Tip for Table Topics Master
Introduction:
This document is a 5 point plan to make the role of
the Topics Master as easy and relaxed as possible.
For this to occur the Topics Master should: Read this
document before the meeting. This will provide
guidance to this part of the evening and make it an
enjoyable experience.
Function:
The Topics Master is responsible for running the
"table topics" session. The session's purpose is two
fold:
· It enables us to develop the skills of impromptu
speaking
· It provides a speaking opportunity for anybody who
is not otherwise included in the meeting program.
At The Meeting:
1 After your introduction by the Toastmaster,
make a brief "scene setting" address which should
mention the purpose of topics and introduce the
general theme of your session - maximum duration 2
minutes.
2 Call upon the topic speakers, as follows:
· A couple of experienced speakers first or sweep the
room from left to right
· Members with no other speaking role
· Willing guests (do not pressure anybody to speak)
· Don't ask for volunteers at first, as this slows down
the momentum of the speakers.
WARNING: Do not exceed the planned number of
speakers unless time permits.
3. For each topics speaker:
· Introduce the speaker by name
· Describe the assignment (15 seconds maximum)
· Greet the speaker - repeat name
· Thank the speaker on completion of their topic
4. On completion of the session, thank all
participants and pass control of the meeting back to
the Toastmaster. Remind the audience to vote on the
best speaker and for them to give you the slip of
paper. Remember to give the result to the President
before the end of the meeting for him/her to announce
the winner at the end of the meeting along with the
Best Evaluator.
5. Notes & Tips
· Contrary to popular belief, Table topics is not
intended as an opportunity for EVERYBODY to speak.
· Get a rhythm going with volunteers- be cavalier
about it.
· Subject matter is entirely the responsibility of
the Topics Master but experience shows that a good
overall performance is achieved in the following
circumstances:
i) The topic is one allowing the speaker to speak
from their own experience.
ii) The topics session follows a common theme allowing
the less-experienced speakers some preparation time.
· When choosing speakers, DO NOT pick on the people who
have Prepared Speeches.
· Always greet each topics speaker with a handshake
and lead the applause - do the same on completion of
the speech.
By volunteering for this role you'll gain the skill
of co-ordinating part of the meeting. The idea behind
Toastmasters is to further your confidence in public
speaking. So with this newfound insight and
confidence, it'll be beneficial for you to volunteer
to be Toastmaster for the next meeting, while there's
momentum. It's like a lot of things in life, it's not
as difficult as you think!
Compiled by Toastmasters of Miles
Square Road, 6101-46
Printed with permission of Peter Ward,
Immediate Past President and current Vice President
Education
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