In the hilarious “Attracting New Members” session by TLI Co-Chair Pala, we were taught a few marketing jargon such as creative marketing and branding. We belong to an exclusive club, he explained. We should not be begging someone to join our club. He suggested the following initiatives such as setting up a great web page, creating intrigue by uploading photos to Facebook, having song requests on the radio and making each meeting interesting.

After we have shown potential new members the light and draw them into the cave (Toastmasters meetings), help them decide to join by asking them questions where the answer is yes. For example, do you want to be a better speaker? Do you want to acquire skills that will benefit your career?

As for retaining membership, Palla suggested informing our members that there is more light inside the cave, for example progressing to doing advanced speeches, mentoring and leadership learning opportunities.

Palla ended his session with this simple message - have the members’ interest at heart. Sometimes it is the simple, selfless things we do that makes us great Toastmasters.

From Friendship, Secretary Vincent, VPPR Alex, SAA Sivadas, Treasurer Wai Yee, VPM Chee Hoe & President Zaiton

In the Q&A session, we had a question from a Felda Toastmaster who asked - is there anything else he can do to boost attendance at his club meetings? He has tried everything he can think of. TLI Chair Dennis suggested to him to inspire one other person. Two people working together, and in turn inspiring others, would have a better chance of succeeding.

Member of Felda Toastmasters Club

Chee Yoong asking about TI’s core value of integrity in relation to creative marketing initiatives

TLI Chair Dennis answering one of the Q&A questions. Looking on is LGM Ramdas, LGET Sue and District Governor Thanni

Thank you TLI team for an informative and entertaining COT. The next Division W TLI COT will be held on 11 December 2010. Galileo once said “We cannot teach people anything; we can only help them discover it within themselves”. We hope that this COT and future COT will help you to discover the abilities that you have in you, and in turn help you to be the person you aspire to become. Quoting from DTM Maimunah, “We influence a few by what we say, more by what we do, but most with what we are.”