A major portion of every meeting is centered around two or more speakers. Their speeches are prepared (based on manual project objectives) and should last from five to seven minutes for the basic manual and eight or more minutes, depending on the assignment, for the advanced manuals.

Preparation is essential to success when you are the speaker. Each speech should be well-prepared and rehearsed to ensure quality. Remember, club members learn from one another's speeches. Every speaker is a role model.

Prior to the meeting...

• Check the meeting schedule to find out when you are programmed to speak. In order to derive the most benefits from the program, plan to speak from your manual. Present the speeches in numerical order.
• Before the meeting ask the General Evaluator who will be your Evaluator. Speak with your Evaluator and share with him or her which manual speech you will be giving. Discuss with the Evaluator speech goals and personal concerns. Emphasize where you think 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 ruin your talk.
• Sit near the head of the table for quick and easy access to the lectern.
• Carefully plan your approach to the lectern and speech opening.
• Be sure that 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 Day is prepared to give you a grand send-off.

During the meeting...

• Give your full attention to the speakers at the lectern. Try to avoid studying your speech notes while someone else is talking.
• When introduced, smoothly leave your chair and move to the lectern as planned.
• Before you begin your speech, always acknowledge the Toastmaster and the audience (Toastmasters and guests).
• Plan your speech closing as carefully as your opening. It's the finishing touch that will bring on the applause. This is your last chance to reach your audience, and it is a notice that your talk is ending. Never thank your audience, but return control of the meeting over to the Toastmaster of the day. Always wait for him or her at the lectern, and then return to your seat.
• During the evaluation of your speech, listen carefully for helpful hints that will assist in building better future talks. Pay attention to the advice of other members on improvement.

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 of Education initial the "Record of Assignments" in the back of your manual.

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