Role Guide: Timer

The role of the timer is a crucial one. The timer is responsible for keeping the evening on track and supporting speakers with the relevant timings of their speaking slots.

The timer of the meeting monitors each participant, indicates when they are nearing the end of their allotted time, and, at the end of the meeting, reports the length of each prepared speech, Table Topics® response, and evaluation. The role is straightforward, which is a great way for new members to get involved. Even if you’ve served as timer several times, challenge yourself to take it to the next level.

To be effective, a timer—like a plumber or a repair tech—needs the right toolkit: an agenda, a signal, and a clock.

Agenda.

When serving as timer, you’ll need a detailed agenda of the meeting. This will provided to you by the TME either via email or at the start of the evening. Review the time requirements for each prepared speech; in general, the timing indicator goes on at the five-, six-, and seven-minute mark, but Ice Breakers and advanced Pathways projects have different time limits.

You’ll also use the agenda to help the Toastmaster of the meeting keep the session on track. Depending on your club’s particular structure or what the Toastmaster might request, you monitor one-minute evaluation silences between speeches, ensure timely transitions between meeting segments, and watch the clock to make sure the Toastmaster brings members together promptly after the break.

Signal.

Maidenhead Speakers uses a lightbulb device to show the speaker a green, yellow, and red light which means that the minimum time (green), midpoint (yellow) and maximum time allocated (red) has been reached. 

Clock.

The timer needs a timer. These days, a mobile phone usually serves that purpose. However,  we also still have an actual stopwatch in the box that you can use.

One of the most important lessons that Toastmasters teaches us is how to convey a clear message within an allocated time frame. When you serve as timer of the meeting, you play a fundamental role in helping fellow club members master this skill. Armed with your toolkit, you are their greatest ally in their race against the clock.