“What do you do?”
It’s a simple question – a small-talk inquiry that each of us has answered at cocktail parties, holiday gatherings and family reunions.
How do you answer the question? Is it with conviction? Loud and proud? If so, I envy you.
I have struggled with my answer. My typical response has always been: “I spend a lot of time on the Internet.”
Vague and dismissive at best, that dull statement failed to convey my passion for my craft. It didn’t even mention what I do or that I love doing it. My reply undermined my expertise in my profession and, sadly, my confidence.
Has this ever happened to you? Have you been dismissive about what you do?
Sharing what’s important to us can be difficult. It’s showing a vulnerable side of us to people we have yet to feel safe around. It’s easier for us to downplay the importance of our work than expose ourselves to the unknown.
It wasn’t until I joined Morningstars Toastmasters in Gibsons that I found the confidence to refine my personal one-liner. The non-profit organization taught me how to connect with an audience of 30 or of one. The program demonstrated how words, tone, gestures and structure make an impact. It taught me that confidence in front of a room full of strangers comes from preparation and experience.
Toastmasters clubs teach more than just speaking in public. I am also learning how to forge solid relationships through better communication and leadership activities.
When asked what it is I do for a living, my new reply is: “I put other people’s passion and voice into words on the Internet. I’m a freelance blogger.
There are three Toastmasters clubs on the Sunshine Coast to help take your passion to a more engaging level. Sunshine Toastmasters meet on Tuesdays at 6 p.m. at the Hummingbird Clinic in Sechelt (5684 Mermaid St.). Morningstars Toastmasters meet at 7 a.m. every Wednesday at Harmony Hall (686 Harmony Lane) in Gibsons. Beachcombers Advanced Toastmasters meet every third Friday at 6 p.m. at Sita’s Spag and Suds in Gibsons (851 Gibsons Way).
For more information, please call 604-315-4328.
