The Timer monitors and supports the clubs time management. In a meeting, the Timer operates a stopwatch and a light signal box with three lights: GREEN, YELLOW and RED. The three meeting leaders need to keep the meeting on schedule; and the prepared speakers, table topics speakers and evaluators need to be aware of speaking times. Effective meetings start and end on time.
A stopwatch indicating minutes and seconds times the presentations. Keep a record of speaker’s names and times to be reported at the end of each meeting segment. The club then votes for the "Best" and awards ribbons. However, speaking 31 seconds or more under, or 31 seconds or more over the targeted time disqualifies a speaker for awards.
Light signal boxes can be electrical and plugs into a standard outlet or battery powered. The lights operate one at a time by individual switches. Test the lights and demonstrate them when describing the Timer's duties so everyone understands and can see how the lights work.
Speakers
- 2 minutes of requested time remaining, the GREEN light is turned on and remains on until
- 1 minute remains, the YELLOW light is switched on and remains on until
- the full requested time is reached, the RED light goes on and remains on until the speaker concludes
Table Topic Speakers (for a 1 to 2 minute Table Topic target, as in Contest Competition)
- GREEN light is turned on at 1 minute
- YELLOW light is turned on at 1 minute and 30 seconds
- RED light goes at 2 minutes and remains on until the speaker has concluded
Evaluators
- GREEN light is switched on at 2 minutes
- YELLOW light at 2 minutes and 30 seconds
- RED light goes at 3 minutes and remains on until the speaker has concluded
If a project requires special timing cues, arrange this prior to the meeting with the Timer and the Toastmaster to facilitate smooth flowing meetings.
