In December 2013 and January 2014, I delivered a number of workshops in the Toastmasters Leadership Institute for San Antonio. Here are my notes on what I did in my sessions, and general Toastmasters tips and info on the relevant topics. Table Topics Why are Table Topics Called “Table Topics”? How to Run Table Topics Should Table Topics be Evaluated? Why...

In January of 2014, I had the opportunity to train sergeants at arms at a COT (Club Officer Training) event in District 55. You know what officer training needs? Weapons. Ok, break out the Nerf guns! The sergeant at arms is technically the lowest role in Toastmasters, coming after all other six in matters of seniority. However, I argue that the SAA is the one whose...

If you ever have trouble falling asleep, read through Toastmasters Policy and Protocol or Robert’s Rules of Order. After a few months of intense study, you’ll know everything you ever need to know about running business meetings in Toastmasters. For the rest of us, here’s a quick cheat sheet. If you do run into issues, reach out to your District...

On December 14, 2013 I had the honor of delivering a Toastmasters Leadership Institute (TLI) session to teach attendees about how to be a club president in Toastmasters. Perhaps my notes of that workshop will be beneficial to others. I decided to have the attendees themselves do most of the talking. I like to make sessions interactive and engaging. Also, I’m...

Some clubs—even some divisions—mistakenly believe the SAA opens meetings, then turns control over to the President, who turns control over to the Toastmaster of the Day. From page 22 of the officer’s manual (the link should go straight there): The club president opens and presides over every club, business, and executive committee meeting. It’s my...

One of the duties of the Vice President Education is running a mentoring program for people in the club. Here are some tips and answers to common questions on running an effective, high-quality mentoring program. The value of mentors lies, not just in providing expert guidance to help people learn, but in providing a friendly, encouraging connection that keeps people...