by Gillian Sheldon, DTM; Scott Schafer; Jeannette Kreher Heberling, DTM; Richard Teel; Micah Trumble; and Ryan Kelly
One of the most powerful tools we have in Toastmasters is our personal story — our why. When members share why they joined, what they’ve gained, and how Toastmasters has shaped them, it creates authentic connection. Social media is a great way to share members’ stories and highlight members (external marketing).
Clubs grow when more people hear about the impact Toastmasters can make. Your story might be the spark someone needs to walk through the door.
Here are four simple ways to boost your club’s visibility and how the District will help with the marketing traction:
- Share Your Why Publicly
Last education year we recorded member “MY WHY” videos. We will use those videos or written “toast-imonials” to share member’s journey. If you didn’t contribute last year or if you’d like to write a testimonial, please send it to Rich and Micah. Pro tip: The more personal and real, the more it resonates. - Post Consistently on Social Media
Help your club and VP Public Relations – Highlight meeting moments, member achievements, and special events with video, photos, and/or written content. Videos should be 2 minutes or less.Consistency builds credibility and keeps your club top of mind. {Pro tip: there are many Pathway’s projects that can help members achieve goals – social speeches, storytelling, PR strategies, managing a project, etc.}
- Leverage Member Networks
This is big: when you see a club or district post — please like, comment, and share it. Every action expands visibility beyond our immediate followers and into your personal network. - Monitor “Find a Club” Contact Portals – GILLIAN
With increased external marketing, you will spark interest for guests to join a meeting. Please monitor the Prospective Member Management tile in Club Central. Member Engagement before a meeting is the first step of getting potential future members engaged early in the process. They may have reached out to multiple clubs in your area and the first club that responds may gain them as a member.
Your story can change someone else’s story. By sharing it — and sharing each other’s posts — we make a difference helping people grow, learn and develop to their fullest potential. Pro Tip: View the steps to access the Prospective Member Management in the resources section.