Companies and individuals spend thousands of dollars and hundreds of hours annually on professional development, and hope that something sticks and the employee and the company both benefit. Sometimes they do and sometimes they don’t. After being a member of Toastmasters International and Lexington County Toastmasters for approximately five years, I can honestly say this is the best personal investment I have made in my own professional development ever.
I spend approximately 1.5 hours weekly as my schedule permits out of my comfort zone which allows me to grow and build my confidence. My club a wonderful group of diverse professionals; encourage and mentor me in honing my leadership and speaking skills all for less than I spend on lunch each week. What a great return on such a cheap investment!
I encourage you to renew your membership even with the slight dues increase this year, it is still the best rate going for professional development, and if you are not a member I encourage you to find a club and learn more at http://www.toastmasters.org/.
