Welcomer

ROLE INTRODUCTION

The roles of the Welcomer is to ensure everyone is seated in good time, the meeting begins promptly, and restarts promptly after the break.

THE ROLE

Before the Meeting

It’s important to prepare for the role.  Although this role might seem relatively ‘minor’, as the Welcomer is not on stage for a long period, it’s actually very crucial!

A well prepared introduction really sets the tone for the evening and will make you feel more confident about getting people to their seats.


At the Meeting

  • Arrive with sufficient time (at least 15 minutes before the start of the meeting) to make sure you know the correct directions for the fire exit and toilets etc. relative to the meeting room!
  • You can connect with committee officers and the Toastmaster of the evening to make sure things are on track to start on time. You can also check if any special guests are present such as District Leaders, who should also be recognised in the salutation*.
  • A couple of minutes before the official meeting start time, stand on the stage and give a 1 minute warning before the meeting starts.
  • Call the meeting to order, welcome everyone (in the first half say Mr/Madame President, fellow Toastmasters and most welcome guests – in the 2nd half say Mr/Madame President, Mr/Mme Toastmaster, fellow Toastmasters and most welcome guests)
  • Give the housekeeping notices (i.e. fire exits, toilets, mobile phones and the location of the bar!).  Introduce and hand over to the President.
  • At the end of the 1st half of the meeting, make sure you clarify with the Toastmaster when the 2nd half is due to start (this should have been clear in their closing address).
  • A couple of minutes before the 2nd half start time, stand on the stage and give a 1 minute warning (using the gavel to get people’s attention).
  • At the start of the 2nd half, welcome everyone back and remind them to turn of their phones.
*Saluation examples

Mr/Madame President, Mr/Madame Toastmaster, fellow Toastmasters and welcome guests

          (informal) President, Toastmaster, fellow members and guests

Mr/Madame Area Director (or other District role), Mr/Madame President, Mr/Madame Toastmaster, fellow members and guests

          (informal) Area Director, President, Toastmaster, fellow members and guests