Communication is one of the most vital skills in any professional setting. The ability to tell an effective story, lead an imperative strategy session, or clearly communicate expectations and deadlines can be the difference between landing a dream opportunity and advancing a career.

Yet for many young professionals, developing communication skills is often overlooked.

Roger Hoeper, Software Developer at LocateSmarter, saw the importance of communicating with confidence and excellence in professional settings. To strengthen those skills, he sought out opportunities to improve through Toastmasters International.

“As an IT Professional, I am very much aware of the stereotype that IT people don’t communicate very well,” Roger shared as he explained why he began volunteering twelve years ago. “To combat that, I joined Toastmasters International to grow professionally.”

Growing Through Toastmasters

Toastmasters International is non-profit professional growth organization that is entirely volunteer-driven and dedicated to helping members gain the skills and confidence needed to grow both personally and professionally. Through speaking competitions, peer feedback, and mentoring, individuals are empowered to become more effective communicators and leaders.

Over the course of his involvement, Roger has served twice as an Area Director, once as a Division Director, and currently serves as President of Waterloo 101.

Founded nearly 90 years ago, Waterloo 101 was the first Toastmasters club established east of the Missouri River. Today, the club brings together a diverse group of individuals who are looking to improve their speaking abilities, expand their professional networks, and grow as leaders.

“Any organization that is primarily people trying to better themselves are the best people to get to know,” explained Roger. “I haven’t ever met someone who was trying to be a better person not [turn out to] be a good person to know.”

More Than Public Speaking

The sense of community is one of the defining characteristics of Toastmasters. While members join to improve communication and leadership skills, many also discover meaningful friendships and professional connections along the way.

Members come from a wide range of backgrounds and experiences. Some are pursuing career advancement, while others are seeking leadership opportunities or ways to give back to their communities. Some members are non-native English speakers looking to gain confidence communicating in professional environments while learning a new language.

“In truth, professional speaking is a skill that everyone needs to practice, even if you are a native English speaker. It builds your confidence. Even as someone who has been a Toastmasters member for a long time, when I nail a speech, that’s a confidence high that I can ride for a few days and be proud of myself.”

Connections formed through the club allow the individual who is learning to find the growth they seek, but it also creates a sense of unity and support between members. 

Making an Impact Beyond the Meeting Room

The impact of Toastmasters extends far beyond weekly meetings.

In Iowa, one Toastmasters club operates within the prison system, providing incarcerated individuals with opportunities to strengthen communication skills that can benefit them both during and after incarceration.

Studies have shown that participants in these programs experience lower rates of reincarceration, in part because improved communication skills can lead to better employment opportunities and stronger interpersonal relationships.

“It’s an awesome program that has a proven success rate at helping people become a better citizen by learning how to communicate.,” Roger said as he shared a story of a speech competition held within the prison.

A Lifelong Opportunity for Growth

Finding a volunteer passion outside of work can be a meaningful way to give back, develop new skills, and find personal fulfillment. Toastmasters offers all of those opportunities while helping members build confidence and communication abilities that carry into every aspect of life.

“Toastmasters involves people from almost all walks of life; you get religious leaders, civic-minded community leaders, techy professionals. It’s just a great overall mixture of people and makes anyone a little bit better, a little more well-rounded individual,” Roger said.

Visitors are always welcome to attend a meeting and explore membership opportunities. To learn more about joining a local Toastmasters club, visit www.toastmasters.org/find-a-club.

“We Care” is LocateSmarter’s mission and promise to serve our community. This guiding principle shapes every client interaction and extends into the daily lives of our team members. The We Care Blog Series highlights the many ways this principle comes to life through our people.

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