It has not been even a month since you joined your Toastmasters club either in your Corporate organization/ Community-Neighbourhood/ College institution; that a person generally carrying a smile approaches you. The person introduces themselves as the Club VP-Education and informs you that you have to give an Icebreaker speech soon.
“What, Why & How??”, you wonder.
To begin with, what is an Icebreaker? It is the starter speech, your first speech and marks your debut in your Toastmasters journey of becoming a better communicator and leader. It is a speech that you deliver to introduce yourself to your club. An Icebreaker is the first step in overcoming public speaking anxiety and stage fright. It makes yourself feel more relaxed, especially at the beginning of a meeting, party, etc.
Introducing yourself
The first question that prods you either in a job interview or the first meeting with a landlord or a first date. “Tell us a little about yourself”
It is your opportunity to share something about yourself with people you do not know well to establish trust.
In a Toastmasters in an Ice Breaker speech, it is your opportunity to introduce yourself to the group and share something about yourself and connect a bond with the club and its members. You may choose to share anything from the reason you chose this particular path to something personal about your life.
However a new Toastmaster is often at crossroads wondering about the speeches one can deliver as part of the Icebreaker. Here is a list of Icebreaker speech ideas.
Three Ideal Ideas for your Icebreaker Speech
"My Journey So Far" - Talk about your life's path, including important moments, challenges, and successes.
"Lessons from My Role Models" - Explain how your role models have affected you and what you have learned from them.
"Turning Points in My Life" - Highlight major events in your life that have made you who you are today.
Sample Icebreaker Speeches
Speech 1: "My Journey So Far"
Introduction: Good evening, fellow Toastmasters and guests. Today, I want to share my journey so far. It's been full of twists, turns, and unforgettable experiences.
Body:
Place of Birth + Upbringing + Hobbies
Important Milestone- Moving to a New Place/ Setting. Academic Pursuits
Professional Pursuits + Learnings + Resolve/ Goal
Conclusion: Looking back, my journey has been marked by growth and learning. These experiences have shaped who I am today. I'm excited to continue this journey with all of you at Toastmasters. Thank you.
Speech 2: "Lessons from My Role Models"
Introduction: Good evening, fellow Toastmasters and guests. Today, I'd like to share lessons from my role models, who have greatly influenced my life.
Body:
Role Models and their Value Systems- Why did it draw you and how did it help you
Quote + Anecdote that left a deep impression.
Professional/ or personal challenge, you overcame.
Conclusion: Lessons from my role models have shaped my values and ambitions. I hope to inspire others just as they have inspired me. Thank you.
Speech 3: "Turning Points in My Life"
Introduction: Good evening, fellow Toastmasters and guests. Today, I'd like to share some significant turning points in my life.
Body:
Challenge that you came across.
How did you overcome it?
Who helped you overcome it?
Looking Back and reflecting upon it- what was the biggest learning
Conclusion: Each turning point has been a lesson in growth. They made me stronger and more determined. I'm excited to see what new turning points lie ahead and to share this journey with all of you. Thank you.
Talking about yourself to a group of strangers might seem daunting and unsettling. However, the core idea of an icebreaker is to forge friendships and connections that might last for a long, long time and the time you spend the first time together is always cherished.
Relax, Smile and Deliver.
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