A Few Words on The New Designations in
Toastmasters International Education Program

There are two distinctly different but complementary tracks in Toastmasters progression, the Leadership Track and the Communication Track, and both have recently been renamed. Each track starts with a basic manual outlining a set of ten projects. At the end of the basic manual, you receive an official designation that you may use, and you may elect to have a letter sent to your employer regarding your newly acheived designation! The CMT is now known as the 'CC' or Competent Communicator designation and the leadership track gives you a 'CL' or Compentent Leader designation upon completion.

Once you have finished the basic manual, you can continue to improve your communication and leadership skills by working through the advanced manuals. Each advanced step along the way gives you a different designation and a different set of skills. All the building blocks work towards the coveted Distinguished Toastmaster Designation.

The Toastmasters we spoke to, however, are more concerned with what they learn from a set of manuals, practice and of course, the invaluable feedback of fellow Toastmasters. Members appreciate the learning and development that comes from the usual 25 personalized, written evaluations of each of their presentations, as well as the verbal evaluation that is delivered immediately, during the meeting.

"I've become a more confident communicator, relying less on those verbal crutches that so clutter our conversations. I've also been able to talk to co-workers in a more constructive, less judgmental fashion; more direct communications with others;

"Benefits in my TM designation? When I think of that question I think that if I put a CTM behind my name I would receive some recognition by the rest of the world. I haven't found that. For me it has been a journey of personal growth and learning. I have also made good friends and enjoy the supportive nature of the TM environment."