Speechcraft is usually open to the public. A Speechcraft may be limited to members of the organization sponsoring the Speechcraft. All materials presented are designed by Toastmasters International, a non-profit organization devoted to making effective oral communication a worldwide reality. Speechcraft sessions are conducted by volunteers from local Toastmasters clubs. They receive no payment.
Speechcraft coordinators acknowledge that the best way to learn is by teaching others.
During this first presentation, each participant introduces him or herself to the group. By session six, the Speechcraft seminar is usually being conducted by the participants themselves with Toastmaster coordinators present solely for support and guidance. As sessions proceed, project speeches become more difficult, incorporating gestures, vocal variety, body movements, visual aids, etc. Participants are encouraged to pick topics they care about and use the opportunity to practice presenting ideas that will inspire or motivate their audience. Speechcraft participants learn to make presentations in front of an audience, learn to conduct crisp and organized meetings, and learn to listen.