Speech

Purpose		Giving prepared speeches is one of the highlights of your contributions at a meeting. It is where you put in the most effort, receive the most detailed feedback, and where you reap the most substantial rewards.
		The purpose of each speech is given in the manual that you are working from. You should endeavour to make every speech a manual speech.

When preparing		Consult first the manual, and establish what are the objectives of the speech. This is fundamental.
		Do not be overly concerned with content. You do not need to "wow" the audience with learned brilliance or scintillating wit. Concentrate on putting together a well structured speech that you feel confident in delivering. The emphasis is on delivery, not content.
		Source material can be from anywhere, perhaps your own experiences or maybe things you've read, an opinion you have, advice you've been given....
		If you need special equipment such as an overhead projector or whiteboard, markers and eraser, advise the Sergeant at Arms and the Toastmaster a few days in advance.
		As with all assignments, prepare and rehearse to ensure correct timing. Typically, an unrehearsed speech will go over time.

Before the meeting begins		Discuss with your evaluator any points that you would like him/her to watch out for, over and above the written objectives for the speech.
		Advise the Toastmaster of your title, speech number etc, and any special requirements or introduction you have.

What to do during your assignment		Before the speech, take a few deep breaths, and remember to relax! Stand, adjust your clothing and move to the side ready to walk on at the conclusion of your introduction.
		Acknowledge the Toastmaster and audience, then deliver your material.
		When finished, hand back to the Toastmaster.
		That is the end of your assignment. You will be evaluated later in the evening.
After the meeting		At the end of the meeting, update the wall charts and have the VPE sign your speech manual.

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