ETIQUETTE

Procedure for the Presiding Officer or the Toast

Master

The success or failure of the occasion depends largely upon the skill of the Presiding Officer or the Toastmaster in directing and introducing the speakers. It is he who weaves as it were the web between the different speakers and blends the whole into a unity.

He must be careful of the composition of his program. He must plan it. He must choose the most suitable speaker to begin it, and another most effective speaker for the climax. He must make the program a unit, with the items arranged for increasing interest. He must tastefully arrange it; as a decorator a window.

The Presiding Officer or Toastmaster must be alert. He must be tactful. He must handle the embarrassing moments with a masterful hand.

It is related that when George Washington was a member of the House of Burgesses, the Speaker, Mr. Robinson, was directed to give expression of thanks for the House for his distinguished military services. This he did with such eloquence that Washington was in confusion when he arose to respond. He stammered and trembled-then the Speaker relieved him by saying. "Sit down, Mr. Washington, your modesty is equal to your valor; and that surpasses the power of any language that I possess."

If it is a program where, of necessity, a considerable number of data and figures are to be given, make use of this speaker early in the meeting, but not the first. The man with data and figures is an important man, though the audience is not likely to think so.

When a speaker has finished his speech, the Toastmaster has the privilege of referring to it, in a commendatory manner, but not the privilege of discussing it.

If the committee on arrangements is not alert, seek out for yourself the speakers on the program and introduce yourself and others.

In a Convention Program the Presiding Officer

must have an understanding with the speakers as to the time allotted to each. He must adhere to his program in justice to all. He should emphasize this fact at the outset.

When the speaker's time is up, notice carefully whether he shows any sign of stopping as he comes to the end of the point which he is making. If he begins another point, quickly give him a warning by standing silently, or by tapping the glass in front of you.

The Toastmaster must be very careful in his remarks not to "steal the thunder" of the speaker of the evening. This is a grave offense, and must be guarded against.

Do not be too elaborate when introducing a speaker. He may not rise to the ideal which you have created in the minds of those present.

Refer to your acquaintance with the speaker, or to his reputation.

Make a pleasant reference to the occasion which calls you together.

Do not tell a number of anecdotes to begin with, or at any time for that matter. One good anecdote, appropriately placed, is generally sufficient.

Etiquette for the Committee on Arrangements

If you have arranged some weeks in advance for a speaker, write to him again a few days before his coming.

Meet the Speaker by prearrangement.

Introduce him to the Chairman, and those near him when he is seated.

When the invitation is sent to the clergyman who is to say grace, note in it that he is assigned to the speaker's table.

In the matter of Public Speaking always treat another as you would like to be treated. If you are acting as Toastmaster and you intend calling upon a man who has had no notice to that effect try and create a notice out of the occasion.

Etiquette for the Speaker

Always recognize the chairman when you arise to speak.

Do not fail to make a pleasant reference to the occasion; and to those who have preceded you, if there have been other speakers.

In response to a vote of appreciation, if you say anything do not make another speech. Say simply,

"It has been a great pleasure to be here," or "I thank you for the compliment." It is often most appropriate to rise and make a slight bow.

In speaking, always avoid unseemly mannerisms; for example:

Fumbling the spoon or glass in front of you while you are speaking.

up.

Adjusting your clothing when you stand

Scratching your head or rubbing your nose. Holding the lapels of your coat with your hands.

Putting your hands on your hips.

Putting either or both of your hands in your pockets.

Slapping your hands together for emphasis. Leaning upon the desk, though you might steady yourself, at times, with one hand, while you stand at the side of it.

When speaking upon a serious subject it is often wise to introduce a bit of humor of the proper sort. It tends to relieve the tension of the audience, and you are then better able to hold their attention.

Never abuse the courtesy of the time given to you. When the time has expired, get to your con