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Mentor Moments - Evaluator (1)

 
District 3 Toastmasters Mentor Moment
Category Functionaries
Title Composing Constructive Comments
Contributor Town Lake Toastmasters

  


The Speech Evaluator's role is not only the most difficult, it is also the most important.  The following are ten principles and techniques that are helpful:  

  • Keep the goal in mind.  The purpose of an evaluation is to teach, encourage and support the speaker.
  • Use the sandwich technique.  Mention what you liked best is the first layer, the middle layer is an aspect that can be improved, the final layer is a positive statement of encouragement.
  • Look for something to respect and acknowledge.
  • Evaluate the speech, not the speaker; the delivery, not the content of the speech.
  • Give an honest personal reaction.
  • Mention qualities that can be changed.  Give specific suggestions for improvement.
  • Analyze the speech objective.  CC speeches focus on individual areas of improvement.
  • Applaud improvement.  Compare earlier speeches and comment on any progress.
  • Be well-prepared.  Quality is compromised and speakers suffer when evaluations are not given importance in the club. 
  • Be flexible.  People require different approaches to learning new skills. Detailed criticism may discourage some speakers.  Be adaptable.  That's the essence of knowing how to give a good evaluation.