The Role of the Master of Ceremonies is to keep the show moving and also keep it interesting. This is a role that has to be worked on, and prepared thoroughly. The role is one akin to conducting an orchestra. However a point to note in Toastmasters is that the MC is not there to play the role of star of the show. The role calls for a smart, clinical handling of the activities of the meeting. There are a few areas that have to be focused on:

• Agenda for the Meeting, and sticking to the timelines (particularly Start/End times)
• Ensuring that the meeting is lively and interesting
• Linking between the roles at the meeting, and making it as seamless as possible

• Know your agenda well, and also know your assignees well.
• Have prepared introductions for each of the assignees. Ideally, keep these aligned with the theme of the meeting.
• Use your rhetorical devices to add Zing to your presentation – Metaphor, Simile, Vivid Mental Pictures, Alliterations, Triads.
• Use Anecdotes, and jokes, to keep the meeting interesting. But, please use these sparingly (remember you are not the star of the show, but just the conductor of the meeting)
• Do not make any personal NEGATIVE comments about any of the assignees.
• Do make only POSITIVE, Motivating comments that will add value to the speaker.
• Connect the assignees across a bridge so that there seems to be some connectivity between the various activities of the meeting.
• Do try to stick to the laid down formula in TM, but do also bring in variation and innovation once you have become adept as an MC.
• Be as brief as possible, as this helps direct attention to the assignees rather that to you.
• Have one or two ace comments up your sleeve in case something goes wrong (power/mic failure, dropped glass.... etc).
• Check the section under Tips and Tricks for more information that you could use on all the above points.
• Stick to Time, and you will be appreciated. If you do not value your audience’s time, they will not value YOU!
• End on a high. Do reserve one of your best lines for the closing, and hand over smartly to the President so that he/she can close the meeting.