniques to use in their own life.

Another way to appeal to middle aged adults is to let them bring their children to meetings. Con-
sider meeting locations that are children friendly. Promote your club as welcoming children.

Make it clear to members what they are getting for their time. Have a habit of discussing the val-
ue of Toastmasters membership and the worth of each meeting. The General Evaluator report is a
great time to summarize what people can take away from the meeting.

One of the greatest selling points for Toastmasters is the mental stimulation. Ted Talks are an ex-

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