Practicing to Become a Boss

During the sales course at UBC I realize that something I need to learn is public speaking. Every time I speak to the class I’m nervous and the instructor says, “Why not join Toastmasters after you finish this class?” During my search for Toastmasters I find a group called “Toastmistress” which meets for dinner twice a month at a hotel two blocks from the office. With all of these groups you can go to visit without joining, to see whether the group is a fit.

When I meet the group the women are friendly and helpful and make me feel right at home. The fee to join is reasonable and soon I’m a member. There is a big binder full of information on making different kinds of speeches – who knew there were so many? For instance, a speech that is extemporaneous means “off the cuff” (with no preparation at all). At every meeting there is a session to practice this and soon I’m learning to think on my feet. I’m also learning how to prepare a speech and deliver it in the time allotted. There is a lot to learn.

The good social atmosphere promotes making friends because most of us have similar interests. We all need public speaking skill to realize our ambitions.
Then one evening I’m assigned to give a speech at a large hotel function, with more than 100 people in the audience. How exciting and successful this goes, all because I’ve been taught to BE PREPARED.

A year later I’m asked to be President of the club. I’m surprised but don’t hesitate to take it on. Guess what this gives me – a chance to be the boss! And not to paid employees but to volunteers, which is ever more the challenge. I learn to lead and follow up to make sure everyone does their job. Now I’m practicing public speaking and being a boss. This includes learning that sometimes people mean well but don’t do what they say they will. Now it’s necessary to give them a nudge, but nicely because they aren’t being paid.

This experience is extremely valuable because some of our clients are non-profit associations and I’m working with volunteers all the time. I can see the support I need to give to the presidents of these associations. It’s good to have a view from the other side of the fence.