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 Sorcerer of Time records the times for every speech, Table Topics speech, and evaluation and provides a Sorcerer of Time report at the end of the meeting. The Sorcerer of Time will also indicate when the following points are reached, using a color-based signal for each:
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Green: qualifying time is reached
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Yellow: the halfway point between the qualifying and ending times has been reached
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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 Sorcerer of Time 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 Watchman. The Sorcerer of Time’s role is important because it enables speakers to learn to speak within a specific timeframe. In addition, the Sorcerer of Time 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 Sorcerer of Time) 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 some way of measuring and recording time (a phone's stopwatch feature is often used). A Sorcerer of Time’s form is provided below, but feel free to use a spreadsheet or simple notebook paper.
For our online meetings, choose a set of virtual backgrounds that clearly convey green, yellow, and red. There are a several sets of of coordinated Timing backgrounds available in the Backgrounds gallery. Decide if you will record on paper or electronically and fill in as many of the names as possible ahead of time.
During the Meeting
Consider pinning yourself in Zoom to make it easier for speakers to see you. Use a timing device to measure the length of each speech type (a table for which is provided below) and record times throughout the meeting.
| Speech Type | Length | Green | Yellow | Red |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Icebreaker | 4–6 min. | 4 min. | 5 min. | 6 min. |
| Prepared | 5–7 min. | 5 min. | 6 min. | 7 min. |
| Table Topic | 1–2 min. | 1 min. | 1.5 min. | 2 min. |
| Evaluation | 2–3 min. | 2 min. | 2.5 min. | 3 min. |
You will share your report during the evaluation section when called on to do so by the Captain of the Watch.
After the Meeting
No tasks.
When You’re Called On
My name is … and I will be your Sorcerer of Time for today. I will be recording the times for speeches, Table Topics, and Speech Evaluations; and providing a Sorcerer of Time 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.
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 Sorcerer of Time helps speakers and Watchmen to be cognizant of the time elapsed. The Sorcerer of Time 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.