A major portion of each meeting is centered around three or more speakers. Their speeches are prepared based on manual project objectives and should last from five to seven minutes for projects in the basic Communication and Leadership Program manual and eight or more minutes, depending on the assignment, for projects in the Advanced Communication and Leadership Program manuals.  For your icebreaker speech, click here   For 10 Tips for Successful Public Speaking, Click Here.   For some really great ideas for your TOPIC Click HERE

Preparation is essential to success when you are the speaker.

PRIOR TO THE MEETING
Check the meeting schedule to find out when you are to speak. In order to get the most benefits from the program, prepare a speech based on a manual project. If you follow the numerical order of the projects, you will find that each project builds on the skills learned in previous projects.  Although there is no set "rule" for the order of giving your speeches, the numerical order is the path easiest followed.

Click here to download the Speakers Introduction form.  Then fill it out and bring it with you to the meeting.  It will help the Toastmaster of the Day to give you an appropriate introduction.

Click here to download a speech timing program that you can run on your computer while you are practicing your speech.

Before your meeting ask the general evaluator for your evaluator’s name. Speak to your evaluator and talk about the manual speech you’ll be giving. Discuss with the evaluator your speech goals and personal concerns. Emphasize where you feel your speech ability needs strengthening. Remember to bring your manual to the meeting.

WHEN YOU ENTER THE ROOM
Arrive early. Check the microphone, lighting, etc. before everyone arrives. Protect yourself from all of the problems that can distract from your talk.
Sit near the front of the room for quick and easy access to the lectern.
Carefully plan your approach to the lectern and speech opening.
Be sure you give your manual to your evaluator before the meeting starts.
If you don’t write your own speech introduction, make certain that the Toastmaster of the meeting has prepared a good one for you.

DURING THE MEETING
Give your full attention to the speakers at the lectern. Avoid studying your speech notes while someone else is talking.
When introduced, smoothly leave your chair and walk to the lectern as planned.
As you begin your speech, acknowledge the Toastmaster and the audience (Toastmasters and guests).
When finishing your speech, never thank your audience. Simply return control of the meeting to the Toastmaster of the meeting. Always wait for the Toastmaster to return to the lectern, then return to your seat.
During the evaluation of your speech, listen intently for helpful hints that will assist in building better future talks.
Pay attention to suggestions from other members.
AFTER THE MEETING
Get your manual from your evaluator. At this time discuss any questions you may have concerning your evaluation to clarify any misinterpretations.
Have the Vice President Education initial the Project Completion Record in the back of your manual.