Frequently Asked Questions
How do I find a Forum near me?
Visit our page Find a Forum and see which Forum is closest to you. If you can’t find a Forum in your location then let us know.
How often are meetings held?
Usually fortnightly although some Forums meet monthly.
How long do the meetings last?
From 1 hour to 1½ hours during the day or evening depending on which Forum you belong to. There is usually a period of fellowship before or after the formal meeting. Some Forums have a dinner meeting too.
How much does it cost?
Membership costs $40 for each six month session. Because we are a volunteer-led organisation, we are able to keep our overheads low and our membership fees very affordable.
What do you do at the meetings?
Each participant has the opportunity to practice public speaking and learn about chairing meetings. New members start in small ways, perhaps by giving a Thought For the Day, delivering an expression of thanks, then graduate to bigger challenges at their own pace.
Would I have to make a speech?
Eventually, yes. But you will always receive help and encouragement from a Mentor and you determine how and when you do it.
How will I learn about correct meeting procedure?
Every Forum meeting has a different member as Chair. In this way every member has the opportunity to practise – under the guidance of the Forum president. Elementary meeting procedure is practised at every meeting with more complex procedures at meetings specifically designed for that purpose.
How will I learn public speaking skills?
With the guidance of trained assessors we are our own teachers. At every meeting where public speaking is practised, there will be four to five speakers to a published title chosen by the main speaker. You learn from watching others and hearing the assessors’ suggestions for improvement. And you learn from workshops and tutorials held from time to time on various aspects of speaking.
Will I learn how to propose a toast or introduce a special guest?
Regular tutorials cover various topics such as these. You can request a tutorial on your special need at anytime and experienced members will respond.
Who will I meet at Forum?
Forum members come from all age groups and from all walks of life. You will meet interested and interesting people. Forum activities include conventions, combined meetings, dinners, seminars and special Forum functions.
Will it suit me?
Why not? You are no different from any other person who has joined Forum. Every member came for a specific purpose: to conquer nerves, to become articulate, to gain new skills, to learn to communicate effectively, to meet new friends. Forum members come from a wide cross section of the community and embrace a wide variety of educational, ethnic and occupational backgrounds. Those who gain the most success are those who make the most determined effort to improve their speaking skills.
Want to join? Find out how here
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