Introducing the next person to take the lectern is a courtesy of good meeting protocol. The three meeting leaders, Toastmaster, Table Topics Master and General Evaluator are responsible for most of the control transferring in meetings. Each leader should identify the purpose of the meeting segment they are leading and manage the flow of participants in that segment. This is done with introductions to bring members up to the lectern to present, and a “thank-you” as control returns to the meeting leader. Even meeting leaders need introductions to assist the person who is bringing them to the lectern.
Speakers with an introduction for the meeting leader to bring them up to the lectern demonstrate they are prepared. An introduction is often a brief bio with background or experience relevant to the task to be performed. The introduction could include the speaker’s name, relevant background, the speaker’s task or subject, and again, the name of the speaker coming to take control of the lectern and the meeting.
Here is a Basic Introduction format for a speech evaluator:
“(Evaluator’s full name) has been in Toastmasters (# of months, years, # of speech projects completed, or TM designation). (Evaluator’s first name) finds that feedback is a valuable tool, allowing speaker’s to create positive change and growth. In the evaluation of “(speaker’s full name),” (Evaluator’s first name) will share his/her reactions to (speaker’s first name) presentation. Please welcome (Evaluator’s full name)."
This is simply a suggestion; tailor your introductions to fit you. For roles other than prepared speech projects try to keep your introduction to less than 30 or 40 seconds, your speaking is the focus not your introduction.
Membership in Toastmasters clubs often varies with new members coming and other members taking leave. Another benefit of introducing everyone is that it develops awareness and facilitates your club’s interpersonal connections. Having a computer printed bio sheet and/or a prepared introduction for your meeting role facilitates clear and effective meetings. Create a few bios and introductions to have with you wherever you go and you will become a welcomed and popular speaker.
