Toastmasters is an education organisation. And the education program is Pathways. Every member should be enrolled in a path, be able to find their way to their next project, and mark completed projects as such.

Knowing exactly what tasks are in each Club Officer Role helps give members solid direction and feel confident taking action.

Whenever a member completes a level, we celebrate by promptly approving and publicly recognising that achievement. It’s important for self-confidence and member retention. Also, recognising outside achievement!

The Club Officers were elected to lead the club, make decisions for the club and strategically plan and track the progress of the club. As such, the club officers should have a dedicated meeting every month or two to discuss, plan and track.

When members know what the club is aiming for, they are empowered to actively contribute. Getting members to understand DCP takes time and repetition. While it isn’t the main focus of a club, it is an indication of the health of a club, and when members understand where their efforts fit into the club as a whole, they are more driven to support the club team.

Once members and club officers understand the DCP, you can start planning it well in advance. We can prepare for members success and Distinguished Club status.

Once a member has been around 2-3 years, they will be familiar with all meeting roles, Pathways and mostly waiting for their next speech opportunity. Before they start thinking seriously about their DTM is the ideal time to empower them to take on small amounts of responsibility by having them lead smaller projects that improve the club.

Come elections, clubs should have a decent idea of who is going to step into each role. This process starts months in advance and is generally lead by the Immediate Past President.

Once a member is comfortable in their club, they will start to look for opportunities and achievements that can be found outside of the club. 

If a member is showing interest, ensure that you let them know that they can continue their journey to DTM.

An area has 4-6 clubs. And each year the Area has a Director. So every few years, a club can offer up a member to be the Area Director. It’s not a requirement, but a good way for the club to contribute and members to see opportunities beyond the club.