Interview Toastmasters Committee Role:
Vice President Education

Name: Leon van der Walt

Position on Toastmaster Club Committee: Vice President Education

How long were you in the position: 6 months

In your own words, what is the purpose of that committee position:
Make sure all the members of your club know what their educational goals are and ensuring that they achieve it.

What did you learn during your tenure in that position:
Always keep your eye on the ball. Leading is often just volunteering for those tasks that no one else wants to do. You can't do everything, so learn to trust in other people's abilities.

What is your most memorable moment as committee member:
Our Hollywood themed evening: The arrangements to see it come to fruition; my first time as Toastmaster of the Evening; and of course, it being Hollywood, watching the video of it afterwards.

What activities were you typically responsible for:
Questioning members on their goals. Setting up meeting programs and making sure members know what is expected of them in the different meeting roles.

Comments: Being in this position on the committee took me out of my comfort zone to a place where I had to learn things I didn't know and to start doing things for the first time - what a thrill!

Was it worth it: Yes

Give a five-point checklist for someone to succeed in that position on the committee:

1. Keep your eye on the ball.
2. Know you will probably make mistakes, but do it anyway.
3. Set up the meeting programs well in advance of the actual meeting (up to 1 month) and let members know of their roles.
4. Let experienced members mentor new members and get (signed) commitment from them.
5. E-mail is a great way to let the members know that you're still around, but speaking to them personally (on the phone or face-to-face) is the best way to get commitment from them.