10 Ways of Running a Crisp Toastmaster’s Meeting

v     The Toastmaster will call or email all of the functionaries before the meeting and confirm that they will be there.

Ø      The speakers should be called or emailed a week in advance and be asking to supply the following:

§         Title of speech

§         Length

§         Introduction

Ø      One exception—have the Chief Evaluation call his/her evaluators to make sure they check in with the speakers regarding ‘special items they want addressed.

v     Start the meeting on time—NO EXCEPTIONS.

v     Keep announcements and business information to a minimum.  Any business should be handled by the officers.  It is up to the officer to make all of the decisions and this is done during the monthly officers meetings.

v     The Toastmaster should be organized and keeps the meeting moving.  Concentrate on good introductions for the speakers. 

v     Make applause count—do not use it as fluff.  We suggest that the only applause necessary:

Ø      People coming to the lectern

§            Toastmaster of the day

§            Table Topics Master

§            Speakers

§            Return control at the end of the meeting to the President

v     The Table Topics Master should keep instructional remarks brief and this portion of the meeting moving.

v     The time should monitor the timing of:

• Speakers
• Table Topics
• Evaluators

v     Make sure all meeting functionaries know how to do their jobs.

v     Keep checking the timing of the meeting (as shown on your agenda).  The keys are in the opening Presidential remarks and the Table Topics area.

v     The Toastmaster and Table Topics Master should beware of using too much filler material (information, jokes, etc.)