Table Topics at The Knowledge Club Toastmasters of Marietta, GA

Have you ever been asked for your opinion about something, only to have your mind go blank? Have you given your opinion, but it was so disorganized that the point you were trying to make was lost?

The ability to "think and speak on your feet" is an important skill that often determines your success in job interviews, for example. All kinds of careers and occupations require this skill.

That's why the "Table Topics" portion of the Toastmasters club meeting was developed. Table Topics provides you with the opportunity to practice impromptu speaking.. By answering brief Table Topics questions, you learn how to present your thoughts clearly and convincingly, with no more than a few seconds of preparation. You also learn to listen constructively, and to think flexibly.

The Table Topics portion of a Toastmasters meeting takes place before or after the formal "prepared speeches" segment and usually lasts 20 or 30 minutes. The Topicsmaster announces a topic or question and calls on several members, one at a time, who give impromptu one- to-two-minute responses to that topic.

When you're called (or volunteer) to speak during Table Topics, you'll do well if you keep your remarks brief and to the point. (This is often easier said than done, however!) Try to present sensible, worthwhile ideas that add to the knowledge of others and organize your thoughts into a mini-speech. You're encouraged to refute or elaborate on ideas and information already presented by other participants.