Quick
Tips for ToastMaster(s) of the Day

 

 

 

 

• Choose
  a topic/thought of the day that will impart a takeaway value or
  which you believe will enhance participation.

• Notify the table topics
  master and grammarian your chosen topic of the day so that they can
  synchronize their choices with the topic/thought of the day.

• Ensure that you have an
  introduction , speech titles from each of the prepared speakers. If
  possible, get these from the back-up speakers as well. Email and/or
  call them.

• Find out if the
  office-bearers have any announcements or have invited any special
  guests. You will need to incorporate this in your flow.

• Be ready to take over
  the sergeant of the arms duties; i.e. you should be aware of the
  golden rule of the club “No topics that touch on sex, religion
  or politics”; know where the restrooms/washrooms are.

• Begin by welcoming the
  members and guests and announcing the topic/theme/thought of the
  day.

• Have
  each member introduce himself/herself; Have the grammarian describe
  his role and the word of the day to promote usage by every attendee
  prior to the round of introductions.

• Since every session has
  guests, do make it a point to describe the structure of the meeting
  i.e. prepared speeches and table topics , then the break, and the
  evaluations and felicitations.

• Make use of the little
  props you have, such as the medals/ribbons that are to be awarded to
  the best speakers in each category. It enhances impact and also
  gives you something to do.

• Try and start on time.
  Ensure that you finish on time as well. Members and guests have
  other commitments too.

• Do welcome toastmasters
  from other clubs and ask them for their feedback and experience at
  the club, preferably at the end of the session. Their welcome will
  be performed by one of the office-bearers.

• If members have
  participated in area or speech contests, it will be a good idea to
  recognize their exploits. Kudos are due! This may be done either at
  the beginning of the session or the end.

• Be prepared to comment
  favorably on prepared speeches and do not forget to ask for a round
  of applause for all the speakers when the prepared speeches end.

• Finally, end by
  thanking the attendees for their wonderful participation!

 

 

 

This is
an attempt to lend structure to what to the untrained eye will appear
extempore and fluid! Best of luck!

 

 

Note:
for details about the role of the toastmaster of the day, refer to
your member handbook. Or look up the Toastmaster International
website.