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Being Toastmaster of the Day
by Stan Ng, CTM
We Toastmasters pride ourselves on our effective and confident speech
delivery. Just as important, though, is the art of leading a meeting: Are the
proceedings going smoothly? Does the meeting seem under control and moving ahead
at all times? Is the meeting entertaining and/or worthwhile?
A smoothly run Toastmasters meeting is the responsibility of the
Toastmaster-of-the-Day. When you have this role, you own the show, from creating
the Agenda to conducting the program. This means more than just following a
printed program by rote. Here are a few things to remember when you're the
Toastmaster.
 | Prepare the Agenda
and make sure all roles are filled before the program starts. Verify that
all assigned roles will be filled by attendees. Arrive early
and note who's present and absent, and be ready to make substitutions if
needed. |
| Take control
A meeting needs a focal point to let everyone know someone is in control of
the meeting at all times. You are that focal point until you reliquish
control to another speaker. |
| Be genial and warm
Make guests feel like they want to return. You need to exercise all the
skills you learned in your prepared speeches--vocal variety, body gestures,
eye contact--to keep everyone engaged. |
| Introduce the Speaker
Introduce the speaker in a way that makes your audience take interest in the speaker's topic.
After their speech, don't comment on the quality of the speech. You don't
want to steal the thunder of the Evaluator! Neutral statements are okay. |
| Keep it moving
An audience becomes uncomfortable with unexplained silences or rambling
interludes. Know what you want to say in transitioning between meeting
segments, and be ready to improvise. |
| Lead the applause
Remember everyone is following your lead. Sometimes people need someone to
tell them it's appropriate to start applauding. |
And most of all, relax and enjoy this opportunity! Next time you're asked to
host a meeting you'll get compliments on your composure and control.
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Oaks Toastmasters