Project Management Opportunity in Toastmasters

Now that we are neck-deep into Spring 2008 Speech Contests in Area B2 (Toastmasters District 53), I clearly see the similarities between successful club contests and successful Project Leadership. I am a Project Management Professional (PMP) and passionate about Project Management. I am planning our Area B2 contest for April 1, 2008 and mentoring a new member to organize his club's contest.

When you enjoy a club speech contest, you don't see the days of preparation. A successful club contest is the result of careful planning and execution of the plan. The contest leaders must lay out a plan, get the forms ready and call on people to fill the roles. Contestants need to create and rehearse speeches. All of this starts weeks before the contest.

Planning a speech contest at your club or higher level is the cheapest Project Management training that you can get anywhere. I don't understand why so few people step up to lead the planning committee and take on the role of Contest Chair. (As a bonus, Toastmasters gives you feedback and credit in the Competent Leadership Manual).

If you want to drastically improve your Project Management skills, then volunteer to organize your club speech contests. This is the cheapest Project Management training you will get in your life, and certainly fulfilling when you experience your well-run contest.