Table Topics Evaluator

Role Objective

Evaluate the Table Topics speeches, empathetically and objectively.

Description of Role

After the Table Topics Master has completed his role, deliver a brief evaluation of each speech when called on to do so by the meeting Chair. There may be two evaluators appointed.

Timing

Your time will be allocated in the Agenda. Allow 30 secs max per speaker evaluated.

Procedure

If two evaluators are appointed, speak to the other evaluator before the Table Topics commence and determine who will attend to the odd numbered (1st, 3rd, 5th, etc) speakers and who will evaluate the evens.

Address the meeting when called by the Chair and explain your role to guests very briefly (if there are two evaluators only if you are the first evaluator),

Focus on the simple issues of speech delivery (vocal variety, body language, eye contact etc) and give credit for the speaker's ability to deal with the Topic.

It is often preferable to reduce the CRC formula (see the speech evaluation notes on this site) to CR as the full CRC can be a big ask in the limited time available to evaluate each Topic. Prioritize to select the major Commendation and major Recommendation and address those, you will have very little time to deal with other issues.

You are asked here to evaluate the speech, using the usual method for Toastmaster evaluations, not the speaker or the Topic. Remember the need to be positive and friendly whilst being objective. Try to use examples to illustrate your point.

If you are asked to present the Award for best Table Topic, remember to say (in one short sentence) WHY you made the selection you did.

Key points

• Address the meeting and explain your role.

• Use the KISS and CR principles.

• Be concise, time is tight.

Desirable Outcome

A positive educational assist to speakers impromptu skills and a useful adjunct to the meeting.