Because Public Relations requires interaction with others, it is simply not possible for one person to do it alone. One person has a limited sphere of influence. A group of people, all taking PR actions, can expand PR exponentially. If you are a club VP Public Relations, engage every club member in PR. This does not have to be overwhelming. Simply teach your club members to use the Soft Tap Technique, then praise them for doing it. It is free. It takes very little time. It is easy.

A Soft Shoulder Tap occurs when you mention to a friend, acquaintance, or co-worker that you are a member of a Toastmasters club, that you enjoy it, and that you are having fun. Here is a sample script for a Soft Shoulder Tap.

"Have I told you that I have joined a Toastmasters club? I am really enjoying myself. Yesterday, I gave my third speech. I am actually starting to get more comfortable speaking in front of a group. I am glad I joined Toastmasters".

That is it. Teach all your club members to use PR in this way. Advise them to use a soft approach with no nagging or pressure. The first time they mention Toastmasters, they do not even need to ask the person to visit.

Once you have taught the Soft Shoulder Tap technique, begin asking club members to tell you how they are doing with the technique. Praise members who use Soft Shoulder Taps.

Next, teach your club members to begin using the Tap Again Plus Invite. Ask them to look for other openings to bring up the topic of Toastmasters. Advise them to use fact and emotion to gently show the other person how Toastmasters can be a pleasant, beneficial experience. Here is a sample script for the Tap Again Plus Invite.

"I am so excited! I gave my fifth speech today. Everyone agreed that I am definitely getting better. There is a lot more I want to learn, but I am doing better than I ever thought I could. You have to give presentations sometimes don't you? Would you like to get some tips and encouragement on giving speeches? Why don't you come with me to our next meeting as my guest? Just visit a few times and see what you think".

Ask your club members to consider each brief mention to be a gentle tap on the shoulder. It might take several taps before someone actually decides to visit your club. That's okay. It is free and easy. Remember, the reason we are engaging in PR is to bring others to Toastmasters where they can improve their communication and leadership skills. Let's do our friends a favor and begin tapping.