By: Jeannette Kreher Heberling, DTM, Grant Lambert & Jerrica Waite
In Toastmasters, we believe that everyone has a voice worth sharing. But for many people, taking that first step toward public speaking can feel overwhelming. That’s where Speechcraft comes in — a short, powerful introduction to the Toastmasters experience that turns fear into confidence and curiosity into commitment.
What Is Speechcraft?
Speechcraft is a structured, hands-on program designed to introduce new speakers to the fundamentals of public speaking and leadership. It’s typically run as a four-to-eight-session workshop where participants — learn, practice, and deliver speeches with coaching and feedback from experienced Toastmasters.
How It Works
A club or a team of Toastmasters members organizes a Speechcraft program either in-person or online.
Each session includes:
- Mini lessons on speaking and leadership skills, through the online Learning Management System
- Opportunities to practice impromptu and prepared speeches
- Support and evaluation from Toastmasters mentors
It is designed to be a fast-paced, encouraging environment where participants can gain real skills in a short time while experiencing the culture and community of a Toastmasters Club. By the end of the program, many Speechcrafters join a club because they’ve experienced the value and fun of Toastmasters.
$70 for 7 weeks of Speechcraft includes 6 months of free membership after completing the program. If you market it this way, it breaks down to $10/session + 6-months of continuous support for meeting their goals.
Benefits of Speechcraft
For Participants
- Boosts Confidence: Even the shyest speakers find their courage.
- Builds Real Skills: Speechcraft focuses on clear communication, organization, and delivery.
- Provides Support: Mentors give personalized guidance, helping each participant succeed.
For Clubs
- Attracts New Members: Many Speechcrafters join Toastmasters after completing the program.
- Engages Current Members: Coaching and mentoring Speechcrafters re-energizes experienced members.
- Club Reputation: Running a successful Speechcraft establishes your club as a trusted resource for growth and learning in the community.
Marketing Tips for a Successful Speechcraft
- Target Your Audience: Partner with local businesses, community groups, or universities.
- Use Testimonials: Share stories of members who started their journey through Speechcraft. Share “My Why” moments.
- Promote on Social Media: Highlight the transformation — “From nervous to natural in 4 weeks!”
- Offer a Clear Path: Emphasize that Speechcraft is a strong place to start — not just a course, but a step into something bigger. Share how members have benefited personally and professionally.
- Make It Fun and Welcoming: People remember how you made them feel. Keep energy high and feedback positive.
Why It Matters
Speechcraft isn’t just about teaching public speaking — it’s about opening doors. It gives people who might never step into a Toastmasters meeting the courage to try.
Make sure all members are meeting their goals for membership strength and commitment. (See Item 403 Member Interest Survey attached)
And for clubs, it’s a powerful tool for growth, outreach, and community service. Every Speechcrafter who gains confidence becomes an ambassador for what Toastmasters stands for: communication, leadership, and self-development.
Speechcraft doesn’t just build speakers — it builds futures.
Want to learn more? Join me for a Speechcraft Success 101: All things Speechcraft: Session set-up through membership growth
- Thursday, March 26 @ 12-1pm (lunchtime)
- Thursday, March 26 @ 7-8pm
Resources on Toastmasters.org:
Type Speechcraft in the search bar and easily find these resources:
- https://www.toastmasters.org/education/speechcraft/speechcraft-faq
- https://www.toastmasters.org/education/speechcraft
- https://shop.toastmasters.org/shop/8600–Speechcraft-Digital-Bundle
Resources
- 403 Member Interest Survey (PDF)
- 493 Speechcraft Content Overview (PDF)
- 8628 Speechcraft Marketing Sales Brochure (PDF)
- Club Meeting Roles Build Real Worldskills (PDF)
- Speechcraft Participant Quick Start Guide (PDF)
- Speechcraft Coordinator Quick Start Guide (PDF)
- Toastmasters Speechcraft™ Program Overview (PDF)
- Overview of Pathways Credit for Toastmasters Speechcraft (PDF)
- Speechcraft Marketing Sales Brochure (PDF)