Mastering the Art of Table Topics: Your Role as Table Topics Master

In the dynamic world of Toastmasters, the Table Topics® session stands out as a unique opportunity for members to sharpen their impromptu speaking skills. At the heart of this session is the Topicsmaster, a pivotal role that requires creativity, organization, and the ability to spark engaging responses from participants. This blog post delves into the responsibilities and strategies for excelling as a Topicsmaster, guiding you through the before, during, and after stages of this crucial role.

Before the Meeting:

1. Theme Coordination:
   • Begin your Topicsmaster journey by confirming any scheduled meeting theme with the Toastmaster. Align your topics to complement the chosen theme, creating a cohesive and engaging experience for participants.
2. Diverse Topic Selection:
   • In the absence of a specific theme, curate a diverse selection of topics that cater to different interests and perspectives. Avoid repeating Table Topics from recent meetings to keep the content fresh and stimulating.
3. Speaker List Preparation:
   • Create a list of scheduled speakers, evaluators, the General Evaluator, and the Toastmaster for the meeting. This proactive approach allows you to call on members efficiently, keeping the session organized and well-paced.
4. Prioritize Members Already Scheduled:
   • If time permits, call on participants who are already scheduled to speak during the meeting. This ensures that everyone has a chance to contribute to the Table Topics session.

During the Meeting:

1. Introduction and Enthusiastic Remarks:
   • When introduced, briefly articulate the purpose of the Table Topics session. Set the tone with enthusiasm and make participants feel welcome and encouraged to participate.
2. Announce Topics with Enthusiasm:
   • Announce your topics with a touch of excitement. If the club has a designated word of the day, encourage speakers to incorporate it into their responses for an added challenge.
3. Timing Considerations:
   • Review the maximum time allowed for each speaker’s response and remind members of the timing signal if it hasn’t been done already. Efficient time management contributes to a smooth and well-organized Table Topics session.
4. Random Selection Process:
   • Embrace the impromptu nature of Table Topics by randomly selecting members to respond. This approach ensures that everyone has an equal chance to participate, fostering spontaneity and quick thinking.
5. Keep Comments Concise:
   • As a Topicsmaster, your role is to facilitate and provide opportunities for others to speak. Keep your comments short and focused, allowing participants to shine and share their thoughts.
6. Adapt to Time Constraints:
   • Check the printed agenda for the designated time for Table Topics and adjust the number of questions or topics accordingly. Even if the session starts late, be flexible in managing time to conclude your segment punctually.
7. Best Table Topics Speaker Award:
   • If your club awards a Best Table Topics Speaker, coordinate with the timer to identify eligible participants. Invite members to vote and pass their votes to the Sergeant at Arms or vote counter. If there’s a Table Topics evaluator, invite their report before returning control of the meeting to the Toastmaster.

Conclusion:

Mastering the role of Topicsmaster is not just about issuing topics; it’s about creating an environment that fosters creativity, spontaneity, and engagement. By carefully preparing topics, maintaining enthusiasm, and managing time effectively, you can ensure that the Table Topics session becomes a highlight of every Toastmasters meeting. As the conduit for impromptu expression, the Topicsmaster plays a vital role in empowering members to articulate their thoughts confidently and concisely.