by Gillian Sheldon, DTM, Scott Schaefer, Jeannette Kreher Heberling, DTM
In Toastmasters, we often hear “WIIFM” — What’s in it for me? It’s not selfish – every member joins with a personal goal: to improve, to connect, to grow. When clubs focus on delivering a strong member experience, the “me” in WIIFM becomes the culture of the club — and that’s what attracts and keeps members.
A great member experience is intentional. It starts with meetings that feel welcoming, energetic, and purposeful. It continues with opportunities for members to speak, lead, and stretch their skills in a supportive and feed-forward environment. The feedback provided is meant to propel you forward faster as it puts you out of your comfort zone and that is where growth happens! Make sure each member feels seen, supported, and valued.
When we consistently deliver that “me-centered” experience, membership increases naturally. People stay because they’re growing. Guests join because they feel the impact immediately. And word-of-mouth becomes your most powerful marketing tool.
Here are four simple tools to help boost membership through stronger member experience:
- Toastmaster Guest and New Member Guide
Attached find a sample of a “New Member Roadmap” helps guests and new members navigate early engagement at meetings. - Guest During Meeting & Follow-Up Flow – Guest Book (Physical or online for virtual meetings)
Invite a guest to introduce themselves, why they are at Toastmasters, and a Table Topic Speaker role if they are comfortable (giving them an easy question.) Send a warm email within 24 hours, invite them back, and share what they can expect next time. The quicker the engagement, the higher the conversion. - Meeting Roles Rotation – Create Role Folders (or online templates)
Ensure all members, especially newer ones, get regular speaking and leadership opportunities. By printing out the templates with the script/scoring (https://www.toastmasters.org/membership/club-meeting-roles) members and guests can take part earlier leading to higher engagement. - Themed, High-Value Meetings & Fun
Hold occasional special meetings (storytelling night, debate day, evaluation workshop) that give guests and members something memorable to talk about. Celebrations and path accomplishments bring fun to the meeting.
Put the “me” at the center — and watch your club grow from the inside out.
Perspective from Maria Maier, District 65 Club Coach Chair, President and Membership VP:
One of the most effective ways to create that “me-centered” magic is through themed, high-value meetings. These aren’t just fun—they’re catalytic. They spark curiosity, deepen connection, and remind members (and guests!) why Toastmasters is a place where they can stretch, shine, and succeed.
This year, we elevated that strategy by partnering with two dynamic community networks: Mohawk Valley Women in Business Network and Professionals Under 40. Together, we co-hosted a special themed event designed to break down barriers, blend communities, and showcase the value of confident communication.
The result?
A room full of energy, new faces, expanded visibility—and multiple prospective members who said, “I didn’t know Toastmasters could be this fun.”
What made it work wasn’t just the theme. It was the experience of being seen, supported, and part of something with momentum. When members feel that, they show up differently. They invite differently. They grow differently.
So if you want to strengthen membership in 2026 and beyond, try this simple shift:
Put the “me”—your members’ curiosity, confidence, and connection—at the center of every meeting. Watch your club grow from the inside out.