What to expect at a meeting
Brand new to Toastmasters? Relax. Here's exactly how a Banyandah meeting runs, the roles our members play, and the questions we hear most often. Your first visit is always free, and you never have to speak.
Runs for
About 2 hours
When
6:45 for a 7:00pm start
To speak?
Only if you want to
How a meeting runs
Every meeting follows a friendly, structured format so everyone knows what is coming next.
- 1
Welcome & warm up
- Sergeant at Arms calls the meeting to order
- Toastmaster of the evening introduces the meeting
- Grammarian introduces the word of the day
- Warm up
- 2
Prepared speeches
- Project Speech 1, 2 and 3
- Speech evaluations for each speaker
- 3
Break
- A chance to chat over tea and coffee
- 4
Table Topics
- Table Topics (impromptu speaking)
- Table Topics evaluations
- 5
Reports & close
- Grammarian report
- Harkmaster (listening quiz)
- Timing report
- General Evaluation
- Club business and close
The roles members play
Everyone pitches in. Roles rotate each meeting, and there are plenty that are perfect for brand new members, so you can build confidence one step at a time.
The Toastmaster
All members are called Toastmasters, but the Toastmaster of the evening runs the meeting. They prepare the agenda, arrange the speakers, evaluators and timekeepers, and introduce each speaker. They act as the genial host or master of ceremonies. New members take on this role when they feel ready, usually after a few speeches.
Table Topics Master
Table Topics helps members learn to think on their feet. The Table Topics Master poses a series of short questions or scenarios and invites members to stand and respond for about one to one and a half minutes. Guests are welcome to take part if they wish, and anyone can choose to pass.
Speaker (project speech)
New members start with the Competent Communicator manual and its first project, The Icebreaker, speaking about a subject they know best: themselves. Later projects build skills such as body language, visual aids and voice projection, leading on to advanced awards.
Speech Evaluator
The evaluator gives constructive feedback to help the speaker improve. Evaluations follow a simple three part format: commend what was done well, offer suggestions for improvement, then finish on a strong and encouraging note.
General Evaluator
The General Evaluator assesses the meeting as a whole. Did it start on time? Was it well prepared and warm in feeling? They evaluate the roles not already covered and call for brief reports from the Grammarian and Timekeeper. This role usually goes to a more experienced member.
Timekeeper
The Timekeeper gives feedback on the time taken for each speaking assignment and works with the Toastmaster to keep the meeting running on time. It is a great first role for a new member.
Grammarian & Um-Ah Counter
The Grammarian introduces a word for the day and notes how well language is used through the meeting. They often also count the ums, ahs and other filler sounds, giving friendly feedback to help members polish their delivery. Another welcoming role for newcomers.
Harkmaster
The Harkmaster tests everyone's listening skills, asking questions during the general evaluation about what was said earlier in the meeting. It encourages active listening, and new members can take it on too.
Sergeant at Arms
The Sergeant at Arms calls the meeting to order at the start and after the break, sets up the room, and greets members and their guests as they arrive. They also arrange refreshments at meetings and meals at speech contests.
Frequently asked questions
My mind goes blank whenever I try to speak to a group. Is there any hope for me?+
Yes, definitely. Everyone is able to learn public speaking, it is just a matter of practice. With practice you will train your mind to think ahead while you are speaking. It is something everyone can learn.
How long does it take to become a confident speaker?+
People vary, but in general terms in about six weeks you would feel comfortable giving a short presentation to a group. Within three months you would be able to give a much more challenging presentation.
Aren't new speakers nervous in front of so many experienced speakers?+
Yes, most are, but that is okay. Everyone, including the most experienced speakers, remembers their own nervous start. You will never find a more encouraging audience.
How would I measure my progress?+
Banyandah uses the structured Toastmasters Pathways learning program. You work through a series of graded projects, beginning with simple tasks and building towards more challenging presentations at your own pace.
Do I have to speak on my first visit?+
Not at all. Come along as a guest, watch how a meeting runs, and join in only if and when you feel comfortable.
Come and visit us. Your first time is free.
No pressure, no obligation. Come along as a guest, see how it works, and join in only if you'd like to.