I would like to continue the theme of the past two posts, and discuss two more club officer roles: the Vice President of Membership and the Vice President of Public Relations.
VP of Membership. The primary responsibility of this officer is to work with our guests and guide them through the process of becoming a member. Toastmasters International describes the VP of Membership as the club's "number one recruiter"; however, recruiting new members is a task that every club member participates in. In our Eastside Madison club, the VP of Membership creates a "guest packet" which contains information about Toastmasters in general, a description of each of our agenda roles, a copy of "The Toastmaster Magazine", and an application for membership. The VP of Membership should introduce themselves to the guest prior to the meeting, hand them a guest packet, and ask them about how they heard of Toastmasters. After the meeting, you would meet again with the guest and ask them if they have any questions regarding the meeting. If the guest fills out an application, then you would guide the guest through the process of filling out the app, then forward the app and the new member's check to the Treasurer. There is no need to put on airs or "strong arm" the guest; just be yourself and discuss how Toastmasters can improve their communication skills.
VP of Public Relations. If the VP of Membership helps get a guest from the "front door" to becoming a member, then the VP of PR plays an important role in getting the guest to the front door. The VP of PR communicates to the outside world of our club's existence. Our club already has a website and a presence on Facebook. If you become VP of PR your goal would be to keep these web portals up to date, so prospective guests know we are here. It's important to keep the club news and information up to date, since a visitor may think we are not active if the website shows club agendas from 6 months ago. I've always thought the VP of PR is a great role to have because you are bounded by your own imagination. What can we do to continue to spread the word about Toastmasters, and our club in particular? The VP of PR should also promote upcoming Toastmasters events to club members. Keep track of the dates for speech contests, club officer training (TLI), and district conventions. Encourage members to attend and participate in these events, since these are benefits of their membership.
Remember, our club will be holding elections for the 2012-13 Toastmasters year in May. Ask current officers about their roles and seriously consider helping the club by serving as an officer.
My next post will be on the club treasurer.
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