Communication with Impact !!

Just received my brand new member kit for Toastmasters International. You would be wondering what drives me to join this club? I actually heard of this club some time ago in Malaysia. And when I came to NZ, I was exposed to it not until 2nd year where after an interview, for the feedback, I was actually recommended to join this programme to enhance my confidence and effective communication skills. Did I do anything after that? No, that shows how "ignorant" I was at that time. Then again, this time 3rd year my coursemate Abigail actually recommend me to join that club. Even my lecturer who is also the dean encouraged us to join this club. He mentioned that this training is actually provided to corporate professionals working at the Big 4.
One of my personal development goals is to be able to communicate effectively. I believe this programme can help me. But I must help myself first and take the initiative to make it work. I know it is a long process, but somehow I must start somewhere first. Another plus point is that I can do it according to my timing needs and I can transfer the membership back and still able to continue it when I return Malaysia. I had started attending the meetings since end of July. Today is my 3rd time. So far, I had attempted the "Table Topics". Since I had receive the competent communicator manual today, there is more to come. What I like about this is that we received constructive feedback and evaluation for certain objectives set in the manual, testing different aspects of communication skills. There is a great deal of emphasis on listening skills as well.
On another related matter, a recent talk from PWC stress that employers place high emphasis on communication with impact. Not "empty vessels'' communication.
Till then have a productive week ahead. Cheers.