Toastmasters @ NTT DATA Services, chartered in June 2001: over twenty-two years. Toastmasters International dashboard indicates they have achieved Distinguished status. They are a closed, corporate club associated with NTT Data (Nippon Telegraph and Telephone: a Japanese multinational information technology service and consulting company headquartered in Tokyo, Japan). To promote their club, they use the company’s social media (Yammer) and internal website.
When asked why they became members of this club, they each had different reasons. Mirza Md Salman Diyanat Ali, Club President, replied, “Great learning opportunities and fantastic club members.” Lonna Peterson, Club Vice President of Education, said, “Speaking improvement (originally to overcome UMs and AHs and now to continue applying to my personal, casual speaking as well as prepared public speeches.” Ethan Bruegel, Club Vice President of Public Relations, responded, “Having the opportunity to meet different people and develop my leadership and presentation skills.” And Julia May, Club Secretary, added, “The people!”
Each of these officers had slightly different takes on their club’s success. Julia replied, “The people and our flexibility around our work schedules.” Lonna said, “Warm welcome, the enthusiasm of the club offices and members, the atmosphere of ‘we are all in this together – all improving.’” Ethan responded, “An inclusive environment along with a dedicated roster of members. And Mirza Md Salman added, “The enthusiasm of the founding members and ability to get new members into the club.”
In a few phrases, this club is, “A safe and welcoming place to fail forward! Learning is fun.” The dashboards indicate that they have twenty-two members of which ten to fifteen tend to participate during each meeting. Is your club doing as well?
The pandemic has had a significant effect on fun in the club. Before the pandemic, they used to have occasional potluck lunches. They have been working to find other ways to re-instill the fun such as in their agendas and discussions. They also have open house events twice a year.
As for advice to companies considering a Toastmasters club, these officers say: It is a fantastic program for employee engagement while at the same time offering opportunities for growth and unlocking hidden potential. Sponsoring the club and member fees is another great way to encourage membership. It’s a great leadership training opportunity and a great way to foster teamwork and an inclusive environment. Do it!
Currently, they are a hybrid club that meets every Friday at noon. Externally, you can use the Toastmasters International Find a Club to obtain external contact information. For internal employees, send an email to one of the officers mentioned above.
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