Toastmaster of the Day is the most important task in a Toastmaster's meeting. It is your responsibility to make sure the meeting follows the agenda, runs smoothly, and ends on time.

Good preparation is the key to a successful meeting. Everybody on the agenda should be prepared to perform their tasks. However, it is the Toastmaster's responsibility to make sure they will be present and ready to perform their role.

During the week prior to the meeting, call each of the scheduled speakers and make sure they will be prepared. Find out speech titles, times, and any special arrangements so you can plan introductions and podium needs. Call the Master Evaluator to be sure all Evaluators will be there. Call each of the other people on the agenda to be sure they will attend and understand their responsibilities.

Arrive early, well before the meeting starts with your agenda copy. Greet and check off each of the participants as they arrive. If somebody is missing, you must find a replacement before the meeting starts. If there are any guests, find out their names and be prepared to recognize them when the meeting begins.

During the meeting, your primary duty is to act as a genial host, introducing each speaker in a way that will help them do their best and encouraging the audience to listen with attention and anticipation. Don't just say, "The next speaker is…"

1.   Open the meeting using the gavel and announcing, "The meeting of the ______________ Toastmasters Club will now come to order."

2.   Greet the audience and announce any changes to the agenda. Introduce any guests, but don't ask them to speak or otherwise cause any embarrassment.

3.   Announce each segment of the agenda and the person performing the task. Don't be afraid to add some comments between segments. They help in the transition.

4.   Announce each speech by title and speaker. Identify the speech manual number the speaker is presenting and briefly explain the objectives and timing.

5.   At the end of each speech, lead the audience in applause and offer a brief word of appreciation. Again, add some commentary for transition. If this is the final speech for a CTM, ATM, or other award, lead the audience in a standing ovation.

6.   After all speakers have finished, introduce the Master Evaluator for the evaluation portion of the meeting.

9.   The Master Evaluator will call you back to close the meeting. Time permitting, ask the guests to volunteer their comments about this meeting.

10. Return control of the meeting to the President for closing remarks.