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.