Coronado Toastmasters has a tradition - every member speaks at the meeting. The Table Topics Session is the portion of the meeting that ensures this tradition. The purpose of Table-Topics is to have members “think-on-their-feet” and speak for a minute or two. Successful Table-Topics sessions are planned and developed. The entire meeting is your for at least 20 minutes. What and opportunity! Plan to make the most of it.

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PRIOR TO THE MEETING

Choose a topic. Recall the Topics session of previous meetings for ideas. Seek variety and realism. Try fresh approaches and new ideas. Use your imagination to keep the program exciting and stimulating!

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AT THE MEETING

1. When introduced, briefly state the purpose of Table-Topics in the program. Set the stage for your Table-Topcs session. Keep your remarks brief. Encourage everyone to use the Word-of-the-Day in their response.

2. Decide on the time allotted for each response. Consider the number in attendance and the time you have for the session. Announce the time-limits so the Timer can assist you in keeping the program moving smartly along.

3. State the topic BRIEFLY. Then call on a member to respond. This serves two purposes:. First, it holds everyone’s attention since no one knows if they may have to respond or not. Second, it adds to the value of the program by encouraging good listening skills.

4. Encourage members to think. Any format that accomplishes this will be a success. The sky is the limit! Debates, role-playing, current-events and special issues are all good. Subjects can be serious or funny, fact or fiction and can range from “The Causes of Inflation” to “The Sex Life of Tsetse Fly”!

5. Call on speakers at random. Avoid following the roster in order or going around-the-room. Maintain control of the program throughout your session. Why deny yourself an important leadership opportunity?

6. When all members in attendance have spoken, invite the guests to participate ... IF THEY WISH TO DO SO. Don’t embarrass the guests, or anyone else for that matter. Simply offer guests the opportunity. If a Guest declines, express your thanks and move on.

7. When your session is complete, and all have had an opportunity, call for the Toastmaster and return control of the meeting to him.

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