Meeting Role Guide
Sorcerer of Time
Toastmasters role: Timer
Track speaking times, provide color-based timing signals, and report the recorded times at the end of the meeting.
The Role
The Timer records the times for every speech, Table Topics speech, and evaluation and provides a Timer report at the end of the meeting. The Timer will also indicate when the following points are reached, using a color-based signal for each:
- Green: qualifying time is reached
- Yellow:the halfway point between the qualifying and ending times has been reached
- Red: the ending time has been reached.
Disqualifying times (30 seconds after the ending time or red signal) are important in contests and, in some programs, may be used to determine a speaker’s eligibility for the “best” vote. In addition, the Timer is sometimes asked to time 1 minute between speeches to allow time for member feedback and for voting for the best speaker, Table Topics speaker, and best Speech Evaluator.
The Timer’s role is important because it enables speakers to learn to speak within a specific timeframe. In addition, the timer helps to keep the meeting running smoothly. Depending on the meeting format, speakers may be allowed to speak until they finish. However, in some programs -- especially those operating on a tight schedule -- a long-winded speaker may receive applause (started by the timer) after a certain overage of time.
The Toastmaster will call on people to explain their roles (see the “Describe Your Role” section). You will also be called upon to report the recorded speaking times at the end of the meeting.
Before the Meeting
Ensure you have a copy of the Timer’s form. A sample is included in this document but is also available on our website.
During the Meeting
For in-person meetings, a stoplight timer is used. For online meetings, find objects such as folders to hold up for green, yellow, and red. When you hold them up to your webcam, say the color that corresponds to the time. Decide if you will record on paper or electronically and fill in as many of the names as possible ahead of time. Decide which timer to use. For physical meetings, a stopwatch is usually available. The official Toastmasters International app includes a timer feature and is available in the AppStore for Apple or Google Play for Android.
After the Meeting
No tasks.
When You’re Called On
My name is … and I will be your Timer for today. I will be recording the times for speeches, Table Topics, and Speech Evaluations; and providing a Timer report at the end of the meeting. I will also indicate when the following points are reached: qualifying time is reached, almost time to finish, and time to finish by using green, yellow, and red respectively.
Sample Script: As Timer, I will track time for both prepared and unprepared speeches. A green light will be signaled once the qualifying time has been reached; at mid-point, a yellow light; and a red light when 30 seconds remain. In an official Toastmasters speech contest, a participant is disqualified 30 seconds after a red light is shown.
Times by Speech
| Speech Type | Disqualify if Less than | Green Light | Yellow Light | Red Light | Disqualify if More than |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Icebreaker (IB) | 3:30 | 4:00 | 5:00 | 6:00 | 6:30 |
| Prepared Speech (PS) | 4:30 | 5:00 | 6:00 | 7:00 | 7:30 |
| Table Topic (TT) | – | 1:00 | 1:30 | 2:00 | 2:30 |
| Evaluation (EV) | 1:30 | 2:00 | 2:30 | 3:00 | 3:30 |
Skills You’ll Practice
Time management, meeting preparation, explaining role functions, tracking and recording details during meetings, and being ready to speak at the right time
Why Take This Role?
Timing benefits the group by helping to ensure speeches and Speech Evaluations stay within prescribed limits so the structure of the meeting can be maintained. In addition, the Timer helps speakers and Speech Evaluators to be cognizant of the time elapsed. The Timer benefits by practicing the following skills: meeting preparation, explaining role functions, tracking and recording details during meetings, and being ready to speak at the right time.