"Clear, Confident Communication for Service-Driven Leadership"
By Lindsey L. Williams Jr, Distinguished Toastmaster.
When you're serving as President of both a Rotary Club and a Toastmasters Club, there’s one thing you learn quickly:
"leadership rises and falls on communication."
It’s not about having all the answers—it’s about "sharing the right message" at the right time, with clarity and confidence. That’s where my weekly Toastmasters meetings come in. Every session sharpens my ability to think on my feet, structure my ideas, and speak with purpose—and that pays dividends in my Rotary leadership.
Brevity Matters: Say More by Saying Less
In Rotary, we often wear many hats. As club president, I lead meetings, give updates, and guide discussions. It’s easy to let those moments drag on, especially when enthusiasm takes over. But Toastmasters has taught me the power of "brevity and clarity."
When I speak, I aim to get to the point—quickly and clearly. It’s not about rushing; it’s about being intentional. A well-worded two-minute update can have more impact than a ten-minute ramble. That clarity helps meetings run efficiently and keeps members engaged and energized.
Leading Committees and Projects: Communication Keeps Us Moving
Rotary clubs thrive on service projects and committee work. But even the most passionate teams need clear communication to stay aligned. Whether I’m launching a food drive, leading a youth mentorship initiative, or organizing a speaker event, I fall back on Toastmasters techniques: organize my thoughts, outline the plan, and communicate expectations clearly.
I’ve learned to give direction in a way that’s simple and motivating. That keeps projects moving, team members informed, and momentum high.
Navigating Networking: From Small Talk to Meaningful Connections
One of the biggest hidden benefits of Toastmasters? The "confidence" it gives you to walk into a room full of strangers and start a meaningful conversation.
Whether I’m at a Rotary district conference or a Toastmasters' leadership summit, I’m often in rooms filled with experienced professionals. Toastmasters has helped me refine my elevator pitch, listen with intention, and speak with authenticity. The result? Stronger connections and opportunities to collaborate across clubs, districts, and causes.
Two Organizations, One Mission
Rotary and Toastmasters may focus on different areas, "service vs. communication", but they’re united by a shared mission: building better leaders. Toastmasters helps me speak with power; Rotary helps me serve with purpose. Together, they’ve made me a more effective leader, mentor, and community builder.
If you’re a Toastmaster, consider visiting a Rotary meeting. And if you’re a Rotarian, come see what Toastmasters can do for your communication skills. You don’t have to lead both clubs like I do—but sharpening your skills in one will absolutely elevate your impact in the other.
Let’s Connect!
Are you active in both Rotary and Toastmasters? I’d love to hear how you’re using your communication skills to lead in service. Share your story in the comments or reach out—I’m always looking to learn from fellow leaders.
