Table Topics Master

Check the theme for the meeting on the meeting roster page.
Prepare 8 table topics around the theme. Depending on timing and length of speeches that day – all 8 may not be used. Usually we have 5-7 table topics.

Thank you Mr./Madam Chairperson for this kind introduction.

Now we come to the impromptu speaking portion of the evening, Table Topics.

For the benefit of our guests [if guests are present], the objective of Table Topics is to acquire the ability to speak well when called upon and do so with only little prior preparation.
Speaking “off the cuff” is something we are often asked to do at work or in social situations. Learning to “think on your feet” is important during interviews, discussions, debates and seminars.

The benefits of impromptu speaking are many and 3 of the most important are:

The timing for each speech is 1 minute. Mr./Madame Timekeeper, please note the times:

Green at 0:30 seconds
Amber at 0:45 seconds, and
Red at 1:00 minute
After the red light, speakers will have up to 30 seconds to wrap up.
Anyone that goes over 1:30 seconds will not be eligible for the vote for Best Table Topic.

First Table Topic goes to <choose a person>.
(It’s a good idea to mix experienced members with guests)

[Repeat this process for each speaker.]

You have just heard …#… speakers expressing their feelings about a variety of subjects.
- <First Speaker Name> spoke about …….
- <Second Speaker Name> spoke about ………
- up to the final speaker
Mr./Madame Timekeeper could I have the time duration of all speakers please?
[At your discretion, exclude from the vote any speakers with timing infractions]

Please use the ballot in front of you to vote for the Best Table Topics speaker.

That concludes my function as your Table Topics Master and thank you for your active participation.

I will now return the control to our Chairperson of the evening <Toastmaster Name>