The Table Topics Master runs the improvised speaking section of the meeting.
The Topics Master is responsible for running the 'table topics' session, the purpose of which is to
1) To develop the skills of impromptu speaking
2) To provide a speaking opportunity for anybody who is not otherwise included in the meeting programme.
3) Encourage guests and new members to participate in the meeting.
PREPARATION
Prepare sufficient topics to accommodate the number of topics speakers. Some Topics Masters try to set only 'challenging' topics which may result in excellent performances from a few speakers but frighten less confident speakers and guests. Take care. The questions should be open ended and easy for guests and new members to answers. When deciding on the questions, try answering them yourself to see if they work.
Our agenda is based on 1.5 minutes per speaker and no more than 2 minutes per topic including your intro & applause etc.
AT THE MEETING
Arrive at least 15 minutes before the formal start of the meeting in order to speak to members and guests as they arrive. Prepare a list of people wishing to participate in the topics session, giving priority to those who are not on the programme already.
Take a note of the speaker’s full name and use it when asking them to speak.
1) When you are introduced, make a brief 'scene setting' address. If the Toastmaster has not already done so, mention the purpose of Table Topics and then introduce the general theme of your session - max 2 minutes.
2) Call upon the topics speakers, as follows:
- A couple of experienced speakers first
- Other members with no other speaking role
- Willing guests (do not pressure anybody to speak)
- Finish with an experienced speaker to end the session on a positive note.
Do not exceed the planned number of speakers unless time permits and the Toastmaster agrees.
3) Read the question slowly and clearly and then give the name of the speaker.
4) Lead the applause and greet the speaker, shaking their hand. Thank and applaud the speaker on completion of their topic
5) Finally thank all participants and hand back to the Toastmaster.
NOTES AND TIPS for Topics Masters
Table Topics is useful for those who have no other opportunity to speak during the meeting. Do arrive early to speak to potential participants.
Table Topics should provide a good way for newer members and less confident speakers to start gaining confidence, so encourage and help them.
It should also provide opportunities for more experienced speakers to stretch their abilities so feel free to give them more demanding topics.
Do have a wide selection of topics and adjust them according to the speaker.
Do not impose Table Topics on a reluctant speaker.
Subject matter is entirely the responsibility of the Topics Master but experience shows that a good overall performance is achieved if the topics session follows a common theme allowing the less experienced speakers to have some preparation time.
Do not go over the allotted time - the best way to control timing in a topics session is firstly to keep your instructions and comments as brief and as clear as possible, and secondly to control the number of speakers.