by Joyce Piñero
“Just do it!” Jill Morrison, DTM, encourages others to step into leadership positions.
Jill, who has been a Toastmaster for 21 years, has taken on multiple leadership roles in both the club and district level. She doesn’t know if she would have stayed in Toastmasters for as long as she has if it weren’t for the leadership opportunities, training, and responsibilities.
A couple of years ago, Jill had the opportunity to chair the District Conference. It was the first year after COVID. This presented challenges beyond the typical chair duties. Health and space restrictions required extra thought and planning. It was also the last year of the transition from the Traditional Educational Program to Pathways, which produced a huge number of DTMs recognized at the D25 world famous DTM ceremony. Jill rose to meet each challenge head on.
Although Jill was a project manager professionally, volunteering in leadership positions has helped her develop and grow in her skill set. She has learned to manage large scale projects and volunteers.
She has grown both personally and professionally from these new skills.
Jill highly recommends that members volunteer at a club, then district level. “Take baby steps into district rolls.” There is always someone to help you with the job. Step into smaller roles. Attend trainings. Gradually increase your commitment level. Meet people outside of your personal club. See things from different perspectives.
“Get a taste for it,” Jill recommends. Step into leadership. Build confidence. Expand your personal network. Develop transferable skills in a supportive environment. “Just do it.”
