PR Never Sleeps
It's chilly November and thought's are turning to long nights by the fire (or the radiator!) and of the fast approaching Christmas festivities. Competitions are over, winners have moved on to District and Autumn moves into Winter. For some Clubs it can be a quiet period of consolidation and indeed contemplation !

But PR NEVER sleeps !! There are still a few meetings to go before the end of the year. What plans have you laid down for January when once again New Year's Resolutions, "New Starts" and a determination to get out and "do that night course" stir people to seek out organisations like Toastmasters for their Educational, Social and Self-Developmental potential.

So - publicise that Competition Win. Invite other organisations to your Christmas Celebrations. Have a theme night in your Club, Christmas, Halloween, Thanksgiving - whatever may add some variety, fun and lead to opportunities for PR.
Then start thinking about how you'll publicise the Club and organisation in the New Year ? Is there an Exhibition or Listing of Night Courses ? Can you get the Club Listed or even hand out leaflets or flyers at it ?

How about Wedding Fair's ? Think of how so many Groom's, Parent's, even the Best Man who are terrified of speaking. Is there a way to publicise your Clubs through such events ? Can you distribute Flyers ? Get the participating Hotels to give your Club as a reference ? Is there a brochure or booklet listing participants at the Fair or exhibition that you may be able to put an ad in ? If there's a cost involved have you considered sharing it with another Club or Clubs in your Area ?

There are lots and lots of ways to publicise what you and your Club can do - some more effective than others. Never forget that the single most effective way of publicising however is "word of mouth". Tell others what you've learned, what you've gained and what a great organisation it is - then bring them along some night and show them first hand.

Enjoy the journey

Joe Gibbs
D71 PRO