Chairing training

IT WAS encouraging to see several new faces at the Loughborough Charnwood Speaker’s Club meeting.

The main event was a free training session on chairmanship given by former national president Lindsay Dutch from a club in York.

There is much more to think about when chairing a meeting. Keeping to time, being prepared for the unexpected, making sure the Chair is being attentive to everyone and not writing too many notes plus lots of other valuable advice.

This was followed by a Topics session led by James Gibson based on various autumn themes. A speaker is given a subject to speak on for up to three minutes without any notice so it can be quite tough on the nerves but excellent practice for thinking on the feet at short notice.

Several of our visitors took part and we were especially pleased that Sue York decided to become a member of the club. We offer three free visits to the club so that people will be able to have a turn at speaking to see if it is something that will help them to gain confidence and expertise in speaking to an audience. Many of the members have continued long after they have achieved their certificate as it is also an entertaining and friendly way to spend an evening.

Our next meeting is on Tuesday, November 14, at John Storer House. 7.15pm for 7.30pm start.

Lots more information on our website at www. loughboroughspeakers .org.uk