Speech Evaluator

Taking on this role improves active listening, critical thinking and positive feedback skills.
Evaluation is the heart of the Toastmasters educational program. You observe the speeches and leadership roles of your fellow club members and offer evaluations of their efforts, and they do the same for you.

As an Evaluator you:

• Ask those you’ve been assigned to evaluate what they will present and what they wish to achieve.
• Provide objective verbal and written evaluations for speakers.
• When giving any evaluation, offer praise as well as constructive criticism.

Before the Meeting:

Make sure you have received the appropriate evaluation form from the Toastmaster for the talk in which you will be evaluating. There are different evaluation sheets for different talks. Under the section below titled, “Speech Evaluator Resources” you will find some examples of evaluation sheets.

During the Meeting:

• Record your impressions on the first page of the Evaluation Form. As you record scores, refer to the Evaluation Criteria section to be sure you are accurately reflecting the member’s speech and delivery. Remember, a score of 3 on a competency means the member met that expectation.
• A score of 4 or 5 reflects achievement above and beyond meeting the competency. Only the very best public speakers will ever achieve a 5. The scale reflects an understanding that there is always room to grow and improve as a public speaker and a leader. Remember that the best evaluations encourage and motivate members to improve. In addition to mentioning areas to be strengthened, suggest specific solutions or actions to build any needed skills and behaviors.
• When giving a verbal evaluation at an in-person meeting, you may stand when you’re introduced, walk to the lectern, and provide your evaluation. Begin and end with a note of encouragement or praise. Though you may have written lengthy responses to sections of the evaluation, refrain from reading them. Your verbal evaluation time is limited; cover what is essential to encourage and support the member while giving honest feedback.
• Praise a successful speech or leadership assignment and give reasons to explain why it succeeded. Share specific ideas the member could apply in the future such as strengthening content or working with a mentor on speech delivery techniques. Be respectful and focus on skills and accomplishments rather than personal attributes.