A person joining Toastmasters receives a "Basic Manual" of ten speeches, each with a specific set of goals. They are very introductory as the speaker gains comfort in front of an audience, and progressively become more challenging.

#1 - The Ice Breaker (4 - 6 min)

To begin speaking before an audience.
To help you understand what areas require particular emphasis in your speaking development.
To introduce yourself to your club members.

#2 - Be In Earnest (5 - 7 min)

To convince the audience of your earnestness, sincerity, and conviction on a subject you thoroughly understand.
To confront and control any nervousness you may have.

#3 - Organize Your Speech (5 - 7 min)

To organize your thoughts into a logical sequence that leads the audience to a clearly defined goal.
To build a speech outline that includes an opening, body, and conclusion.

#4 - Show What You Mean (5 - 7 min)

To learn the value of gestures and body movements as part of a speech.
To explore the different ways of using body language.
To develop a sense of timing and natural, smooth body movement.

#5 - Vocal Variety (5 - 7 min)

To explore the use of voice volume, pitch, rate, and quality as assets to your speaking.
To achieve a pleasing natural voice quality when speaking.

#6 - Work With Words (5 - 7 min)

To select precisely the right words required to communicate your ideas clearly, vividly, and appropriately.
To avoid lengthy words and sentances and jargon.

#7 - Apply Your Skills (5 - 7 min)

To bring together and apply the communication skills you have learned in the preceding projects.
To organize your speech in a logical manner, following one of the suggested outlines.
To research the facts needed to support your speech.
To make a personal evaluation of your progress.

#8 - Add Impact to Your Speech (5 - 7 min)

To learn the value of props in speaking.
To learn how to use props effectively in your presentations.

#9 - Persuade with Power (5 - 7 min)

To present a talk that persuades the audience to accept your proposal or viewpoint.
To achieve this persuasive effect by appealing to the audience's self-interest, building a logical foundation for agreement, and arousing emotional commitment to your cause.

#10 - Inspire Your Audience (8 - 10 min)

To understand the mood and feelings of your audience on a particular occasion.
To put those feelings into words and inspire the audience, using all the techniques you have learned so far.

Upon the completion of all ten speeches, a speaker is awarded the "Competent Toastmaster" (CTM) designation when submitting the appropriate form to Toastmasters International (TI). If you prefer, a letter will be sent by TI notifying your employer of this significant achievement.