May 2008 - District 73 Toastmasters

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Empower by Listening by Graham Howes DTM “The greatest motivational act one person can do for another is to listen.” – Author unknown Jill, a manager keen to improve her communication skills, set a goal for listening. The goal was to “only acknowledge people after they spoke”. She was only to say more if asked a question. Jill soon realised that she was not listening as well as she thought, noting she was concentrating on responses, judging, thinking about other things or bored well before the speaker had finished speaking. After Jill’s realisation, her focus on keeping a clear and open mind improved... but it was not easy. As time went by, her listening skills started to pay dividends personally and for her team. Jill shared that by truly listening, her relationships improved and so too her energy levels. She explained briefly and passed on a few tips: Firstly – the relationships improved because listening shows you care and builds self esteem. This leads to trust and confidence which empowers people to take responsibility. This leads to action which greatly improves relationships. Secondly – the energy levels improved as Jill was empowering people. She realised that when people speak, more often than not they are sharing and not after solutions, so one can just listen and relax. Truly listening involves: • Not asking the speaker if it’s important • Writing down what’s pressing to help clear your mind • Using friendly body language and facial expressions. • Not interrupting, consider taking notes however ask permission • Avoiding any interruptions and if not possible inform your colleague • Selecting a location where the discussion will not be interrupted. This is a very powerful way of indicating you intentions. Check if it is alright with the other person • Informing your colleague that they have your attention • Thanking the speaker for their time and the information shared If a response is required, consider: • Permission to seek clarification or to ask question(s) • The language used: ideally use similar words and phrases shared by your college, ask for clarification as to whether your understandings are what was meant • Respond in a non judgmental manner • Endeavour to allow your colleague to discover the best outcome for themself A few tips for a speaker: • Assess the best method for all in conveying your message: i.e. verbal, email or a note etc. Remember you are after a specific outcome • Ask the person when would be a good time talk • What is the best time to approach / ask to speak to someone, noting 5 minutes from lunch or home time may inhibit your message being heard • Be specific • Be aware of the time “Courage is what it takes to stand up and speak; courage is also what it takes to sit down and listen.” – Winston Churchill n Graham Howes is a member of Ringwood Toastmasters d73.toastmasters.org.au Edition 46 • May 2008 10
Eastern Division Contests by Terry Barridge Vale George O’Brien International Contest Winner Verity Robins Evaluation Contest Winner Veronica Strangio Two contest dates were held, to give everyone the opportunity to experience more of Eastern Division clubs and their hospitality. Thanks to Eltham Toastmasters for sponsoring the first contest at the Eltham Bowling Club on 3 March. Due to the high calibre of speakers, as you would expect at this level, we were able to have a very enlightening and evenly fought first contest. It was a hot evening and to give the speakers every chance we forfeited having the fans and air conditioner running. They even stayed off when our enthusiastic Division Governor decided to teach us how to line dance while the Judges were deliberating. Everyone enjoyed participating. Verity Robins from Doncaster Toastmasters was the winner of the International Contest and Veronica Strangio, also from Doncaster, won the Evaluation Contest. Our heartfelt congratulations go to all the contestants and we wish the very best for our winners in the District contests. Table Topics Contest Winner Mary Voice Again with the generosity of a Division Club, the Satdy Arvo Communicators, we were able to have successful Humorous and Table Topics Contests on 17 March. There was very engaging humour from all contestants even in the Table Topics. Shelley Arcus from Satdy Arvo won the Humorous Contest with Mary Voice from Gourmet Toastmasters as the winner of the Table Topics Contest. We wish the very best results for our winners in the District contests. Congratulations go to all the contestants and volunteers. n Terry Barridge is Area Governor for E15 Humorous Contest Winner Shelley Arcus Toastmasters will be saddened to hear of the passing of our friend and respected member, George O’Brien from South Coast Speakers Toastmasters Club. George had been seriously ill for the past week and passed away in the early hours on 12 April. He was an inspiration in how he managed the effects of a stroke suffered some years ago. He joined our Club in 1996, and held most portfolios including being President twice and was our Vice President Education this year. It was George who “single handedly” made the large wooden box for the Club’s paraphernalia. As a speaker, George’s legal background was a useful source of anecdotes, including the times when he pedaled his bike in the Bendigo district to attend Courts in Session. His knowledge of meeting procedure was invaluable at Club level. He will be sadly missed also for his very warm greeting when we walked into the hotel prior to Toastmasters and his strength of character during meetings. To dear Pat and family we offer our sincerest sympathy in the loss of a loving Husband, Father and mate. Our thoughts are with you. David Morris President South Coast Speakers Toastmasters Club d73.toastmasters.org.au Edition 46 • May 2008 11
Page 1 and 2: Called to give evidence - What woul
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Page 5 and 6: Anyone for Tea by Michelle Monaghan
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May 2008 - District 73 Toastmasters

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